[Extract]
My dear Brother,

. . . While the Fleet lay off the mouth of the Eastern Bay on Thursday evening was a fortnight, there went off seven negroe slaves belonging to Leeds, Daffin, Wrigtham, the Kersey & 3 of the Kemps. Leeds next morning went on board the admiral, with whose treatment.of him 'tis said he is extremely disgusted. Daffin went afterward onboard the same Ship, and we are told was treated very politely by the Capt of her whose name is said to be Duncan.¹ He told Daffin the Fleet could not possibly be delayed to make the necessary search, but that they are going round to Delaware, and if he would come on board them there, they should have his use to make the necessary Enquiry. and if his Negroe would be found he should be restored to him. What I believe may be relied on as fact, is that Daffin is gone across to Delaware on this Errand; and Leeds and Davy Kerr (as the latter informed Jimmy on Saturday) were to set out from Will Thomas's yesterday, for the Fleet, in quest of Leed's fellow.

We are all tolerably well & join in love and duty to you. Y^r. [&c.]