Dear Sir

I have the pleasure to inform you, of what you have probably heard before this time, that the Admiral Count D'Estaing has arrived upon the Coast, and now lays off Sandy Hook, with a fleet of twelve Ships of the Line and four Frigates belonging to the his most Christian Majesty. The design of this fleet is to co-operate with the American Armies, in the execution of any plans, which shall be deemed most advancive of our mutual interests, against the common enemy. No particular plan is yet adopted, but two seem to present themselves; either an attack upon New York, or Rhode Island. Should the first be found practicable, our forces are very well disposed for the purpose; but should the latter be deemed most eligible, some previous preparations must be made. That we may therefore be ready at all points, and for all events, I desire that you may immediately apply in the most urgent manner, in my name, to the State of Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut to make up a Body of 5000 Men inclusive of what you already have—establish suitable Magazines of provision—and make a collection of Boats proper for a descent. I am empowered to call for the Militia for the purpose above mentioned, by a Resolve of Congress of the 11^th. instant.¹ 

You will not fail to make yourself fully master of the numbers and position of the Enemy by land, and of their Strength by Sea. Should nothing come of this Matter, it will answer this valuable [pur]pose, that the enemy will be distracted and deceived, and will probably be off their guard, in respect to the defence of New York, should that ultimately be our real design. 

You should engage a number of Pilots well acquainted with the navigation of the Harbour of Newport and of the adjacent Coast, and have them ready to go on board upon signals which will be thrown out by the French Admiral, and of which you will be advised. That you may have the earliest intelligence of his arrival, you should establish a Chain of Expresses from some commanding View upon the Coast to your Quarters. I need not recommend perfect secrecy to you, so far as respects any assistance from the French Fleet. Let your preparations carry all the appearance of dependance upon your own strength only. Lest you may think the Number of 5000 Men too few for the enterprise, I will just hint to you, that there are french Troops on board the Fleet, and some will be detached from this Army, should there be occasion. 

I have it not in my power to be more explicit with you at present. But should the expedition against Rhode Island be finally determined upon, you may depend upon having every previous and necessary information for your Government. I am [&c] 

P.S. As I have heard from you but once or twice since your arrival at Rhode Island, I am much at a loss for the situation of matters in that quarter.² Be pleased therefore to inform me in your answer to this.