Capt. Jones, Sir,

I take the freedom of Writing you acquainting you with my Situation, I have had a first Lieutenant's Commission for the Brig Hamden this Ten Months & we have made several Attempts to get out, but all to no purpose, we are at present ready for the Sea, waiting for a Wind but God knows when that will come, it seems to me as if we should not get out this Summer, if you are not provided with Officers, or have a Vacancy I should like to Sail with you once more, if I could get the same Station & could get Clear of the Brign with honour — Capt Burroughs I like very well, it is not out of Dislike to him, but I have been a little Unfortunate, by being Penn'd in here, & no prospect of getting out makes me very Uneasy, I have been speaking to Mr Manly concerning the Matter & he advises me to Write to you about it, & should be much Obliged to you for an Answer as soon as possible. Mr [Gideon] Whitfield Master of the Brig woud go, & in case of the Brigs not going out I believe more would go — I hope you will Excuse my Writing in so plain a Manner, I have no more at present, but hope this will find you well — I Remain Sir [&c.]

To John Paul Jones Esqr In Boston.