Sir

My Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty having been pleased to direct that his Majesty's Squadron serving in America shall be supplied with fresh Meat at all Opportunities, I have directed the Agent to the Contractor to purchase Cattle Sheep and Hay, wherever they can be had. In consequence whereof he sends to Halifax the Brig William, James McEwen, Master, and I shall be greatly obliged to your Excellency to allow what Cattle Sheep and Hay can be purchased, to be shipped on board the said Brig for the use of his Majs Squadron at Boston. I send also two Transports one to bring Essence of Spruce and Wood, the other Stores for the Squadron, and I have desired that what Hay can be procured may be put into the Transports. It may be necessary to repeat to your Excellency that I shall constantly observe this Method of Application for what shall be wanted for the Kings Ships, and that all other applications in the name of the Squadron must be for private purposes. I am &c