[Extract]

The Non Exportation is sacredly Observed & I believe [has] never been violated in a single Instance & such is the Spirit here, that it cannot be violated with any degree of Safety. . . .

Mcpherson is yet here but, I dare not ask questions. Nothing Transpires & whether any plan is adopted or not cant Inform you. . . . The Pirates Continue to rove about. & Threaten our Seaports. they made an Attempt to go into Plymo but were discouraged by the Appearance of the Harbour  returned and reported to the Admiral that it was not fit to receive Kings Ships. our people are however prepareing for them if they alter their minds