Sir

We have receiv'd your Letter of resignation and are very sorry your indisposition prevents your going the intended Voyage in your Vessel, we rely on your care and dispatch in preparing your Vessel for Sea agreeable to our last orders, and before her sailing we shall appoint some proper person to succeed you in the Command of her, the Bearer Captain Lilly ² is in the greatest want of Seamen and we desire you will turn over to him all the Men you have more than will be necessary for your Vessel on the Voyage for which She is now fitting. You are not to carry more than eight Seamen, and whatever Officers besides the Captain. By order of the Navy Board [&c.]