In consequence of the letter of Recommendation you were so good as to give me to his Excellency General Washington, I embark’d on board of a Dutch ship bound to Boston; I had the misfortune of being taken off that Port and brought back to Europe at Portsmouth. Having had all our equipages taken and being left almost naked, I experienced from the English all kind of bad treatments that were suggested by rage and Jealousy as they suspected I were going to serve the good Cause of Liberty. I had the good luck of saving your letter of introduction to his Excellency with other papers which I conceal’d in my Boots. My Condition since that time can be better imagin’d than discrib’d. I preserve however always the same sentiments and Zeal for the Americans upon whom I look as Brothers and fellow sufferers: My Greatest misfortune at present is that, to be unable to give convincing proofs of friendship to them and hatred to Tyranny, I wish, I long to renew my undertaking! But, Sir, I am ashamed to ask for your Assistance having no other Claim to your Protection than the several letters of Recommendation to you when at Paris. Mr. Benjamin Vaughan, Duster Court, mincing lane, can bear Testimony to my present Circumstances, has seen your letter &c. and expects only a word from you to procure me the means of realizing my former intentions; I hope they will meet with better success and that I shall be able to testify you effectually my Gratitude.

I am firm and undaunted in my Resolution, having the honour to be Sincerely Sir Your’s and America’s obedient and devoted Servant