Sir Attorneys Office Alexandria August 17 1800. I this day communicated to the Attorney General of the United States, the information you gave me yesterday, relative to the Captain of the Brig Ranger, held [undecipherable] necessary, that you shoulde come and make an Affidavit before the Mayor relative to the circumstances of the Brig Patty, in order to prevent his obtaining Bail agreeably to the laws of the United States, respecting acts of [undecipherable: Piracy?]. When you were in Town yesterday Captain Merchant had made his escape, but has since been brought back, and is now in close [strikethrough: confinement] confinement, he may effect his being bailed a second time, therefore absolutely necessary that he should be prevented. I am, with great respect Sir your ob't Serv't [undecipherable signature] [undecipherable] Con[undecipherable] City of Washington [Endorsement: Chas. Lee / Aug. 17. 1800 / (121) / Jeremiah Condy / Accountant [undecipherable] / City of Washington]