Sir

We are ordered by Congress to signify to you, that you are with the Hornet & Wasp under your Command to take under your Convoy such Vessels as are ready for the Sea as shall be committed to your Care by the Comee of Safety at Maryland, & see them safe through the Capes of Virginia & without a Moments Loss of Time after this Service is done you are to go to the Capes of Delaware, & proceed upwards till you join the Fleet, or in Case of its having Sailed receive such Orders as may be left for you by Esek Hopkins Esqr Commander in Chief of the Fleet of the United Colonies ー wch you are to Obey ー

To Willm Stone Esqr Commander of the Sloop Hornet In the Service of the United Colonies