Private
D^r. Sir.

The Chatham being soon to return to England, will afford an opportunity for the safe conveyance of your Letters; and perhaps no less eligible to Capt Montagu¹ for his passage Home. I will beg of you to mention the Circumstances to S^r Hen^y: Clinton for his commands also.

I have nothing to add on public concerns; except that I shall be desirous soon to receive your opinion of the Naval Force requisite to be detained at New York when the Season admits of my Return to the Delaware.

The 50 Gun Ships are best adapted to the confined Navigation in that River. But until I know what Disposition is thought requisite for your Out-posts and the guard of the Sound,² I cannot make my arrangements for the other Services.

There being no means to lodge any Stores at this miserable place, the Grampus must be sent back to land her Stores at New-York, when your River is open; And an assortment for the ships on this Station, sent in the Elephant & kept afloat. I am with the most perfect regard D^r. Sir [&c.]