Folios 221-224: Keith Maxwell, HMS Nymphen, Little Nore. Responds to a letter enclosing...

Folios 221-224: Keith Maxwell, HMS Nymphen, Little Nore. Responds to a letter enclosing a copy of a letter from Mr. Mason, Purser asking for a dispensing order from the time he joined HMS Nymphen in consequence of his suspension, and a request for details of his suspension and the provisioning of the ship. Advises that an inquiry was held the day before by 3 Senior Captains present on these matters resulting from a letter addressed to the Victualling Board by Mr. Mason when at Shetland and which has been examined by the Admiralty. Advises his reasons for suspending Mr. Mason and advises his reason for not surveying the provisions on Mr. Mason's refusal to perform the requisites of his office. Advises that he directed his Clerk and the Purser's Steward to procure necessaries at Shetland and nothing has been lost from the stores since the Purser was confined. Suggests that in response to Mr. Mason's accusations about his conduct the 3 Officers will render their opinion from yesterday's inquiry to the Admiralty. Advises that he gave Mr. Mason and every other Officer involved notice that whatever they might wish to tell the Commander in Chief or the Admiralty he would instantly forward this, as is customary, which Mr. Mason ignored. Advises that Mr. Mason has subsequently sent him a note, which is enclosed, acknowledging that his sending a letter was improper but since arrival at the Nore Mr. Mason has refused his order to assist in procuring necessaries and provisions.