Newport, May 18, 1781.
My Dear Sir:
* * * * *
M. de Barras arrived a few days since, with the General’s son, in
a frigate from France. He has taken the command of the fleet. Seven
hundred land forces are now embarking, the wind is fair, and they sail
this day to meet the convoy expected from France, with provisions and
recruits for the regiments here. I fear they will have a very trifling
augmentation of force, and that this campaign will prove as inactive
as the last. I imagine you will be with General Washington at the
conference. You will have the pleasure to see General Chastellux,
who will give you this letter. At his return, I expect it will be
decided whether the army marches or not: at present it seems a matter
of great doubt, notwithstanding the preparations which are making.
I am astonished we hear nothing from the southward. I fear, if the
detachment, embarked at New-York, is destined for that quarter, that
the enemy will make a considerable progress.
* * * * *
Your friend and servant,
John Carter.
Colonel Hamilton.