Sir,

I have the pleasure to acquaint you of my Arrival here, Having mett with the Lexington Brig, Armed by the American Congress with Sixteen four Pounders Twelve Swivels and Eighty four Men, commanded by Henry Johnston (late Master of the Yankee Privateer, who made his Escape from the Mars at Blackstakes September 1776) which, I took the 19th instant WBS 14 leagues from Ushant, two days out from Morlaix, bound to Boston with Dispatches for the Congress, which was thrown overboard.

I gave chace at five in the Morning, and came up with him at half past Seven, had a Close Engagement till Ten, when He bore up and made Sail, as soon as I got my Rigging to rights, again gave Chace and came up with him, at half past one, renewed the Action till half past two, when he Struck. I have been so fortunate as to have had only two Men Killed and three Wounded, one of which is since Dead, with my Mast, Rigging and Sails much Cutt and Damaged.

The loss on the Rebels side, are seven men Killed, and eleven Wounded, in the former are Master and Lieutenant of Marines, in the Latter first Liutenant and Gunner with her rigging Mast and Sails, much Damaged.

It blowing strong Easterly the Night of the 20th with a large swell and thick Weather, I parted company, but am in Expectation of her Arrival in this Port every Hour.

I am to beg you will acquaint their Lordships with the very Gallant behaviour of my Officers and people on this Occasion, I am Sir [&c.]

[Endorsed] R, 27th by himself