a Danish frigate, on the 27th
of April, from Malaga four days. He says, the Spanish fleet has
most positive orders to come to sea, and fight you. This makes me
doubly anxious to join you. I have not interfered with Captain
Freemantle's charge and arrangement of the convoy: it could not be
in better hands; therefore, I only overshadow them with my wings. I
have the satisfaction to tell you, that all the troops--except the
Royals, who were always intended to be embarked in the ships of
war--are embarked in the transports; with the exception of twenty,
and General Horneck, who are in two vessels loaded with wine. I
offered to take a hundred into each ship of my squadron, but I
found there was not the smallest necessity for it. I hope, Sir, you
will state this point at home; as it would have been a severe
reflection on me, not to have left what was necessary for the
embarkation of the army. I rejoice in this opportunity of
vindicating my conduct; and beg leave again to recommend Lieutenant
Day, agent for transports, to your notice. I placed my reliance on
his judgment, not to leave a ship more than was necessary; and, I
am not deceived: a more zealous, active officer, as agent for
transports, I never met with. General De Burgh also speaks of him
in the highest terms; and, I hope, the Transport Board will keep
their promise of recommending those officers in their service who
eminently distinguish themselves; which, I take upon myself to say,
Lieutenant Day has not only done at Bastia, but at Porto Ferrajio.
For his conduct at the former place, you was so good, on my stating
his services, to recommend him to the Admiralty; I should not do
justice to his majesty's service, were I not to urge it again.

"I have the pleasure to add, that all the captains under my orders
have conducted themselves like zealous, good officers.

"I have the honour to be, Sir, with the greatest respect, your most
obedient servant,

"Horatio Nelson."

On the 20th of May, having arrived safely at Gibraltar, he received a
letter from James Simpson, Esq. the American consul; mentioning, that
twelve sail of vessels belonging to the United States of America, with
their cargoes on board, were in the road of Malaga, unable to proceed on
their respective voyages, because three French privateers were wa