Chatham Rhode Island the 15th Novembr: 1777
Sir
I have received your Letter of the 29th of last month by Lieutt. Nugent,1 and would immediately consent to the Exchanges you desire, were the Persons here; however, I shall take the most speedy method to have your wishes accomplished, by writing to Lord Howe and Commodore Hotham, and should the Galatea in the meantime fall in my way, John Smith shall be discharged, and you may send a Seaman in his room at a convenient time.
The Letter you will receive herewith, I have directed it to the Commissary for Prisoners at Bedford, and you will oblige me, if you will forward it to the proper Person—The Flag of Truce carries some Necessaries for Major General Prescot,2 captain Furneaux,3 Lt. Coll. Campbell of the 71st Regt 4 and Lieutt. Otway of the Lark.5 I am [&c.]
P: Parker
L, R-Ar, Letters to the Governor (1777-1778), vol. 11, 80. Addressed at foot: ''Nichs Cooke Esqr."
1. Lt. Charles E. Nugent of H.M.S. Chatham.
2. Maj. Gen. Richard Prescott.
3. Capt. Tobias Furneaux, R.N.
4. Lt. Col. Archibald Campbell.
5. Lt. William A. Otway, R.N.
