of the Council of Maryland, 1778-1779. 219

[J. Henry J^r to Gov. Johnson.]

Philadel^a Oct. the 20^th 1778.
Dear Sir
I had the Honor of writing to you yesterday in the morning.
Since that Time the following Intelligence rec^d from Lord
Sterling has changed the opinions of most Gentlemen with
respect to the immediate operations of the Enemy.
"A certain Cap^t Clure who was taken sometime since by
the Enemy in a merchant Ship, came out of New York yester-
day, and gave me more particular Intelligence then I have
been able to procure. He says that two hundred and fifty sail
of Transport are prepared for the reception of Troops. The
Embarcation is in part begun. All the heavy Iron Cannon
from the Batteries are shiped. Sixteen Sail of the Line to go
on what they call the grand Expedition.
I have this moment received the report of the Officer I have
fixed at Amboy to watch the motions of the Enemy. He says
Oct. the 16^th twelve ships fell down to Sandy Hook. Oct. the
17^th early in the morning about one hundred Sail of Ships of
War and Transports fell down to the Hook. Their grand
movement is on the point of taking place, and I hope to be
able tomorrow to know their Destination."
There is in the Secretary's office twenty copies of the first
and second Volumes of the proceedings of Congress; If it is
agreeable to the Assembly, I will have them packed up and
sent by way of Cristeen to Annapolis.
The Flag that was coming to this City with the Manifesto
and proclamation from the Commissioners is cast away on the
Jersey shore. Two officers and ten more were saved. They
had three pickets which were lossed. If the General Assem-
bly is now sitting you will be pleased to communicate this
intelligence to them. I wrote to the Speaker yesterday and
gave him the news of the Day which was not as perfect as the
present, which I believe may be depended on.
I am at present alone and from the important Business be-
fore Congress, respecting our finances and foreign affairs,
earnestly desire a representation as soon as any of my Col-
leagues can possibly attend.
I am Sir with great respect to you and the
Council
Your most obedient and very
h^ble Serv^t
J. Henry Jun^r
The Letter from Sterling
was dated on Saturday last.

Original.