Dear Sir

I have lately received orders for building a Seventy four Gun Ship in this State. I hear you have received simalar orders. I should be oblidged to you to Inform me, in What manner you have contracted for building this Ship, how you are to give for Timber & plank, What wages you are to allow the Builders or Master workmen & the Common workmen — What price you allow the Blacksmith for his work &c &c — Where we are to get the Duck, Cordage & Iron, Cannon Anchors &c — I congratulate you upon your late Promotion as Speaker of your Assembly — hope you will be able to do your Country much service I remain with respect [&c.]