. . . We are under great apprehensions for the safety of Lord Howe’s fleet. Some think they have been able to run into Sandy hook; others imagine they must have gone off to Sea, and must have suffered greatly, particularly the Gallies, which the Officers of the Navy say must have thrown their Guns overboard, or sunk.1 There is however a satisfaction in reflecting that the Enemy’s fleet are likely to have suffered in the same or rather a greater proportion, their ships being more unwieldy, and their Seamen less expert, than ours. . . .
Mackenzie, Diary 2: 351. Omitted eleven paragraphs regarding the weather, fortifications, and disposition of British ground troops.
1. As seen at Howe to Philip Stephens, 17 Aug. (UkLPR, Adm. 1/488, fols. 314–18), Howe sent the armed gallies to New York before the storm arrived under the escort of H.M. frigate Sphynx, Capt. Alexander Graeme.
