Sirs,

Having received directions from Captain Onslow,¹ to proceed with His Majesty's Ships, Solebay, Otter and Senegal, between the Tail of the Horse Shoe Shoal, and the Middle Ground; You are to proceed there in Company with His Majesty's Ship under My Command, and to be placed at equal distances, to effectually stop the passage into the Chesepeak Bay, in order to prevent French Ships, which he has information² are hourly expected; and also the Virginia³ and defence⁴ Frigates, from going to Sea, which he has also information, intends pushing out the first oppertunity: —Whenever occasion offers, that it may be necessary to Chace up or out of the Capes, a Frigate and a Sloop is always to remain at the Anchorage.

In case of Tempestuous Weather, you are at liberty to act as you think proper for the Safety of His Majesty's Ships under your Command; and should you unfortunately part your Cable or be obliged to slip, and drove to Sea, you are to return with all possible expedition, and not to Chace small Vessels without, which may prevent your immediate return to your Station, as great inconvenience may arise to His Majesty's Service from your absence.

Not having My Lord Howes Chacing Flag, Whenever the Quarter or bearing Flag is shewn, it is to be understood you are to Chace. I am [&c.]