(a Copy)
Sir

I have just received the favour of your Excellency's letter of the 22^d: Instant, inclosing me information of sundry American Vessels then lying at Martinico;¹ which were expected to Sail from thence to North America at the times mentioned in said Paper of Information: it is now too late to endeavour to intercept any of those that were to sail with the first convoy: But at all events (if I have Ships here at the time mentioned for the others Sailing) I will try in what manner the French will behave (should our Ships meet with them during the time the American Vessels are in Company.)—

Should you obtain any further Intelligence concerning the French Ships of War Convoying the American Vessels to and from their Islands: I shall be much obliged to You to communicate it to me as early as possible; that I may try to intercept them. The Vessel your Excellency has been pleased to send express on this occasion arrived here about 5: O.'clock this afternoon, and I dispatch her immediately with this. Captain Bruce being gone from hence, I send back the Letter addressed to him.

I have the honour to be Sir [&c.]