Your Favor of this T’ day was just ^this Moment^ delivered ^to me^ by Mr. Lawrence.1 I am much of your Opinion that ample Supplies for your Ship will be difficult to obtain here ^especially of spare spars and Provisions^ and therefore am of the opinion ^think^ with you that as soon as she is reffitted it will be best to run immediately to the Continent, as to made Masts I have often heard they were the best ^but whether to to what particul[ar] Part of it I am unable^ to determine.

But Sir I do not concieve myself authorized to give you any Instructions on this Head whatever. I can only advise you as Your present Situation was neither ^not^ foreseen & therefore, not provided for. I can advise you but not order you, be pleased to attend to the Destinction. It is my Opinion that after refitting the Frigate you proceed with her immediately to such Part of the Continent ^United States^ as shall ^may^ be most advisable, provided you do ^shall^ not in the mean Time recieve other Orders from Congress or others ^America^ & I also advise you to write immediately and by every Opportunity for Orders. Accept my Acknowledgmts. for your Politeness and Attention to myself & Family, and be assured that I am Sir with the best Wishes for your Recovery Health & Prosperity Your most obt. & hble Servt