Sir

I have communicated to my Lords Commissrs of the Admty your Letter of Yesterdays date, informing them of the Lexington Privatier having brought into the Downes which had been taken on the 19th Instant, by His Majesty's Cutter the Alert, commanded by Lieut [John] Beazley, about 30 Leagues to the Westward of Ushant, after a gallant & well disputed Action of several Hours; And I am commanded by their Lordships to signify their directions to you, to use your endeavours to find out & let me know the number of French Men who are on board the said Privatier. I am &c.