ew days after the action we were alarmed by the appearance of
an epidemic fever on board; but, by sending the men infected on
board the hospital ship, and using timely precaution, I am happy
to say it has entirely subsided, but it gave me a great degree
of concern: added to this, we have had the small-pox on board;
but it has been of so favourable a kind, that the men who have
had it are all doing well, two excepted, who died on board the
hospital ship. Several are now under inoculation, and I hope
will recover.

We have lost eight men in consequence of the action: all the
wounded, except two, are nearly well; their wounds, I am happy
to find, were slight.

It will have surprised you to find me differ in my statement of
the action from the Admiral, when I mention having begun the
action. The fact was, the Irresistible fired two, or, I believe,
three bow-guns, but I never could consider that entitling her to
being the first in action; _but of this hereafter_.

Now is a good opportunity for you and my sister to come and
spend a few days at Portsmouth, if you can spare time to
undertake the journey. Come down immediately, and take a sail in
the ship into Portsmouth Harbour. I was in great hope to be in
time to see Lady S. this evening, but I fear it is impossible;
it is near eight o'clock, and we are no nearer than St. Helen's
Road, with little wind. I have heard from none of my friends
during the cruise, so that I know not what became of you after
your peregrination to St. Helens.

The prizes left the fleet ten days ago, and must be expected the
first westerly winds. You will be glad to hear that Mr. Otter is
promoted.

Yours affectionately,
JAS. SAUMAREZ.

P.S. Portsmouth, 15th July 1795. I have only time to acquaint
you with my being just landed. Let me hear from you. Adieu!

We here give a diagram of this action at the time it began. When the
Irresistible fired her bow-guns, she was in _chase_, astern and not up
alongside of the enemy; but the Orion reserved all her fire until
actually alongside; she was certainly the first that could bring all
her broadside to bear on one of the enemy's ships, and therefore
justly claims the honour of having commenced the battle. But Sir James
took no steps to correct the statement, and was, as usual, content
with being included in the mass of those who distinguished themselves
o