[Extract]

Sir,  Since my last to you Mr [Samuel] Ward One of the Delegates hath returned from the Congress. He informs me that some of the Bermudians have been at Philadelphia ー soliciting for Liberty to import Provisions for the Use of the Island. They gave Information of the Powder mentioned in your Letter to me, and were of Opinion it might easily be obtained. They were told by the Delegates that every Vessel they should send to the Northward with Powder should be permitted to carry Provisions to the Island. ー Whether their Situation will not probably prevent them from bringing the Powder I submit to your Excellency ー Mr. [Elisha] Porter, and Mr Harris are both here. To Mr Porter, who can fully inform you in the Matter I refer you.