I wish it were in my power to reply more pointedly, for I am well convinced of the importance of information on that subject. Whenever I am in a condition to know more, I shall readily communicate to you the extent of my inquiries. But while it is my determination to speak to you with that confidence, which your ingenuous conduct has merited, I am equally determined neither to compromise myself nor mislead you, by relying on unfounded conjecture. I have the honor to be, &c. 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. Sir, Being obliged to go to camp on public business, I shall set off this day. During my absence, it is highly probable that the service may require various applications to your Excellency. Should this be the case, they will be made to you by Mr Gouverneur Morris, who is my official assistant. I am, therefore, to pray the same attention to his letters as if they were written by me. With great respect, &c. ROBERT MORRIS.[40] FOOTNOTES: