[Extract]
. . .I last night read the dispatches from V. Admiral Montagu containing the Account of the Fox being taken by two American Rebel Vessels, and giving but too much reason to expect that mischief will be done to fishery; but I trust if Lord Howe has sent the two frigates applied for by the Governour, that the gang of Pyrates will soon be driven off. I am engaged in an unpleasant though necessary business; which must naturally occasion many disagreable events, but I hope I have strength enough to meet them. . . .
Kew July 22d 1777. m/22 pt 4. P.M.
1. Fortescue, ed., Correspondence of George III, III, 460-61.
