Sir/
You are desired to give Orders to the Captains of the different Vessels in the Naval Service to keep the Strictest Watch on the Enemy as it is more than Probable that they will be attacked by some of their Armed Vessels as soon as they have Landed their Troops. You are desired to Station at Hampton the Norfolk Revenge, Hero & Henry Gallies and grant as few furloughs as possible during this Time of Danger. —
Signed
Jno Hutchings 1 Comsr Pro tm
Navy Board 25 Aug 1777
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL. Similar alert orders were sent to other Virginia Navy officers.