Philada July 11th 1778
His Excellency Governor Henry of Virginia Sir
A french Fleet of 12 Sail of the Line and 4 frigates being on the Coast near the Capes of Delaware under command of Count D'Estaing vice Admiral of France which is proceeding to Newyork in order to co-operate with the American Army in destroying the Sea and Land force of our enemy in that Harbor and it being understood here that some of the French Ships now in Virginia were desirous of joining the Admiral when he came here;1 the Marine Committee request of you Sir, that you will be pleased to give immediate Notice to Such french Vessels that they may if they choose proceed to assist in the accomplishment of the great work meditated against the common enemy. As this is an affair that requires dispatch so the Committee hope your Excellency will loose no time in giving the necessary information I have the Honor to be [&c.]
LB, DNA, PCC, Marine Committee Letter Book, fol. 162 (M332, roll 6).
1. Probably referring to the armed ships Lyon, Jean Michel, master, and Fier Roderique, Pierre François Chevallié, master.
