From George P. Wingrove to his former messmate Thomas Waters Sr. (May 8, 1810)

To Lieut. Waters R;M.. Commandant. Ireland. 

Swiftsure May 8th 1810 
Bermuda 

Dear Waters 

It is the particular wish of myself and the rest of your Messmates to see you as soon as it may be convenient to you to pay us a visit; indeed the sooner the better as there is little doubt that we shall be preparing to leave this Place shortly. 

I have calculated the Sum that will be due to you from the Mess, which you can receive or take the value of it, in wine or other things that we have in hand. I particularly request you will let me know the Amount of the Sum you have laid out for Fish, vegetables or Fresh Meat, which I will repay you. 

As I trust you will not fail to pay us a Visit shortly, I shall not now enter on further particulars relative to the Mess affairs, but reserve them untill I see you. 

We are all tolerably well, but have been greatly shocked by a very melancholy Event which happened on the 4th Int in the Afternoon – the Death of Capt. Conn – the circumstances attending it are truly distressing. He either fell or jumped out of the stern windows (the latter is to be feared) while the Ship was going seven or eight Knots, and before the Boat could reach him (though they were soon out) he disappeared. You may well imagine the sensation this sad Accident has caused. We all liked and respected him and were greatly annoyed at finding his mind so disordered, as of late it frequently appeared to be. I join with your other Messmates in best wishes, and believe me 

Yours truly 

 Geo. P. Wingrove 

Should you meet with our Sheep have them secured. The Junon’s men are all fitted with Jackets and Musquito Trousers. Let me know what things you want.