[Extract]
Sir,

I should have reply'd to your Letter of the 8 Instant, but was at Portsmouth. I'm glad Capt Chew² has join'd the Hambden wish them a successful Cruize, of late its become a late thing to hear of a Continental Prize being sent in. I heard from [John] Skimmer, who a Month ago had not taken a prize, in regard to what you've paid the supernumerary Officers, I know by the free Conversation I've had with the [Continental Navy] Board [of the Eastern Department], it won't be expected as you paid them to the best of your Judgment, that you should suffer a Farthing by it; but you will not pay them in future anymore. The Members of the Board are not together at present, two of them being at home, when they meet, I shall lay the Matter before them, I believe there will be a difficulty in the Matter. . . .