On board the Palliser Transport Govr Martin ー ,-""'-"' Cape Fear River the 6th April 1776

In answer to Your Excellency's Letter of the 2d instant desiring "my advice and opinion on the expediency of hiring into His Majestys service a Ship for the accomodation of such People as are obliged to forsake the shore for the safety of their persons: And also of your hiring a Vessel for your own accomodation at the charge of Government if you should continue much long~r. afloat" ー I can only say that as far as my opinion & advice may be concenied those measures seem to me to be necessary for the good of His Majestys Service, and I make no doubt but upon Your Excellencys representation to the Kings Ministers in the proper departments of Government that it will appear so to them and consequently meet with their approbation. am &c H C.