6 Annae, C.65: An Act for the better securing the Trade of this Kingdom by Cruisers and Convoys

I. Whereas it is necessary for the better securing the Trade of this kingdom that a sufficient number of ships to cruise be appointed in proper stations to protect the merchants’ ships, outward bound and in their return home, Be it enacted by the Queen's most Excellent Majesty by and with the advice and consent of the Lords Spiritual and Temporal and Commons in this present Parliament assembled and by the authority of the same that, over and above the ships of war for the line of battle and for convoys to remote parts, at least 43 ships of war be employed as cruisers in proper stations—viz. 6 ships of the third rate and 20 ships of the fourth rate and 13 ships of the fifth rate and 4 ships of the sixth rate—from time to time, as shall be directed and appointed by the Lord High Admiral of Great Britain or Commissioners for executing the said Office for the time being, as he or they shall deem meet for securing of the merchants’ ships in their going out and returning home.

And that 12 of the ships of war, part of the 43 ships hereby appointed to cruise in several stations to guard the coast and trade of this kingdom, shall be appointed to cruise, that is to say 9 ships on the north-east coast of Great Britain and 3 ships on the northwest coast of Great Britain, in such stations as shall be directed by the Lord High Admiral….