February 1776 Thursday 1
At an Anchor in Norfolk Road Virginia At 9 A M the Rebels from the Shore fired on the Friendship a Merchant Ship loaded with Tobacco for Great Britain, do fired on them from the Ship, when they dispersed, sent a party of Marines & Seamen on foraging parties. First part mode & cloudy middle & latter strong Gales & squally with Hail, Snow & Sleet. P M the foraging party returned with different kinds of Provisions, distributed the same to the Squadron, Struck Yards & Topmasts,
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/663.