Mr Mayor,

Capt Lobb having lodged a complaint with me dated the 22d inst that the Contractor's boat with provisions for the use of his Majesty's ships was detained at Wilmington and the boat men put into goal by the inhabitants of that Town, I desire to know the proper causes for such conduct that I may transmit them to his Majesty. The Viper sloop is at present without bread. I do therefore require your assistance that the Contractor may be furnished with the necessary provisions as soon as possible