My dear Livingston

Altho' I am not yet favored with your reply to my letter of 24th Ult. — I am unwilling to Ommit this Opportunity. — Inclosed you have sundry papers which you are at liberty to use at your discretion-the inclosed letter with that to Mr Hewes and the one which I shewed you last Winter to the Marine Committee contains my Sentiments on the present line of Rank. — I would lay down my life for America — but cannot trifle with my Honor. — I will send you Copies of my late letters to Mr Morris and to Mr Hewes — but in the meantime pray let me hear from you. — I meet with little or no Assistance here in fitting or in Manning the Ship. Selfishness is not peculiar to Boston. — I expect your free and candid Advice and I am [&c.]

NB. Mr Dawson is hovering off here and I hope will continue to do so 'till I am in a Situation to thank him.