(Circular)
Sir

As it is the opinion of the General officers directed by his Excellency General Washington to take the most effectual measures for Securing the command of the North River that the Continental Frigates will be of essential service in securing the Chain and obstructions in Said River; and as by your Letter of the 9th instant we find you entertain a similar sense. We now think proper to direct that you have the frigate under your Command put in as good A State of defence as can be admitted of, and follow such orders as may be given you by his Excellency the General, or the Commanding officer appointed to direct the operations in that quarter, using your best judgment in the execution of such orders as you may receive. We now send forward to the Council of Safety for the State of New York a sufficient number of Blank Commissions and Warrants for your officers, who are to be appointed temporary only until such time as their Characters and qualifications are sufficiently evinced and made known to. us, therefore we wish you to join with the Council in having those Commissions filled up with the Names of Men of Merit whom you can recommend freely for a permanent establishment. We recommend your taking great care of the frigate her Materials and Stores and keep us constantly advised of your proceedings. We are Sir

Your hble servants

P:S: Congress have allowed Pursers for their Ships whose pay is Dollrs per month, and we send you herewith A Pay List & the Rules & Regulations of the Navy for your Government