By J. P. J. &ca
Sir
You are hereby appointed commander of our prize the Ship Betty you are directed to keep company with me and to obey all future orders from me as well as all Signals agreeable to the Copy now onboard the Betty for your government — should you Unfortunatly loose company with me you are to proceed to the nearest port within the United States of America
Given at Sea onboard the Alfred Decr 8th 1776. —
J.P. J.
To Mr Jno Margeson Commr of the Ship Betty 2
1. Papers of John Paul Jones, 6518, LC.
2. Margeson was a master's mate on board the Continental ship Alfred. The Betty was retaken entering Rhode Island. Journal of H.M.S. Chatham, December 18, PRO, Admiralty 51/192.
