Dr Sir

The appointment you propose to make of the small Cruizers does not appear to be capable of more correctness for the present purpose. As the Rose will be in your Neighborhood when you move Westward, the Carysford may remain off of Hungerford for a protection to the small Cruizers, for a few days longer. But I believe I shall soon have occasion to employ Capt [Robert] Fanshaw in another manner. His Instructions for that purpose must be forwarded to him through the Sound; So that he must be watchful to keep in with the Land at times or anchor in the Bay occasionally, that he may not miss the Vessel that will be sent with his Orders.

I imagine it may be managed to furnish the Fuel Vessels with a regular Convoy, to conduct them Westward at stated times, when the small Cruizers can be set at liberty from their attendance on the Army.

When the state of things admit of moving the Victuallers &c. to Morrisina, or the station of the Brune, I do not see that you need be longer withdrawn from us. You will therefore then be pleased to leave the direction in the hands of Capt [James] Ferguson and return to us here. The Kingsfisher may remain with the Brune for the present. She will be in the way for further service that may offer.

The Bearer of your Letter mentions a Report of an Incursion of the Rebels to Long Island on the side of Hungerford. The mention of Cannon being brought over, renders the Story still less credible that I should otherwise have thought it, the stations of the Niger & Senegal considered. But if it is true, the Armed Vessels should be employed in concurrence with the Carysfort or the other Frigates on that part of the coast, to destroy the Vessels in which the Enemy have ventured over to the Long Island shore. I am Dr Sir [&c.]