[On board H.M.S. Eagle] Saturday, 14th. Septr.
Late last Night arrived Capt [Thomas] Jordan in the Galatea of 20 Guns from Plymouth, which Place she left on the 10th. of July. He brought us Advices, that the Hessians were only sailing from England, when he left it, and that, being in heavy-sailing Dutch Transports, we cannot expect their Arrival here for a great while to come, and especially if they come into the Course of the equinoctial Winds, by which they may be probably driven to the West India Islands, and not be able therefore to sail hither before the Spring. He also brought an account, that the Sea to the South-East from hence, & about Bermuda, and to the Lat. of 32°, is greatly infested by American Privateers, who have taken several of our West India merchant men, and that the Rebels are fitting out every Vessel that can sail for that Purpose. This Intelligence was very unpleasant altogether. A few such swift-sailing Ships as the Galatea would soon disperse or destroy these Free-booters; and 'tis presumed they will be employed.
Five Transports sailed up the East River this Evening to join the Man of War, who went up last Night. Many Shot were exchanged upon the Occasion. I saw a House or Part of a House in the Town tumble down, by a Ball from one of our Ships or Batteries. Three men of War were to have passed up the North River at the same time, but were prevented by an accident.