Philada Novr 12th 1776
Sir
The Secret Committee of Congress having chartered and loaded in the State of Virginia, the Aurora,2 on Account of the Continent, and the Voyage on which she is bound being a most important one, I have it in Charge from Congress to request, you will give all the Assistance in you~ Power to expedite her Sailing, by issuing such Orders as you shall judge proper, for manning and dispatching her with the greatest Expedition. I have the Honour to be with the utmost Esteem, Sir, [&c.]
J H Presidt
1. Papers CC (Letter Books of the President of Congress), 12A, II, 65, NA.
2. Formerly the British transport Oxford, taken by the Continental brig Andrew Doria. See Volume 5.
