To the Honble The Council of Massats Bay
The Petition of George Dodge Junr of Salem in behalf of John Derby & Compy —

Humbly Shews

That they have at a great expence fixed out and equiped the Brigantine Called the Oliver Cromwell One hundred & Sixty Tons Burthen, Mounting Sixteen Six Pounders, Navigated by One hundred & thirty Men, Commanded by William Cole, the Officers, on Board are William Russell 1st Lieut John Colyer 2d Lieut & Robt Richardson Master, with Provisions & Military Stores Sufficient for a three Month's Cruise, said Brig is designed to Cruise Against the Enemies of the United States —

Would therefore humbly pray your honor's to Commission said Brigantine, & 'Officers, in Order that she may Join the Fleet at Boston, under the Command of Commodore Manly, and as in Duty Bound will ever Pray

[Endorsed] In Council April 29. 1777 Read & Ordered that the Prayer thereof be granted and that a Comission be Issued out to the said William Cole as Comander of the above mentioned Brige called the Oliver Cromwell he complying with the Resolves oE Congress

Jn° Avery Dpy Secy