Sir

The General Court of this State have come to a Resolution to Equip the Two Continental Ships Built in this State, in order that they may be immediately sent to Cruise, and clear the Coast of the Enemys Ships of War, The smallest Ship is already furnished with suitable Cannon, and Twenty six twelve pounders are now waiting [sic wanting] for the Largest Ship. Six only can be procured here, and as I am informed your Honor has it in your Power to procure From the Works in the Government over which you preside the Guns now wanted.

I pray leave to Inform you that I am directed to procure them if to be found, and to pay ready money for them, and as I have been Informed the Guns provided for the Continental Ships at Providence are not immediately wanted, & should this be the Case and I can have Twenty of them I will immediately Contract with your Honor and oblige myself on the part of this State to furnish the Guns again as soon as they can be procured from the Works at Providence. I shall be ready to enter into such Obligation as your Honor shall think reasonable, and as this is a Matter of public Importance, I may not doubt but you will use your kind offices in this affair and favour me with your Answer proposing the Terms on which I can have them, and when, as soon as may be I have the Honor to be with great Regard [&c.]

Please to direct to Me at Salem ー for any other Particulars Please to be Referred to Genl Lincoln the Bearerー