Gentlemen,

You will find in the Providence Paper the latest Intelligence we have from Quebec. Palmer further informs us that the Breaches in the Walls had been repaired with Fascines; and that the Inhabitants were very generally determined not to engage in Defence of the Place. A Letter from Lieut. Col [Christopher] Greene dated the 23d ulto acquaints his Wife that they arrived before Quebec Ten Days too late, and were obliged to retreat; & that General Montgomery with 3 or 4000 Men were to embark the same Day about 45 Leagues above him in order to join Col. Arnold and attack the City. So that I have still Hopes the City is in our Possession.

This will be delivered to you by Messrs Penet and Pliame who arrived here in Capt Rhodes. They appear to be Persons of some Consequence, and I hope may be useful in beginning a Negociation with the Court of France for Assistance, which I look upon to be a most important Object. But I forbear enlarging upon this Subject although the Measure appears to me absolutely necessary; because the Congress are the best Judges how far they are ripe for such an Application.

There is no Doubt but that Capt. Martindale in a fine Cruizer fitted out by General Washington from Plymouth is taken by One of the Enemy's Ships of War disguised as a Transport who made Sail from him with Drugs. It is reported that he had 55 Men killed and wounded out of 70. ²

The stopping of Lord Dunmore's Progress in Virginia is an Object of Importance. Indeed I think he ought instantly to be crushed at all Expence and Hazard. I am, with great Regard Gentlemen [&c.]

Hon'ble S. Hopkins & S. Ward Esqrs