Williamsburg, June 4th, 1782.
Sir:
The stay which the French and Spanish Fleets may make at the Cape Francois, having rendered every kind of commodities much dearer, I look upon it as a very advantageous speculation for the Traders of Carolina to carry flour to the Cape. This trade is particularly adapted to North Carolina, as its little harbours are much less cruised on than those of Chesapeak Bay and Delaware River. With respect to the approaches of the Island they are very secure for all the Vessels going there from this port, as the Fleet of Admiral Rodney is got into Jamaica.
I hope, Sir, that Your Excellency will make the Traders of North Carolina acquainted with these few reflections of mine, and I beg you to be persuaded of the respectful consideration, with which
P. S.—We have information from New York that 40 Sail of Transports have gone from that place to Charles Town, and it is believed
for the purpose of evacuating that garrison. If Your Excellency has the news, I beg you to forward them to me by the first opportunity.