Gentlemen:

On the 24th November last, I observed a sail-boat, with six men on board, sailing from Edgartown, in pursuit of His Majesty's ship Swan, Captain James Ayscough, commanding. I being officer on guard on the east side of Holmes's Hole harbour, observed her motions; but she being so far from the shore, could not command her to, but going nearer the west side, the guard fired upon the said boat, but the people would not bring to. But keping watch of said boat's return, I had the pleasure of seizing her on the 25th said November; and as there was no Committee or leading men in this town that would take notice of the offenders, I, by order of my commanding officer, took said offenders under examination, before a Justice of the Peace, whose affidavits I have herewith enclosed, which will show your Honours said offenders' faults.

Your advice in this case shall be ever acknowledged by [&c.]