I have been honored with your Excellency’s favor of the 23d Ulto. I have since seen by the Prints that the enemy had reached Petersburgh, after being opposed in a spirited manner by the Militia under the command of the Baron Steuben. I hope that the advance of the Marquis de la Fayette with the choice Body of Continental Troops under his command would check the progress of General Philips.

A variety of circumstances retarded the march of the first division of the Pennsylvania Line much beyond the time expected. I however hope that they have moved from the place of rendevous, before this day.

I have very good reason to believe that another Detachment of between 1500 and 2000 Men sailed from New York last week—their particular destination I have not yet learned—I should suppose it is for Virginia or Carolina, ’tho they have industriously reported in New York, that it is for Delaware.

I shall set out in a day or two to meet Count de Rochambeau, who has received late Dispatches from the Court of France. At that interview I shall be informed of the expectations from Europe, and we should then probably settle a plan of Campaign—I can only assure you at present, that every attention shall be paid to the releif and support of the southern States. I have the honor to be With great esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedient Humble Servant