Dear Brother ー

I this moment heard of an opportunity, and thought proper to acquaint you that I am this night going to St. Cristophers' to take charge of Capt. Sanderses brig, to go to Cork, rather than come home, for the sea is full of all kind of cruizers: there is not one in ten that escapes, going or coming. On my arrival here, I wrote up to my friends at St. Christophers, and related my misfortune of being taken, and they immediately sent word down to me to take charge of this brig. Thank God, I am not in want of friends in this part of the world. Mrs. Van Alstyne is well, and likewise myself; we both join in our best respects to my beloved mother, &c. I am [&c.]

N.B. This morning I heard that two privateers is fitting out at the island of Dominica; therefore you can relate &c.