Gentー

I've just enroled near one hundred of men in the ship yard,
² have order'd every man to attend the muster at an appointed day with a good fire arm, powder and ball, some of which are already completely equipp'd; but as there is no powder to be had only what is in publick stores, would submit it to the consideration of the Honble Committee, whether it would not [be] best to order that those men who are not supplied already be furnished by the publick, when occasion requires, or if tho't best for each to appear with one half pound powder in his horn, for which a receipt to be taken, and if its not Return'd or made use of against the enemy, to pay double of the value at this time, which I will stop out of their wages, which I think will effectually prevent wast, and put those who have no powder upon the same footing with those who have bro't their own amunition.

I think I may with safety, serve the Colony in this matter, and not the least interfere with the Continental business. Should be glad to have some answer from the Honble Committee relative to this matter, as I've order'd every man to be ready for musterg at such a day, and should be glad to have every man furnished. I am with great Respect [&c.]

In case of failure they are to be Dismist the yard.