Dundas, Ralph, 1732-? to James Dundas

Dundas, Captain of the H. M. S. Bonetta, informs his brother James he was in New York and other locations before moving north to Nova Scotia. Reports that on the way, his men took five prizes and reclaimed two brigs containing low-valued cargo. States that a French fleet is "Blocked up at Present at Rhode Island" by Admiral Marriot Arbuthnot. Refers to the British defeat of American forces at Charleston, South Carolina, in May 1780 and the capture of valuable Virginia ships by New York privateers. Discusses a riot in Boston, Massachusetts following General George Washington's call for 3,000 troops. Reports extensively on Washington's failure to recruit troops, soldiers' lack of clothing, extreme monetary inflation (he claims one silver dollar is worth fifty paper dollars), and discontent within the Continental army. States that in his location, there are British, Hessian, Continental, and Nova Scotian troops. Relates that British troops in Nova Scotia are under the command of Francis MacLean. Refers to French commander Henri Hector D'Estaing in the 1779 during the siege of Savannah, Georgia. Refers to his location's strong fortification, British Commander Bruce, his salt provisions, and the scarcity of money. States that James may have to write him care of Hugh Wallace or William Seton, both of New York, or Alex Thomson of Halifax. Sends his regards to family members.