Sir

I this day receiv'd yours and observe the Contents ー and as to the Order of Congress to deliver the Cannon to you there was a discretionary power in me to Stop as many as I thought would be for the benefit of the Fleet, and as I was & am still Careening the Fleet I think it not safe to part with the Cannon before the Ships are in a posture of defence ー

I yesterday receiv'd an Order of Congress to deliver to Messrs Hollingsworth and Richardson in Order to be sent to Philada for the defence of that City, twenty of the heaviest Cannon which I brought from New Providence, and as the largest of the Cannon were left at New London I have accordingly given them an Order on you for the same and make no doubt as it is an Express Order of Congress you will deliver the Same without delay ー I am, with great Respect [&c.]