ROBERT MORRIS.
TO THE GOVERNOR OF MASSACHUSETTS.
Office of Finance, August 4th, 1781.
Sir,
On the 23d of June last, the United States in Congress assembled, directed me to take measures for the speedy launching and equipping the ship America, and directed the Board of Admiralty to assign to me the share of the United States, in the prizes taken by Captain Barry, to enable me to carry their orders into effect.
By a letter from the Navy Board in the eastern district, dated the 18th of July at Boston, it appears, that the greater part of this money is already expended, and that more is wanting to fit the Deane and Alliance for sea. Congress have referred this letter to me, and in consequence, as I am convinced that expense will constantly accrue while those vessels continue in port, I request of your Excellency to furnish to the Navy Board, such moneys as may be necessary to fit them out, with all possible expedition. I must further entreat to be favored with an account of the sums furnished, that they may be carried to the credit of your State on the late requisitions of Congress, and the Navy Board to be debited with them in the treasury books.
I have the honor to be, &c.
ROBERT MORRIS.
TO THE GOVERNORS OF DELAWARE, MARYLAND, AND NEW JERSEY.
Philadelphia, August 4th, 1781.