[Extract]

We have at last heard of Admiral 2 Hopkins. The Wasp arrived here the day before yesterday leaky. She parted from him about a fortnight ago off Bermuda where he had been cruising some time, to intercept the transports from the West Indies. He has been at New Providence and taken from thence between 90 and I 00 cannon, from 18 to 42 pounders, a large quantity of shot and one ton powder. It's supposed he is gone to Rhode Island ー if so you'll hear of him before I shall . . . The Marine Committee begin to talk of the officers for the new frigates; those for the ship you are building must be taken from there; send me a list of those you think of ー will [Thomas] Thompson take the command. I think Follet would make a good officer ー there are many good men that I cannot recollect. hope we shall have such as will do honor to the Service; there must be three Lieutenants ー I have mentioned Agents in the Committee; They agree its necessary there should be one in every seaport ー I expect to advise you by the next post of their appointment. Hopkins has brought off the Govr and Lt Govr of Providence and an officer belonging to Pensacola. 3