Sir

Having been lately in the Rapahanock, where numbers of Negroes came on board; and as it is not my wish or Intention to distress Individuals, I sent them all on Shore, upon condition, that they should not be ill treated or punished for running away, which I had the strongest Assurances of, from their masters that came for them; yet not withstanding these promises, I have too much reason to fear, they have been extremely ill treated; as many of them came on board two Nights after, they had been returned; complaining much of ill usage, and two with marks of Violent beatings, but as it was not then convenient for me to stay, to inquire into the particulars, I sent them back; as I had given my word, I should receive none; but thought it incumbent upon me to inform you of it; and if a Stop is not put, to such proceedings, both from humanity, and the breach of faith, We shall in future be obliged to keep all that comes to us. I have since my being in this Bay at least, refus'd four hundred, and I am informed the idea on Shore, is, that we land them, to save provisions and water and not from favour; but that is a mistake, for they can always be sent in Prizes, where they are of use, and at this time, thirty would not be inconvenient. The same reason has been given for landing Prisoners, that was given for landing Blacks, but with as little foundation, for when I landed Prisoners last; (the 29^th of December,) at which time I wrote to you, there was a convenient, and immediate oppertunity of sending them to New York; and mentioned particulars, why they were not sent.

I feel most sensible for this unfortunate war, and the Calamities it occasions, and tho' ambitious to distinguish myself in the execution of my Duty, in Seizing vessels &c^a: hope I do it, with tenderness, to Individuals, and Credit to myself; and I have no doubt Sir, but you will interfere, as far as is in your power, that Justice takes place, with regard to those poor Wretches, I am writing about. I am [&c.]