Sir/

Captain Alexander having received Instructions from us to make an Attack on the Enemy's Ships in Delaware Bay, if he shall judge proper, you are to assist him in this Enterprise by every Means in your Power; After which Captain Alexander, Captain [Isaiah] Robinson & Captain [Benjamin] Dunn will immediately proceed to Sea. — As you will then be the oldest Officer you are to take the Command of the Remainder of the Fleet, & conduct them with all Expedition into the Cape May Channel: When there, you are to exert the utmost of your Endeavours to keep the same open, so that American Vessels from Sea may come up that Channel to this City, & those bound from hence may get to Sea.

As we know your Ship is but weakly mann'd, you are to divide Captain Brewster's [Peter Brusstar] Crew & yours in such Manner that each may be equal in Number and Strength, which we think may answer the Purpose, tho' not so fully as we could wish.

We hope you will have Opportunities whilst in the Cape May Channel of encreasing your Strength by Enlistments. —

We shall expect to hear from you as often as Occasion shall require.

Wishing you good Success, we are Your Friends