I had anticipated, Sir the observations that you brought to my attention conceming the need to send a few of the King's Ships to cruise off St. Dominique. As soon as he received news of the offensive actions committed by the English frigates in the waters of this Colony, the King had ordered that two frigates and one corvette be stationed there in order to enforce the authority of the French flag. The frigate La Tourterelle under the command of M. de Beaussier and the corvette L'Etourdie under the command of M. Le Begue now stationed at St. Domingo are destined for this mission. These Officers have been directed to give you a copy of their Orders in which the King's Instructions are explained in detail. You will please to see that they be properly executed. H.M. recommends that you do not change anything in the arrangements that he made unless extraordinary circumstances which he could not foresee compelled you to do so.

You will send me in double envelope, the first one marked For You Only, your reports with respect to the orders of Messrs. Beaussier and Le Begue and the Officer who will be in command of the frigate which is to be sent to you. I have the honor to be with sincere attachment, Sir [&c.]