George Washington Papers
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To George Washington from Elias Dayton, 16 May 1781

Chatham May 16th 1781

Sir

In my last I informed your Excellency that the British fleet had sailed the 8th Inst. I have since discovered that the mistake took its’ rise from the circumstance of a great part of it having fallen down below the watering place on that day. I would now acquaint your Excellency that the fleet really sailed on Sunday, convoyed by six ships of the line. Their delay thus long has I imagine been occasioned by one of their largest ships striking upon the shoals near the West bank which was got off with great difficulty. The transports which sailed amounted to about twenty—the number of troops does not exceed 2000 nor do I think it much less—All reports appear to confine their destination to Virginia and then Delaware.

One ship of the line with three or four frigates only are left in York harbour—twenty five transports set for sea & entirely empty are at anchor in the North river stream. I am told, there are not 300 men in the city & those principally Highlanders.

I have not yet been able to gain the desired interview. I am your Excellency’s Most Obedient Hbl Servent

Elias Dayton

DLC: Papers of George Washington.

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