Sir: The Committee have received certain Advice by Express from Lewis Town, that yesterday Evening a Sloop of War and Tender appeared off that place, and it was expected would proceed up the Bay; You are, therefore, directed to send four of the Armed Boats, well fitted and man'd, immediately down the River, as far, if necessary, as Reedy Island.

You are to direct the Commanding Officer, and other Officers of the said Boats, to act in Concert and by the advice of Captn Barry, of the Brig Lexington, and exert their utmost Endeavours to take or destroy all such Vessels of the Enemy as they shall find in the River Delaware.