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Whereas I have receiv'd Intelligence that there are several Arm'd American Privateers Cruizing in the Windward Passage particularly about the Caicos's where they are Supplied with great quantities of Gun Powder & Ammunition by Vessels under French Colours.

You are therefore hereby requir'd & directed to proceed with his Majestys Ship under your Command together with his Majestys Schooner Porcupine (whose Commander is directed to follow your orders) into the Windward Passage & Cruize to intercept those Vessels, which if you find Impracticable you are in that case to Cruize where you may think most likely to intercept them; avoiding as much as possible coming within Sight of the Island of Hispaniola, useing every means in your Power to Distress the Rebellious North Americans

If during your Cruize you should be in want of Water, and cannot compleat without puting into the Island of Hispaniola you are to make the best of your way for Jamaica

You are to return and Join me in this Harbour by the Middle of October, or sooner if any unforseen Accident should require it such as springing a Mast &c &c, or by gaining any Intelligence which you may judge Necessary for my immediate Knowledge, or should you Seize a Number of Vessels, & think proper to come into Port to take onboard your own People again, in either of those Cases; you are to return with the utmost expedition for which this shall be your order.

Given under my Hand onboard His Majs Ship
Antelope in Port Royal Harbour Jamaica
this 25th August 1776