[Extract]

Sir,...We have Intelligence, that may be relied on, of Lord Howe's being on his passage for this place with a large Fleet and about 15,000 Men, and is hourly expected. By several deserters from Staten Island and the Ships of War, whose Accounts all agree, that Genl [William] Howe proposed no Attempt on us, till the Arrival of this reinforcement, when it is said with a part of his Army, he will make a descent on the Jersey side, while the Fleet and other part of the Army in Conjunction, attack this City. To oppose this force, in which the Ministry put so much Confidence, I think it necessary to exert our every Nerve, and by defeating their Views this Campaign, be enabled to meet them with double advantage the next; should they think proper to pursue their unwarrantable measures; I hope the good people of your Colony, or State, will be ready, on all occasions, to fly to our Assistance if needed, I have a Confidence in and doubt not they will be ready and willing.

To prevent the Enemy trom obtaining fresh provisions, is a Matter highly necessary to be attended to. I am informed that there are great Quantities on the Islands in the Neighbourhood of New London, Vizt Fishers, Block, Plumb & Elizabeth, Islands and Martha's Vineyard; these are accessible to Ships of force, and no doubt, they will soon be on a plundering Voyage. I could wish your Attention to this Matter, that the Stock might all be removed quite out of reach of the Enemy. The East end of Long Island, I am told, is not less exposed than the others; I think effectual Steps will be taken in regard to that, as I have had a Conference with the Convention of this Province, and an order has gone out for driving all the Stock from the Sea Coast.

In conference, of a full Board of General Officers yesterday, it was recommended, I should apply to your Honour for the three Row Gallies, lying now at New London, or in the River, together with as many heavy Cannon as you can possibly spare, they are what will be much wanted here; and if you find it consistent, would Beg you to forward them as soon as possible...