[Extract]
Most Serene Prince,

After the Royal Army decided to abandon Boston for reasons already explained, there was a rumor that its Commanding General Howe had sailed for Halifax, capital of Nova Scotia; however, such information has now become doubtful. Some persons who believe themselves current with the military deployment of this Court in America maintain that after the fleet of transports had arrived at a certain point to mislead the Americans regarding his voyage to Halifax, he suddenly changed course for Long Island, that is Isola Lunga, a very short distance from New York, capital of the same Province. In fact, as said Island is situated facing the midpoint of the very extensive English American coastline, such situation appears very suited to favor any enterprise by the Royal Army. However, while well founded news is awaited on this matter, a ship has come from America, bearing the news of American uncertainty as to where the campaign will be opened by choice, along with a notice to this Ministry of having met at sea on the [21st] day of the month expiring, at a long distance from St. Helena Island, the Warship Eagle of this Crown, which ship was sailing under fair wind toward this Continent and was carrying Admiral Lord Howe; it is then reasonably conjectured that the first of the two expeditions of troops thus far sent has arrived at its destination, and that the second is about to arrive....