[Extract]

Gentlemen — Your favour of the 5th instant, per Lieut. Brit, I have received, with your resolves relative to the frigate[s] in Hudson's river, which I this day laid before the marine committee, and meet their entire approbation. They are of opinion that whatever vessels belonging to the Continent, and are now in Hudson's river, should be also secured in Esopus creek, or some other place of safety. The people belonging to the brigantine and sloop may be disposed of at the discretion of your Convention.

Congress approves of your recommendation of Lieut. Victor Bicker, Junr. for the,marines, and as soon as the plank commissions are received from Philadelphia, one shall be filled up for him and forwarded to you.

Your letter, directed to Captain [Patrick] Dennis, I thought it proper to return you; his last place of residence was in Brunswick, which is now in General Howe's possession. Perhaps you may hear of Captain Dennis some where in your State. The rigging, &c. that belonged to those vessels sunk into the North and East river[s], and now in the possession of Captain Dennis, it is imagined may be of singular service at Ticonderoga, of which General Schuyler should be informed. I am also directed to inform you that Congress much approves of the frigates being fitted out against the spring, and of your directing a sufficient number of cannon to be cast at Sal[i]sbury, as none for your purposes can be procured from these parts. . . .