May it please your Honor,
and the Gentlemen of the Honorable Council,

Since the Discharge of Lieut [Michael] Melally from the Ship, there appears to be an Uneasiness not only among the Officers, but also among the Seamen on board, lest some unexperienced Person may be appointed in his Place. ー I beg Leave, therefore; to inform your Honor, and the Honorable Gentlemen of the Councell, that in Consaquence thereof, the Master, Boatswain, and several other Officers will decline the Service, unless the Ship shall be officer'd agreeable to their. Minds.

Although I have requested a Discharge from the Ship, I have no Objection to sailing under Capt Coit, nor have I any Desire to quit the Cause of my Country, while my Abilities are necessary for it's Defence, but determine to risque all in it's Preservation ー And if your Honor, & the Honorable Council, shall think fit to appoint me up Service, either by Sea or Land, in whatever Capacity you shall please, I shall with Pleasure Obey your Commands and endeavor that my Conduct shall meet your Approbation, As I have been used to the Sea, an Appointment in that Way would be most agreeable.

Having receiv'd no Answer from your Honor to my Request for a Discharge, I beg your Honor and the Honorable Board would determine thereupon, as in your Wisdom shall seem best for the Public Service ー I am with greatest Respect [&c.]