State of North Carolina,
To William Tinsdale Esquire.
Greeting:
Whereas the General Assembly hath by joint Ballot of both Houses elected you judge of the Court of Admiralty of the Port of Beaufort in this State, we do therefore by these presents constitute, Commissionate and appoint you the said William Tisdale Judge of the said Court of Admiralty of the Port of Beaufort. To have, hold and enjoy the said office of Judge of the Court of Admiralty of the port aforesaid, during your good behaviour therein, with all and singular the powers and authorities thereof and the privileges and emoluments thereto belonging as fully and amply as any Judge of the Court of Admiralty may hold, exercise and enjoy in this State, and in all matters and things incident to the said office to act and do so as to duty thereof doth
or may of Right appertain and according to the Laws, ordinances and Resolves relating thereto. Witness Richard Caswell Esq, Governor, Captain General and Commander in Chief of the said State under his hand and seal at arms at NewBern the 30th day of April, Anno Domini 1777, and in the first year of our Independence.