Commissioner Sir Richard Beach, Chatham. Proposals for altering the method ordered...

Commissioner Sir Richard Beach, Chatham. Proposals for altering the method ordered for the Guardboats. The Ordinary cannot provide 10 boat crews of 11 men because it is decreasing daily with the departure of ships, 30 men from the allowance are missing and the Officers' servants are not suitable. He proposes that 21 men should be entered for scouting at night to provide 3 crews of 6 rowers and a steerer per boat. He proposes 2 6-oared boats for scouting which should be sufficient if good watch is kept on board the Guardships and small arms are available. These 21 men not to do other work apart from urgent requirements and their wages will be less than if use was made of Shipwrights, Caulkers and Ropemakers for this duty who then neglect their duty the following day. He makes alternative proposals if this is not acceptable.