lee line, unless otherwise directed by
the commander in chief; which is scarcely to be expected, as the
entire management of the lee line, after the intentions of the
commander in chief are signified, is intended to be left to the
admiral commanding that line. The remainder of the enemy's fleet,
thirty-five, sail of the line, are to be left to the management of
the commander in chief, who will endeavour to take care that the
movements of the second in command are as little interrupted as
possible.

"Nelson and Bronte."

About this period, the following admired extract of a letter to
Alexander Davison, Esq. his lordship's most confidential friend, appears
also to have been written; which, though published in most of the
newspapers, and other periodical journals, cannot be too often
reprinted.

"Day by day, my dear friend, I am expecting the fleet to put to
sea; every day, hour, and moment: and you may rely that, if it is
in the power of man to get at them, it shall be done; and, I am
sure, that all my brethren look to that day, as the finish of our
laborious cruise. The event, no man can say exactly; but I must
think,--or render great injustice to those under me, that let the
battle be when it may, it will never have been surpassed! My
shattered frame, if I survive that day, will require rest, and that
is all I shall ask for. If I fall on such a glorious occasion, it
shall be my pride to take care that my friends shall not blush for
me. These things are in the hands of a good and wise Providence;
and, his will be done! I have got some trifle, thank God, to leave
to those I hold most dear, and I have taken care not to neglect it.
Do not think I am low-spirited on this account, or fancy any thing
is to happen to me; quite the contrary: my mind is calm, and I have
only to think of destroying our inveterate foe. I have two frigates
gone for more information, and we all hope for a meeting with the
enemy. Nothing can be finer than the fleet under my command.
Whatever be the event, believe me ever, my dear Davison, your much
obliged and sincere friend,

"Nelson and Bronte."

As, however, the combined fleet did not immediately come out, his
lordship soon grew apprehensive that they were very little disposed
speedily to venture from port; and, therefore, began to consider