My Lord, 

As I have had no opportunity of writing to your Lordship since 25^th January, I now take the advantage of a Provision Ship belonging to the Navy, to inform your Lordship, that I have detached Lieutenant Colonel Hierlihy¹ with as many of the new raised Independent Companies as he could muster, to protect the Colliery, boats, tools and implements at Spanish River, belonging to His Majesty; left there under the care of the Barrack Master of Louisburgh. 

Having received information yesterday, of two Rebel Pirates² proceeding to destroy every thing and fire the Works at that place, the Naval Commander having been lately changed,³ I cannot say too much of Captain Fieldings alertness, who now commands that Department, in assisting me for that Service; so much so, that in twenty four hours, they set off for the support of that place, which may be of so much importance, to the further supply of the British Army, and I am certain will be there [in] time enough to prevent the mischief intended. 

I think this the more necessary to report to your Lordship, as Sir Henry Clinton, sent these Companies under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Hierlihy to be forwarded to the Island of Saint John's:⁴ and to be under my Command: they were detained here on account of the frost: and I thought I could not employ them upon a better service: their Sick are left behind here, and I will report it to Sir Henry Clinton who commands at York,⁵ as they are so far on their way to the Island of Saint John's, to receive his further Orders. 

I yesterday had a Report from Major of Brigade Studholme⁶ at the River Saint John's, where he said all was well, which Post I am determined to support, as I think it of the utmost consequence. 

Everything here goes on to my wish, since the pleasing change has been made, in the Command of the Navy. I blush for what has happened, and I will now take upon me to say, that no Superior of mine shall ever hear, that all points for the good of His Majesty's Service, are not carried on here, with spirit and vigour. I am My Lord, [&c.]