I the Subscriber have heard Commodore Hopkins Say that the continental Congress were a pack of ignorant Lawyers Clarks and that they know nothing at all. I also have heard him Say, when earnestly persuaded to remove the fleet to Boston, being in constant expectation that this river would be blocked up, the Ships Shall not go to Boston, by God.

P. James Brewer

Ship Warren Feby 24 1777.

I the Subscriber can attest that our Commander, Commodore Hopkins, has Spoken very abusively concerning the Honorable Congress; calling that respectable assembly, who ought to be considered as the guardians of American liberty, a pack of ignorant lawyers Clarks, who knew nothing at all.

John Truman

Ship Warren Feby 24. 1777.

I the Subscriber have heard Commodore Hopkins assert that the continental congress were a pack of damned rascals; the best of them were lawyers Clarks, and knew nothing of their business; that he, his self, intended to leave the Navy and go to Philidela in order that the Congress might have Some body there who kn[ew] Something, for Shame and destruction must be the portion of the american fleet unless he undertook to negotiate that affair.

Samuel Shaw.