[Philadelphia] December 23rd.
Upon application of the Navy Committee of Congress, By order of the Board, Robert Towers, Commissary, was directed to deliver 36lbs. Salt Petre & 100 Muskets and Bayonets, to them or their order.
Resolved, That Mr. Towers take the Powder belonging to the Armed Boats as they come up to town and put it into Store, and deliver it tothose whose Tour of Duty it is to go to their Stations at Fort Island.
Upon application from the Committee of Naval Affairs by Colo. Gaddesden [Christopher Gadsden], that General Hopkins of the Alfred, or any other Commander of the Continental Ships of War, be permitted to search any outward bound Vessels for Seamen or others belonging to any of the above vessels.
Resolved, That such permission be chearfully granted, but this Committee recommend a Discreet Exercise of this Power, so as to occasion as little delay as possible to the outward bound Vessels, and that an officer whose prudence may be depended on, may be sent on this Service.