Dear Sir: I have duly receiv'd your favor of the 23d. of July. I believe the Evacuation of Tyconderoga has dissatisfied the people in general, nor can I say, that I have as yet heard any reason, which makes such a step appear absolutely necessary to me, however, as a Strict Enquiry into the conduct of the commanding Officers is soon to take place, the public will no doubt be fully satisfied with the Determination of this Court, who will, I dare say, give the world a full and impartial account of the whole proceeding, and condemn or acquit as matters upon the fullest examination will appear to them.

    I arrived here three or four days ago, persuaded by the late movements of the Enemy, and many of their ships appearing at these Capes, that they intended an attack on this City; since which their Fleet has stood out to Sea, and we can scarcely form a probable conjecture of their next Design, upon the ships standing to Sea, I halted the Divisions of the Army wherever they happened to be from this to Peeks Kill, so that should their real intentions be to the Eastward, I am in hopes they will not be able to do a great deal of Damage before we can come up with them.

    Your Exertions in apprehending and sending back Deserters must have a happy Effect, and I request you will continue them with unremitted Vigilance.

    As it is not quite improbable that I may find it necessary to march this Army to the Eastward, I think Major Dawes had better purchase Provision for his Workmen, than draw any collected for our use; your Instructions to him will be accordingly given.