Capt John Bary

Sir As we find our coast is now lined with Men of War of too great force for you to cope With, We think it can be of little use for you to remain cooped up at Cape May, and as the frigate you are to command is not yet launched, her guns & anchors not yet ready,² We think it a piece of justice due to your Merit to allow you to Make a cruize in the Lexington for one or two Months, in hopes that fortune may favour your industry and reward it with some good prizes ー We send you a printed copy of the resolves of Congress respecting prizes, by which you Will learn what to take and what to let pass, a list of the Agents you have already, and to them your prizes must be addressed ー We think North Carolina is likely to remain unmolested by the Men of Warr, and, if so, your prizes may probably get safe in there ー Cape May or Egg-Harbour may also be safe places, however you must use your own discretion in this respect

If you gain any intelligence during this cruize that you think may be useful, convey it to us as soon as possible ー Capt [Isaiah] Robinson of the Sloop Sachem has also liberty to make a cruize and probably it may be advantageous that you go in concert ー

Wishing you success & honor We are sir [&c.]

[Endorsed] Copy from the Original

July 13. 1776

(Signed by the Marine Committee)

Ty Matlack Secy Mar: Com: Copy J Hancock