Annapolis 22d July 1778
Gentn.
This by Captain Hawker of the British Frigate Mermaid chaced on Shore by the French Fleet.1 The Captain & his principal Officers have been allowed their Parole, & are furnished with Copies. I have been induced to give this indulgence from the Information I have received of his having treated the Americans who have fallen into his hands with Humanity, & many of them with Generosity. The hope of having some of our friends in Exchange for the Officers & Men of the Mermaid has led me to give into his request, that he & the Officers may go to Philadelphia as likely to facilitate an Exchange, and I send the Petty Officers & Men there with the same view—I have a Confidence that it is unnecessary for me to request that Captain Hawkers treatment of our friends may have its influence in your Orders with regard to him.2 I am [&c.]
Th. Johnson—
,Copy Jas Hawker
Copy, UkLPR, Admiralty 1/1904. Addressed at the foot: "Honble the Board of War/Philadelphia—."
1. On the capture of H.M. frigate Mermaid, see Capt. James Hawker to Vice Adm. Viscount Howe, 29 July, below.
2. In his letter to Howe, Hawker mentioned that he and his officers had been well treated from the time of their capture until 28 July when they arrived in Philadelphia and were confined in jail.
