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twelve of dry provisions prepared; and also requesting, that we might be allowed the various antiscorbutics usually given to ships upon similar service. In reply to this letter, and a subsequent one of the 30th, they say, "that not having received any orders with regard to the victualling of the said ship, we have this day written to the commissioners of the navy for information". In the mean time, they ordered water casks for our ground tier to be sent down; but which have not yet arrived.
From the above causes jointly, but principally from the last, we are now at a stand.
The only material thing that is done, is the having received 35 chaldrons of coals by an order from the Navy Board.
I have specified the sails we shall want, and they are now preparing for us.
I am well aware, that the present pressure of public business, will probably throw the Investigator into the background for a time; nor do I mention these circumstances as cause of complaint, but to prevent you, Sir Joseph, from receiving the impression, that the slowness of our proceedings is owing to my neglect.
I am anxious to come up to town to provide myself with various necessaries for the voyage; and to confer with you about the instruments, stationary, articles of barter &c before the complete lists are made out; but until I see matters just into a fair training, and the necessary officers on