Gentlemen
Finding that Capt [Samuel] Ingersoll's going from Jamaica to Nova-Scotia has Given Cause to some of my Townsmen to Censure my Conduct in that Respect; and as no one can be more Desireous of Living in peace with his Neighbours than I am; nor any one more unhappy than he who justly Exposeth himself to the Censure of the Publick: and tho I can say with the utmost sincerity, that, in this matter, I had not the most Distant thought of offending Yet as the.matter seems to be view'd a Different light by some, I am voluntarily Induced to say, That if I have by my Conduct in this Voyage, Justly offended any, I am Heartily sorry for it. ー
General Washington has ordered the Brigg Kingston Packet & Cargo to be Restored to me, and as I am made to understand it will be a Satisfaction to some, I take this oppertunity to declare that I have not the most Distant Thought of the Brigg's Returning again to Nova-Scotia, nor is it my Intention to have any Dealing or Connection with any in that Province untill matters are settled, or Liberty is Granted for so Doing. I am Gentlemen [&c.]
