is decision. Ruffo refused, and remonstrated in person
with Nelson, who gave him a written "opinion" that the capitulation
could not be carried out without the king's approbation. The cardinal
then sent the rebels Nelson's declaration. On the 26th Nelson promised
him that he would not break the armistice and, further, sent him word
that he would not oppose the embarkation of the rebels. Did not Ruffo,
anxious for British help in case the French and the rebels should renew
hostilities, yield to Nelson's opinion that the question of the
capitulation should be reserved for the king? We have no absolute proof
that this was so, but Sir John Acton, Ferdinand's minister, in a letter
of August 1, says that the king pardoned Ruffo because he yielded to
Nelson's wise declarations.[302] After receiving a communication from
Ruffo, Micheroux informed the rebels, no doubt in good faith, that
Nelson had consented to the capitulation. The evacuation was arranged,
and the rebels embarked that evening in the belief that they would be
allowed to proceed to Toulon. Nelson prevented the transports from
leaving the harbour. The king disallowed the capitulation, and put to
death a large number of the rebels.

Such are the main outlines of this extremely complicated affair. It is
certain that Ruffo exceeded his authority in arranging the capitulation,
and that Nelson knew and carried out the king's wishes. He evidently
acted with full authority; he neither changed his opinion as regards the
capitulation nor did he deceive either Ruffo or the rebels. That the
rebels were deceived is certain, but for that Ruffo was responsible,
though he may only have been guilty of gross carelessness in not making
Micheroux understand the position of affairs. But Nelson's conduct was
not creditable. The capitulation was not less valid because Ruffo acted
disobediently in arranging it, and it was signed by a British captain.
Nelson was justified in suspending its execution until King Ferdinand's
will was declared; but, as the rebels could not then be restored to the
position they held before it was made, he was bound to use every effort
to induce the king not to break it, and to allow the rebels to proceed
to Toulon. Unfortunately he had imbibed the vengeful spirit of the
Neapolitan court. Blinded by the blandishments of his mistress and the
flattery of the court, he forgot the conduct which became a British
admiral and the representative of his own sovereign, an