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Captain Fanshawe¹ having thought proper to order the Galatea under my Command to remain upon this Coast, to act in consort with the Hinchinbrook and Rebecca, in order to prevent the Rebel force from advancing by the inland navigation towards S^t. Augustine.

On consulting Lieutenant Ellis,² and Mowbray³ I find the Galatea cannot be got into S^t. Marys⁴ without the utmost risque, but they inform me Frederica⁵ will afford much more Water, and she if got into that port may be placed so as to prevent the advance of any Force to the Southward, for this reason I think it right to take the Hinchinbrook, or both with me for a few days as circumstances may require, as they inform me should the Rebels be passed Frederica before we get there, that they together can scour the inland Navigation down to S^t. Mary's, and the Galatea be placed so, that if possible to get them between us.

I shall consult Colonel Brown⁶ upon this head, and collect every information I can relative to them, and request your Excellency will give me as early as possible any intelligence, that may enable me to defeat the designs of these Invaders.

I think if we can stop them at Frederica it will be much better than suffering them to advance so far on as this. I beg leave to assure your Excellency my endeavours shall not be wanting upon this or any other occasion, and I am upon all Your Excellencys &c