Transcript

(Page 1) H.M. Armed Vessel Porpoise Jan. 2, 1799

Sir, I have again taken the liberty of writing and with the utmost concern informing you of the bad effect of the late severe Frost on the tender Plants in the Garden, though I had taken every means in my Power to preserve them from it but all I did could not prevent its taking effect and killing the Averhoa, the Brucea, the Pimento, the ginger, the aloe, the Cactus, the Lemon Grass, the Camphor, and Arduina, the Carobs both look well one of the olives is a little hurt the other seems in a good state, the Hardy things cannot I think have received any hurt from it without it is the Herbs particularly the Camomile— when we arrive at Portsmouth I will Sir send you a further account of what is Dead and what is living at present

(Page 2) we are waiting for a wind to carry us to the North when we shall arrive at Portsmouth is I believe quite uncertain.— I hope Sir you enjoy a good state of Health.

Sheerness Harbour Jan 2, 99

Sir, I am with the utmost Respect your Obedient Servant (Signed) G. Suttor