I do not wish to cast a censure upon any man. But it is a pitty that so fine a vessel as the Brig Dolly should be suffered to lie here and rot. her standing rigging cables &c have been exposed at this place for more than 14 months. The commanding officer lives on york-river and comes down only once a quarter to recieve his pay. I will not blame the collecter—the Navy agent—nor the Secretary of the Treasuary. but surely somthing should be done to silence the clamours of the ill natured. I hope you will excuse the liberty now taken by a plain poor man. tho’ a freeholder– who it is well known here has ever been a friend to you

and your Administration