157 | To Jeffery Amherst

    Boston Sep. 13. 1762.

    Sr.

    I am favoured with yours of Sep. 5 & Septr 6.610 In regards to the latter I beg leave most sincerely to congratulate you upon the great & important conquest of the Havanna, which reflects the greatest honour on the British Nation & must most effectually secure her intrests.

    In regard to the Soldiers from St Johns I make no doubt of their being prisoners during the War, altho’ they know nothing of it themselves. If it is so, as this is the Act of the Officers, without their in any ways acceding to it before or after the surrender, nothing can be imputed to them, altho’ they must abide with what has been done for them.

    I have given orders for the Cartel Vessel to be ready; & am told She may be fit to sail in a Weeks time. The French Captain disputes going to England: but I shall cut the Matter short. I dont imagine it is common to send Prize Vessels as Cartels: but as in this case there was no other to be had, I doubt not but She is protected by her Flag.

    The Men in general are very glad that they are going to England; but there is a Man in the train, that listed in America & has a family here that takes it much at heart. He sayes that he has allways depended upon not being sent from America. I think I remember such a promise in the Advertisement for recruiting the Train. The Man is Very willing to serve on, if he may be allowed to do it: if his hands are tied as a soldier, he desires to remain here subject to orders when he shall be at liberty.

    As I have not time to write to Col Williamson my self I have given the Mans Memorial to Cap Elliot to transmit to the Colonel

    I am, with great regard, Sr Your most obedient & most humble Servant

    Fra. Bernard

    His Excellency Sr Jeffry Amherst.

    ALS, RC WO 34/26, ff 213-214.