Council Chamber, Boston Jany 27th, 1777.
Sir —
We have great reason to conclude that Capt. [Simeon] Sampson of the armed Brign Independence in the service of this State has been taken and carried into Nova Scotia — as we wish to take the most effectual measures for recovering Capt. Sampson & his crew from the Enemy, and as we have not at present within this State seamen Prisoners of War sufficient for the Exchange, perhaps it might be relieving your State from a burthen to allow us to avail ourselves of the Prisoners lately taken on Board the armed schooner (late Capt. Burke) 2 or any other seamen Prisoners of War within your State, for the purpose before mentioned — Please to favour us with your sentiments on the subject by the first opportunity.
In the name & in behalf of the Council I am, Sir [&c.]
J. Bowdoin, Presidt
1. Bouton, ed., Documents and Records of New Hampshire, VIII, 473.
2. Schooner George (formerly Washington's schooner Warren, William Burke), a tender to H.M.S. Milford which had been driven into Portsmouth, N. H., and captured.
