Admiralty Office 25 January 1776.
My Lord
Having received a Petition from the Merchants and others of the Town of Pool trading to Newfoundland, setting forth, that they are alarmed at hearing several armed Vessels are fitted out, by the American Colonies, and that they apprehend the same may interrupt their Trade; therefore praying Directions may be given to defend and protect their Property in that Country; and that Convoy may be appointed, for the greater Safety of their outward bound Ships.
We desire your Lordship will please to acquaint His Majesty therewith, and suggest to His Majesty, besides appointing a proper Convoy, for which we shall give the necessary Directions, whether it may not be highly advisable for the better Security of the Island, to give orders for the Troops which have been taken from thence, to be returned thither so soon as the same can possibly be done. We are&c
Sandwich J.Buller H. Palliser