Head Quarters, Valley Forge, March 1, 1778.
Dear Sir: Yours of the 27th. Ulto. was delivered to me by Express and that of the 28th. by Colo. Proctor, who saw the British Ships and Craft on their return, they had passed Marcus Hook. He says it was reported that they had burnt Salem, he does not know the truth of this, but he saw a great smoke in that quarter.
When I heard last from Genl. Wayne he was at Haddonfield, and I hope will return safe with his detachment and the Cattle he has collected. 9
[Note:The British attempted to surprise Wayne but failed. His letter to Washington (February 26), describing the attempt, is in the Washington Papers.]
In mine of the 25th. Feby. you will find directions about the Officers Wives taken in the Brig Symetry. I shall be glad to know whether you have ever found the physical Manuscripts that were on board that Vessel, as the Gentleman to whom they belong has wrote to me again concerning them. I am, etc. 8
[Note:The draft is in the writing of Tench Tilghman.]