The Commissioners of the Navy Board
of the Middle Department
Gentlemen

This moment we have received yours of the 24th instant informing us of the destruction of our small fleet down the Delaware. As we cannot immediately determine what directions to give you respecting the seamen belonging to the Vessels we think they may be employed for some time on board the Galleys¹ until some other way can be pointed out. We would have you by all means keep them together in good humour and in Action until you hear further from us on this subject We are [&c.]