[Extract]
[Newport. Rhode Island]
2d Augt Fresh wind at S. all day. Very warm weather.
The French Fleet at anchor as before....1
The Lark, Orpheus, and Cerberus, and The Pigot Galley,2 having taken in their Guns, Stores, and most of their provisions, again, went down this day towards the town.3 The resolution of withdrawing the Troops from the N. end of the Island4 as soon as the French fleet enters the harbour, is the cause of this movement. The ships may probably be saved by getting near the town, and their guns and Stores will be of service in the defence of the Garrison. They are ordered to put their Guns, &c, on shore as near the town as possible.5