In the Council of Safety,
[Charleston] Thursday, Jan. 4th, 1776.
John Rutledge, esq., was chosen by the Council, to be their president, during the absence of Col. Henry Laurens.
Read a proposal of Mr. Isaac Caton for importing ammunition
Ordered, That the consideration thereof be postponed.
The Council issued orders on the treasury for the following payments:
Capt. Robert Cochran, for his voyage, [£]350 0 0
Ordered, That Capt. [George Gabriel] Powell do immediately proceed, in the brigantine Comet, through Wappoo, into Stono river, and there fit her for service with all possible expedition, and wait for further orders; that her guns and stores be sent after her by Capt. [Edward] Blake; and that Capt. [Simon] Tufts and Capt. [William Henry] Drayton do afford Capt. Powell all possible assistance in removing the Comet thither.
Ordered, That Col. [William] Moultrie be desired to order the soldiers now serving as marines on board the Hawke pilot boat, to be removed on board the brigantine Comet, and there remain for her defence.
Ordered, That Capt. Blake do enquire and report to this board the particulars and value of the cargo on board the Jamaica ship, now lying at Hobcaw.
John Campbell applied for, and obtained leave to depart the colony, in the Sandwich packet.
