een three-deckers. We remain in sight of the enemy
unmolested by them. To-day I had the colours hoisted, to show
them Sunday was not expunged from _our_ calendar; and divine
service was performed on board.

Our boats have occasionally landed on some small islands near
this. Captain Buller purchased two nice little cows, one of
which he has spared me: it is so tame, the children could play
with it. It supplies me with milk, and cost me only three
guineas.

The Guernsey traders continue with the squadron; but, on account
of the spirits they sell to the ships, I wish them further off.
I have been obliged to be harsh with them, from this
circumstance; and I expect they will give a very bad report of
their countryman when they return to the island.

Caesar, off the Black Rocks, Sept. 12th 1800.

Sir Henry Harvey has joined the fleet, which makes up the
complement of flags; and it remains to be proved if the Earl has
influence to effect what he so strenuously aims at respecting
the promotion. I form very sanguine hopes that peace will
shortly extend its blessed influence over these countries; and
that I shall have the satisfaction to enjoy, without
interruption, the sweets of domestic comfort. I certainly shall
avail myself of the earliest respite the service will enable me
to pass in the island; and I think I may have that opportunity
this winter; for if the war should be continued, there is no
doubt that a promotion would give me, at least, six weeks
interval from duty; at any rate, I see no reason for the future
affording you anxiety, as whether there, or in England, I depend
on our passing a considerable portion of the winter together. I
hope Master Saumarez knows his alpha, beta, &c. by heart. When
convenient to the young gentleman, I shall be glad that he will
take the trouble to transcribe it for me to Omega, as I have no
Greek grammar by me. I can readily believe the difficulty that
attends fixing the little ladies to the French grammar, whose
particularly quick and lively temper is not much suited to so
tedious a process. I think, notwithstanding, it is the best
method, especially as the same grammatical rules are adapted to
any language, which they will find useful hereafter. Dancing, no
doubt, has more attractions. I trust they have quite got rid of
their colds: their papa has also had a very