Sir

The Continental Schooner Wasp under your command being now thoroughly repaired, well fitted equipped and manned you are immediately to proceed in said Schooner on a Cruize against the enemies of these States. We deliver you herewith a Marine Book by which you will know who are our enemies and also how to conduct yourself in conformity to the Continental Rules and Regulations you have likewise a List of the Agents in the several States to some of whom you must address the Prizes you take.

We deliver you herewith a Letter for a Gentleman in Bermuda which is of much consequence to America. You are therefore to proceed with the utmost expedition to Port Ellis at the Eastend of that Island and deliver the said Letter as quickly as possible, receive from him any others he may send in return, and as you will then be near the best Cruizing ground for West India Ships you may make a Cruize about that Lattitude for such length of Time as your Provisions will enable you to keep the Sea, unlkss success should tempt you to return much sooner with a good Prize. You must be careful of the schooner her Stores and Materials. Use your people well but preserve strict discipline, treat prisoners if any you make, with humanity and in all things be duely attentive to the honor and interest of America, if you can get any Seamen at Bermuda Ship as many as you can accommodate and bring us the best account you can obtain of the State and condition of that Island, with respect to Provisions, Numbers of Inhabitants what Canon arms &c they have there and enquire particularly after any british men of war, that have been there, that are there, or that are expected.

Should you be unfortunately taken either going to or after you leave Bermuda be sure to destroy all Letters you may have for or from that Island Should you gain any intelligence you may think important you must quit all other pursuits to inform us thereof soon as possible. Wishing you success We are Sir [&c.]