To George Washington from Major Henry Lee, Jr., 18 July 1780
From Major Henry Lee, Jr.
Shrewsbury [N.J.] July Tuesday 18th 80
sir
I addressed your Excellency yesterday advising of Admiral Greaves arrival.1 I omitted mentioning a report prevalent here from the enemy, viz. that Monsieur Ternay had fallen in with the British squadron, had sunk one seventy four & had taken one sixty four—This is said to have happened off Cape Henrey.2
I transmit a very exact list of the British fleet.
They have received 3000 marines from N. York, & yesterday the whole fleet stood out to sea. They were off & on till night; this morning they are not to be seen—Their course was due east.3
Admiral Greaves fleet[:] 1 of 96—3 [of] 74—2 [of] 64 Arbuthnots[:] 1 of 74—2 [of] 64—2 [of] 50—2 [of] 44 eight frigates & sloops of war. I have the honor to be with most perfect respect your Excellys most ob. sert
Henry Lee Junr
ALS, PHi: Gratz Collection. Lee wrote “dragoon” on the cover.
1. See Lee to GW, 16 July, found at GW to Lee, that date, n.3.
2. This report was false (see David Forman to GW, 17 July, n.3).
3. For a similar report, see Elias Dayton to GW, this date, and n.1 to that document.