State Navy Board [Philadelphia] July 31st, 1777
Sir:
This Board has the greatest reason to believe that Mr How with his Fleet and Army is now on their wayand that he intends to invade this State —You are hereby requested to issue your Orders to the different Captains under your Command to attend their different stations and consult on such matters when met as you may judge best for the defence of this State and the River Delaware.
1. Navy Board Minute Books, vol. 2, Pa. Arch.