When Major Newton commanded the Militia in Norfolk, some letters were sent to him by Sir Robert Laurie, for the purpose of being delivered to the British Consul who, I presume, was charged with the distribution of those addressed to different persons in the United States. These letters, being all under seal, could not be delivered; and Major Newton did not think it proper to send a flag for the sole purpose of returning them, the British Commanders having previously known our determination not to permit such intercourse. No opportunity to return them presented itself before the British Squadron unexpectedly left our waters; and when the Militia companies were all discharged, the letters were sent to me. Subjoined, you have a list of them; and I have to request that you will be pleased to inform me what course you now wish to be pursued with respect to them.

I thank you for the forms of swords which you had the goodness to send me as models of those most approved in practice. We have introduced them into our Manufactory, and shall comform to them in future.

I have the honor to be with the highest respect Sir yr. mo: ob: Servt.