I beg reference to my last 3d. Inst: being since informed, the Serapis is forthwith to be adventure’d for possible Sale, I have endeavoured to procure some of one American Gentleman, here particularly, those established & Setled in a line of business—to form some plan of geting this Ship Secured to the United States, believeing, from present appearances, she will not command a Sum equal to her actual Value.

However much those of our friends with whom I conversed on this Subject may be disposed to Render Service’s to their Country, they cannot in this instance, as they are unprovided for such undertaking—Therefore, unless Mr. Franklin adopts some proper plan, to Secure, at least, the Chance of geting this fine Ship for the United States, in case she may go cheap, there is, at present in my opinion, little to be expected for the purpose, from any other quarter.

In my situation, nothing can be expected from me, whatever my inclination may be.—Nevertheless, if Mr. Franklin coud only but devise some method of even dischargeing what is due to me by the United States,—I shall engage to purchase this Ship, merely to secure her for the use of the States, unless raised beyond her Value at the Sale.

This I have concluded to communicate to you that, if you shoud judge it proper to mention it to your Grand Father, you may do it at some convenient proper time.

Youl easily know the Amount of my Claim, by looking in to the Accounts of the United States, left by me under your care and if Cash cannot be obtained immediately for my payment a Credit with Mr: Grank Banker, & a liberty granted to me to draw so far for my payment, even at three Months dates, woud accomodate & enable me to Act.

Many have an impatient for the Arrival of Captain Jones, expecting he will be dispatched, & proceed immediately in the Alliance—Several Vessels are detained for Sometime, trusting to the benefits of his protection, and they incur, a very heavy expense daily, during their detention—. No news of any kind at this place, having had no late arrivals.—Assuring You of my best wishes, believe me Sincerely My Dear Sir Your friend & obedt Servant