in themselves small, are of much value for their beautiful pines, cedars and oaks. I consider it detrimental to our interests that the Americans introduce any commerce in this Province, and at the same time I believe the best way to prevent it would be to establish a fleet. These Islands produce timber to build the vessels. NICOLAS GRENIER. St. Augustine, Fla., Nov. 10th, 1784. 1786. LETTER FOR THE CAPTAIN-GENERAL OF FLORIDA TO THE GOVERNOR OF THE POST OF ST. AUGUSTINE. Don Vicente Manuel de Cespedes gave an account in three letters directed to your Excellency that Don Nicolas Grenier, who commanded the detached company on the River St. Mary’s, stated the urgency and necessity of protecting that post for the advantages which would accrue from it to the Royal service, and tranquility of the Country. The inhabitants have openly declared against us, but conceal themselves in wilderness on the banks of the St. John’s as far as St. Mary’s controlling that Province. He warned the English Governor Don Patrick Louin to prosecute the perfidity of such men, if he would secure a peaceful Government. The opinion he had formed of them was afterwards confirmed by the frequent thefts and deprivation, it could not be remedied for the want of aid. Under such circumstances I judge it better to wait and allow them to leave and then vigorously oppose their re-entering the Province. At present, the beginning of the year 1785, we find ourselves free from many of the principal leaders of them, who went over to Pensacola and other English settlements and to the United States, where some have paid the penalty of their misdeeds with their lives. The Señor Louin seemed to think the time had arrived when they should be prosecuted, and so he sent to arrest one of the outlaws, Daniel Mc----, in the name of Great Britain. Candido Salteador and Guillermo Cunningham are even worse than the others, being constant receivers of stolen goods. He afterwards gave them their liberty under bond that they should leave the Province with the tide, using the launch San Pedro to convey them, he made them take oath never to re-enter the Province nor surrounding country. We are to consult with Providence as to what steps must be taken with Cunningham’s wife and children. The reports having been examined by the Council of Indians, they have decided to take no steps at present, the King agreeing to the proposition, and his Majesty commands me to return your Excellency the above referred reports and testimonials, that as Captain-General of the Province of St. Augustine, is to proceed in the case, as your Excellency, under the circumstances, should determine in things of weight as well as in minor affairs, as behooves a Governor of Florida. Render a just account of the results, and of the Royal Order. I warn your Excellency that you fulfill it. God preserve you for many years. SEÑOR. Madrid, December 5th, 1786. * * * * *