[Extract]

. . . The Bearer Mr George Olney goes on purpose to Carry the Accots for Buildg the 2 ships of War here,² who acted As Clark in that Transaction & is a Worthy Modest Young Gentleman, What a grait pittey it is they had not gone far out before Newport was Block up as Advised by the Comte & Council of war when the Capts & princple Offecers Acknow[ledged] they was as ready for the seas 9 Mos agone er now, & more hands belonging to them, Tho' a very grait Expence has been Accrung upon them ever since, They might have gone. . . .