Sir

We expect this will be delivered to you by John Nicholson Esqr who commands the Hornet Sloop of war belonging to the Continent. She will carry you some Rice and Indigo by order of the Secret Committee which you'l please to receive expeditiously. As this sloop touches at Carolina before she mils for the West Indies it is uncertain when you may see [her], therefore our orders must be discretionary, and when she arrives if you [have] any advices or any goods to send that you think of importance to these States, you may dispatch Capt Nicholson therewith immediately. Should this not be the case you may assist him to procure more Men, and let him go a cruizing during the Winter Months only dispatching him so as to be here by the beginning of April. If our Trade in the Islands is interrupted by any privateers or Tenders that this Sloop can match they should be her Object, If there be none such she may cruize where there is the best chance of good Prizes. —

If Captain Nicholson is lucky enough to send any in to you, sell such parts as are suited for the Island consumption, but be careful what you sell is the property of none but british subjects not resident in Bermuda or New providence. Whatever you sell render regular Accounts of it — make the seamen &c necessary advances and transmit us their receipts with the Accot Sales &c for what you sell that just distribution may be made on their return. If Captain Nicholson meets with any Canon more suitable for the Hornet than those on board, assist him in buying and getting them mounted — Supply him with Money and necessaries he may want for the service his receipts will be your vouchers and your drafts on us will be paid —

When you dispatch him for the Continent he will take on board any goods you have to ship. We are Sir [&c.]