[Extract]

. . . Genl Howe's plans are yet very mysterious, a few days ago he sent all his Tents & Baggage on Board again and his ships have fallen some distance down Chesapeak Bay. This can be for no other purpose but to go round to Delaware and meet him there, as he can easily extend himself across the Istmus which is narrow. This will be a strange Maneuvre indeed, as it will be exposing his ships to some danger upon the Coast at this tempestuous Season, and should an accident to the Fleet he must be ruined. A little time must unfold his true designs, which I trust we shall be able to baffle, as the Troops are in good spirits and the people of the Country shew an universal good will to oppose the common Enemy. . . .