Sir,

I have received correct Intelligence of the Arrival of the Toulon Squadron the 5^th. Instant on the Coasts of Virginia, from whence it has been attended by the Cruizers I had stationed for that Occasion off of the Delaware, Yesterday Morning. 

The French Ships were steering to the NNE with the Wind Westerly, until, on discovering one of the Frigates¹ placed off of the Delaware, the French Admiral was induced to haul his Wind to the Southward in Chase. It is thence to be concluded, he means to appear off of this Port. But that he will most probably direct any Attacks he may meditate on these Parts of the American Coast, against Rhode Island. 

If he is seen to pass to the Eastward of the Nantucket Shoals, for the more Northern Parts of the Continent, the earliest Intelligence of his Motions will be forwarded to You. But I think it will be advisable to put to Sea with the Squadron under your Command; Keeping down from Cape-Cod, along the New England Coasts, and thence round the Nantucket Shoals, towards Rhode Island and this Port, for facilitating our Junction with the greater Expedition: Unless You should have Reason to conclude from Information obtained, or Discoveries made on your Passage, You can fall upon any more probable means of crossing upon the French Ships on their Way to Boston. For as they left Toulon the 13^th. of April, it is highly probable they must soon make for some Port, to procure Water, before they can engage in any hostile Operation of Length. 

Lieutenant Knight,² who is charged with this Dispatch, is a very intelligent and skillfull Officer, having considerable Knowledge of all parts of the Northern Coasts. I have the Honor to be, With great Regard, Sir, [&c.]