[Extract]
No. 292

I have just received this information from the Prince of Masseran [Maserand]² who obtained it from someone whom he trusts completely. It concerns no less than a treaty between Russia and England by which the first of these powers would supply twenty thousand men in order to subdue America as well as all the ships and sailors required for this expedition.

I will avail myself in good time towards the British Ministry, Sir, of the marks of confidence which you have given me by telling me about the three battalions which boarded ship and are destined. for the Guadeloupe and the Martinique. We must take all necessary precautions and follow an unequivocal and open line of conduct in our policy towards England. It is also the safest policy.

News from the Ports.

Deptford.

Carcass came to Woolwick in order to be fitted out as a mortar ship as well as Racehorse which is in Deptford for the same reason. There will be 74.sailors and 16 marines on each of these ships.

Centurion sailed on the eighth in order to take her cannon and supplies on board. Work on the transport ships destined for America goes on without respite.

A ship is being loaded with supplies for Halifax.

Note: The Government is going to heap kindness upon Nova Scotia in order to encourage the confederate provinces to follow her example.

Plymouth.

More than three fourths of the wood in this yard is spoiled because of the poor management on the part of the master shipwright. The damage is far greater than what I had said in my last dispatch.

Portsmouth.

Phoenix and twelve transport ships are in Ste Helena waiting for favorable winds in order to sail for Boston.

Six transport ships are also waiting for favorable winds in order to sail to Ireland where they are to embark troops for Boston.