[Extract]

I am happy Capt Van Buren has succeeded so well in the business he was upon, it being of great consequence for us to fit out and maintain our vessels on the Lakeー

On the night of the 16th two of our Fire Vessels attempted to burn the Ships of War up the River. One of them boarded the Phoenix of 44 Guns and was grappled with her for some minutes, but unluckily she cleared herself ー The only damage the Enemy sustained was the destruction of one Tender. It is agreed on all hands that our people engaged on this affair behaved with great resolution and intrepedity. One of the Captains ---- Thomas ー it is to be feared perished in the attempt, or in making his escape by swimming, as he has not been heard of ー His bravery entitled him to a better fate ー Though this enterprise did not succeed to our wishes, I incline to think it alarmed the Enemy greatly ー For this morning the Phoenix and Rose with their two remaining Tenders taking the advantage of a brisk and prosperous gale with a favorable tide, quitted their stations and have returned and joined the rest of the Fleet ー As they passed our several Batteries they were fired upon, but without any damage that I could perceiveー

The whole of the British Force in America, except those employed in Canada, are now here; [Henry] Clinton's arrival being followed the last week by that of Lord Dunmore who now form a part of the Army we are to oppose. His coming has not added but little to their strength ー I have the honor to be with great respect Sir [&c.]