Camp at the Head of Sassafras 5 Septr 1777
[Extract]
. . . the principal division of the Enemies fleet consisting of about 150 sail have fallen down to the Mouth of this river and stretch their line from Grove Point to Howels point — The Isis, the Roebuck and a 40 Gun ship lay off Colo Loyd's a little below Pooles Island. The Sphynx still continues at Anchor at Elk. a 50 Gun ship has been some time fast aground on Stony point where she still lays in that Condition. I have this information from such Authority as I think may be depended on.
I learn from a Midshipman of the Swift Sloop of War who was took prisoner yesterday that he understood when he left the ship (on Saturday last) that the whole of the Fleet was preparing to go round to Delaware.
I am Just Informed that some few ships past Annapolis yesterday — We have sent 14 Deserters & 4 prisoners to Chester
. . . As I apprehend the design of the Fleet is to Rob & plunder the defenceless Inhabitants on the Coast I have detachd a Party to Howels Point to drive of[f] the Stock. . . .
1. George Washington Papers, LC. A copy of this letter is in the Mordecai Gist Papers, LC.
