Providence Septembr 22nd 1776
Sir
When I left you, I went to New London and see your Ship and came from there here, and I am of Opinion that the two Frigates here will be ready for the Sea by the time your Ship will be ready, if it is possible to Mann them ー2 If I receive no Orders to the Contrary from the Marine Committee by my Brother,3 who I expect every hour Shall be ready to follow any Orders or Advice you may think best to give me respecting their Operation ー I am with great Respect Sir [&c.]
E.H.
1. Hopkins Letter Book, RIHS.
2. The ship at New London was the Oliver Cromwell, and the two Continental frigates at Providence were the Providence and Warren.
3. Stephen Hopkins.
