Navy                       Paris 7 January 1811

Gentlemen
I have received the letter that you did the honour of writing to me 1 September last, by which is announced the arrival in England from the Isle de France of the navigator Flinders, and in which you seek information on the return of his ship under the conditions of exchange.
His Excellency has instructed me to inform you that he has sought the opinion of the Captain General of the Isle de France on the details of your appeal, and that when he has received a response, you will be informed of the result.
Please be assured, Gentlemen, of the highest consideration in this.

Riviere