The writings of George Washington; being his correspondence, addresses, messages, and other papers, official and private, selected and published from the original manuscripts; with a life of the author, notes and illustrations. By Jared Sparks.

PART II.] THE AMERICAN REVOLUTION. 165
restore to us a similar occasion for striking a decisive
blow; that the British will be indefatigable in strengthening their most important maritime points; and that
the time of an honorable peace will be more remote
than ever.
The confidence, with which I feel myself inspired
by the energy of character and naval talents, which so
eminently distinguish your Excellency, leaves me no
doubt, that, upon a consideration of the consequences,
which must follow your departure from the Chesapeake, you will determine upon the measure, which
the dearest interests of the common cause would dictate. I had invariably flattered myself, from the accounts given me by skilful mariners, that your position,
moored in the Chesapeake, might be made so respectable as to bid defiance to any attempt on the part
of the British fleet, at the same time that it would support the operations of a siege, secure the transportation
of our supplies by water, and economize the most
precious time by facilitating the debarkation of our
heavy artillery and stores conveniently to the trenches
in York River. It is to be observed, that the strength
of the enemy's reinforcement under Admiral Digby, as
we have the intelligence from the British, may not only
be exaggerated, but altogether a finesse; and, supposing the account consistent with truth, their total force,
it was hoped, would not put them in a condition to
attack with any prospect of success.
If the stationary position, which had been agreed
upon, should be found utterly impracticable, there is an
alternative, which however inferior, considered relatively
to the support and facility of our land operations, would
save our affairs from ruin. This is, to cruise with your
fleet within view of the Capes, so as effectually to prevent the entrance of any British vessels.