Sir
This will be handed' you by Capt George Wentworth who goes express, by whom I've the pleasure to Inform you of the Arrival at this port last evening of the French ship, called the Mercury from Na[n]tz, the Dispatches by her you have p Express this ship's Arrival is the most fortunate event that could have happend, being loaded with Warlike stores for the Continent 2 by the Capts orders, he was to Come in to Boston, Newbury port or this place I've taken Charge of the ship, and shall have her unloaded, and wait the Orders of Congress
Our men in this State who are Marching off for Ticonderoga, are greatly in want of Arms; therefore should this State, or any of the general Officers apply for Arms, &c. for to give Dispatch to the Continental Troops, shall think myself Obliged to Deliver so many as they may want ー this ship mounts forteen Six poundrs and has fifty men, all french, ー I shall be glad to know what is to be done with the ship whether she is to Return in Ballast, or to take masts, from heJJ.ce, or go to the Southward for Rice, Tobacco or flower, there is two Passingers one a Brigadr General, the other Capt of Artillery well Recommended by Mr Franklin,3 they set off for Boston to Morrow or Next day, no doubt the Dispatches will give you the Inteligence, but what is Related by these Gentlemen, is truely pleaseg. there seems not the least doubt but that the French are prepared to take an Active part. ー On these happy events I Beg leave to Congratulate You and' the Honbl Committee and am with all due Esteem [&c.]
P.S. by a Vessell just arrived from the West indies, have heard that the Betsey Frigate Sprung a leak and put in to Martinico where she has sold her Masts and Lumber to great Advantage but have no letter from Capt Palmer l am in want of a Sum of money for Acct of the Honble Secret Committee ー
