Sir

since my last the Cannonade has been very severe upon Fort Mifflin—this Day the ships have come as near as the Chevaux de Frize would Allow Them. A floating Battery¹ with 18-24 p^rs. came Up between Fort Mifflin & Province, Island² and the Fire from Them togather with that of their Batteries has dismounted All the Guns but two, Almost destroyed the works and have killed and wounded a very considerable Number—Among the latter is Major Talbert and two Cap^t of Col Dirkees Regm^t our Shipping have kept up a warm Fire, and a two Gun Battery³ about 2½ Miles from this has annoyed The Enemy very much—We have sent Boats to the brave Major Thayer, who has discretionary Orders to maintain the Post as long as he thinks practicable—that the brave Garrison may have a secure retreat when the Post is no longer tenable—tis too true that the boat deserted, another run away the next morning—We apprehend Nothing here—I am [&c.]