| Collection | Correspondence of William IV |
| Description | In resigning the British and Russian ships and vessels to Vice Admiral Foley [Thomas] at the successful conclusion of the mission to bring back the King of France to his throne, the Duke expresses his admiration for the 'diligence, activity, zeal and correctness' of the men (officers, seamen, captains, commanders) who served on those ships and vessels. He also stresses the fact the 'every good Englishman must and ought to rejoice to see the British and Russian Fleets serving together'. The Duke also thanks the Hon. [Henry] Blackwood, Captain of the Fleet.
Before concluding he specifies that the ships and vessels resigned should not haul down the Duke's flag.
In addition, because on that day they celebrate the birthday of Princess Mary, the Duke commands that 20 guns will be fired from the whole fleet. |