His Majesty's Ship Mercury at Norfolk, August 28, 1775
Sir,
I am much obliged to you for your polite favour, which inclosed some strictures by the corporation of Norfolk, upon my first letter to you. I must beg you will be pleased to publish the letters which have passed between us in the Virginia News-papers, that a candid public may judge of the motives which actuate my conduct.
When I first wrote to you, it was not my intention to draw on a political discussion with the inhabitants of Norfolk, or to ascertain in particular cases the limits of the civil or military jurisdiction. I was desirous that his Majesty's subjects should know I ardently wished the peace of this Province, to promote which, I shall strictly adhere to the tenor of my first letter. I beg my respectful compliments to all your family, and have the honour to remain, Sir, [&c.]