You are too well acquainted with my opinion of certain characters in this State—especially one whom I am told is now an attendant on you at Elizabeth Town—to need a repetition of it at this time; but I wish it were possible for you to guard your Colleague against the arts, & the disadvantages which certainly will result from a free intercourse of Sentiments with the person I allude to, on points, the knowledge of which, can avail the B. Commissioners.

I have every reason short of positive proof, to believe the person here meant, is a traitor to this Country—that he is in pay of the enemy—and that every piece of information which he can extract from Mr [  ] will be communicated to the Comrs on the other side—Judge then how far you will be able to carry points that depend upon secrecy, address, & good management. You will be, I have no doubt, attended by other persons of similar characters—but none, for obvious reasons, so dangerous.

You will readily perceive that this is a confidential letter, written for the best of purposes—I need not add how much I am. Dr Sir Yr Most Obedt & Affecte Servt