Mr Lewis's [Newtown, Pa.]
28th Decr 1777-8 o Clock A.M.

Sir

Early this morning, a Spy came to me from Philadelphia, which place he left late last Evening, at that time, Sr Wm Howe had just arrived, & the Van of his Army had got over Schuylkill, a great many Troops were marching from this side the ferry towards the City, so that e'er this, I immagine they've all returned from Derby, 'twas the common talk in the City, that the Army was returning-I shall instantly dispatch a person to Derby, & as soon as he returns, will give you further information, if they remain-if you dont hear from me this Evening, you may rely they have returned1-I expect another Spy from the City, so soon as he arrives, if the Enemy are all got in to quarters, I will write you-& then, with your permission will embark for York-During my absence Yesterday my Boy ran away, I suspect he is lurking about Camp in hopes of getting over Schuylkill, & making his escape to Germantown-& from thence to Philada, where his Father lives; I must beg the favor to have the inclosed Advertisement put at the bottom of General Orders & perhaps I may get him taken. I am your Excellency's Very Obedt

Jno: Clark Junr

P.S. The impossibility of putting an advertisemt in the papers at present I hope will plead my excuse