Ship Defence Wecomoco, May 28th 1776
Gentlm
I did myself the pleasure [of] Writing pr Cap. Pitt informing of the Situation of the Enemy down at Norfolk, Since which have been Joined by Cap. [John Thomas] Boucher2 and A Brig he had in Convoy, from the Certainty he has of the Tenders being so Numerous about the Cape, he is now halling the Brig up A Creek in this River,3 and there to lay untill A more favourable opportunity. For want of the assistance of A Tender (my own having Sprung her Mast) I did not go lower down the Bay than Rappahanock, when the Bay appears quite Clear Cap. Boucher & myself intend [going] down this Eveng for the purpose of making discoveries, and shoud the Vessels not be already Saild, woud recommend they shoud be held in readiness until I return & send or bring you advice; But should you think proper to send them before or shoud they be already Sail'd, You may depend upon my Utmost care of them. I am, Gentlnm [&c.]
James Nicholson
1. Red Book, XIII, Md. Arch.
2. Former first lieutenant of the Defence, who resigned to accept the position of commodore in the Virginia Navy.
3. The Wicomico River, running into the Potomac not far from its mouth.
