Upon consideration of what was discovered at Cabinet this morning when you were attending, direct you give your opinion whether any of the 1st or 2nd rate Ships may be kept at Sea this Winter with a Squadron of 3rd Rates, and if so, how many of them and which of them. Also whether any of the 1st or 2nd Rates may be fitted at Portsmouth by Careening for the next Summers service, and if any can, how many and which, with regard to the other Works of the Navy that must of necessity be done there.
This account to be sent to us by Noon on Monday next.
Direct you cause the 3rd Rates at Spithead which are reported as fitting to keep the Sea till the 1st January next to be put into a condition for the same as soon as possible.