We, justices of peace for the country of Zetland, having met this day conform to the act of parliament and instructions given us, and after we had concluded what was then necessary we thought it most requisite to make known to your honors [how] the poor country wherein we live is circumstanced for the time (first) that by the common enemy [to wit the French] the Hollanders who were the only people who brought in money into the country were burnt and destroyed anno 1703; since which time there have few or none frequented it: and now since the Union was concluded the few Hamburgers and Bremens that used to come to the country and buy the product thereof such as fish, herrings, butter, oil &c. are now so discouraged by the great alteration of their duty now payable (as they allege) both as to import and export that they have all given over their former trading so that her Majesty will not only totally lose her custom and excise that formerly used to be paid but the inhabitants ruined for want of merchants to buy their commodities. Therefore it is most earnestly desired that you as trustees for her majesty and government both as to customs and excise may fall on such methods (either with her majesty or British parliament) that the present condition of the country may be represented and the few Hamburgers and Bremens who traded here may be encouraged while [until] other merchants from Britain be settled.

Signed by F. Stuart, Pa. Lesley, Tho. Gifford, William Henderson, J. Sinclair, William Dick, Law. Bruce, Andr. Bruce, William Dick.