By &c

Whereas we have ordered Sir Thomas Pye Admiral of the Blue to repair to Portsmouth to relieve you in the Command of His Majestys Ships & Vessels at that Port and Spithead: You are hereby required and directed when he arrives to strike your Flag and come on Shore leaving with him Attested Copies of all standing and unexecuted Orders which may be m your hands relative to the said Command. Given &c 13th May 1777

To Sir James Douglas
Vice Adml of the Red &c
Portsmouth
By &c P S