Feby. 16th 1777
Sir.1
As the enemies ships and the ice have detained you in Delaware until this time when the Marine Committee are in Baltimore I only think it necessary to add to these orders that the first of April limited for your return need not be regarded if the public service will be benefitted by your longer detention, but tell Mr. Bingham if he has any public stores to send us, the receipt of them is of more consequence than Cruizing.
I am Sir, Your hble servant,
Robert Morris V.P.
Letter book, Marine Committee Letter Book, Marine Committee Miscellaneous Papers, U.S. National Archives and Records Administration, Washington, D.C.
1 Nicholson was captain of the Continental sloop Hornet.