Sir

I have sent Liut Smith up to you with two Gentlemen that Run away from one of the English Ship's of War last night they brouht a Boat and Eight Men besides themselves with them, most of them has been in our Service & have been taken Prisoners,² I took the Boat in possession when She came in I have got it still, the Men are in Town, all but the two that I have sent Up to Baltimore I am in Want of the Boat and would be glad to know if I may keep the Boat & pay the Men for it. I shall be Oblige(d) to you to Inform me by the Return of Lieut Smith how I am to proceed in Regard to the Boat & Men I am Your Excelys [&c.]