Sir

I have received your Letter of this date acquainting me that the Mercury is so foul she often misses Stays, goes very badly, and that as your Cruize is out you mean to come up to Boston. As I hourly expect a Number of Transports and Victuallers to arrive, who having parted from their Convoy, and dropping in singly and unacquainted, will be in Danger from the Rebel Cruizers; I would have you go to Sea again for a Fortnight longer and then anchor in Nantasket. I have ordered your Midshipman to take down some fresh Beef for your Ships Company, for which you will take care that the Purser gives proper Receipts to Mr [Alexander] Brymer. I am &c

Lieut. Graeme Commanding the Mercury.