D^r Sir

To conclude our misfortune this morn^g. heaving down, the Gammoning bolte broke which carried away our pend^ts. & that surge unfortunately carried away our Mast in the partners¹–Have sent the boat with an officer to know what is best to be done whether to continue to git a new Mast here, which can be got with less expence than else where, or whether I am to return to Annapolis & weight the determination of his Ex^ly: & H: Councel²–The misfortune is out of dispute, as every precaution to the contrary was exerted in my power and Judgement, which can be attested.- Without giting at the main leak which is in the garboard Streak fore & aft,³ is doing nothing, & wiling to persevere have met with more delay & misfortunes than I could have expected—The extraordinary expence as yet, is no great deal, therefore in my opinion think we had better go on & expedite the business as soon as possible without further trouble—My Boatswain & another hand has Run, & three in the Hospital which makes my Compliment but fiew. Shuld be glad to be assisted—For further particulars Refer you to M^r. Farguson who is the officer on duty—⁴ I am with Respect [&c.]

From Violent cold have been very unwell and allmost blind these ten days past——

JG