Dear General.

I have the honor to inform your Excellency that some time since three of the enemy's frigates quited their former stations—sailed to the North end of Rhode Island and anchored between Dyers Island and Bristal ferry-Count d'Estaign on the 4 Inst. meditated an attack upon them, and on the 5^th. issued orders that two of his ships should turn the North end of Connanicut Island and give them battle. These orders they proceeded to comply with, but on their approach, the English frigates were set fire to, abandoned, and entirely consumed, without making use of any means of defence, or shewing the least appearance of resistance. Their names & force have not yet been ascertained, but when known, shall be transmitted to your Excellency.¹ 

I am sorry to inform your Excell^y that the motions of the militia are exceedingly tardy. I have been but inconsiderably reinforc'd by the militia of Connecticut, nor do I expect much from them—Those of New Hampshire & Massachusetts I am Informed are on their march and have reason to expect them by saturday next.—² 

Your Exc^y may rest assured that I shall make every previously necessary preparation for their reception, so that no time be lost between their arrival and the immediate execution of our intended invasion I have the honor to be &c &c 

PS. I have this moment learned from certain intelligence that four frigates and one tender were destroyed.—