ppear that Mr Carmichael ever accepted this
appointment. He was chosen a delegate to Congress from Maryland, and
joined that body on the 19th of November, 1778.

* * * * *

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.

Off Reedy Island, November 25th, 1779.

Sir,

I received at Chester, the copies of the resolves, you did me the
honor to enclose me, and shall punctually comply with your request, by
forwarding them as soon as I arrive, to Dr Franklin and Mr Johnson. I
am sorry that the business with respect to the latter, is left in its
present state, because there are very few men, who neglect a certain
and profitable occupation, to engage in another where they are sure of
offending, without an equal certainty of an adequate reward for their
trouble and impartiality.

I am much obliged to you for your good wishes, although I must
candidly own they would be still more agreeable accompanied by a ship
of the line, for we are informed that the Romulus and Roebuck, are
waiting for us to intercept us, and were they animated, would, like
the Death and Sin of Milton, bless their lucky stars 'destined to that
good hour.' I beg you to make the proper compliments for me to the
gentlemen of your family.

I have the honor to be, Sir, &c.

WILLIAM CARMICHAEL.

* * * * *

TO THE PRESIDENT OF CONGRESS.

Martinique, December 27th, 1779.

Sir,

I take the liberty of enclosing to your Excellency, a paper containing
a relation of a late affair, between part of the small squadron
commanded by M. la Motte Piquet, and the English fleet, under the
orders of Sir Peter Parker. It was given me by direction of the French
Admiral, that a true account of this action, which has done him much
honor here, might be published in America.

On the 23d of this month, Admiral Arbuthnot arrived at Barbadoes with
six or seven sail of the line, and sixteen regiments. An attack on the
Grenadas or Dominica, is daily expected. The latter is well fortified
and garrisoned by twelve hundred men. The Marquis de Bouille seems to
have no apprehensions for any of their Islands, except those lately
taken from the enemy.

Mr Jay informs Congress by this opportunity, of the misfortune which
befel us, and the reasons which induced the officers to b