His Excellency The Count D'Estaing

Sir 

I had the honor of writing to your Excellency on the 12th instant about the means of procuring fresh water and the measures taken by the Marine Committee of Congress to furnish fresh provisions for the Squadron under your Excellencies Command. The Casks that could be obtained here since the late ravages of the enemy are delivered to the Chimere,¹ and the three Vessels with her—they will bring the Squadron a present supply of water and I am informed that in future this article can be obtained easily and near to Sandy Hook as I formerly wrote your Excellency. The Chimere brings likewise Bread flour, fresh meat, and vegitables for the fleet, which we hope may answer present purposes, until the larger quantity shall be carried thro the Jersey and taken on board the Squadron at such places as your Excellency shall appoint for the Commissary to deliver them at. I am desired by the Marine Committee to request your Excelly will be pleased to accept from them a small present of live Stock and vegitables in testimony of the high respect the Committee entertain for your Excellencies character. 

I must beg leave Once more to repeat the assurances already made, that the Marine Committee will at all times have pleasure in directing such further Provisions for the Squadron as you shall think proper to desire. I have the honor to be [&c.]