You are hereby required and directed to put to Sea without a moments loss of time in his Majesty's Sloop under your command and proceed with all possible expedition to Boston, where you are to deliver the enclosed Packet to Rear Admiral Shuldham or the commanding officer of his Majesty's Ships and Vessels there, waiting his orders for your further proceedings.
Given under my hand on board His Majesty's Ship the Roebuck . Hampton Road in Virginia the 8 Mar 1776
A S Hamond
1. Hamond, Orders issued, UVL.