Stephen Steward Esq^r.
Sir

We have this day determined that Captain Nicholson should make another Attempt for proceeding with the Virginia Frigate to sea, and having reasons to believe that the late Agents will demure to the supplying her, unless we put more money into their hands which we are restrained from doing until the account for the large sums already delivered them. From these and other motives the Committee have appointed you their Agent for supplying the said ship with Stores, Provisions &c and to enable you thereto you are to call on M^r Francis Lewis j^r. at Baltimore for four thousand Dollars giving him duplicate receipts for the same. From the knowledge we have of your Zeal for the service of your Country we flatter ourselves this business will be executed under your direction with alacrity We are [&c.]