We have yours of 5'h Jan. in answer to w^liich the redemption of all the English Captives in Barbary is agreed, and Hope in few months will bee Compleated, Bartholomew Eushton, and William Green are upon the list given in witch the agrement. So it will be needles to sollicite now there redemption, and besides aneed lesse Charge to there frinds, this negotiation suppose it will bee Publicq, so shall not further trouble you therewith, butt in anytliing wee can serve you Please Command

S>8 Your most humble Serv* W : Hodges chri : Hayne & Torrecos.

[Translation.)

The Heern Stephanus van Cortlandt Piter Jacobez Marius Johannis kip & Johannis Keryfbyll. Myn Heeren

Our last to you was of the S<^ Jan. 1699 wherein it was stated that Bartholomew Rushton and William Green were alive in Maquines and through our correspondence at Cadiz, we have since used every effort for their redemption, and now lately by letter a copy of which is annexed, we have received the welcome tidings that in virtue of an agreement obtained by the English they will receive their freedom in a few months. Therefore we shall have to contribute but little out of the moneys in our hands. We shall most gladly be advised how and in what manner we are to employ the balance of the money, whetlier in the shipment of goods or on drafts which you may please to draw. Awaiting which we shall end and remain Avith duft respect after our dutiful salutations,