No 2

Ship Dunmore in Elizabeth River Virginia,

Duplicate 2d April 1776. My Lord The Packet not yet being Sailed on account of the Wind, and Lieutenant Ordd [John Orde], of his Majesty's Ship the Roebuck, having brought in two small Vessels, one of which is from St Nicola Mole, bound to Philadelphia, in which were three French Men, two of the three were Officers in the French Army, one of them Monsieur de la Bussiere, says his only reason for wishing to go to Philadelphia was on Account of his health, which may be true; He had however about him the letters No 1, to Mr Hancock, and his discharge No 2. The other Officer acknowledged to me, his Intention was to go into the Service of the Rebels, of which were it requisite the inclosed (No 3) is a very Sufficient proof as it is wrote by his own hand. The other was Supercargo in the Vessel, and had a large Quantity of Molasses and Coffee on board. I have sent the three by the Packet for your Lordship to dispose of as you shall think proper. I beg leave to inform your Lordship, that either two or three Vessels (one of which was a French one, and navigated by French Men) loaded with Powder had Sailed, a Short time before the Schooner left the Mole, all bound to Philadelphia; but I make no doubt Captain Hamond who is now in the River Deleware, will give a good Account of them; Sure I am he won't fail for want of Zeal. I am [&c.]

Dunmore

[Endorsed] No Inclosures recd with this Duplicate