Having a Nephew (Mr. John M. Pintard) connected with the House of Mr. John Searle & Co. Merchants in Madeira, who has earnestly requested an Introduction of this House to your Excellency, I do myself the honor of complying with his desire, as from my long Knowledge of the Character of Mr. Searle. I am certain any Services you can with propriety render the Company, will be extremely well placed, and will be conferring an Obligation on me; as their extreme attention to those American Prisoners who have been carried into that Island, and their singular attachment to the American Cause, when in the midst of our struggles and difficulties, render this Notice of them but a Payment of Gratitude for their disinterested Services. I have the honor to be with every Sentiment of respect and Esteem Your Excellency’s Most Obedient and very Humble