Sir Capt Coit has informed us of the Accident which hapned to his Vessel thro' the Stupidity & Unskilfulness of the Pilot ー We wonder we did not hear from you or Martindale by the Return of this Messenger. As we are quite at a Loss about the Ammunition to be got from hence & the Time of Marchg the Men to Plymouth ー However as by all Accounts the Vessel is ready I have Ordered the Men to have Notice to march to morrow or as soon as the Weather will permit.
A Gentleman from Plymouth informs us this Morning that they cannot Spare the Powder from the Stock unless it is immediately replaced ー you will therefore be particular in your Accounts that we may know how to repay it. ー They speak of a brass Field piece which they cannot well Spare, you will also leave it unless it is indispensably necessary for the Vessels which we cannot Suppose ー
You may let Capt Coit Martindale know that it is under Consideration of Congress to allow a great[er] Share of Prizes to the Officers and Men ー we hope all will exert themselves for the Good of our Common Country. Two of our Vessels sail out of Marblehead to day ー if the Weather permits ー two are already gone to the Eastward ー I am in haste &c.
Head Quarters Octo 29 1775
