Appendix I
Madam,
You'll excuse the liberty I take in addressing you, More especialy as ‘Tis in Favour of your Son P: G: King Whom I have the Satisfaction of Assuring you Is One of the most Promising Young Men I have ever met with during my 23 Yrs Service in His Majs Navay — & while He continues to act consistant with the Character He has Hitherto Mentarned you May be Assured my best Services will never be wanting to Wards his Promotion in His Majs Services I am
Madam with Respect
Your Most Obt Hble Sert
[Signed] Gideon Johnstone
His Majts Ship Prudent
Plymouth Sound 7th of
May 1775 —
Mrs King
PLATE P Certificate of King's naval competency issued by direction of the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty; lodged 4th April 1777. (King's Papers, vol. 8, Mitchell Library)