By &c. &c.

The very Sickly state of the Squadron of His Majestys Ships under my Command, rendering it absolutely necessary to establish a place for Sick Quarters on Shore for the more speedy Recovery of the Sick; And whereas I have thought fit to nominate You to officiate as Principal Surgeon to take care of, and Attend such Sick & Hurt Seamen and others as shall be from time to time sent Sick on Shore from His Majesty's Ships & Vessels at Philadelphia:¹ You are hereby authorised and required to take upon You the Office of Principal Surgeon to take Care of, and Attend the Sick and Hurt Seamen, Marines and Others sent from His Majesty's Ships at Philadelphia, and to continue in the Exercise of the several Duties appertaining to that Office accordingly untill further Order; With an Allowance of ten shillings Sterling p^r. Diem for your Care and trouble in executing the Duty of said Office, and five Shillings Sterling p^r. diem for an Assistant: And you are in consequence, to take upon You the Care of all such Sick and Hurt Seamen, Marines and Others as shall be sent Sick on Shore; taking care that your proceedings in discharging the Duty of the said Office are conformable to the usual Custom of the Navy, for which this shall be your Warrant.

Given &c [on board the Roebuck at Philadelphia] 11^th Decm^r. 1777.