While you remain at Batavia, I recommend you to stay on board of
     your ship, and not to go on shore except when the business of your
     ship and cargo may render it necessary.

Inclosed is an introductory letter to ——­, which I request you to deliver, after you have made the necessary arrangements with Mr. ——­for the consignment of the ship and cargo, or after the circumstance aforementioned has compelled you to look elsewhere for a consignee.  Then you are to call upon said Messrs. ——­, deliver them the aforesaid letter and the consignment of the ship ——­ and cargo, after having agreed with them in writing, which they will sign and deliver to you, that they engage to transact the business of the ship and cargo on the terms and conditions herein stated; and when that business is well understood and finally closed, you are to press them in a polite manner, so that they many give you a quick dispatch, without giving too great a price for the coffee, particularly at this present moment, when its price is declining throughout those countries where it is consumed.

Indeed, on the subject of purchasing coffee for the ship ——­, the greatest caution and prudence should be exercised.  Therefore, I request that you will follow the plan of conduct laid down for you throughout.  Also, to keep to yourself the intention of the voyage, and the amount of specie you have on board; and in view to satisfy the curious, tell them that it is probable that the ship will take in molasses, rice, and sugar, if the price of that produce is very low, adding that the whole will depend on the success in selling the small Liverpool cargo.  The consignees of said cargo should follow the same line of conduct, and if properly attended to by yourself and them, I am convinced that the cargo of coffee can be purchased ten per cent. cheaper than it would be if it is publicly known there is a quantity of Spanish dollars on board, besides a valuable cargo of British goods intended to be invested in coffee for Stephen Girard, of Philadelphia.

During my long commercial experience, I have noticed that no advantage results from telling one’s business to others, except to create jealousy or competitors when we are fortunate, and to gratify our enemies when otherwise.

     If my remarks are correct, I have no doubt they will show you the
     necessity of being silent, and to attend with activity,
     perseverance, and modesty, to the interests of your employer.

As my letters of instruction embrace several interesting objects, I request you to peruse them in rotation, when at sea in fine climates, during your voyage to Batavia, and to take correct extracts, so as to render yourself master of the most essential parts.  I conclude by directing your attention to your health and that of your crew.

     I am yours, respectfully,

     Stephen Girard.