Dear Sir:—
I have just received information from the Lieut. Governor of Virginia, by express, that 100 sail & upwards of the enemy's fleet was arrived in Chesapeake Bay, and intimating his expectation of being under the necessity of calling on us for assistance. I have written to the several General officers of the Militia to hold the 1st & 2d divisions of their Brigades ready to march at the shortest notice: but let the emergency be what it may, they can not legally be ordered to march but with the advice of the Council, I have therefore appointed the 1st September for the members to meet at New Bern, when you will be pleased to attend.