I have recd. the Letter which your Excellency did me the Honor to write on the 8th. Instant.1

It gives me Pain to hear, that the Conduct of an American Vessel of war should be so reprehensible, as that of the Cicero has been represented to be. It is proper that I should inform your Excellency that the Captains of all American private Ships of War give Bond, with Sureties, to fulfil the Instructions they recieve with their Commisions; and that these Instructions enjoin them to behave in a proper manner towards friendly nations.

As the Honor and Interest of the united States render it highly necessary that their Officers and Citizens should upon all occasions, pay the most scrupulous Regard to the Rights of other nations, I must request the Favor of your Excellency to communicate to me a State of the Facts charged against Capt. Hill: that by being transmitted immediately to America, Congress may be enabled to take such measures relative to him, as to deter others from the Commission of the like offences.2

Your Excellency would also oblige me by informing me how the Satisfaction demanded of Capt. Hill, is to be determined: and to whom it is to be paid. As his remaining much longer in his present Situation, would be a great Loss to his owners, I wish for their Sakes, that he may be released as soon as possible—and I am persuaded that your Excellency will not think it necessary to detain him longer than until the Satisfaction in Question can be ascertained and paid.3

I greatly regret that other american Privateers have also given occasion to Complaints. I assure your Excellency that nothing on my Part shall be wanting to prevent the like in future; and, I am sure that Congress would consider themselves obliged by your Excellency’s putting it in my Power, to convey to them exact Details of any Complaints made against their Officers. I have the Honor to be with Great Respect & Consideration Your Excellency’s most obedient and h’ble Servant