Gentlemen, ー

I received your favour of the 27th ulto, wherein you are pleased to confer on me the command of a Ship in the Continental Service; which I cheerfully accept of, and am much obliged to you for your approbation of me to so important a command. Must forego repairing to Philadelphia, until I receive the Articles, without which it is impossible to engage either officers or privates. Should I not receive them by next post, shall then proceed on to Philadelphia; in the mean time, shall do my utmost to engage men for the service without them. I am, Gentlemen [&c.]