Gentlemen,

Yesterday afternoon we weighed with all the Fleet and Rowed down to Darby Creek; the Enemys Ships laying at Chester. — But, we had not got far down, when they weighed their Anchors, and made down the River, with their Boats a head towing them — As soon as we came to Anchor, I sent out Eight Guard Boats, who were near them all Night, and took a Boat and two Men that had been on Board them; but they say they were going over to the Jerseys to bring a Flatt over for Mr Ottenhammer; and they had such an order from him, I saw it — We found with them some of Howes Proclamations which we took from them, inclos'd you have one of them — The three Ships are now in sight, and its now flood Tide, but they are not yet got under weigh, &c I believe will not, as there is but little Wind. — There are seven more Ships abreast of deep Water Point, one of which is under weigh and coming up to the other three. — They seem to want to draw us down to action with them below; and in consequence of your Letter shall avoid it, without they come up higher — We are all prepared, & should they come up, hope to give you a good account of them — We are all in high Spirits, and fit and willing for Action whenever a convenient oppertunity offers — The Paymasters are much wanted as some of the Captains have got their Money from him and some not — I should be glad he would send each Captain his Amount, that the People may be paid — Having not to add am [&c.]