We have given orders to all commanders of ships and bomb vessels now in Longreach that if they are apprehensive of any damage by ice in the river, they are to sail at the first opportunity to Sheerness and to remain there. You are directed to give orders for pilots to be sent on board the ships and bomb vessels and to sail them to Sheerness, and in case they are in want of men to furnish these from the Ordinary and riggers at the Deptford and Woolwich yards.