Sir

Upwards of Thirty Negroes havejust escaped from a boat [at] Portsmouth on Board His Maj^ys Ship S^t Albans. If I could be assured upon your Honor, that the Negroes would not be punish beaten or mistreated, I should be induced to return them and that sort of treatment, towards those miserable wretchs would induce me not to detain any of them by which means Individuals would regain a considerable part of their property. A contrary Conduct will oblige me to assist those people towards geting clear of the State of Virginia. I shall be gald [i.e., glad] of your Answer, by the return of the Flag. I am [&c.]