[Extract]

. . . As the Enemy will adopt every Stratagem & device to deceive & distract us, notwithstanding the present appearance in favor of their making an Expedition up the North River, I doubt not but you will have the most vigilant lookouts kept along Delaware Bay & proper Expresses & Signals for communicating the earliest intelligence. I think it would be highly expedient that some sensible — judicious Men should be employed in that business at this time, who would view things as they ought to be and from whose Accounts certain inferences & conclusions may be drawn so as to form a proper line for our conduct. — The most fatal consequences may flow from false information at this period — Things should be examined with all possible certainty — I shall not be surprised, to hear of Several Ships appearing in or off Delaware, tho' Genl Howe's destination should be elsewhere. — Their fleet give them the most Signal Advantages, and an Opportunity of practising a thousand feints. I have the honor to be with great respect Sir [&c.]