By &c
Whereas you were directed by our Order o{ the 20th February last to take under your command the Kings Ships & Vessels intended to be employed this Year for the protection of the Fisheries at & about Newfoundland & of the Fishing Ships & Vessels belonging to His Majestys Subjects to & from that Island; You are hereby required & directed to put to Sea the very first opportunity of Wind & Weather & make the best of your way to the said Island; and use your best endeavours to protect the said Fisheries & Fishing Ships conformable to the Instructions you received from Us last Year. Given &c 8th April 1777
To John Montagu Esqr Vice Adml of the White &c &cat & about Newfoundland &c By &c PS
Sandwich C Spencer Lisburne
1. PRO, Admiralty 2/102, 401. Montagu sailed from St. Helens on April 10, in H.M.S. Romney, London Chronicle, April 15 to April 17, 1777.
