The Last Evening I received the Honor of yours of the 28th ulto.

your Excellency may be Assured of my utmost attention & Exertions as far as in my power to paliate and vindicate the Conduct of the Count DEstaing in leaving Rhode Island His Ships are now Formed in Line of Battle in Nantasket Road, at the Entrance of which on Hull and Long Island Batteries are Erecting which will afford a Cross Fire and I think Effectually prevent even a Superior Fleet Entering.1

I shall procure the Colours for Genl Pattersons Brigade If Possible wish to be in formed as the Letter does not, what device is to be put on the Colours or whether they are to be plain.

It will be needless for me to mention any Intelligence from Rhode Island—as you will have it more direct from Major Genl Sullivan. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most Obt Servt