It was found
that the combined available mill-power of Deptford, Portsmouth, and
Plymouth could turn out no more than two hundred and fifty quarters
a-day.[170] However, it was put in requisition as soon as possible. In
addition, Indian corn was ground at the King's mills, Rotherhithe, and
by some private mills engaged for the purpose. There were one thousand
tons of barley ground in Essex, and some even in the Channel Islands.
The mill-power at Deptford was, meantime, increased by an additional
engine. If anyone be curious enough to enquire, how the numberless sacks
necessary to carry all this meal and corn to Ireland were supplied, the
answer is--the Ordnance Department undertook that service, and supplied
as many sacks as were required, at 1s. 7-3/4d. each.
The Treasury also put themselves in communication with the authorities
in Malta, relative to its mill-power, and the facilities that might
exist there for purchasing grain in quantity. The Comptroller of the
Victualling Department informed them, that he had twenty pair of stones
worked by mules, and twelve pair by steam, and that many private mills
could be engaged for hire. All the mills, however, which were worked by
mules were required for the fleet, and could not be employed for any
other purpose.
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