Sir

This moment I, have received the inclosed, from Lieutenant Grant of His Majesty's Schooner St Johnー

Are you Sir, confined by the Service you are now employed on, so as to prevent, your undertaking proper measures to destroy this rebel Squadron?
² or does, the orders you are under, permit you to take such a step?ー

I am sorry Lieut Grant has not been particular, as to the force of each of the Rebel Ships.

He shall be brought into this Harbour as soon as possible, the Pilot is on board of him; & a launch going to him.ー

When the Gunpowder is taken out of the St John Schooner, he shall be prepared with all dispatch, to fall down close to the Bar, ready to push over it.ー

I mention this, in case you shou'd undertake to go after this Squadron, which by Grant, may be expected on this Coast, that, he may be ready to go out and Join your Ships, If you shou'd think proper to pass along within view of this Port, and by makeing a Signal, he shall go out to you.ー

I have this Instant finished my dispatches to go by the Packet, that arrived the day before yesterday from England, she will sail directly for Savannah River, I have desired him to make all possible haste to you.ー

It may be necessary also, that you pass this way, in order, to know, if we have been able to procure further intelligence of these Rebels, as they may avoid you by sliping into some of bur Rivers, & Lt Grant may be able,. to be.more particular in his information.ー

I apprehend these rebel Vessels, may be come from South Carolina.ー

I hope the Vessels I sent to you al'egot safe, and that they have been of use. ー I am, with greattruth, Sir, [&c.]

St Augustine 8th March 1776. 3.o'Clock in the morning. ー

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