Docketed by Langdon on verso. Reporting on the difficulties supplying the army and navy, military plans, and the mood in Congress. Mentions a shipment of guns with defects. Comments on officer promotions. Mentions the Marine Committee's answer to a letter from the Committee of Providence. Mentions the petition of an officer to be Releavd, which he describes as a Petition for a Public Body to break their own Genl: Rules. He doubts it will pass but states that he will render assistance. Discusses clothing the troops, who he finds in good spirit though almost naked. Doubts the states will respond to a recommendation to issue provisions. Reasserts his belief that independence will be achieved, but also expresses his wish to put a speedy end to Slaughter & devastation which already is great, but must still be greater if the war Continues which nothing will prevent but the utmost exertions of the Friends to Liberty & Humanity[.] such Exertions under the smiles of Heaven, will restore peace & Establish Happiness in this western world. Also comments on military rumors. Has heard it is likely that General William Howe has but two moves more in which we shall Check Mate him. Comments on a desertion by Hessians. Sends congressional resolutions relating to the navy. Includes a long post script on the departure of General Howe from White Plains, New York, General George Washington's dispatch of 4000 troops to protect New Jersey, and British retreat from Crown Point.

Whipple, chairman of the Marine Committee in the Continental Congress, discusses various military and business matters with Langdon, a agent for the Continental Navy. Mentions Miss Wharton. Discusses money submitted to Langdon by the Marine Committee, including a sum transmitted to Langdon by Colonel Bartlett (possibly Continental Congressman Josiah Bartlett). Refers to Mr. Henderson and Mr. [Betten?], who delivered money from Whipple to Langdon. Mentions a ship Langdon was fitting as a result of Mr. Livingston's orders (possibly referring to Continental Congressman Robert Livingston). Mentions recent correspondence in order to keep track of letters which might be intercepted or lost. Encloses a resolution of Congress (not included) ensuring that Langdon will be commissioned to construct a gun ship. Inquires about obtaining supplies, including cordage, from St. Peter based on the orders of a Congressional Secret Committee. Reports that because of enemy vessels in the Chesapeake Bay, American ships planning to travel in the area should divert their course until further information may be obtained. Discusses guns intended for ships built in Connecticut, and the possible transmission of these arms by Jonathan Trumbull, Governor of Connecticut. Relates By acco't from abroad our affairs wear a favorable aspect, & our troops have been success full in every skirmish since the 25th Dec ... I am glad to find that you, my Friend are not dispirited, 'tho I must confess I have seen nothing yet, to dispirit a man who prefers Death to Slavery, & he that does not, is not worthy the name of an American. Refers to a treason act and the punishment of Tories. In a post script, mentions the transmission of money to Langdon by Mr. Betten. Discusses correspondence between Continental Congressman John Hancock and Mr. Bowdoin regarding the conduct of Captain John Roche.