Folios 351- 353: Thomas Baker, HMS Cumberland, Chatham. Reports that the Charlotte...

Folios 351- 353: Thomas Baker, HMS Cumberland, Chatham. Reports that the Charlotte was lost sight of in the East India convoy at 6.30pm on 23 May moving leeward off the course of the fleet which was pointed out by signal. The Elizabeth also parted company at the same time as noted in HMS Cumberland's log book on 27 May. Similarly he had lost sight of the Commerce on 19 May. The log book was submitted on his arrival in England which shows it was necessary for HMS Cumberland to drop to the rear of the fleet to enforce his signals. Signals to that effect were also made to the Grampus. The Providence, which was mentioned illiberally in one of the enclosures, needed attention to her fore topmast from his Carpenter as she had no spare spar on board and he reprimanded the Master for being ill equipped to sail from the Cape. Ultimately, HMS Castle Huntley supplied the Providence with a topmast and the one made on HMS Cumberland was not needed. He attaches various enclosure confirming that HMS Cumberland paid close attention to the convoy under her charge. He notes Mr. Forbes's attack on his conduct in the House of Commons especially in relation to the ship he owns, and comments that the enclosed letters from Commanders of various Indiamen commend his conduct. Encloses the signal log, a set of signals and instructions for the ships under convoy, particularly for private ships which were not provided with regular telegraphs, and a list of the convoy and passengers.

Folios 353-354: enclosed with folios 351-353. Undated letter from 16 named Commanders of the East India Company ships in the convoy. Publicly acknowledge their strong view that Captain Thomas Baker took great care and attention of every individual ship in the fleet and towed the Charlotte, which was a heavy sailor, and on many occasions lost much time to give her an opportunity of keeping up.

Folios 355-356: enclosed with folios 351-353. Letter dated 15 July 1815 by G Weltden, Kensington, Commander of the Indus to Captain Thomas Baker. In response to Captain Birch's, the Cabalva, suggestion to write, following a communication from Admiral [Ferrier?], he believes Captain Baker should be exonerated from any imputation and libel against his character. Advises as an eye witness of his incessant efforts to assist the ship which was not manned or equipped for such a voyage including towing the vessel and providing a helmsman. The Commanders of the private ships and their insurers should be indebted to him for his actions and his conduct was beyond reproach. Had he not been plagued by the impress service in the Downs, he had intended paying his respects to him at Deal.

Folio 357: enclosed with folios 351-353. Letter dated 12 July 1815 by John Birch, the Cabalva to Captain Thomas Baker. Confirms the great care and attention paid by Captain Baker to the East India fleet and in particular the Charlotte which was a heavy sailor and he towed beyond the line. Advises his surprise and hurt at the comments made in the House of Commons about the conduct of the convoy of the fleet, which must have arisen from some misconception. He is sure his brother Commanders will contradict these comments and will also acknowledge the great care and attention shown by Captain Baker to every individual ship.

Folios 358-366: enclosed with folios 351-353. Signals and Instructions provided to the East India fleet with additional hand written instructions.

Folio 366: enclosed with folios 351-353. List of passengers on the individual vessels part of the East India convoy.