In Council, Philada July 17th 1777
Gentlemen
In answer to your's just rec'd we have to say that the Fire Ships were built to embarras the Enemy's Fleet in the narrow parts of the River Delaware — if they should attempt to approach so near to this City. The Council however have no objection to lend two to the Continental Navy Board,2 provided Congress will give orders to you to prepare immediately others to replace them, upon considering the propriety of ordering down our two gallies to act in conjunction with the Continental Vessels, upon the present occasion should you acquiesce to the measure, the Council will be perfectly satisfied.
1. Record Group 27, Records of Pennsylvania's Revolutionary Governments, 1775-90, Executive Correspondence File, Pa.Arch.
2. Continental Navy Board of the Middle Department.
