In 1792 this grant touched its minimum for many years.

In 1793 the proceedings of the French had set Europe on fire, and the English were raging with anti-Gallican excitement, fomented into action by every expedient of the Crown and its Ministers.

We had our ships; but where were our men?
The Admiralty had, however, a ready remedy at hand, with ample precedent for its use, and with common (if not statute) law to sanction its application.

They issued 'press warrants,' calling upon the civil power throughout the country to support their officers in the discharge of their duty.

The sea-coast was divided into districts, under the charge of a captain in the navy, who again delegated sub-districts to lieutenants; and in this manner all homeward-bound vessels were watched and waited for, all ports were under supervision; and in a day, if need were, a large number of men could be added to the forces of his Majesty's navy.
But if the Admiralty became urgent in their demands, they were also willing to be unscrupulous.