On Board the Sloop Providence off Chester August the 9th 1776
Sir
I have given Mr. [William] Hopkins Sattisfaction, & there now subsists, a good understanding between Us. ー I am Conscious that I was Culpable. ー but have this to Say in excuse ー that I was in a passion. ー am sorry for it. ー & pray that you would overlook it, ー from Your most, Obedient Servant,
Alpheus Rice2
[Endorsed by Jones] letter from Mr. Rice when under Confinement.
1. Papers of John Paul Jones, 6486, LC.
2. Rice was Marine lieutenant on board the Providence, having been transferred June 12, 1776 from the Andrew Doria. Providence Muster Roll, Transcript of Military Papers, XL, 666, R.I. Arch.
