My Lord

I find that the Comptroller of the Navy is well acquainted with the harbour of Cape Fear, & that he is of opinion that ships even of twenty guns cannot get over the bar; it seems therefore absolutely necesary for us to be informed what kind of naval assistance will be wanted for the debarcation of the troops; for if it is expected that their landing should be covered by men of war, I much doubt whither that will be practicable for the reasons above mentioned. indeed I should think that before any decisive measure is taken it would be adviseable for your Lordship to have a consultation with Sir Peter Parker, the Comptroller of the Navy, Sir Hugh Pallisser & myself as to the practicability of the naval part of this business. I am [&c.]