So far from the American Admiral Hopkins having sailed with his Fleet from Providence, some Letters received from Philadelphia, by the Way of Amsterdam, assert, that the Vessels which compose his Squadron were so effectually blocked up by some English Men of War, that it was impossible for them to put out to Sea, without being taken. It is likewise added, their Guns had been all taken out and carried on Shore, as were all their Provisions and Stores, and that Hopkins was so apprehensive of the above Vessels sooner or later being taken by the King's Ships, that preparations were made on board to burn them whenever an Attempt may be made to take them.

The Fees which belong to the Secretary of the Admiralty on granting Letters of Marque, together with those on Protections, make his Office more beneficial than that of the First Lord, viz. 300 1. per Annum.