Royal Navy interest, British Occupation of Manila. Brereton, William, (fl.1765-1767) Captain, Royal Navy and military governor of Manila, 1762-1764. Autograph letter signed, two pages, folio, Manila, Philippines, 18th March 1764, to an unidentified correspondent. An interesting letter written two months prior to the handover of the city to Spain, which gives an insight into Brereton's internal struggles and sincere unhappiness in his post.

'I have not heart to touch upon the subject of our affairs here, for, if I did, poor Pugham would not sail this week. I must refer you to him for news and he will tell you what a sacrifice I have made of my self, to support Admiral Cornish's honour!
I am a most unfortunate fellow, that's certain, when I had indulged myself with the prospect to quit all my troubles of this place, and throw myself into the bosom of friends in Europe, I now find myself embarrassed in new difficulties, for, I am now under the necessity of going to China to repair, perhaps, the most rotten ship you ever saw. I hope in God it does not seem far down, for if it does, she will not be worth bringing from thence. I hope you will write to me from by the China ships, but, not by the late ones, as I hope to come here in No'r for the troops.
May you have more pleasure in your command than I have! or you had better be without it, and, I make no doubt you will fight by battles at Madras(?) as I have done you friends here.
Adieu my good friend, believe me your very sincere and affectionate humble servant.
(signed) William Brereton"

William Brereton received his lieutenant's commission on 4th July 1755 and was promoted to captain on 25th March 1762. Before this promotion, William Draper, an army officer serving in the East Indies, identified weakened Spanish defences in the Philippines. As war with Spain became inevitable, Draper proposed an expedition to Manila. With the support of Lord Anson, First Lord of the Admiralty, he was given command of the Army contingent. Rear-Admiral Cornish commanded the naval squadron, including HMS Falmouth, under Captain Brereton's command. Despite limited resources and reluctant backing from the East India Company, the expedition breached Manila's defences by 5th October, leading to the city's capture. Brereton assumed command of a Naval detachment in Manila, often conflicting with Dawsonne Drake, the East India Company employee appointed Governor of Manila. Brereton struggled in his role because of these conflicts and incidents, such as the loss of his assistant and clerk, who were killed by 'Indians'.