Off the High Lands of Christeen Province Sloop Wednesday [May 8] P:M: 5 O'Clockー
We left the Cheveaux D'Frize this Morning and overtook the Armed Boats at Marcus Hook The whole Armament proceeded down the River and about 2 O'Clock an Engagement began between our Fleet the RoeBuck & another Ship of War which continued upwards of two Hours and believe very successfully on our Part in the Course of the Engagement the Roe Buck run on Shore and is now fast on the Jersey Shore at Kearney's Point a little above deep Water Point ー Our Fleet has suffered no Injury but by a Single Shot which struck the Cambden but has done her little Damage ー We expect In an Hour's Time she will be on a Carreen when a second Attack will be made upon her and we hope it will be crowned with Success ー The other Ship has come too under the Roe Buck's stern within Musket Shot ー All the Powder in Cartridges is expended ー It is absolutely necessary that you send down an immediate Supply of Powder in Cartridges with Ball. We have consulted a Number of the Captains and they are of Opinion that it will be advisable to send down the Province Ship as she will run little Risque & possibly if she comes soon may be of use We are Gentn. [&c.]
Alexr Wilcocks John Cadwalader James Mease 2
1. Committee of Safety, Navy Papers, Pa. Arch.
2. Three members of a committee of four appointed May 7 to go down in the Province Sloop with authority to give orders to the fleet. The fourth member was Robert Whyte.