Sir

Yours of the 28th past we have receiv'd with the several Papers inclos'd therein respecting Capt [Robert] Tompkins on which we have only to inform you that we think Capt Tompkins gave just cause for his arrest, and that you ought to proceed immediately to his trial by a Court Martial agreeable to the rules of the Navy.  we have lately heard that the Troops expected at Portsmouth on their way to the Northward are countermanded.  you are therefore to ta!,e on Board all your Seamen and Marines and repair to your station at Hampton and to order all the other Vessels now at Portsmouth belonging to the Navy immediately round to York unless you shou'd be inform'd from undoubted authority that the Troops are on their way and will be at Portsmouth within a few Days. When the Vessels arrive at York the Captains are to apply to the Board for further orders.   By order of the Naval Board [&c.]

To Capt George Muter Portsmouth²