Captn John Mercier
Sir/

With the Sloop Beaufort under your Command, you are to proceed with all possible dispatch to Beaufort, and there deliver to Captn James Dohartie of the Beaufort Galley, all the Cordage, Sails, and Other Stores, you have on board for the use of the said Galey — You'll also please to have the Sloop Beaufort Immediately fitted with all Necessary Bolts, Blocks, and Other Stores to Compleat her for an Armed Vessell, to Mount Six Carriage Guns & Ten Swevels —As soon as the Sloop is Compleat You'll please return with her to Charles Town with all possible Dispatch, but by no means Venture out to Sea Either going or Coming Unless you are well Advised that the Coast is Clear of Men of WarandCruizers I am Sir [&c.]