December 23

v5:603

LONDON, December 23, 1775.

DEAR SIR: I have been applied to by Messrs˙ Robert Grant & Co˙, Contractors to the Navy, for a proper person in your Province to supply the King' s ships with what provisions they may want when any of them come your way. I therefore mentioned you, hoping it may be of some advantage to you. But should the executing of it be disagreeable, or attended with any risk, you are at liberty to decline it; only, I should, in that case, wish you to recommend some person who would undertake it. Messrs˙ Robert Grant & Co˙, will write you themselves upon the subject.

I am, with esteem, dear sir, your most obedient servant,

JOHN SIMPSON.

To George Houstoun.