Gentlemen
From my being the Only Bostonian in the Mercantile way in this State I am induced to tender You the Off er of my Services in the negociating any Business that May Concern the State of Boston, either in the loading Ships sent for the Public Account or in the execution of any other Commands You may think proper to entrust me with, And give me leave to assure you That the pleasure I should receive from such a Commission would stimulate my Endeavors to deserve that Confidence.
I desire no other Compensation than the reflection of having given entire satisfaction — I am with great respect Gentlemen [&c.]
Jno Gray
Charlestown 27th February 1777
1. Mass. Arch., vol. 152, 78, Board of War Letters, 1776-1777.