"
One set of the petitioners apprehend, "that most of the captures might
have been prevented, had a few ships been properly stationed on this
side cape Finisterre, and the commanders kept to the strictest duty."
Other petitioners "are not a little alarmed, not only at the increase
and number of the Spanish privateers lately equipped, but at the
unexpected great strength the enemy have lately shown in the
Mediterranean, by which their trade must become more precarious than
ever."
The last petition delivered in was from the mayor, aldermen, and commons
of the city of London, setting forth, "that they had seen a powerful and
well-provided fleet remain inactive in our own ports, or more
ingloriously putting to sea, without the appearance of any enterprise in
view; while our trading vessels were daily exposed to the privateers of
an inconsiderable port, and a feeble enemy holds our naval power in
derision, to the ruin of trade, the enriching the enemy, and the
disgrace of the British name."
Their general request is, "that they may have regular convoys, and that
the commanders be ordered not to desert their charge when in danger,
that cruisers be properly stationed, subject to such inspection as shall
best answer the end designed.
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