By &c.

You are hereby required & directed to put to Sea with the first opportunity of Wind and Weather & proceed &cruize between Cape Clear & Ushant for the Protection of the Trade of His Majesty's Subjects, & diligently to look out for, & to use your best endeavours to take or destroy any Privatiers or other Ships or Vessels belonging to the Rebellious Colonies of North America which may be found in those parts.

You are to continue upon the said Station for three Weeks after passing Scilly, & then return to Plymouth sound and remain there until you receive further Order; Given &c. the 26th April 1777.

Captn Brooks ー Belle Isle ー Plymo
By &c. PS.
By Express a:t 6. P M