February 1777 Sunday 23d
Start NE 6 Leagues At 7 AM Peverall Point NWbN 2 Leags at 8 Do saw the Needle point EbN 3 or 4 Leags Sett studding Sails & kept running betwn the Needles. At 11 Do we pass'd by His Majesty's Ship Eolus & Sloop Elf in Yarmouth Road who saluted us with 13 Guns we return'd 11, At Noon abreast of Cowes, Fresh Gales & Squally At 1 PM Saluted Vice Admiral Douglas with 13 Guns, who return'd an equal Number, 2 At ½ past came too at Spithead in 13 fathom, Veer'd away to ½ of a Cable. Hoisted the Cutter out & sent the Passengers on shore.
1. PRO, Admiralty 51/137.
2. Vice Admiral Shuldham was returning from New York on board Bristol.
