This book contains a fair copy of a report commissioned by Charles Middleton, Comptroller of the Navy, in 1785 following inspections by the Navy Board of the dockyards at Chatham, Portsmouth and Deptford. In addition to inspecting the ships under repair or construction, the board also made observations of the buildings at each yard, noting deficiencies and improvements that could be effected.
This book is accompanied by a letter, probably by Middleton to George III, presenting it to the king for his perusal.