Pensacola June 18^th 1800 D.^r Sir, Owing to the unexpected Surrender of the fort S^t. Marks, the Squadron of Galleys returns here 2^d Inst. with the detachment of that Fort. On the 10^th of the Same arrived here in a Canoe M^r Ferguson who was Secretary to the adventurer Bowls, who ran away with the Captain of the Brig Sheerwater which the Indians had captured, his mate, two Negromen & a Negro woman. In consequence of the Information which the former as well as the [strikethrough: others] gave a Council of War Was held the 12 Instant where it was unanimously determined that his Excellency D.^r Vincent Folch Should form an expedition for the purpose, retaking Fort S.^t Mark of Appalache & that for its better Success he Should command it in person.— To this effect Seven Vessels of War & two Merchantmen armed were put in readiness & on board of them were embark'd the troops & Stores that was thought necessary for the undertaking, leaving at the Same time this place in a regular State of defence, & these forces Sailed Yesterday from this port with a favourable weather under the orders of His Excellency.— In consequence Stook charge of the Government p.^r Interim of this Place according to Royal Orders which I communicate to you for your intelligence & Govern.^t and I hope [undecipherable] furnish opportunities to Gratify the Sincere wish I have to be usefull to you in any thing that may be within my facultys. I have the honor to be respectfully Your most Obedient & humble Servant Fran.^co de Paula Gelabert Cole Benjamin Hawkins Esq^r