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Sir:

On an information received from Captain Christopher Neal of New Bern, that a flag Brig. Commanded by Captain Nicks hath

lately imported from the Island of Providence into that place, Broad clothes, Rum, Salt and Limes, &c., under colour of exchanging seventy-seven American prisoners, which Merchandize have been or are about to be disposed of for provisions, a trade inadmissible between the subjects of any States at War and particularly reprehended by our Allies, and remonstrated against by Congress, I have directed Colonel Leach, Commissary of Prisoners, not to grant any passports to said Vessel until this be inquired into by you in the Court of Vice admiralty, which you will please to do as soon as convenient, and if you find this Vessel and cargo subjected to the Maritime penalties in such cases, You will please to direct the necessary measures to be taken and report the same to me; if acquitted you will inform Colonel Leach of the same, that he may grant the proper passports usual on such occasions.

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