After the circular Letter which you must have received from me, Sir, by which I made known to you the intentions of the King on the Subject of American Ships (Privateers or prizes Only), I have had reason to be shocked that there still remains uncertainty about the conduct to be taken in regard to them. Read over that Letter carefully and follow punc­tually the orders of his Majesty, which I am reiterating to you today in the most precise manner. I also require you to inform me exactly of the fitting-out of various vessels which might be done in your Port or in those which lie within your department, with direct or pretended destination for North America, in order that from the report that you send me, I can have passed on to you orders which the circumstances will require. Above all keep a close watch on our sailors who must be employed only in Commerce and in the service of His Majesty. I am, Sir [&c.]