Dear Sir

I this moment Rec^d. your favour by M^r. Guy Palmes in answer, we think that if M^r. Knese¹ Lieu^t. of the Columbus formerly,² were on board Capt^n. Pelton³ he had Sufficient Athority to take the Brigantine and bring her into port and he has Good right to lybill her in his own Name—I do not wish to Injure Capt^n. Pelton or the men on board his Vessel, but in Case it apears reasonable & Justifyable would have M^r. Knese libell or lay in Claim, as you Shall Judge proper and advise him as Agent for the Continant—if it Should be Objected to on acco^t. of M^r. Knese not having his Commission in his Pockett, we think it may be Easyly Pro[ve]d that he his a Lieu^t. in the Continantal Navy, is So Registered in [our?] Office, and at the Marine office at York Town⁴—[Although?] my Colegues⁵ ar both absent Expect one of them here tomorrow, Shall write you on the Subject again Very Soon—I am Dear Sir [&c.]