On the 14th of September he started down the Bay with the squadron and convoy, sending ahead to the Delaware a small division, to aid the army, if necessary.

The winds holding southerly, ten days were required to get to sea; and outside further delay was caused by very heavy weather.

The Admiral there quitted the convoy and hastened up river.

On the 6th of October he was off Chester, ten miles below Philadelphia.

The navy had already been at work for a week, clearing away obstructions, of which there were two lines; both commanded by batteries on the farther, or Jersey, shore of the Delaware.