Captain James Nicholson
Sir

Your letters of the 25^th & 26^th ultimo per Lieutenant Barney¹ are now before us. We are concerned to find your last attempt in getting the frigate Virginia to sea had been fruitless; but as your letters inform us such is the fondness your officers and Seamen retain for the Ship that you think they will chearfully make another treat. This has induced the Committee to resolve that another treat be made as soon as possible and to expedite the same they have this day requested Governor Johnston to continue to you the use of the Tender, as well as to furnish you with, or empower you to procure an able and skillful Pilot.—²

By information from Lieutenant Barney we have reason to apprehend our late Agents will not supply the Ship unless more Money is put into their hands. this we are restrained from doing until the large sums already placed there is accounted for, and least this should throw embarrassments in your way the Committee have this day appointed Stephen Steward Esq^r. of West River their Agent for supplying the Virginia and have put money into his hands for that purpose,³ we shall rely upon your giving him all the Assistance in y^r. power. We assure you that we retain a tender regard for your Character, and hope you will by this succeeding attempt be enabled to wipe off any malicious reflections (if any there be for we know of none) on your character.—

Enclosed you have Lieutenants Plunket⁴ and Barneys Commissions. wishing you success We are [&c.]