"This fleet consists of five sail, fitted out from Philadelphia, which are to be joined at the capes of Virginia by two more ships from Maryland, and is commanded by Admiral Hopkins, a most experienced and venerable sea captain."
"They sailed from Philadelphia amidst the acclamations of thousands assembled on the joyful occasion, under the display of a Union flag, with thirteen stripes in the field, emblematical of the thirteen United Colonies."[52]
And the following extract from a letter, dated New Providence, West Indies, of which Island Admiral Hopkins took prisoner the governor, &c.[53]
This letter was kindly furnished by Colonel Peter Force, editor of the American Archives, and may be found in the London Ladies' Magazine, vol. vii. July 1776, p. 390.
"New Providence, May 18, 1776.
"The colors of the American fleet were striped under the Union, with thirteen strokes, called the United Colonies, and their standard, a rattlesnake; motto—'Don't tread on me.'"
The following extract was furnished by the same gentleman, to whom I cannot too warmly return my thanks for the facilities and assistance he has afforded me.
"Williamsburg, Va., April 10, 1776.
"The Roebuck Continental Union Flag."
Reference to this letter not obtained, but in support of its correctness, see affidavit of Mr. Barry, master's mate, ship Grace, captured by the Roebuck, to be found in the Pennsylvania Evening Post, June 20, 1776, vol. ii. No. 221.