od accounts.

"Friday morning.--The frigate proved to be the Terpsichore, from the
Admiral, whom she left ten days ago going to Naples. The Terpsichore
was going off Malta for intelligence, and to look out for the
Colossus, with the victuallers. As I could satisfy the Admiral on both
those points, I despatched her immediately for Naples. We have now a
fine Siroc wind, attended with all its usual close dampness; but, as
it wafts us down the Mediterranean, we readily put up with its
disagreeable attendants, without the risk of hanging ourselves. I
intend to part with the Minotaur and Audacious to-day, agreeably to my
orders. Fortunately, I exchanged their men from the prizes two days
ago, as it would have been attended with danger to do it in the
present weather. We have taken our final leave of Sicily this morning.

"Sunday, 30th Sept. The weather has proved very unfavourable the last
three days. Le Souverain has sustained some disasters, and causes me
great uneasiness. I hope, in another week, to get the distance of
Gibraltar, where we may all be better refitted. I cannot be too
thankful for the supplies we obtained at Augusta; the squadron would
otherwise have been much distressed for want of water and provisions.
We are in sight of Sardinia, with every appearance of a favourable
breeze. To-morrow we enter the ever propitious month. I still hope my
expectations will be fulfilled; although I own that probability is
against their accomplishment.

"Thursday, 4th October.--This month began most auspiciously with a
fine breeze of wind, which continued all the following day; but
yesterday morning we experienced a tremendous gale to the northward,
with a very heavy sea, which still continues: the wind has again
shifted favourably, and I hope this time will carry us through the
Straits; but we have had so many disappointments that we must not
trust to appearances.

"Saturday, 6th.--The winds prove again contrary for us. We have the
Souverain in tow, and in so bad a condition that I almost fear it
will not be possible to get her as far as Gibraltar. There has been a
great deal of blowing weather, with heavy seas, since we left Malta,
and the prizes have suffered considerably from it. I have had an
addition to my stock since I left Augusta, having three fine little
lambs; and I understand more are expected: it is fortunate I was well
provided, as this increase would have proved ruinous to my table.

"Monday, 8th October.--