Kingston, 3d December 1778.
Sir:
Yesterday was paid to the order of Capt. John Easton seven months pay for the crew of the Ship Caswell, and it becomes my duty to require you to proceed immediately with the said Ship to her station at Ocracock, and on her arrival there you are requested to send an express directly to Capt. Easton acquainting him thereof; at the same time you are to make a return of your officers
and crew, and also your Guns, Arms, &c., with the Ships stores. If this reaches you before you leave Edenton, you are required to apply to Mr. Robert Smith for eight 18 pounders lately imported there from France, and received by Messrs. Smith and Benberry for the use of this State. These you are to carry to Ocracock, there to be delivered to the order of the Captain of Fort Hancock. If there are any other Guns in Mr. Smith's possession that will be useful in your Ship, apply to him and he will deliver them. What I have now requested I flatter myself you will not hesitate to comply with. I am Sir, your mo. ob. Servt.
P. S. You are hereby required to search every vessel outward bound, and not suffer any provisions to be carried out of the Country, contrary to my proclamation. I am informed there are some Bermudian Vessels now in different ports in this State, whom 'tis probable will endeavour to carry out provisions; if they do, you will do well to seize and send them up to the Court of Admiralty. Yours &c.