My Lord

… Prince Potemkin had immediately dispatched orders to the Crimea, that everything that can swim, may be immediately armed, and put to sea. All his efforts can however make but a very inconsiderable force, not exceeding fifteen ships of the line badly manned and badly commanded…

The squadron in Reval has been ready for some time, and it is already lying on the bay ready to come down to Cronstadt, as soon as the sea shall be cleaned from the Gulph….

I beg leave once more to remind Your Grace of the Port of Archangel, where there is a considerable number of large ships lying ready, but without hands to work or defend them. This service might be performed by a very small detachment. …..

I have the honour to be

With the greatest respect

My Lord

Your Graces

Most obedient and

Most humble Servant

Charles Whitworth

His Grace the Duke of Leeds etc etc etc