Whipple, chairman of the Marine Committee in the Continental Congress, discusses a former request for money submitted by Langdon, naval agent for Continental prizes and supervisor of the construction of several ships. Regarding the money, mentions Langdon's acquaintances Wharton (possibly Samuel Wharton) and Donaldson. Relates that Congress has agreed to increase the Navy by one ship, and requests that Langdon assist in formulating a plan to procure materials such as iron. Discusses obtaining material from France and Spain. Discusses Langdon's financial situation, prize money procured for naval expenditure, and a vessel owned by Mr. Moffatt (possibly John Moffatt, Whipple's father-in-law). Discusses the British capture of Fort Washington, New York and Fort Lee, New Jersey 16 November. In a post script, relates I had like to have forgot to tel you that Gen. Washington is in Jersey with about 10,000 men several Regiments are on their march to join him & the Militia of this State & Jersey are also mustering & if the Enemys designs are this way you know what country they have to march thro.' Also mentions his suspicion that some of his previous letters had fallen into British hands.

Docketed by Langdon on verso. Reporting on the difficulties supplying the army and navy, military plans, and the mood in Congress. Mentions a shipment of guns with defects. Comments on officer promotions. Mentions the Marine Committee's answer to a letter from the Committee of Providence. Mentions the petition of an officer to be Releavd, which he describes as a Petition for a Public Body to break their own Genl: Rules. He doubts it will pass but states that he will render assistance. Discusses clothing the troops, who he finds in good spirit though almost naked. Doubts the states will respond to a recommendation to issue provisions. Reasserts his belief that independence will be achieved, but also expresses his wish to put a speedy end to Slaughter & devastation which already is great, but must still be greater if the war Continues which nothing will prevent but the utmost exertions of the Friends to Liberty & Humanity[.] such Exertions under the smiles of Heaven, will restore peace & Establish Happiness in this western world. Also comments on military rumors. Has heard it is likely that General William Howe has but two moves more in which we shall Check Mate him. Comments on a desertion by Hessians. Sends congressional resolutions relating to the navy. Includes a long post script on the departure of General Howe from White Plains, New York, General George Washington's dispatch of 4000 troops to protect New Jersey, and British retreat from Crown Point.

In the tradition of the preceding volumes - the first of which was published in 1964 - this work synthesizes edited documents, including correspondence, ship logs, muster rolls, orders, and newspaper accounts, that provide a comprehensive understanding of the war at sea in the spring of 1778. The editors organize this wide array of texts chronologically by theater and incorporate French, Italian, and Spanish transcriptions with English translations throughout.