Sir:

I have sent up to Mr. Henry Montfort for the purchasing Tobacco, to load the Brig Pennsylvania Farmer, the amount of the proceeds of the public salt in Edenton, except what I have advanced for the vessel. The proceeds of the salt being very short of what will be sufficient to purchase the cargo, Mr. Montfort and myself have agreed to put on board, and the Assembly having made no provision in the resolve, in that case, I have in order the vessel may be despatched sent the Bearer William Coltrain express to your Excellency, for an order on both or either of the Treasurers for such a sum of money as may be wanted for the above purpose, which will be at least, including the disbursement and outfits on the vessel £40,000. Should it be in your power, I would be glad to have the order by return of the express, as it will not be in my power to advance such a sum as will be wanting, being already in advance. I shall endeavour to have the vessel soon complete for sea, altho' she is much out of repair.