in an Inlet near the Head of the
Chesapeake Bay.
Having now aboard us and in safe custody your son Robert Curtis, we offer you the following terms for his release and safe return to you. Namely, to wit:
First, that you shall make no attempt to attack us in an armed vessel, or otherwise to employ force upon us.
Second, that you shall send a single man, carrying or otherwise bringing, provided he is alone, a sum in gold amounting to 5,000 pounds sterling.
Third, that this man shall be on the sandbars at the entrance to the Cape Fear River in Carolina at noon on the 10th day of September in this year of grace 1718, ready to deliver the sum before-mentioned and to take in charge the boy, also before-mentioned.
Failing the accomplishment of any or all of these terms the boy will be immediately put to death without stay or pity.
Expecting you to act with discretion and for the welfare of your son,
Ever your humble servant,
Captain Thomas.