Sir

In consequence of your representation of the Weakness of your Fleet,¹ I have order'd a return of Sailors in the Army to be made to me, & find they amount to more than 100, which will March with a Detachment for the Forts, as soon as the weather will permit This Reinforcement, I expect, will amply Supply your wants, & enable you to give every assistance to the Forts that can be reasonably expected from you, and as their Strength will be greatly augmented, it is my most earnest desire, that every mode may be adopted, by which your force may be brought to Co-opper­ate against the designs & approaches of the Enemy. & that a mutual Confidence & perfect understanding may chearfully take place

The Ammunition which you have &. will receive is to be considered sent for the use of the whole, & distributed Accordingly

As there is a greater possibility that the reduction of the Forts might be effected by surprize than any other means you will see the necessity of giving them every Aid by your Gondolas & Guard Boats, as may effectually prevent any mischance of this kind I am &c