Philadelphia merchant.

Commissioned to go to Europe and purchase a privateer (1776). Carried with him copies of Franklin’s credentials as commissioner to France, of the proposed commercial treaty, as well as sets of blank commissions.

Purchased cutters for the commissioners in Dunkirk, and apparently recommended Gustavus Conyngham for command of one them. Helped outfit the Surprize and the Revenge, both commanded by Conyngham.

Imprisoned in the Bastille after the Revenge turned to privateering (August-October 1777).