Sir

Lord George Germain having in his Letter of the 17th Instant signified the Kings Pleasure, that the Transports which are now in North America, or may be hereafter sent thither, be put under the direction of the Commander in Chief of His Majesty's Ships of War, With Authority either to return or discharge them, as he shall think fit; I am commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to acquaint you therewith for your information and government; And that the Commissioners of the Navy have Orders to direct their several Agents to follow your directions accordingly. But in the Orders you may give respecting the said Transports, it is their Lordships directions that you do take Care to detain such a Number as shall, under all Events, be necessary for the removal of His Majesty's Troops

Chatham Dochynnl.

from place to Place as the Commander in Chief of those Troops shall think necessary and proper. I am, &c. Geo. Jackson DS By the Greyhound at Spithead Duplicate sent 29 March To Mr [John] Pownall