Folios 132-133: William Ferris, HMS Diana, Hamoaze. The Admiralty had ordered an...

Folios 132-133: William Ferris, HMS Diana, Hamoaze. The Admiralty had ordered an enquiry into the cause of HMS Diana's being short of fuel and putting into port to obtain a supply. He reports that on arriving at Cawsand Bay on 25 February 1812 the foremast was damaged by lightning and was replaced meaning that he resumed his station off Brest in haste. An order from Sir John Gore, enclosed, compelled him to put to sea with HMS Armide after hurriedly taking on 3 months provisions and water. The purser enquired about the need for fuel but was told that obtaining it would delay the ship's sailing. He communicated the problem to HMS Armide and obtained just 2 days supply. Further details of the matter are provided.

Folio 134: enclosed with folios 132-133. Orders dated 26 February 1812 by Sir John Gore, HMS Tonnant. Directs Ferris to put himself under the orders of Captain Richard Dalling Dunn of HMS Armide.

Folio 135-136: enclosed with folios 132-133. Letter dated 30 March 1812 by William Ferris, HMS Diana. Writes to Sir Richard King, Commander and Senior Officer off Brest reporting that he has only 2 days fuel on board and must put into port to obtain a supply. Also reports that Brest harbour was reconnoitred by HMS Armide on 25 March 1812 and that the enemy was as before but with the addition of 3 brigs. He reports a further spell of very bad weather.