George Washington to Thomas Sim Lee

Your Excellency has been acquainted, that on Information of the Sailg of the Fleet from the Capes, I had given Orders to the Troops which were embarked to stop their Proceeding. I am happy now to inform your Excellency, that the Count De Grasse is returned to his former Station, having driven the British fleet from the Coasts, formed a Junction with the Squadron of Count De Barras, and captured two British frigates; the Bay being thus secure, I have given Orders for the Troops to proceed with all possible Dispatch to the Point of Operations.

I am Distressed my Dear Sir, to find on my Arrival, that the Supplies for the Army collectg here, are not in that desirable Train, that could be wished; they have already experienced a Want of Provisions, and are greatly apprehensive in future, particularly in the Article of Bread. All the Flour within your Reach, should be immediately forwarded down, which may I think be speedily done, now that the Navigation of the Bay is secured. I beg Sir, that not a Moment may be lost in furnishg us with every Supply within your Power; happily our Prospects of Success are most promising, [if the Fleet will remain with us;] if we are not Wanting in our own Exertions. An Army cannot be kept together without Supplies; if these fail us, our Operations must Cease, and all our high Hopes Will Vanish into Disappointment and Disgrace.

I am &c.