Head of Elk 24 Aust 10 oClock [1777]
[Extract] Honord Sir
I take the Liberty to informe you that the British fleet is now Laying in the Head of the Bay they are situated from Turkey Point to Rowels in an oblong forme on Board of one of the Largest Ships is a Blew Flagg which induces me to think Admaral How is on Board, there are two or three Small armd vessles gone into the mouths of Susquehanah and North East pehaps with intent to stop Susquehanah Ferry the Mouth of Elk River and Sasifrass is intirely shut up as the Fleet Lays as thick as possible before them, there appeard Last Evning a Disposission to Land as a Number of Boats ware Hoisted out, there is many Light Horses on Board very evident to be seen and from every appearance at present they intend to Land on Bohemia and the Southeast Side of Elk River there is more stores hear than can possibly be remov'd in time I fear . . . I have taken the Liberty to acquaint Congress of our Situation, and that of the Fleet, being Imbouldend thereto by the Nesessety of the case and my Situation.2 I shall use every means in my powr to remove the Stores and Flatter my selfe the Militia will come in time to seport this Post. I am [&c.]
H Hollingsworth
1. Red Books, XVIII, 47, Md.Arch.
2. Hollingsworth wrote two letters to John Hancock on this date, Papers CC (Letters Addressed to Congress, 1775-89), 78, XI, 227-30, 231-32, NA.
