General Forman (who is now on his way to you with a Representation on the Hanging of Captain Hoddy by the Refugees) will have the Honor of delivering your Excellency this Letter. Previous to the Generals Arrival we had heard of this Matter altho not so particularly. We mentioned it to General Dalrymple and Mr Elliott. They seemed to be surprised and wounded at the Information & assured us of their Conviction that the Deed had been perpetrated not only without the Order of Sir Henry Clinton but without his knowledge. We should now make a Representation on the Subject in form but are induced to think that as it will have far greater Weight so it will come with more Propriety from your Excellency to Genl Clinton.

We have not in any Instance made a direct and formal written Enquiry as to the Board of Refugees, conceiving that the Event of the Business committed to us would have [rendered] it unnecessary. In Conversation (however) they have been often mentioned. They are it seems appointed by and correspond with the british Ministry. Their Agents are commissioned by Sir Henry Clinton. They act by their own Authority under Sufferance of the british Commander in Chief but Subordinate to his Authority if he pleases to exert it.

We did expect that our Business would have terminated yesterday but it seems that they have Something to propose this Day. Should we not finish immediately Colo. Smith will go hence to Morrow Morning and carry our Proceedings—Should we finish this Day or toMorrow we shall make up our Report as soon as possible and transmit it by the Colo. We have the Honor to be with great Respect Sir your Excellency’s most obedient & humble Servants