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Sir By His Brittannick Majesty's Ship Argo, which arrived here this day from Martinique, where I had sent her, for the Pomona's Anchors and Cables; left behind in the late Gale of Wind I am sorry to receive the information she brings me, that a most pernicious Trade is now carried on from thence; in order to supply Gunpowder and Warlike Stores, to the Rebellious Subjects of the King my Master, in America: By American Vessels, having a French Master put on board them; hoping by that means to secure them from being seized: however should any of our Ships of War meet the said Vessels at Sea your Excellency must know the nominal French Master cannot answer that purpose; as by the Law of nations, all such Commodities are contraband when carrying to nations at War, by any neutral power: and surely there is much greater reason they should be deemed so, when intended to supply the Rebellious Subjects of a friend an Ally.

I do not directly approve of Captain [Francis Grant] Gordons searching any of the Vessels in His most Christian Majestys Port of Martinique; but on his receiving such information as he did: Zeal for his Masters Service, might hurry a good Officer to do, what on cooler thoughts he would not: to the same cause I therefore attribute the impolite answer the Commandant at Martinique sent to Captain Gordon on his representing the Case to him and asking his permission to seize the Vessel.

I beg your Excellency will believe I shall always make it my Study to keep up and Cultivate, the good harmony and Friendship, that I hope still subsists between our respective Nations and I have no doubt, your Excellency entertains the same friendly sentiments towards the accomplishment of which I flatter myself you will immediately put a stop to a trade so very pernicious and disgraceful.

Should any of his Britannick Majesty's Ships under my Command chance to meet at Sea any of the above described American Vessels (having Powder and Warlike Stores on board) they have my Express orders, forthwith to seize them; notwithstanding a French Nominal Master, may be on board the said Vessel, and call her his property.

Captain Gordon of the Argo will deliver this Letter and give any further information you may think necessary. I have the honor to be &[c]