Congress 3d Jany. 1776 [i.e. 1777]
Sir
The Secret Committee request that you immediately put a Trusty Officer from the frigate Virginia on board the Lexington with orders to have her directly moved up to the place most fit for unloading her and to remain with the Brig until further orders. You Sir Will be pleased to take proper measures for landing, storing, and securing the Lexingtons Cargo. Let an Inventory thereof be taken and returned to us.
As there is no officer on board the Lexington that is acquainted with the business it will be the more necessary to have a very carefull person to attend her delivery, that all kind of pecu[la]tion may be prevented, and the business conducted with the greatest propriety.
If a Guard is wanted, may not Capt. Smith be applied to for the purpose.
For the Secret Committee,
Richard Henry Lee
Receiver's copy, William L. Clements Library, University of Michigan. written and signed by Richard Henry Lee.