Letter from General Lee

v5:264

A Letter from Major-General Lee, respecting a report of a Fleet at the Hook, was read and filed, and is in the words following, to wit:

"February 14, two o' clock P˙ M˙, 1776.

"SIR: I would humbly propose to the Congress not to lose a single instant in despatching a whale-boat to the Hook, to reconnoitre the fleet, whether they are friends or enemies; for should they be the latter, and intend a visit to this place, we should make an awkward figure, unless we are prepared for their reception.

"I am, sir, your most obedient servant,

"CHARLES LEE.

"To the President of the Provincial Congress of the Colony of New-York."

v5:265

A copy of an Answer, which had been immediately returned to the General by the President and Colonel McDougall, informing that proper care has already been taken on that subject, was read and approved of by the Congress.

Die Jovis, A˙ M˙, February 15, 1776.