Sir,

Since the departure of my Lord Howe from hence a month ago, no material occurrence has happened except'the loss of the Brig Symmetry, laden with Baggage for the Army.—On account of the Ice usually found in the Delaware during some Weeks in the Winter, the Ships of War were withdrawn from their Stations to the Town; and an Embargo took place on all Shipping the 24^th. of December. But a favorable opportunity, and the consideration that the want of the Cargo might be felt by the Troops, tempted the Commander of the Ship of War charged with that Duty at the Mouth of the River, to allow the Vessel to attempt to reach Philadelphia. In her passage She had the Misfortune to run a ground near Wilmington, where a Body of the Rebels are Posted, and before any Assistance could be given from hence, the Ice formed and She fell into the hands of the Enemy.¹

The Admiral carried with him near Sixty sail of Transports, which are divided between New York and Rhode Island; about the same number remain here, with the greatest part of the Flat Boats; which together, with the Men of War and Armed Vessels under my Orders, are undergoing such repairs and equipment as the time of year, and circumstances will allow of. The Service of the last Year has made this a heavier Work than might be expected, but there is no doubt of the whole being cornpleated early enough in the Spring to prevent any delay to the Opperations of the Army on that account.

Enclosed is the State and Condition of the Squadron under my directions, and also an account of their present stations.²

I have the honor to be with much regard &ca.—