Both Generals Burgoyne and Arnold recognize the importance of the American left flank.

Burgoyne recognizes that the American position can be flanked, and divides his forces, sending a large detachment to the west on September 19.

Arnold, also recognizing that a British attack on the left is likely, asks Gates for permission to move his forces out to Freeman's Farm to anticipate that maneuver.

Gates refuses to carry out a general movement, since he wants to wait behind his defenses for the expected frontal attack; but he does permit Arnold to send Daniel Morgan's riflemen and some light infantry out for a reconnaissance in force.

These forces precipitate the Battle of Freeman's Farm when they make contact with Burgoyne's right flank.

In the ensuing battle, the British gain control of Freeman's Farm, but at the cost of six hundred casualties, ten percent of their forces.

After the battle the feud between Gates and Arnold erupts.

Not only does Gates not mention Arnold at all in the official account of the battle he sends to Congress, but he also transfers Morgan's company (which had been technically independent but operated under Arnold's command in the battle) to his direct command.

Arnold and Gates have a noisy argument in Gates' quarters, in which Gates says that General Lincoln will be replacing him.

Following the argument Arnold drafts a letter to Gates outlining his grievances and requesting a transfer to Washington's command.

Gates gives Arnold a pass to leave, and continues to inflict petty indignities on Arnold.

A commonly referenced reason why Arnold chose to remain is that a petition signed by all of the line officers except Gates and Lincoln persuaded him to stay.

While proposals for such a document are considered, there is no contemporary evidence of one actually being drafted and signed.