To George Washington from Major General William Heath, 5 September 1778
From Major General William Heath
Head Quarters Boston Sept. 5th 1778
Dear General
Nothing worthy of notice has Transpired Since I had the honor to write you on the Second Inst. whether the British Fleet that came and looked at the French Squadron are gone to Hallifax, or to Newport or are Still Cruizing off is Unknown, a Considerable firing of Cannon was heard off in the Bay this morning.
Upon the receipt of your Excellencys Letters this morning for the Count DEstaing, I immediately dispatched them to him by an Express Boat.1 The Station of his Ships, and the Position of the Batteries which He has Opened renders his Situation I think fully Safe & Secure on the water Side—The masts and Spars that were Sent for arrived yesterday from the Eastward the Utmost endeavours are in exercise for refitting the Fleet with Expedition. I have the Honor to be with the greatest respect your Excellencys most Obt Hbble Servt
W. Heath
P.S. let me request the favor that the letters addressed to the Hon. the president may be forwarded by the first express going Philadelphia.2
ALS, DLC:GW. This letter was docketed in part, “ansd,” but no reply has been identified.
1. Heath was apparently referring to GW’s letters to Vice Admiral d’Estaing of 2 and 3 September.
2. Heath’s letter to Henry Laurens of “7 oClock P.M.” this date conveyed much the same information as this letter (DNA:PCC, item 157).