Dear Sir

Cap^t. Nicholson¹ of the Frigate Virginia, has applyed to me as a member of the Marine Committee, pointing out the necessity he is under, of having a Tender, in order to reconnitre the Bay before he proceeds down with the Frigate.

He informs me that there is now at Annopolis armed boats belonging to this State, under your Excellency's directions, and prays that one of the largest might be lent for that purpose; he intends to embrace the first fair wind to proceed with the Frigate to Sea, and which Congress has very much at Heart. I have the honor to be [&c.]

Baltimore 1^st. Feb^ry. 1778