HM asks through Lord Nottingham [Daniel Finch] that with all expeditions so any ships be fitted out for sea together with those that are now at sea may make up the number of fifty sail besides such as be necessary for convoy to the West Indies, and fifteen small ships and vessels and eight fireships to be employed in the Narrow Seas and in the Mediterranean, and the fifty ships to be of the rates following: 2nd rate- 1; 3rd rate- 17; 4th rate- 32. Desire you will prepare and present to this Board with all speed the names of such ships as you shall propose for the service in respect to the condition they may be in as to repair, and what are sheathed with the number of guns and men; which should be the highest compliment and an estimate what will be the monthly charge of the said ships, smallships, vessels and fireships. Also desired to prepare and present to the Board estimates for HM ships in America, with the charge of eight yachts and their tenders for war on Admiral Herbert's fleet and that you forthwith let us know what port in the Mediterranean you think most proper for the lodging of victuals and naval stores.