A Commodore with six line of battle ships and eight frigates, will sail, we are told, to America, the beginning of March next; the above ships are to take on board their full complement of marines, and are to be laden as deep as possible with provisions, &c.
Press warrants are sent out to Admiral Graves to press all American seamen.
Press warrants are expected to be issued out soon, as the Captains of all the outward bound ships have been very solicitous to procure protections.
Orders have been sent to Plymouth for all the guard ships there to take on board their full complement of men, as in time of war.
Orders have been sent to all the out-ports, to be very cautious and strict in examining all persons, vessels, &c. that may be judged the least suspicious.
Orders are given for a quantity of beef and pork, sufficient for ten ships of the line for six months, to be got ready as soon as possible.
Several transports are brought up to the Tower in order to take in cannon, balls, and other warlike stores, for Boston; which transports are to be convoyed by six men of war, to prevent their being taken by the Provincials.
A small vessel will be dispatched to America this week, with orders for all the transports that have delivered their cargoes at Boston, &c. to leave that place immediately, and return to England with all expedition.