Whereas we have directed Capt [Richard] Smith of His Majesty's Ship the Lark to proceed to Cork to Convoy from thence to North America such Victuallers as may be laden with Povisions for the use of the Army under Genl Howe, And whereas we intend that you shall also Convoy to America such other Victuallers for the said Army as may be ready to sail a Fortnight after the departure of the Lark; You are hereby required & directed to proceed with His Majesty's Ship under your command to Cork where you are to remain til the Lark shall have been sailed from thence a Fortnight & then take under your Convoy such Ships laden with Provisions for the use of the Army under the command of Genl Howe as may be ready to, Sail, and putting to Sea with the first Opportunity of Wind & Weather make the best of your way with them to Halifax in Nova Scotia where you are to leave them unless the Commanding Officer of His Majestys Land Forces there shall desire you to Convoy them to the place where Genl Howe with the Army may be, in which case you are to do so & then proceed to join Lord Howe wherever he may be and follow His Lordships Orders for your further proceedings. But, if the Victuallers remain at Halifax, you are in that case to make the best of your way to join Ld Howe & follow his Orders as above directed. Given &c 24th July 1776

By &c P S