Received from Captn Hopkins, with a Flag, a Letter directed to His Excellency General Robertson Newyork, from His Excellency General Washington.

By Order of Major General de Gosen

Captn Hopkins who went with the Flag to the British Lines, has just returned. He was received by Baron Syuttzingstoewen, Captn in a Regt of Lorsberg, who treated him with great politeness & attention—sent the letter to General Gosen & procured the enclosed receipt.

He said it was with pleasure he could inform, that the commander in chief had on that day last, published an order forbidding all parties whatever, going without the Lines, on any pretence, untill further orders—on pain of the severest punishment—He also informed that General Carlton arrived this week, to take the command—Sir H. Clinton & General Nyphausen were to sail for Europe tomorrow—That it was the general opinion of the officers—peace with America would immediately take place—he expected permission within a few days to ride out & have a pleasing indulgence of his curiosity—in a view of our Country particularly N. England.

He said that a Court of enquiry had been held at N.york in the case of Captn Huddy by order of the Comdr in Chief, who was determined that the strictest[   ] should be made—The result of the enquiry was not made publick—but it was his opinion, the party who were active in his execution, would be sent out.

Captn Hopkins saw some of DeLanceys Corps at Kings Bridge who appeared not a little disconcerted on account of the prohibition of their trade, which cut off their living—They wished to know whether their Country would pardon them, should they make a trial of its clemency.

He was not able to obtain papers of a later date than those which have been forwarded—The enclosed note from Captn Prichard gives all the knowledge I have concerning the prisoners. I have the honor to be with due respect Sir your most obedt servt