No. 32

1. I have the honor of transmitting herewith copy of a
correspondence with Her Majesty's Boundary Commissioners,
Captains Prevost and Richards on the subject of an increase of
pay, which they begged might be given to the ships companies of
the "Satellite" and "Plumper" under their command.

2. You will observe that they were alarmed about the desertion
of their men, fearing that in consequence of the want of hands,
it might be out of their power to maintain their ships in a
state of efficiency.

3. Their fears were not groundless as many men had at the date
of Captain Prevost's letter, deserted from the "Satellite" and
others were preparing to follow their example.

4. As the matter was urgent and there was no time for referring
the question to the Admiralty, as the ships might in a few days,
have been deserted by their crews, I authorized Captain Prevost
to announce without delay to the companies of Her Majesty's
Ships "Satellite" and "Plumper" 
that they would hereafter
receive an allowance from the Territorial Revenue equal to their
rate of pay from the Crown.

5. The men of those two ships are now therefore receiving
double their pay, and there are so many inducements for
desertion that it is possible they may not remain even on those
terms, but certainly not for the regular pay of the service.

6. Should that measure not meet with your approval, I will
discontinue the extra pay, at any time you may direct, and
continue it until I receive your instructions on the subject.