Plymouth 19 June 1776
Sir
I wrote your Excellency on the 20th April ultimo Desiring that the papers might be remitted to me, which were taken with the two prizes bro't into this port Last Winter by Capt [William] Coit. ー2 my Letter must have miscaried, as I have recd no answer to it ー on this account the Tryal of these two Vessels has been postponed from time to time, as no evidence can be had against them but from those papers. ー The former owners Lay Claim to them & urge, that their going to Nova Scotia for provisions, was absolutely necessary for the support of their Familys & Connections, & that they did not intend to supply the garrison at Boston. these papers, can they be obtained, will elucidate this matter. ー
Relying on your Excellencys giving a few moments attention to this Business. I must beg leave to subscribe my self Your Excellencys [&c.]
William Watson
1. Washington Papers, LC.
2. The sloop Polly and schooner Industry taken November 5, 1775 by Washington's schooner Harrison.