Isis 24 Septemr [October] 1777—
My Lord
I had the honour of your Lordships Letter last night,1 the Vigilant is moved back to where she was before & Captain Henry informs me, he is to remain untill the Wind is fair for him to move forward—
We have moved up a little higher with the Ships as I thought it probable the Enemy might attempt to get up the Guns out of the wrecks2 which we can effectually prevent in our present possition, the Roebuck is now well supply'd with Anchors & Cables; so that I apprehend your Lordship would not chuse to have her move below the Cheveaux de friezes, the Augusta's booms are I believe perfectly secure as they are upon the Island3 nearly abreast of the Camilla, the Rebel Galleys are close up under red bank & have not moved all this Day—
There are many sick that have been saved from the Augusta & Merlin which are much in the way on board the Different Ships it would be very Convenient if there could be an Hospital Ship for their reception I have the Honor to be [&c.]
Wm. Cornwallis
LB, NHi, William Cornwallis Letter Book, 60. Addressed at foot of page: 'To/the Vist Howe, Vice Adml &c &c &c."
1. Vice Admiral Viscount Howe to Captain William Cornwallis, R.N., 23 Oct., above.
2. The wrecks of H.M.S. Augusta and H.M. sloop Merlin.
3. Tinicum Island.