Request for Information Regarding Gunpowder

Navy Board Boston 7^th Octr. 1779

Sir

          We should be glad you would inform us by the bearer, what quantity of powder was on board the ship Trumbull—

                                                We are

                                                Your Humble Servants

                                                William Vernon for

                                                the Board

 Dudley Saltonstall Esq.

The Naval Board requested evidence about Saltonstall’s activities on a previous command. Dudley Saltonstall was commander of the ship TRUMBULL from 1776-1778, following her launch on the Connecticut River, but for two years was unable to float her over the bar and engage the British.  He was reassigned to the WARREN and a subsequent captain was able to float the TRUMBULL.