New York, April 14, 1776.
Sir:
I have just received Information that the Nautilus, Sloop of War is arrived here from Newport, said to be sent Express from thence for the Asia, Phoenix and Savage and that they are intended for New London in Order to block up your Squadron in that Harbour. I thought it my Duty to give you Notice of this by Express,2 that you might take your Measures accordingly. The Phoenix, Savage, and Nautilus sailed this Morning. The Asia still remains in the Harbour. I should be much obliged to you, if you would forward the Cannon and Stores, I left a List with you for, as soon as possible; and as the Men of War are now out, I should be extremely glad if you would keep a good Look out to see that the Coast is clear before any more of the Continental Troops embark from New London. I am, etc.3
1. Fitzpatrick, ed., Writings of Washington, IV, 476.
2. From Washington's account with the United States: "1776 April 15 To Jno Phillips for Riding
Express to Commodore Hopkins at New London [£] 3.-.-," Fae-simile of Washington's Accounts during the Revolutionary War ... (Washington, 1833), 13.
3. Hopkins sent copies of this letter to Governors Cooke and Trumbull, Hopkins Papers and Letter Book, RIHS.
