Sir

I have send to you three days ago, one Letter datted Burlington, by which I mentioned to you, the several schemes that I have formed to set on fire the english fleet. since that time I have done some small tryals, which confirme me in the first opinion. viz. that by the fire Boats, which I intend to Construct, by the help of the commodore, the succes is almost Certain. 

I ask leave to Repeat you their Construction.

1^st. I will have about twelve flat bottom boats, very easy to be got, in all places of the river. 2°^. make within a sort of floating mine in one trunk or chest very strong,& filled with powder: the deck will be Covered with carcasses, or bombes. ...3.^d. the direction & velocity will be given to the boat by a strong Racket, of a particular Composition; and one mast sunked in the water, will suport by the stern, the boat, against the Current. ...4.°^. the head armed with a strong spur of iron will fixe the boat in the ships, till the pouder blows up, & set on fire the next ships.—

I offer, to do my tryal under the eyes of such which his excellency will apoint for that. ...but I must have orders, & the commodore haselwood, shall be direct- ed to work accordingly with me.

I begg to answer me immediately as it is not time to be lost.

I am going to burdentown, to look for boats. & tar.—
be so Kind to present my Letter to his excellency general Wasshington, & permit me to assure you of my sincere & great Regard & fiendship.—I am [&c.]

trenton 23. January 1778.