[Extract]

I have inclosed a Paper upon which I will make no Remark: But leave you to your own Conjectures ー only I must absolutely insist that it be mentioned to nobody. It may gratify your Curiosity and give some Relief to your Cares.²

I most earnestly pray that all my Friends would exert themselves to furnish me with Intelligence of a particular Nature. I mean with a List of all the Depradations committed upon our Trade; a List of all the Vessels which have been taken by the Cutters, Cruizers, &c.; the Names of the Vessells, Masters, owners; Burthen of the Ship, the Nature of the Cargo's, and the Value of both. Nothing will contribute so much to facilitate Reprizals, as an exact Account of our Losses and Damages. I wish our General Court would take it up and examine it thoroughly.