Folios 171-172: Thomas New, Regulating Officer, Swansea. He has received a report...

Folios 171-172: Thomas New, Regulating Officer, Swansea. He has received a report from Lieutenant Edward Shrapnell, Commander of the Cleveland tender, of the escape of 16 of the Seamen sent on board there from the Swansea Rendezvous, who had been raised by visiting several small ports on the coast. Captain New finds that the Lieutenant allowed the keys out of his possession overnight, and he feels that he should be disciplined for neglect. Also reports that the same Lieutenant, who has been in command of the Clevelend for about 3 weeks, is unfit to be incharge through age and infirmity. Requests his replacement.

Folios 173-174: enclosure with folios 171-172. Letter dated 6 November 1803 from Edward Shrapnell, Swansea, to The Admiralty. He wrote the following letter this morning. There are no men to be processed, so he proposes proceeding to sea and visiting neighbouring harbours to procure men. He will return to Swansea within one week and forward a copy of his voyage. Then proceeds to explain that he has received a verbal message from Lieutenant Bennett not to move the ship. As Captain New was in Cardiff, he felt at liberty to make decisions about where he should proceed but Captain New has returned to Swansea and instructed him to wait. Captain New has indicated that he will be replaced by Lieutenant Bennett. He requested a written order. Requests a full investigation. Postscript: Lieutenant Bennett has produced a written order signed by Captain New replacing him because of his conduct. Requests a Court Martial.

Folios 175-176: enclosure with folios 171-172. Letter dated 20 October 1803 from Edward Shrapnell, Cleveland tender, Swansea, to Captain New. Reports that his health, age and infirmity prevent him carrying out his duty. Requests he is replaced as Commander of teh Cleveland tender.

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Navy

Armed Forces (General Administration)