Sir

Captain Parker informs me that when Lieutt Mowat received his Order last Sunday night [November 12] the Canceaux had not sufficient Water in to go to Sea with, and that he was unavoidably obliged to remain until the Weather was more moderate to take it on board. I hope the Ordnance Brig² and all others bound here will get in safe, but it was impossible for any Ship to keep her Station in the Bay last Week all things considered. The Hinchinbrook came up last Friday Night; Lieutt [Alexander] Ellis assures me that since the first day that he sailed from Boston, when he chaced a Pyrate into Salem, he did not see an Enemy. I have ordered him out again with the Nautilus. The Lively shall follow as soon as possible; I hourly expect the Fowey and Tartar; the former being a clean Ship shall relieve the Mercury, which is in great want of being repaired and cleaned.

I do assure your Excellency I am equally anxious for the Safety of these Vessels we expect to arrive, and every precaution shall be used to prevent their falling into the Hands of the Rebels. I am &c