By Andrew Snape Hamond Esqr &ca

You are hereby required and directed to proceed to Sea, without loss of time with his Majesty's Sloop under your command and cruize off of the Capes of Virginia, and from thence to Hampton Road, taking care to place your ship in the Best situation for speaking with all Vessels bound in or going out.

And whereas his Excellency the Earl of Dunmore has acquainted me that, he is in daily expectation of the arrival of a Brig laden with Provisions from the West Indies for the use of the Troops under his Lordships command, and as it is of the highest consequence that she should be informed of the removal of the Fleet from Norfolk; You are to keep a particular look out for the Said Vessel, and if you are so fortunate as to meet with her, you will conduct her safe to this place.

You are to remain on this Service for fourteen days, unless I should find it necessary for his Majesty's Service to recall you sooner ー

Given under my hand on board his Majestys Ship the Roebuck off of Gwins Island, Chesapeak bay ー Virginia 28 May 1776

N B. Deld the new Private Signals same time
To Captain Squire commander of his Majs Sloop the Otter