Whereas we think fit that you sha~l serve u~der the command of Vi.ce Admiral Lord Howe, who is appointed Commander in Chief of His Majesty's Ships and Vessels employed and to be employed in North America, and that you shall proceed thither, in His Majesty's Ship the Preston whose Captain is directed to follow your Orders and to enter you, together with your Secretary Retinue and Servants on her Books from the date hereof; You are hereby required and directed, to repair forthwith to Portsmouth, and, upon the Preston's arrival at Spithead (where she may be daily expected) to repair on board her, and to remain with her at that place until you receive further Order; holding yourself in constant readiness for sailing when you shall receive directions for that purpose; And as soon as you shall put to Sea and get out of the British Channel, you are to hoist a Broad Pendant on board the said Ship, and to wear the same until 'til further Order. ー Given &c. the 2d April 1776 Sandwich To Capt William Hotham in Town ー By &c. Geo.Jackson D.S.