Gentlemen

The inclosed papers¹ will I hope Justify me in having allowed Captain Parke of the Marines to return to America in the Frigate Dean—it is certain that such an Officer is unnecessary in this Ship—Yet I cannot applaud the Motive which hath been urged for removing him.

My reason for complying with the desire of the Lieutenants and Master is that peace and Unanimity may prevail when I command

I am now single and alone in Europe—Surrounded with Enemies—and having several enterprizes in Contemplation—any Misunderstanding among my little Crew might prove fatal to my designs as well to my reputation in the Service These considerations will, I am sure, have their due weight with you—they are submitted with due respect by Gentlemen [&c.]

NB. I beg leave to refer you to Captain Parke for the particulars of my situation and Proceedings since I left Portsmouth.