Williamsburg [Va.] 6th July 1778
I am informed by Mr. Edward Rude near Hampton that he has in possession an Anchor & Cable belonging to the Brigg Liberty, and that her Camboose is on the Beach near the Fort, with Sundry Spars, all of which Articles I must beg the Favour you will be so kind as to have Collected together, and Secured in a proper manner for my further Order,1 Notifying the same to me, pray do not suffer this matter to be neglected, as those have been so many losses respecting the Materials of the Brigg that I could with all my heart wish to avoid any Complaint in future I am [&c.]
Thomas Smith
LB, Vi, Thomas Smith Letter Book, 1777–1778, p. 86. Addressed before opening: "Capt Richard Baron." Barron commanded the Virginia Navy pilot boat Patriot.
1. On its return voyage from France the Virginia State trading brig Liberty, then commanded by Capt. Thomas "Silverfist" Herbert, ran aground near Hampton and had to be rescued by the Virginia Navy galley Hero. Stewart, History of Virginia's Navy, p. 48. A caboose or camboose, was a small house on the deck of a ship where the cooking was done. The "Fort" was Fort Nelson, which was situated across the Elizabeth River from Norfolk.
