Dear sirー

I took my leave of Mr Merkle² Saterday Morning, at Beverly only waiting for a fair wind, it proved favourable Yesterday, I make no doubt they Sail:d, I think their prospect of getting Clear is fair, as I have hired a pilot to carry them so farr as the Bay of fundy if need be. the Capt.³ has his particular instructions relative to Mr Andrew Lemoines Letter,⁴ The Dispatch's Accounts I shall forward by next weeks post

I have been in pursuit of a Suitable vessell for your purpose, have agreed for her Conditionally, but have not yet been able to procure the Salt, none being to be purchased in this Government, excepting a Cargo belonging to Capt [Richard] Derby which has been in the marine Court and its fate will be known to day, whither its condemned or not, I shall procure a quantity if it's to be done within the Price limitted, I have made inquirery both at Salem and here in regard to insurance to virginia, and find they wont at present take the Risque at any rate

I shall write you at large by next mondays post In the Interim I am with due respect yours &c.