"Messrs Hawthorn & Kerr} Charleston Oct 13, 1797

Sirs,

I take this first opportunity
to inform you of my arrival here after a long and (illegible) passage.
Mr Ewing informs me he has your orders to sell the
Beaver which I think is the best thing you
can do with hir (her) as without doubt she is the most
unfortunate vessel that ever went to see (sea) and unless
person more fortunate than my self should command
hir (her) she will with out doubt prove ruinous to any one
concerned in hir (her) Since my leaving Rotterdam I have
lost one cable and anchor in the Downs Several of my
Spars & Sails & cc. The anchor & cable I replaced
at Deal giving a draft om Messrs Therwan(SP?) & Sons to
to be placed to your acct which the under writers must
undoubtedly pay for as I was obliged to cut the cable
for the preservation of vessel and cargo ~ What sails
I lost I replaced at sea having canvas on board...