L30/14/62c

(Main letter dated 22 August 1779) Letter (addressed "Dear Sir") presumably copy of one sent by Caldwell Consternation along whole coast when 15th inst. about 9 a.m. combined French and Spanish fleets seen off Plymouth. Drawn up in two divisions not far apart. Nearer clearly 20 sail, other 30 or more, estimate 56 in total, plus frigates, tenders, bombs and five ships. No transports, but writer states they intended first to engage Sir Chas. Hardy in a station where, if victorious, they could prevent British ships from taking refuge in Plymouth. They they would send across the Channel to where they had a large army and artillery train, with transports ready, and try to capture Plymouth. They could then destroy the dock "one of the finest in Europe" where there are six men-of-war in the stocks and two in repair, one of 90 and one of 72 guns, also the valuable magazine and naval stores. Town put itself in posture of defense, messages sent in haste to London and Portsmouth. Surprise that this immense fleet could approach undetected. Reports loss of Ardent (60 guns) on its way to join Sir Chas. Hardy, why its Capt. did not heed warning of the enemy's position is not known. Appearance of English fleet expected, but did not occur. After three days the wind blew hard E.S.E. and the enemy sailed away, but evidently they are looking for a fight. Fleet of 60 victuallers en route to Quebec and New York subsequently entered Plymouth safely. Went with Mr. Henecker (a friend) to visit his "cousin German", the Duke of Chandos. Addition: "Friday Morn 20 Aug." Enemy fleet back in sight of Plymouth after a days disappearance (probably just below the horizon). Unconfirmed report Sir Chas. Hardy intercepted transports bound for Ireland, escorted by three men-of-war, two of which captured and several transports destroyed. Possibly fleet off Plymouth intended as a diversion, but sceptical of the report.

Aug 1779

From: 1779 To: 1779

item

Lucas,
Grantham, Thomas Robinson, 2nd Baron,
Caldwell, James,
Hardy, Charles,
Heneker,
Chandos, James Bridges, 3rd Duke

family correspondence, French, Spanish, naval ships, French Army, guns, captain, Germans, Sidmouth, Plymouth, France, Spain, London, Portsmouth, Ireland, Quebec, New York City