Philada. Jany 22d. 1777
Gentn
The Sachem after going up the Bay & meeting with Ice went down to Cape May from whence the enclosed packet was sent to me by express. I had before recd an Acct. of the Piratical Conduct of Capt Patterson.1 Such things ought to be taken in time or we shall acquire a similar character to the Inhabitants of Barbary. I hope you will urge Spirited Measures on this Occasion & it will lay the foundation for Calling some other delinquents to a severe Account.
I am extreamly hurried but always your most obed servt,
Robt Morris
Receiver's copy, Papers of Continental Congress, item 137, U.S. National Archives and Records Administration, Washington, D.C. Addressed: "To The Honble Benjn. Harrison Esqr. Chair Man of Commee of Correspondence Baltimore."
1 Morris enclosed William Bingham's December 6, 1776, letter with supporting documentation alleging piracy against Capt. William Patterson of Maryland. For the subsequent responses of Congress and Maryland, see Samuel Chase to the Maryland Council of Safety, January 29 and February 6; and Committee of Secret Correspondence to William Bingham, February 1, 1777, note.