Philadelphia, January 20th 1776
[Extract]
Sir The Colony of South Carolina has been so fortunate as to oblige Lord W. Campbell, with the armed vessel to quit their harbour. Being earnestly desirous of providing for their defence they have resolved to fit out some armed vessels, but not having seamen among themselves they have dispatched Capn [Robert] Cochran to the Northward to enlist a number of seamen for the service of that Colony.
Lest the offers he was empowered to make might prejudice the service the Congress have chalked out a plan for him to go by, as you will see in the enclosed extracts and I am directed to desire you will please to forward this service ー
John Hancock President
1. Washington Papers, LC.