Sir,
I think it my Duty to remind you, as you have doubtly been informed of what we have [done that w]e generously, perhaps too generously, gave the officers taken in the Schooner Diligent, all their pr[ivate pr]operty, & among other things all the plans of this Continent, in their possession, which oversight we greatly regret & for which we can make no apology but our distress & confusion at that time, which would not admit of our attending to this matter as its vast importance required. Lieut [John] Knights goods are all sent away Lieut [Thomas] Spry's only remain in our possession. These goods, by Capt. [Aaron] Willards advice we have examined, & have found the s[k]etches now in his hands, together with a valuable compass, some slop cloathing &c. which he secreted. I now, in behalf of the Committee, humbly ask, if Lieut. Thomas Spry has not forfieted all his right to said goods? I therefore beg advice & direction of the Honorable General Court, which we should be glad to receive as soon as may be ー
By order of the Committee of safety I am [&c.]
Sir Capt. Willard can give [you farther infor]mation, to whom [I refer you.] ー
[Endorsed] In Council Feby 15th 1776
Read & committed to Benja Lincoln Esqr with such as the Honol House shall join
sent down for Concurrence Perez Morton D Secry
In the House of Representatives Feb. 15. 1776
Read and concurred and Collo [Solomon] Lovell & Coll [John] Bliss are joined ー William Cooper Speakr Pro T[em.]
