[Extract]

The Committee of safety have thought it highly necessary that you should be acquainted with the situation of the magazine at Lewestown, to exert your influence for an immediate supply of powder and lead; which, I suppose, must be by land, as the Roebuck and Liverpool will probably continue as high up the river as Reedy Island; this morning they are in the bite below New Castle, and though the row-gallies have proceeded down, from the Christiana Creek's mouth about two hours ago, I am apprehensive the high wind now blowing will not permit their acting to advantage in that cove.

We have had warm cannonading between the ships and gallies these two days past, all within our view. Great intrepidity was shown on the part of our people, who compelled the two ships to retire, not much to their credit; but it appeared to me the ships were afraid the gallies would get below them. Young Captain [Thomas] Houston led the van....

I suppose it will be thought that too much powder and shot have been expended by the gallies in these attacks, but I am well satisfied they have produced a very happy effect upon the multitudes of spectators on each side of the river; and in that part of the Colonies where the relation shall be known, British ships of war will not be thought so formidable. A few long boats drove, and apparently injured, those sized ships that seemed best calculated to distress us. The committee of safety are going this morning to New Castle, and downwards, to see what may be necessary to advise for the protections of the shore below. Truly the people at large have shown great alacrity and willingness on this occasion. I know not when I shall be with you, as I may be of some little use here. I shall stay till there is some alteration in the appearance of things.