An arrangement has been made. I trust that my arrangements in this respect may meet with approval by Her Majesty's Government.
The necessity of constantly visiting the surrounding waters, and keeping the passage ground clear, has compelled me to charter, for a period of one month or longer, the small Merchant Steamer "Eaglet," at an expense of $4000 Four Thousand Dollars a month, which I hope will be sanctioned by you.
The Eaglet will also be serviceable in inspecting the neighbouring bays, and creeks, and reporting any collection of tar craft, such as snake-boats, Junks, or other craft for purposes of hostility or annoyance to the shipping.
On the arrival of the expected Gun boats from England, in six weeks' or two months' time, we may dispense with her further services.
I have already reported the aid received from the French and American Naval Commanders in Chief in my Despatches Nos 1 and 3 of...