The enclosed from Captain Selden, who commands at Stoney-point, came to hand the last evening. Just before the receipt of it, Mr Pine, one of our guides came to my quarters with a Mr Swain of Morrisania. Swain left that place on monday last, about ten o’clock A.M.—he informs me that all intercourse between New York and Morrisania is stopped—no refugee allowed to go in or come out—or any flag to pass—that there was a general review on monday, both on York and long Islands, and much firing. It is said an embarkation is taking place. Mr Swain, just as he came away, saw a gentleman, who, it is said, is remarkable for his integrity and caution in believing or reporting news; he told Mr Swain, that if he saw any persons of character, in whom he could confide, he might tell them from him, that he had some reason to conjecture that an evacuation of New York was in contemplation. It is beyond a doubt something is in agitation; either a secret expedition or some other capital movement. I think the complection of the whole rather gives us grounds to conclude, that the French have worsted the English fleet. I expect further intelligence—If I receive any, it shall be transmitted immediately. If your Excellency has received any that may be communicated, I request the honor of a hint of it. I have the honor to be with the highest respect Your Excellency’s Most obedient servant