Sir,

I have sent up to M^r Henry Montfort for the purchasing Tobacco,¹ to load the Brig Pennsylvania Farrner,² the amount of the proceeds of the public Salt in Edenton, except what I have advanced for the vessel. The proceeds of the Salt being very short of what will be sufficient to purchase the Cargo, M^r Montfort and myself have agreed to put on board, and the Assembly having made no provision in the resolve, in that case, I have in order the Vessel may be despatched sent the Bearer William Coltrain express to your Excellency, for an order on both or either of the Treasurers' for such a sum of money as may be wanted for the above purpose, which will be at least, including the Disbursement and outfits on the Vessel £4000. Should it be in your power, I would be glad to have the order by return of the express, as it will not be in my power to advance such a sum as will be wanting, being already in advance. I shall endeavour to have the vessel soon Complete for Sea, altho' she is much out of repair. I am [&c.]