(A Copy)

Sir. Having received an Express a few days since from Major General [William] Howe, representing the low State of their Magazines of Provisions for the Army at Boston, and requesting my assistance to procure them a Speedy Supply from this Country, and as the several Victualing Transports from England for the Port of Boston (named in the inclosed List) have been forced into this Island by Stress of Weather, some of them in a very bad Condition. I have got two of them which wanted least repairs refitted, and dispatch them immediately to Boston, under Convoy of the Viper Sloop, Captain Samuel Graves (one of your Squadron) who has been also blown off the American Coast, and is just refitted at this Port. I hope these will arrive safe at Boston, and afford present relief to the Army. The remainder of the Victualers I expect to get ready for Sea in about three Weeks, and propose sending them under Convoy of His Majesty's Ship Experiment (another of your Squadron) blown off the Coast with her Main and Foremasts Sprung. I am using all possible dispatch to get her refitted and hope to effect it by the time abovenamed.

With great pleasure I embrace this opportunity to Congratulate you on the very important Command the King has appointed you to, and ardently wish you Success and honour therein. If I can execute any Commands you may have in this Country, I hope you will acquaint me therewith. I have the honour to be [&c.]