You are directed to consider and report whether we should have some 4th Rate frigates built this year, and if so, what number and how many in King's Yards and how many by contract. Also, your letter of 3 February stated that the Commissioners at Chatham advise that timber cannot be procured because of the great frost and it is proposed to make use of some of the timber provided for the new ships to be built by Act of Parliament. You are directed to give orders for this to be done to keep the men employed.