Gentlemen

Your esteemed favor of the 17^th. I have recived.—I wish to leave the Ranger in such a situation as to expect to find her nearly ready for Sea on my return—as I think it will be for the intrest of the Service that I should then proceed with her alone Unless an Additional force can be very soon Procured.—should circumstances Admit—an Additional force may be prepared, in my Absence, with out any foundation for suspicion.—These sentiments I submit to you with becoming deferance to your Superiour Wisdom. I shall have the honor of paying you my personal respects soon after the appearance of this—therefore shall only add that I am [&c.]