The Virginia Gazette

Extract of a letter from Kent county, dated August 21, four o'clock, P. M.

I embrace the earliest moment of giving you the most authentic account of the enemy's fleet, and their motions since their arrival in Chesapeake bay.

The fleet arrived this morning, between the hours of seven and eight o'clock, off Swan-island, which lies directly between Rockhall and the river Patapsco, and dropped anchor. From the best information we have been able to procure, their number is upwards of one hundred sail.

It is uncertain, as the tide is strong ebb, whether they intend to Baltimore, or further up the bay. Their number is continually increasing.

There is a great number of cattle, which I am afraid must fall into the enemy's hands.
"Fifty minutes past four, P. M. This moment I received a letter from a Gentleman of veracity and attachment to the country, from Swan point, two o'clock, P. M. He had just then returned from viewing the fleet, which he is certain is near two hundred in number. He says they all came to off Swan point about one o'clock, P. M. and is certain they will land on this shore to-night or to-morrow morning, as they are very near the land. There is a number of small craft around them, and they seem crowded with men. Cannon are continually firing at Baltimore."

By an express which arrived this morning, we are informed the enemy's fleet were seen last night from Turkey point.

BALTIMORE, August 26. On Thursday last appeared off the mouth of Patapsco river, the enemy's fleet, consisting of near 300 sail of men of war, transports, &c. They came to anchor just below the Bodkin Point, where they continued till Friday, when they weighed anchor, &c. and proceeded up to the mouth of Elk river, and came to off Turkey Point, within sight of Cecil courthouse and Charlestown. It has been reported they landed some of their troops, but it proceeded from their sending a number of boats to Pususa island, lying between Harford and Kent counties, on which was a large stock of cattle, sheep, &c. some of which they have taken off. Should they attempt to land on the Main they may depend on having a proper reception. We flatter ourselves of having it in our power to say as much for the Maryland militia, as now is, with justice, said of the brave New England militia, under the command of Brigadier General Stark, at Bennington.