[Extract]
Arthur Lee Esq^r.
Dear Sir

. . . By advises from my house at S^t. Andero I find Cap^t. Babson of one of our freind's privateers¹ who lately sail'd from Bilbao fell in with about 20 sail of Newfoundlanders under convoy of a strong arm'd vessel with whom she fought two hours & took 6 vessells, but the arm'd one gott away; Babson lost two officers & two privates but got safe to said port with the prizes² which circunstance pray keep to yourself. One Hibbert³ who left (Bilbao), Bilbao about the same time has taken three more which have also putt in near said port, which being what ocurrs have only to add my hearty wishes that all prosperity may attend you & all freinds with you during the present & many succeeding years to command. . . .