(ORIGINAL.)
Holt's Forge, September the 1st, 1781.
MY DEAR GENERAL.—I am happy to inform your Excellency that Count de Grasse's fleet is safely arrived in this bay; it consists of 28 ships of the line with several frigates and convoys a considerable body of troops under Marquis de St. Simon.—Previous to their arrival such positions had been taken by our army as to prevent the enemy's retreating towards Carolina.
In consequence of your Excellency's orders I had the honor to open a correspondence with the French Generals, and measures have been taken for a junction of our troops.—
Lord Cornwallis is still on York river and is fortifying himself in a strong position.—
With the highest respect I have the honor to be,~{1}
Endnote:
1. See answer of Washington, Sparks's Writ. of Wash. v. 8. p. 156.