Head Qrs. White Plains July 26th. 1778
Sir
I had the honor of writing you the Inclosed Letter from Haverstraw Bay, which was intended to introduce Colo Sears,1 the Bearer of this, to your notice. This Gentleman set out with a Captain Dobbs,2 a pilot of the first established reputation, to offer their services to the Squadron under your command. Before they had an opportunity of reaching the fleet, they sailed from the Road off Sandy Hook. Colo Sears is still desirous of manifesting his zeal in this our common cause, and will be happy, if he can contribute in the smallest degree, to the success of the Enterprize, which you have formed against Rhode Island. I have the Honor to be [&c.]
Go: Washington
L, FrPNA, Marine B4, vol. 146, fol. 237. Addressed below close: “Adml Count D'Estaing."
1. Washington's letter of introduction for Col. Isaac Sears, a ship captain and merchant originally from New York City who in 1777 relocated to Boston. He also had investments in a number of privateers.
2. For more on Capt. William Dobbs, see Lt. Col. Alexander Hamilton to Captain Patrick Dennis, note, and Gov. William Livingston of New Jersey to Washington, 16 July, and notes, above.
