Philada. Feby 5th. 1777
Sir
By Consent of the Honorable Congress I have this day given instructions to Jno Paul Jones Esqr Commander of the Alfred to take upon him the Conduct of an Expedition wherein he will require the assistance of the Columbus, Cabot, Camden 1 & Sloop Providence, and You will please to order the Commanders to join him & to put themselves under his Command. I flatter myself with having your utmost exertions to get these Vessells well & expeditiously manned and compleatly fitted that they may sail soon as possible. I lately forwarded you a packet with instructions respecting the Frigates from the Marine Committee which I hope will arrive safe. I long to hear that you contrive ways & means to get rid of the Enemy in your Neighborhood & am with esteem sir your obedt hble Servant,
Robt Morris, V.P. of
the Marine Committee
Receiver's copy, Henry E. Huntington Libary.
Letter book, Marine Committee Letter Book, Marine Committee Miscellaneous Papers, U.S. National Archives and Records Administration, Washington, D.C.
1 The LB correctly names this ship the Hampden.