The New Hampshire Gazette And General Advertiser

ANNAPOLIS. August 1

The apprehensions of an invasion are for the present dissipated; the fleet, supposed to be destined for Baltimore or this city, has entered York river; the troops have landed at Gloucester and York, and are fortifying; it would, however, be the extreme of folly to allow this change of appearances to relax our exertions, their situation being still such as to enable them to invade us at their pleasure; If we act like a wise people, and are in earnest to protect our property, and all we hold dear, we shall redouble our diligence, and exert every effort to render ourselves impregnable. Let the militia be unwearied in becoming acquainted with their arms; let all ranks of people unite in establishing the credit of our new emissions; which will open such a fund for raising and equipping men, that we shall be able to render the southern army formidable; let patriotism gain the ascendant over private interest and sordid passions, and our safety is ensured.

The spirit which pervaded the militia on the prospect of an invasion, and the alacrity with which they stepped forth, whilst it redounds to their eternal honor, must inspire us with a pleasing confidence in our strength, and blast the hopes of our enemy. It is a fact, which ought to be universally known, that 300 militia, well armed, stand not despicable in their discipline, were assembled on one day's notice from Baltimore-town and its vicinity. An equal ardor reigned in every other part of the State, & militia were crowding in from every other quarter, so that in the course of a few days an army would have collected, not only sufficient to have counteracted any predatory schemes of the enemy, but have made them repent an invasion in force.

The following are extracts of letters from a gentleman with the Marquis de Lafayette, dated New-Castle, August 6. 1781.

Maryland is relieved by the enemy's having established themselves in York river; but as this is a movement not of choice, there is no saying how long you will be safe. The measure, there is good reason to believe, is in consequence of advice of a superior naval power expected on this coast. So you see upon what you have to depend.

Under these circumstances your military preparations are as necessary as ever. You will either want them for your own defence, or to assist us. Believe one, who is not apt to judge rashly, who has long since told you of what has been so near taking place, that relaxation may involve evils to the state of the most permanent nature. There was a time when we could blunder with impunity; but a blunder now may prove fatal. I need not be more explicit to you. You must be aware of the very critical situation of affairs both in America and Europe.