Copy of a letter from Rear-Adm. Sir Samuel Hood to Rear-Adm. Thomas Graves asking if he had any information about the location of the French fleet, expressing his concerns that De Grasse would be aiming for the Chesapeake and the subsequent danger this might cause to British ships as well as the supply support this might provide to 'the Rebels'.
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Barfleur at Sea, September the 10th. 1781. Sir, I flatter myself you will forgive the liberty I take in asking whether you have any knowledge where the French fleetes, as we can see nothing of it from the Barfleur. By the press of Sail DeGrasse carried yesterday (and he must even have done the same the preceding Night, by being where he was at Day light) I am inclined to think his aim in the Chesapeak, in order to be strengthened by the Ships there, either by adding them to his present force, or by exchanging his disabled Ships for them: admitting that to be his plan, will he not cut off the frigates you have sent to recommoiter, as well as the Ships you expect from New York; and if he should enter the Bay, which is by no means [[catchword]] improbable [[/catchword]] Rear Admiral Graves &c. &c. &c.
