By Andrew Snape Hamond Esquire Captain of His Majesty's Ship the Roebuck
In consequence of Orders from the Lord Vt Howe Vice Admiral of the White and commander in chief of His Majesty's Ships and Vessels in North America.
You are hereby required and directed to put your self under my command and follow all such orders and directions as you shall from time to time receive from me for His Majesty's Service.
Given under my hand on board His Majesty's Ship the Roebuck at New York the 7th December 1776.
A S Hamond
Distinguishing Signals deld the above Captains.
1. Hamond, Orders issued, 1776-1778, UVL.