[Extract]

We have Nothing new here except Captures from the British Trade, which are likely to increase ー Our own Navigation is almost Wholly turn'd into Privateering, so that their Cruizers can take little or Nothing from us but empty Hulls, while their Ships come fast to us richly laden'dー

It is regretted among us that the American Fleet is not in greater For- wardness. We have two fine Frigates built at Newbury & Portsmouth, but after so long a Time, not yet ready to put to Sea: Many are the more uneasy at this, as two Frigates of the Enemy have had the undisturb'd Range of our Bay for five or six Weeks past, retaken some valuable Prizes, and greatly prevented the Coasters from coming in with Supplies to this Town. Whether there be any Fault in this or where it lies, I am unable to determine ー Idexpect Mr [Samuel] Austin, a worthy Gentleman, & Select Man of this Town will call for this Letter and deliver it to you....