eadily conceive; but, the time you
know nothing about. This is a great and important moment; and the
only thing to be considered--_Is his majesty's service to stand
still for an instant?_ I have no scruple in declaring what I should
do: that, knowing the importance of possessing Malta, to England
and her allies; that, if even two regiments were ordered from
Minorca, yet it must be considered--for which the officer must
certainly be responsible--was the call for these troops known at
home, would not they order them to proceed where the service near
at hand so loudly calls for them? _This is the only thing, in my
opinion, for consideration._ If we lose this opportunity, it will
be impossible to recal it. If possible, I wish to take all the
responsibility. I know, my dear Sir James, your zeal and ability;
and, that delicacy to General Fox, has been your sole motive for
not altering the disposition of the troops: but, I hope, General
Fox is with you; and, I am sure, from his character, he will
approve of my feelings on this subject. If he is not, I must again
earnestly entreat that, at least, you will give directions for
Colonel Graham to hold Malta till we can get troops to attack La
Valette. May God direct your councils, for the honour of our king
and his allies, and to the destruction of the French, is the
fervent prayer of, &c.

"Nelson."

At the same time, addressing a letter to Commodore Troubridge, who he
had reason to suppose was at Minorca, his lordship says--"My letter to
Sir James St. Clair, if this finds you at Mahon, will shew you what I
feel about Malta." After again describing apprehended consequences, and
expressing his hope that General Fox is arrived, and that Sir James will
lay all circumstances before him, his lordship continues--"I know Sir
James to be a most fair, honourable, and zealous officer; and I
earnestly hope, that you will have the carrying him and fifteen hundred
troops to Malta. If, alas! all my arguments are in vain, against
_orders--not knowing our situation here_--or the delicacy of the
approach of General Fox; then, it is only for me to grieve, and intreat
of you to come here, and bring the Northumberland--that, at least, I may
prevent supplies getting in: and, for this purpose, I shall be under the
distressing necessity of taking as many ships as possible from Minorca;
which