L30/14/62d

"A copy of a letter from a Gentleman at Plymouth to his brother at Sidmouth"

22 Aug 1779

From: 1779 To: 1779

Enemy disappeared off Plymouth for two days, but expected back. Were visibly struggling to maintain their station against an easterly gale. Sir Chas. Hardy seen off the Lizard, but must himself submit to the gale. Report 60 transports left coast of France, sailing down the Channel. Certain 30 seen off Jersey. "2 district reconnoitres" of the Combined fleet confirm not more than 47 Sail of the Line. French may have no more than one three decker, but several Spanish ships though to be so, as such high poop decks. All ready to face attack: garrison reinforced with 200 sailors, 500 militia under Mr. Bastard, large subscription in the neighbourhood being raised to arm more, new works thrown up in various places and an old Hulk mounted with 18 32 pounders, Isis man-of-war placed in "Barnpoole". 200 or 300 reputable persons volunteered to guard the French prisoners at Exeter, where they are to be removed and held in the County Bridewell. Now reported the 'Ardent' has escaped.

item

Lucas,
Grantham, Thomas Robinson, 2nd Baron,
Hardy, Charles,
Hardy, Charles,
Bastard, M.

family correspondence, French, Spanish, naval ships, letters, gentleman, wind, sailor, militia, prisoners of war, Sidmouth, Plymouth, France, Spain, France, Jersey, Exeter