Honourable Gentlemen I have already taken the liberty, of pointing out my opinion of the many advantages which would arise to north america, by employing row gallies. Viz. The many superior advantages they have in calms, and little winds; the great advantage they have, in being able to take shelter from a superior force (in case of necessity) at all times, upon the coast of north america. As they draw less water, than vessels of the usual construction, and as I am persuaded I can construct them to sail much faster, than any vessels in great Britain; at least before the wind. These, with other considerations, led me to undertake to take, or destroy, every british ship of war, on the coast of north america, with twelve row gallies only. Which command was promised to me, by Honble Messrs [Stephen] Hopkins, [Peyton] Randolph, & John Rutlidge. I sincerely believe, had I been expiditiously furnished with those vessels, there would have been few british ships of war, now on the coast of america, to molest our trade. I am still ready to undertake the same charge, and will risk my life, and every farthing I possess on earth, on my success.

Or if more agreeable to the Honble Congress, I will fit out two gallies at my own expense, the Honble Congress furnishing me with timber, guns, powder &ca, for which I will pay before my departure, and will risk my reputation, that I will take or destroy, an English man of war in avery little time. If I do not succeed, I do not wish to be reimbursed one penny. If I do, I should be glad the Honble Congress, would grant me a commission, for such a command, bearing date from the time that command was promised me, and that they would pay to my officers and men, the full value, of the first men of war I should take; or the estimated value of the first man of war I should destroy. I am little concerned, about any mercenary reward to my self. I should Ill merit the confidence of the Honble continental Congress did I doubt their honour. Twelve row gallies will not cost near so much money, as the four frigates now building here.

I hope the Honble Congress, will not be offended; by my beging they will be expeditious, in fixing the matter with me. I am Honourable Gentlemen, with sincere esteem for your august body [&c.]

[Philadelphia] March the 29th 1776.

John Macpherson