The authenticity of the order has been
acknowledgd [sic] by a copy of it being sent to your
husband, the Reason given by the Cheif [sic] of the Etat
Major for delaying its execution is the want
of a Proper opportunity, that is such a one as they
may think a proper one. The French Frigate
La Semillante was when he wrote fitting for a
voyage to France & her departure cannot I think
better wish a proper opportunity of sending him
home as she will land him in France & by so
doing get him as much as possible out of the
condition of managing an attack upon the Island
I trust therefore that he is before this time
on his paƒsage home in this French Frigate &
I most sincerely hope that she since, be Capturd [sic]
& soon brought in to a British Port
        I have Solicited Lord Mulgrave as
I have done other First Lords in the hope of
Obtaining post for him during his absence
but have always met with the same excuse that
no instance occurs of giving an officer Preferment