Bermuda 16 of October 1775
My Lord
Captain Tollemache of the Scorpion Man of War, having very fortunately for us, touched at Bermuda, and came into St Georges Harbour, at the East end of tl;iese Islands, with a large transport with Him both intended for South Carolina.
Some days after his arrival, an american armed vessel, came to anchor at the west End far out of His reach or access, and spoke with the land we are informed, and then went off.
And We are very apprehensive, that She came for the Cannon that they might know to be in Store here. And to prevent any such design, as Captain Tollemache intended, and was obliged to proceed for Carolina, the first fair wind. and we should then be left defenceless; we were both of opinion, that it was much the best way for Captain Tollemache to take charge of the Cannon in Store, and put them on board His Tender or large Transport, to prevent the said Cannon to be Carried off, in the same maner as the powder was, and applyed against His Majestys army. We have delivered to Him thirty peices of Iron ordnance with the Carriages and stores, belonging to them &c which I doubt not but His Majesty and Your Lordship will approve of.
Jonathan Burch Esqr His Majestys Chief Justice in Bermuda, is the most worthy, to be recommended to His Majestys favor, for His Attention and good will to the King's Service, at this particular time of trouble and danger: He hath no Salary, and hath laboured in that imployment many years for nothing. I have the Honor to be [&c.]
P S I hope Your Lordship will be graciously pleased, to take His Case into Your Consideration, and get Him some allowance from Home. as there are more Demands already, on the Kings lands here, than the produce, or Interest money amounts to.