Last Evening I received advice from Gnl Forman of the Arrival of 18 large Ships of War, which were discovered Yesterday morng standg in from the Southward—a Frigate had gone out from the Hook to speak with them—& was retung back again, having sent out a Boat towards them—The Conjecture was that it may be the Fleet of Admiral Hood from the W. Indies—I expect to hear further this Night or Tomorrow—if any Thing important shall communicate it to you.

The Inclosed you will please to deliver to M. DeWitt—& have him imediately employed on the Business prescribed him. With much Regard & Esteem I am D. Sir Your most Obt Servt