Folios 291-293: William Bowen, Blackheath. Writes concerning four seamen who formerly...

Folios 291-293: William Bowen, Blackheath. Writes concerning four seamen who formerly were part of the crew of HMS Caroline, under his command: William Martin, Edward Bailey, Robert Forster, and William Sheffield. They had been turned over to the Alarm at Woolwich, having deserted from the Alarm in the belief (they claim) that she was bound for the West Indies, and as most of them had been absent from their wives and families for over ten years they told him they had not intended to desert for good, but only to see their families before sailing. However, by the time they returned to the Alarm she had sailed, so they delivered themselves up immediately to him, asking if he would intercede with their Lordships on their behalf. Says he hopes a favourable view would be taken, as he had found these men to be among the best-behaved when they were with him in the Caroline, and most attentive to their duty. The loss of their wages would be severe on the families, and he hopes the R may be taken from their names so that they may recover their pay.