Letter from William Watson to General Washington

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Plymouth, August 8, 1776.

SIR: Captain Martindale, the bearer of this, will inform your Excellency that he, when he was about to sail in the Continental armed brigantine the Washington, was obliged to draw on the Agent for sundry articles in the clothing way, (for the use of his people, who were almost naked, and without which they could not go to sea,) amounting to £80, lawful money; which were delivered, and by Captain Martindale charged to such persons as received them.

Captain Martindale had taken from him his books and all the papers which related to this matter, and cannot tell to whom, or in what proportion, the said goods were delivered.

I have conducted as Agent with integrity, and with a view to the publick good, and flatter myself that my services have been approved, and that your Excellency will not let. me suffer by this unexpected event, and that your Excellency will please to direct in what manner I shall be reimbursed.

I am, with great respect, your Excellency' s most obedient, much obliged humble servant,
WILLIAM WATSON.

To His Excellency George Washington, Esq.