The Commissioners of the
Navy Board at Boston
Gentlemen

We have received a Letter from John Bradford Esq^r. the Agent for Prizes at Boston dated the 30th of October last informing us that the Schooner Lee Captain Skimmer was then out on a Cruize, and wanted to know our determination whether this vessel should be continued in the pay of the public after her return into port

As we do not think proper that the States should hire armed vessels as cruizers we now direct that this Schooner be discharged on her return, and that you settle with the Owners and pay them the balance which may be justly due to them

As M^r Bradford recommends Captain Skimmer in very warm terms as a Gentleman every way well qualified for a command in our navy, you will please to enquire particularly into his merits and if you think him deserving we would have you give him the first suitable Vessel which may be in your power.—We are [&c.]