To Thomas Jefferson from William Tatham, 21 July 1807

Dr. Sir

Norfolk 21st. July 1807.
half past 12 o Clock,

Capt. Decatur & Capt. Hull will be with me tomorrow, at Lynhaven, in order to examine that place touching the Gun boat service: My whale boat, which arrived here yesterday morning at two O’Clock, will therefore return to meet them in Lynhaven; without pursuing her intended destination to Cape Charles, & its neighbourhood, at present.

I regret that a severe rain, all this Forenoon, has so procrastinated business in this place that it is impossible for me, I fear, to be at Lynhaven in time to return you this days facts there, by my daily express, in time for the mail; & This more particularly because it is rumoured, (on accounts said to be from Lynhaven to day) that there were Seven British Ships at Anchor in that Bay this morning, & that they have sent several vessels to Hallifax.—I will endeavour to get the Post-Master to keep the Mail open to your dispatches till the hour of dispatching the Stage; & shall be off immediately, to observe & send to you the truth in their affair—I am &c

Wm Tatham

P.S. I shall be compelled to draw arms for my boats &c, as my men refuse to keep watch without; & grumble at being exposed, without the means of defense. I trust this step will meet Your approbation, as it is essential to the ends given me in charge.

I have the honor to be Sir Yr. H Servt

Wm Tatham

DNA: RG 59—ML—Miscellaneous Letters.

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