Folios 251-252: John William Spranger, HMS Rattlesnake, Studland Bay. Reports that...

Folios 251-252: John William Spranger, HMS Rattlesnake, Studland Bay. Reports that following orders from Sir Peter Parker, Commander in Chief at Spithead and Portsmouth Harbour, he proceeded with HMS Mutine to the Bar of Poole on Thursday 15 January. He was unable to procure a Pilot due to bad weather and gales, and being insufficiently manned to stay at sea, he judged it best to bear for Portland Roads. HMS Mustine was able to proceed to Poole. When he arrived at the Roads, he sheltered until 20 January, and then anchored in Studland Bay awaiting a favourable wind to get into the harbour. He remains there ready for the first favourable opportunity, and in the meantime will procure men from the Homeward bound trade expected shortly at Poole. He has given such directions to Lieutenant West of HMS Mutine, after consulting Captain Yeo, the Regulating Officer.

PS: reports that this morning (January 23) he got into Poole harbour and is preparing to take steps to fulfill his orders. Also sends his weekly returns and those of HMS Mutine [neither present].