Sir

The Chatham was unmoor'd yesterday with a Moderate Wind at WNWt and I expected you would have been informed of her being at Sea, but about three OClock it came round to the SWt in which Quarter it continues now blowing fresh and Captain Raynor was under a necessity of giving Orders to moor again. This detention gives me an Opportunity of representing to you the Careless and unfinished manner in which I found my Appartment, as well as those of the Captain and Officers of the Chatham, indeed mine so very unfit for an Officer of my Rank that I am sure there is not a Man on board her who is not furnished with a more Warm and comfortable Lodging; whether this is owing to the negligence of the Workmen, or those who overlook them, or to the false and ill judg'd Oeconomy, which prevails in our Dock Yards, is not my business to enquire, but I am confident, Sir, it is a matter of such importance that requires the interposition of their Lordships Authority to enquire into and correct in all His Majesty's Ships, but particularly in those destined on the laborious Service, and in the severe Climate where I am appointed to Command, lest their Lordships should suppose I have exaggerated in this representation I beg leave to refer them for confirmation of the truth of it, to Commissioner [James] Gambier and Sir Peter Parker who did me the honor to dine with me yesterday on board the Chatham.

As the Season is now so far advanced that it is likely I shall meet very severe Weather on the Coast of America, I apprehend the Weight & Inconvenience of the Flat bottom Boat now on board may be of very bad consequence, therefore should be glad to be disincumber'd of her, and that she may be sent at a more favourable opportunity. I am Sir [&c.]

[Endorsed]

Minute 9 Oct let him know I will lay it before their Ldps at their next Meeting. 12 Octor Send it to the Navy Board with directions to enquire into the matter complained of & to report to their Ldps how they find the same to be & whether the offrs appd & particularly the naval, have been fitted in the usual Manner Flag Ships are usually fitted, & if any thing has been omitted to supply it if there is time for it.
Let him know it in further answer to his Lre & that as the Flat bottm Boat will be much wanted in No America their Ldps cannot consent to his leaving it behind
Navy Board Report dated 20 October 1775.