Sir
This morning 36 Sail of the Enemies Ships went past this Town up the Bay,1 and this Evening 41 more were seen from the light House Standing in for the Cape,2 and while Writing being Nine oClock, find by the lights in the Bay and firing Signal Guns, they have Anchor'd in our Road, I hope they also will pass by without Visiting us
On the appearance of the Fleet last evening all the Boats along Lewes Creek were brought up to the Fort and a Centinel placed over them to prevent any person going off to the Ships, but notwithstanding this precaution, Abraham Wiltbank, his Son Jacob, and Luke Shields Junr., went on Board the Fleet, they had taken a small Boat a Cross the Creek some time Yesterday and left her where she Could not be discover'd, and in the Evening went over in a Cannoe, and then haul'd their Boat a Cross the Cape to the Surf, and we suppose went to Ships who were then Anchor'd in the Road
I have been advis'd to place Guards at their Houses and have their Goods Inventory'd, but have declin'd the measure untill I shall receive orders from you respecting the matter, should therefore take it as a favour if you would be so kind as to send me your opinion on this Head—I am [&c.]
