You being master of the Brig Betsy wch is in all respects Equip'd for the Sea its my orders you embrace the first fair wind and Sail for Baltimore in Maryland where on your Arrival you are to Apply to the honble John Hancock Esqr presedent of the Congress Who will give you directions for your future proceedings

I hope you will be very Carefull to shun every Vessell You may see and I would have you Run About five miles to the Southward of the Cape Henry and if possible pass it in the night keeping your Lights Close you may run with Safety by the Chart And Venture to b[illegible] on the horse Shoe and trust your Lead for the Same

I hope your conduct will be such as will entitle You to future employ in the Continental Service. you will take particular Care of your Sails and Riggen and Let nothing Suffer for want of Care

[Endorsed] I acknowledge the Above to be a true Copy of my orders which I promise to follow John Moodie ー