Sir,
Upon Saturday, contrair to my proposed friendship, five of your men having come on shoar armed, did, after a most hostile manner, threaten all the inhabitants in this place, and did begin to committ riots; therefore, all the people returned and raise in arms, and two of your men made great resistance; but by the providence of God Almightie, they were overcome and carried off prisoners to Kirkwall; these three that did not so much resist, confessed that the boatswain was the man that carried the women on board, and plundered Grahamsay's house. The Collector ordered me, if you came heir, to set the promontorie on fire for a signall to the friggats yt are sent for to catch you: they'll certainly be here to-morrow or the nixt day. I therefore, for the regaird I have to your father's son, being heartily sorry for you, that ever you should be so ingadged with such a crew, desire you to come on shoar, and believe you may expect better entertainment from me than from any other; for if you doe surrender you can be evidence against the rest, and I'll doe my best to make all for your advantage that in honour you can imagin. If you have any friend with you, take him alongst with you, and if you do not resolve to come presently, send me word. Take this as a friendly caution, and if you take not my advice you'll certainly repent it.

This in friendship from