Philada Feby 5th 1777
Sir
By Consent of the Honorable Congress I have this day given instructions to Jno Paul Jones Esqr Commander of the Alfred to take upon him the Conduct of an Expedition wherein he will require the assistance of the Columbus Cabot, Camden [Hampden] & Sloop Providence, and You will please to order the Commanders to join him & to put themselves under his Command. I flatter myself with having your utmost exertions to get these Vessells well & expeditiously manned and compleatly fitted that they may sail soon as possible. I lately forwarded you a Packet with instructions respecting the Frigates from the Marine Committee which I hope will arrive safe. I long to hear that you contrive ways & means to get rid of the Enemy in Your Neighbourhood & am with esteem Sir [&c.]
Robt Morris, V.P. of the Marine Committee
P S my Compts to your Brother
1. Robert Morris Papers, HUL. A draft of this letter with the correct name, Hampden, and without the postscript is in the Marine Committee Letter Book, 54-55, NA.
