Gentlemen

The bearer Captn Matthew Parke was first Lieutenant of Marines onboard the Alfred, and upon Captn [Joseph] Shoemaker's leaving the Navy I put him onboard the Columbus and gave him Orders to Act as Captn of Marines, he being the oldest Lieutenant — In both Stations he has behaved as a good Officer, and think him worth your notice — and as Mr Jo:eph Hardy is appointed by you Captn of Marines onboard the Columbus — I have given him leave to come to you for further Orders, and hope you may Employ him to his Satisfaction I am with great Regard Gentlemen [&c.]