Montgomery and his troops captured Montreal without a fight in late November 1775, but Governor Sir Guy Carleton, an experienced commander as well as efficient administrator, escaped to Quebec City where he began organizing its defenses.
"The Evening before General Montgomery landed on the Island of Montreal, Mr Carlton embarked his Garrison on Board of some Vessels and small Craft, And made two Attempts to pass our Batteries near the Mouth of Sorrel, but was drove back by Colo. Easton, who has behaved with Bravery & much Alertness; On the 19th Mr Carlton disguised En Canadien & accompanied by six Peasants, found Means to make his Escape. Brigadier General Prescott surrendered next Day by Capitulation. What Terms General Montgomery has given him, I do not know as he was so hurryed in preparing to move immediately to Quebec, that he could not find Time to send them."
General Schuyler to General Washington, 28 November 1775www.founders.archives.gov