Dear Sir

Since writing you this Morning I have heard that two Hundred Men are to Embark this day on board two transports under the Command of Major [James] Grant of the 14th Regt and to be Convoyed by the Scarborough Man of War. its called a Secret Expedition, but every body says they are going to Rhode Island. ²

Ships bound in here find no want of a light now, as the lighthouse is reestablished, the Rebells have not ventured to disturb them lately the[y] know it will be now well defended ー The releife for the Redoubts on Bunkers hill goes over to Morrow the last fortnights Detachment have passed their time very Quiet without any insult from the Rebells ー Col [William] Nesbit Relieves Col. [James] Agnew. This day the General has ordered one Butt of Porter for Each Regt to make they Men keep Christmas day ー which is a Welcome present to them at this time. I am with great Respect Dr Sir [&c.]