N[ew] O[rleans] 10th October 1776
[Copy]
Sirs, This will be handed you by Captain George Ord, whom I have supplied with Sundries, and to whom I beg Leave to refer you for Particulars.
As I conceive myself to be too much interested in every Thing that can serve America (notwithstanding my present Situation is remote from the Scene of Action) I eagerly embrace the Opportunity of exerting my utmost Endeavours for the glorious Cause, and had every Thing compleated soon after he came here: But just when he was ready to Sail, arrived the D[iligence] s[loo]p of w[ar], and I had only Time to save the Cargo, and did every Thing in my Power to save the Vessel under his present Protection: But then your Situation and Consequence was not sufficiently understood here, and of Course I laboured in vain both for my Friends and own Interest; but of late since your last Declaration, and every Circumstance turning out so far beyond the Expectations of your warmest Friends, Times here have taken a quite different Turn, and I make no Doubt but before this you have taken such Steps as will gain the Hearts & Protection of all those you desire. Permit me therefore to make tender of my hearty Services, and to assure you that my Conduct shall be ever such as to merit Confidence and Approbation of that Country I owe every Thing but Birth. I have the Honor to be, Sirs [&c.]
The Honble Andrew Allen &
Robert Morris } Committee of Congress