Baltimore Feby 5th 1777
Sir,
Judging it of the last consequence to the Public that the Military Stores probably lodged for the Continent in the West Indies should be brought over with all possible expedition, we have determined to send all the armed Vessels mentioned in your letter to be now at Philadelphia, and the Frigate Randolph likewise, on this business. The Island that each Vessel is to go to, and the Port she is to aim at returning to, is left to your discretion. You will please Sir to give the necessary orders for the quickest possible execution of this important service.
We are Sir [&c.]
In Marine Committee
[Endorsed by Morris] Balto 5 Feby 1777 Marine Committees orders for sending all the Armed Vessells & the Randolph to the West Indias — answd 15 Feby 1777 p R M
1. USNAM. A copy signed by Hancock is in the Marine Committee Letter Book, 59, NA.
