Yours of the 27th Ulto I have received The Artillery stationed at the post at Stoney Point is considered as barely sufficient for its defence should any detachment therefore be made for the purpose mentioned it might be exposed—as the Ships should they make their appearence, favour’d by a small breeze, would be able to pass the fort before it would be possible to return the peice to its station I cannot therefore with propriety give the order you request I must acknowledge myself obliged for your Spirited Offer & if it does not interfere with the arrangements of the Artillery that Genl Knox may make upon his Arrival, a peice shall be stationd at the fort for the purposes alluded to in yours. I am Sir With esteem Your &a.