Head Quarters, West point, November 2, 1779
Dear Sir:
I have an account from New York that a fleet with two Regiments and a detachment of Artillery was to sail on the 29th. ulto. for Hallifax accompanied by all the heavy ships of War, except the Europa. The Daphne Frigate for England was to sail at the same time. I mention these matters to you, that you may compare them with your accounts from the shore. I have reason to believe, that part of the Hulks yet remain sunk, it would be well to endeavour to be informed of this with a degree of certainty, lest the Count, should he arrive, might be led into danger by supposing the channel clear.
I am, &c.1
1 The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.