(Copy)
Secret Orders

In case the American Vessel [Reprisal] you are directed, by my Order of this date, to Demand the delivery of, from the Governor of Martinico, is still remaining in that Bay; You are to Anchor in the Pomona as near to her as you can; and constantly to watch her motions; and be ready to Slip and follow her in case She should attempt to get away from thence before you receive the Governor's Answer, You are in that case to follow her (notwithstanding the Forts may fire to prevent your doing so) until you get beyond the Limits of the Port, and then attack, and use your utmost endeavours to take, burn, sink, or otherways destroy said American Vessel. Should you Succeed in your Endeavours to take her you are not to return back to St Pierres but bring her forthwith to me. ー However should the Compte D'argout agree to give up the Vessel, her Arms, Tackle, Furniture &c. to you, but Object to Giving up the Company of said Vessel to be tryed by the Laws against Pirates; You are in that case to accept the Vessel, her Arms, Tackle, Furniture &c, and Suffer the People to go on shore, bringing away the Vessel as directed in your other publick order of this date. ー During your Stay in St Pierres Bay you are to use your best Endeavours to get the best Intelligence you can, concerning the American Vessels, and the Trade now carried on by them, and report the same to me at your return, but you are to be careful to make these Enquiries with privacy and delicacy so as to give no publick offence to the French Government; for which this shall be your Order.²

Given under my Hand onboard
the Portland in English harbour

Antigua the 4th August 1776.