By &c.

Whereas Information has been received that there is reason to believe that an English Cutter of about 140. Tons which was fitting on the 13th inst at Dunkirk as an arm'd Vessel, is intended to be employed under a Commission from the Congress as a Privatier, being esteem'd one of the best sailing Vessels which has ever been constructed, You are hereby required & directed to proceed without a Moments loss of time in the Sloop you command & cruize off Dunkirk, where you are very diligently to look out for the said Cutter &in case she should put to Sea to use your best endeavours to take or destroy her, as well as any other Ships or Vessels belonging to the Rebellious Colonies of North America which may fall in your way.

You are to continue upon the above Station for the space of ten days after your arrival upon it, in case you do not fall in with the said Vessel sooner & then return to the Downes & remain there until you receive further Order; sending us an Account of your arrival & proceedings. Given &c. the 16th of May 1777.

Captn Harvey Speedwell
" Yates, Ranger
By &c. P.S.