Manuscript letter book containing transcriptions of thirty-three orders, many of them from the Admiralty, received by Paterson relating to his command of HMS Gorgon between 1792 and 1793.

Stitched notebook, in original marbled wraps, containing 19 manuscript pages on ten leaves. Leaf dimensions 32.5 x 20.5 cm. On laid paper with Britannia watermark. Good, on aged paper, in worn and creased wraps. Text closely and neatly written, clear and complete. From the Tonyn and Paterson family papers, but not in Paterson's hand. Contains transcriptions, in Paterson's hand, of thirty-three orders, twenty-four of which are addressed to him personally, the other nine being general orders 'To the respective Captains Commanders & Commanding Officers of H.M. Ships & Vessels'. Signatories include John Ibbetson; Charles Small Pybus; Philip Stephens; John Dalrymple; J Smyth; Arden; Affleck; Townshend; Chatham; Hood. Also includes a full-page list of the 'Establishment of His Majestys Ship Gorgon'. Subjects range from 'the great Quantities of Powder consumed by the Ships of the Royal Navy in Paying and returning Salutes' to the discharge of members of the ship's crew. Includes 'Instructions' of 8 June 1793, in the name of King George III, regarding the seizure of ships. For Paterson's distinguished naval career see his entry in the Oxford DNB. On the commencement of British hostilities with revolutionary France he was appointed to the command of HM Store Ship the Gorgon and was sent to the Mediterranean under Hood.