In Marine Committee

Sir. We have ordered the Provisions & Stores you requested, to be sent onboard the Sloop Providence which you Command under Authority of the United States of America so that the said Sloop being now ready for Sea, You are to proceed immediately on a Cruize against our Enemies & we think in & about the Lattitude of Bermuda may prove the most favourable ground for your purpose ー²

Herewith we deliver you an extract from the Journals of Congress respecting the Navy Prizes &c by which you will know with precision what Vessels can be made Prizes & which not You have also herewith a list of the Continental Agents in each State & to some of them your Prizes must be addressed according to the Ports they arrive in ー Your Cruize may be for Six Weeks, two or three Months just as Provisions, Water & other Circumstances point out to be best. If you gain any material Intelligence You must put into the nearest part of the Continent & dispatch an Express to us with the same

You must by all opportunitys transmit us an Account of your proceedings & of such Occurrences as you meet with, You are to be particularly attentive to protect, Aid & assist all Vessells & property belonging to these States or the Subjects thereof. It is equally your duty to Seize, take, Sink; Burn or destroy that of our Enemys. Be carefull of the Sloop her Stores and Materials, use your People well thereby Recommending the American Naval service to all who engage in it, and we also Recommend Humane kind Treatment of your Prisoners

These things duly observed will recommend You to the attention & regard of this Committee We are Sir [&c.]