Sir
The Commissioners of the Navy desire you will purchase on the best terms, and.as soon as you possibly can ten good Negroes such as you may think proper for working at the Ropewalk, and draw on the Board for the Money which shall be paid on sight. It is probable you may make the purchase either at Johnsons or Blands Sale. —
(Signd) Thomas Whiting 1st Commr
Williamsburg 4th Feby 1776 [sic 1777] —
1. Navy Board Letter Book, VSL.
