Sir,

I am to thank your Excellency for three Letters by the Pacquet, one inclosing an Affidavit. What relates to the New York and Philadelphia Privateers being on this Coast, and of the force there mentioned is not to be credited.

I have letters from Captain [James] Wallace who has visited the Vineyard, Montock, Gardiners, and Fishers Islands not a Fortnight since, and he does not mention a Syllable of any Privateers but those of Providence, which are Kept in the River by our Ships. However I do not slight the information but think it probable that all the Colonies will have Cruizers. I shall endeavour to keep a pretty good force in your Neighbourhood, and then it will not be difficult to frustrate any designs the Rebels may have on your Excellency's Government, now become almost the only Resource we have on the Continent.

The Diligent is certainly taken by Surprize. The Account of the Philadelphia Sloop with Provisions I believe is also indisputable; but I suspect she was bound there, and that the carrying in is a trick to answer some purpose.

The Merlin sails Today or Tomorrow with eighteen Transports for the Bay of Fundy.

We cannot but be extremely obliged for the refreshments we draw from your Excellency's Government, and I hope there is no private transaction inconsistent with the Generals and my Application to your Excellency, but except what the Pacquet has now brought  I know but of one Vessel that has twice brought us Cattle from Nova Scotia; so that I apprehend there may be Exportations with your Excellency's Pass that do not come to us. I shall do all in my Power to prevent an abuse of your Excellency's Indulgence, and beg may be acquainted if any such discovery is made. I am &c.