[Extract]

. . . no one thing gives me more uneasiness than the conduct of your Fleet. The Hancock, Boston, Alfred and Cabot are all yet in port. It is said the Hancock is ready to sail and was to have gone yesterday, but remains here yet. I fear the consequences of their going out single. But McNeil and Manly it is said like the Jews and Samaritans will have no connections or intercourse; they will not sail together. I believe McNeil is near ready for the sea. I am told that he and the Agent, Mr. [Thomas] Cushing have had a breeze; but I am not acquainted with the perticulars of how it terminated. I have still a worse account of the situation of your frigates at Providence. I dont know the officers, but understand to say no more of them that they are not agreable to the people and never can man their ships. You must fall on some new plan for conducting your Naval Affairs at a distance from you, or be content never to shine in that way. Perhaps to establish a Board in each district upon an honourable footing, and with extensive powers or something (I know not what) else. If you should have occasion for a new Commander for one of your Ships I would venture to recommend one I think equal to the business, and perhaps to any you have. Capt. Simeon Samson who was lately taken in the service of this State I have a very good opinion of as a Seaman. A man of judgment, prudence, activity and courage, he behaved like a Hero in the action, but the force against him was. so superiour to his that he had no chance. He is yet in captivity but his redemption is expected very soon as proper measures are taken for it.