Sir,

Your Favour of the 24th ulto came to Hand when I was in the inoculating Hospital. As the Two Ships built here were nearly ready for the Sea, and there was a Prospect of their being soon manned none of their Guns could be spared. I however delayd returning you an Answer as it was proposed by some Gentlemen to lend Ten of-the Guns belonging to the Forts in this State. But the Committee appointed to act in the Recess of the General Assembly which sat here on the 5th instant did not think proper to take such a Measure: And I am sorry to inform you that it is not in our Power to afford you any Cannon from this State. I am with great Regard [&c.]

P.S. The Water is so low that the Furnace is stopped.

[Endorsed] Copy Lre to Richd Derby Jr Octr 7th 1776 respecting Guns for a Continental Frigate