Sir

I received your letter of the 17th Instant ー I had before given Capn. [John Paul] Jones of the Providence Orders to Sail for Newberry Port. Shall send Express to Newport immediately if she is not sail'd to proceed directly to Boston.

There being no coal to be had in this Government think it will be best to get what you can with you.

Please send a line to Capn. Jones of the Providence to Newberry Port to come to Boston, or where you think best if he has sail'd before my Express arrives at Newport.

You will be good enough to supply any of the Continental Vessels under my Command with any Necessarys they may want. I am with Respect [&c.]

Providence, June 18, 1776

To Mr. John Bradford agent for the Fleet at Boston