[Extract]
Sir,

I am advised by General Schuyler that the Enemy are arrived at Crown Point, that they have sent a strong party by the way of Otter Creek to fall in between Ticonderoga and Skeensborough, that another detachment is sent down on the west side of lake George to get possession of Fort George if Possible — Thus the enemys plan of operation is opened. we may hourly expect Intelligence that the army under General Howe is in motion to act in Concert with the Northern Army, probably up the North River. it is not unlikely a Diversion may be attempted on our coasts.

It will be prudent to take every precaution to watch their motions and frustrate their measures. As the Continental troops are now rendezvousing at New Haven, I am of opinion it will be best to send the whale boats in your care to New Haven to facilitate their movements, and the Miffiin and Schuyler should criuse off New Haven and to the Westward to make Discoveries of the motions of the Enemy, which you will please to order accordingly — Niles will be ordered on the same service.² I need not mention how much it concerns the Inhabitants on the Sea Coast to keep a good look out and give seasonable Intelligence. . . .