(1711 - 1794) British admiral who commanded the Royal Navy's North American station during the American Revolution. Soon after arriving at his headquarters, he was blockaded in New York Harbor by the French fleet under Count d'Estaing. In December 1779, Arbuthnot conveyed the troops of Sir Henry Clinton to Charleston, South Carolina, and cooperated with him in laying siege to that city. Fine content A.L.S., 2pp. folio, H.M.S. Roebuck, New York, July 4, 1781 to Captain George Elphinstone. On the anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Arbuthnot announces his returning to Great Britain, in part: '…I…am sincerely sorry for the for the cause that prevents me from personally asking your commands and telling you that I certainly shall go to Scotland soon after my arrival, where if I could be of the smallest use I should be happy, but my time draws so very near of leaving this that I cannot receive your answer. I can only therefore assure you that I shall always have very great pleasure in hearing of your success…'. Though incompetent, Arbuthnot knew when to leave, as he would not be present for the final series of events leading to the ultimate defeat of the British at Yorktown in October of that year. With integral address leaf. Clean 3 in. tear in letter well away from the signature, otherwise very good.