[Extract]

Can your Excellency spare our Row Galleys from further Continental Service? The men and their arms may be used to great advantage on board our Ship and Brigantine. The enterprize formerly mentioned to you; in which I have the promise of Admiral Hopkins concurrence. Your advice on this head is wanted as we are not so well acquainted what alteration your present situation makes in regard. An early answer will be necessary, if they can be spared, and the intended naval expedition is yet pendent and practicable.