We direct you to opine where it is most proper to order the GOSPORT, (now at Spithead), to be sheathed and fitted for a voyage to New York. You are to give Orders for caulking the FOWEY and FEVERSHAM at Spithead, where they now are, with all dispatch.
We have considered your letter of the 2nd inst; together with the copy of one to your Board from the Victualling Commissioners, concerning the Victualling of Ships in the Downs, and those bound to the West Indies. And we direct you to give Orders to the Commissioners to provide at Dover the quantity of Victuals declared for at that Port, but if they cannot provide it and lodge it there in a timely way they should get it in readiness to send to the Downs as fast as needed.
For the three Ships bound for the West Indies they must be supplied immediately for a speedy sailing, and if they want Money they must solicit this from the Treasury.
We direct you to cause the Officers and Men belonging to the SUFFOLK, except the Standing Officers and their Servants, to be turned over into the EDGAR, and that the SUFFOLK be put into Ordinary and her repairs taken in hand.
Vice Admiral Aylmer has proposed that for the quicker dispatch of Ships in Portsmouth Harbour the Riggers and what Workmen can be spared should be wholly employed on the Works of the said Ships. Direct all possible dispatch to be made with these Ships enabling them to come out to Spithead without any loss of time.