[Extract]
The rumor has it that Falmouth in America has been burned by the fleet. I did not feel I should mention it because the report was only vague; but the Opposition has no doubts about it from what I was told yesterday by Lord Shelburne. No word has come from the Ministry. It appeared to me that these Circumstances deserved some attention. I already had the honor a long time ago to acquaint you that the decision has been made to destroy America as much as possible if she would not submit. This plan will hardly bring two million Sterling net to the Government per year.
I enclose herewith, Sir, the news from the ports.
News from the Ports
Plymouth
The Blenheim is in dry-dock. The frigate Solebay is ready to sail with the first favourable winds for Ireland from whence she will escort the vessels which will take the troops from this Kingdom to America. Arrival of two Corvettes Martin and Ranger, the first one from Lisbon; and the second from Ireland with recruits.
Portsmouth
The frigate Surprise is sailing for Plymouth. The Corvette Hazard is being repaired. The frigates Active, Thetis, Pearl, Greyhound, Fox, Sphynx, Seaford, Juno are repaired but have not been commissioned yet. In addition to these frigates there are 3 guard-ships in port. There are at Spithead 5 guard-ships, Romney with 50 guns, and the Frigates Surprise, Boreas, Acteon, Deal-Castle and the mortar-ketch Thunder which is to sail for America. Order has been given at Portsmouth to keep 200 marines ready to embark at first notice.
Deptford
The ship Victory has been damaged in an accident. The frigate Blonde is being commissioned. Men are still lacking for the ships which are being readied. Work is being done on a new corvette which will be called Dispatch. The frigate Favourite is in repairs.