Letters and Orders', being copy of a letter received by Joseph Short from William Bligh, 28 March 1806 (Series 40.048) - No. 0001

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Lady Sinclair at Sea
28th March 1806

Sir

     I have received your Letter of this date, stating that the Alexander and Elizabeth, unless the Porpoise goes into Rio Janeiro [Rio de Janeiro], must on account of a want of Refreshments and Water part company for that place in a few days, and requesting my opinion as to parting company with these Ships;  and with the Sinclair making according to your order from the Admiralty the best of your way to the Cape of Good Hope;  or whether for our mutual protection it would not be better to proceed with the Convoy to Rio Janeiro, in reply to which I can have no opinion on the subject, for my Lord Commissioners of the Admiralty's orders being to proceed to the Cape of Good Hope as expeditiously as possible, it is our Duty to do so;  and therefore we must not touch at Rio Janeiro.

I am
Sir
Your most obedient
humble Servant

Wm Bligh

On His Majesty's Service

To
Joseph Short Esqr.
Commr. [Commander] of His Majesty's Ship Porpoise