The trunk I was under the neceƒsity of opening at the custom house when
I arrived at Baltimore, in America, for the officers of the Custom House to
look into it; And when I arrived at Leith also the officers saw it opened
(requested it) and at Admiral Vashons in Leith, he was at the Custom House
when I was there procuring liberty to land it, and I had to tell what
things the trunk contained – But I always unlashed it and lashed
it myself and was always present; ^ ^{at these times} should there be 1 table spoon, 1 tea spoon
and 1 shirt missing, I could give my oath if required it was not while
in my poƒseƒsion; – Since I found the indian coins; the seal broken
which I never took upon me to do, I have not harboured a good opinion
of M^r Standerts (clerk) I only wish and hope that all is safe but I fear
it is not. – You mentioned you should tire me of your asking so many
questions, but that is not at all the case if as many more; and any
thing else that I know; in another letter you will there as near
as I can tell, and some from C.F.^s own mouth be informed of.
I did not much like to tell of C.F.^s making his escape from the
I of France, to you, for fear of giving you uneasineƒs, but since it
is your request, I will inform you of all particulars that I know
in the other letter also inclosed in the parcel,
                              I am, Madam your most
                                      obedient humble servant
M^r Standert requests
his compliments
                                              John Elder