From the aforegoing Facts it appears the several Orders give to Vice Adml Graves were for the carrying into execution the Laws which had pass'd and they are governed in point of time accordingly.
That the object to be attended to at the beginning of the Year 1775, was the execution of the Boston Port and other Bills passed at that time: and that he had under his Command 24 Ships of different Classes bearing 3,545 Men.
That when the Laws passed to restrain the Trade of the Colonies & additional Force became necessary, the same was Ordered to be augmented to 36 Ships, bearing 4,565 Men.
That as soon as it was thought expedient to seize the Ships of the four New England Governments measures were taken for a further Augmentation of the Squadron ー thereby making it to consist of 52 Ships & 7,265 Men.
That when the Orders to seize Ships were made general to all the Colonies, for the more effectual performance of that Service, and such as may arise in consequence of the other operations to be carried on in America, the Force including the Ships already there, those on their passage & those that may Sail in a short time, will be 79 Ships and 14,010 Men. There are preparing & will be put into Commission as fast as they can be got ready, in addition to the force aforementioned 17 Ships, whose Compliments will amount to 2,470 Men, so that when these Ships shall be arrived, the whole of the Squadron will then amount to 96 Sail and 16,480 Men.