isgrace. Being thus situated we have
reason to hope, that this part of their army (and which is the most
considerable part) will, by the end of winter, be reduced very low by
deaths, desertion, and captivity. General Heath, with a body of
eastern troops, is making an impression on New York by Kingsbridge,
which, we understand, has obliged the enemy to recall their troops
from Rhode Island, for the defence of that city.

The regular corps, that are to compose the new army, are making up in
the different States as fast as possible; but arms, artillery, tent
cloth and clothing will be greatly wanted. For these our reliance is
on the favor and friendship of his Most Christian Majesty. If you are
so fortunate as to obtain them, the propriety of sending them in a
strong ship of war must be very evident to you, Gentlemen, when you
know our coasts are so covered with cruisers, from twenty to fifty
guns, though but few of the latter. We believe, they have not more
than two ships of forty, and two or three of fifty guns, in their
whole fleet on the North American station; and these are employed, one
of them to cover a frigate or two at the capes of each bay, whilst the
rest remain at New York.

We beg leave to direct your attention to the enclosed propositions of
Congress, and we doubt not, you will urge their success with that zeal
and careful assiduity, that objects so necessary to the liberty and
safety of your country demand.

We are exceedingly anxious to hear from you, and remain, with
particular sentiments of esteem and friendship, Gentlemen, your most
obedient humble servants,

B. HARRISON,
R. H. LEE,
W. HOOPER.

* * * * *

TO THE COMMITTEE OF SECRET CORRESPONDENCE.

Paris, 6th February, 1777.

Gentlemen,

Since our last, a copy of which is enclosed, Mr Hodge arrived here,
from Martinique, and has brought safely the papers he was charged
with. He had a long passage, and was near being starved. We are about
to employ him in a service pointed out by you, at Dunkirk, or
Flushing. He has delivered us three sets of the papers we wanted; but
we shall want more, and _beg you will not fail_ to send them by
several opportunities.

A private company has just