11th [July], Thursday ー This day saw the land of Neversink to the westward of Sandy Hook, the entrance into New York River. This night it blew pretty strong at NW. Carried sail and got under the land in the morning. [12th] By four o'clock Friday afternoon, got the length of Sandy Hook; found at anchor here the Swan and a transport or two. Proceeded up the river with baffling winds from the westward. The country appeared beautiful, both on the Long Island and Jersey side; the land well cleared and only sufficiently wooded to enrich the prospect. On our passage up, heard a very heavy cannonade, which we found afterwards to be the Phoenix (Captain Parker) and Rose (Captain Wallace) passing New York. A number of batteries fired on these ships about one hundred and ninety-six shot; the ships returned the fire, but as yet we know not the damage on either side. These ships are gone up the river to cut off the communication between New York and Albany. In running up the river the ship struck several times, but did not stop; suppose she received no damage. About half past five, arrived at the watering-place at Staten Island; the army, as we passed this island, cheered us, which we returned. Found the army in possession of Staten Island, a most delightful spot about sixteen miles long. They landed here without opposition, and found the inhabitants, about two thousand ー 500 of which fit to bear arms, well affected to Government. The ships found here were: Chatham, Vice Admiral of the blue Shuldham, Captain Raynor; Centurion Braithwaite; Asia Vandeput; Liverpool, Bellew; Greyhound, Dickson; and Kingfisher, Graeme. This evening General Howe came on board. Received him with a guard and march. Admiral Shuldham and several officers of distinction came on board. Received them all according to their rank.