[Admiralty Office] 19th Febry 1776
[Extract]
I have laid before their Lordships the State & Condition, also the Disposition of the Squadron; and in consequence of the necessity which you have represented of reinforcing the same, their Lordships have ordered the Seaford to proceed to join you, and have directed her Captain to follow your Orders for his further proceedings; And you will likewise receive their directions to purchase two Vessels vizt Brigs, Sloops or Schooners, to be commanded by Lieutenants and employed as a further Addition to your Squadron, not doubting but you will thereby be enabled to perform the Services expected from you.
In regard to the bad Condition of the Lynx, their Lordshjps approve of your ordering her to return to England as soon as the season shall be favourable for her Passage,
Having communicated the request of Mr Hay the Marine Officer of the Pomona to serve as a Voluntier in America, their Lordships Command me to acquaint you that although they approve the Zeal he has shewn they cannot accept his Offer as it would be inconvenient to the Service to send another Officer to supply his Place in the Pomona.
I am also to acquaint you that as the Lynx is ordered home their Lordships have been pleased to grant Mr Hammond purser of that Sloop leav~ to remain in England til her return. I am &c
Geo Jackson D S. By the Seaford Duplicate by the Shark.