Sir

There is now Sail'd Eleven Vessles that I have inteligence of & believe probably four or five more, that was near ready when I came from the Eastward, five or six more may soon be got ready if the weather permits and the Sailors are not discouraged by the Accts of a number of British Men of War, being in Chespeak Bay & of[f] the Capes, have been much hindred in getting them away by the severe weather we have had this fortnight past. We have now certain Accts By Various letters from Baltimore & Virginia of there being Such a number of Men of War & Tenders in Chesepeak Bay & of[f] the Capes as makes it almost Impractable for any Vessle to get past them either in or out & That all Vessles there are Embargoed in consequence of which this State has stop'd there Vessles from Sailing. Indeed the risque appears to me to be very great & makes me much at a loss how [to] act. Should be very glad of your advice & further direction how to proceed as soon as possible. I am &c.