Sir,
The detention of the Fleet so long in England & its so very late arrival in this Part of the World, has been the means of some thousands of Hogsheads being still detained which could not Possibly be sent by the August Convoy: this has induced the Legislature of this Island to desire I would Convey to you their Joint application, if in your power, to assist them with a Convoy in the Month of September there will also be Sugars from Nevis & I am told from Montserrat & Antigua: I am very Sensible of the Weakness of your Squadron & equally so that you will give every Protection and assistance in your Power to the Commerce & Colonies under your Care. I am [&c.]
William Mathew Burt
St. Christopher
August 2nd. 1778.
L, CtY, Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library, Barrington Papers. Addressed at the foot: “Admiral Barrington.” Notation: “recd. 14. Ansd. 15.” Barrington's reply is below, at 15 Aug.
