hat intended brilliant
enterprise.

The plan of this expedition was contrived with all that masterly address
and precision which ever marked the operations projected by the
judicious and gallant rear-admiral; and, as the author is favoured with
the opportunity of giving them in detail, the principles which they
comprise may be adopted, perhaps, with deserved success, by other
commanders, on many future occasions.

The first order issued by Rear-Admiral Nelson was addressed to Thomas
Troubridge, Esq. captain of his majesty's ship Culloden, and commander
of the forces ordered to be landed for taking Santa Cruz.

"Theseus,
at Sea, July 20, 1797.

"SIR,

"I desire you will take under your command the number of seamen and
marines named in the margin, who will be under the command of
Captains Hood, Freemantle, Bowen, Miller, and Waller, and the
marines under the command of Captain Thomas Oldfield, and a
detachment of the Royal Artillery under the command of Lieutenant
Baynes; all of whom are now embarked on board his majesty's
frigates Seahorse, Terpsichore, and Emerald. With this detachment,
you will proceed as near to the town of Santa Cruz as possible,
without endangering your being perceived; when you will embark as
many men as the boats will carry, and force your landing in the
north-east part of the bay of Santa Cruz, near a large battery;
which, when carried, and your post secured, you will either proceed
by storm against the town and mole-head battery, or send in my
letter, as you judge most proper, containing a summons, of which I
send you a copy, and the terms are either to be accepted or
rejected in the time specified, unless you see good cause for
prolonging it, as no alteration will be made in them: and you will
pursue such other methods as you judge most proper for speedily
effecting my orders; which are, to possess myself of all cargoes
and treasures which may be landed in the island of Teneriffe.
Having the firmest confidence in the ability, bravery, and zeal, of
yourself, and all placed under your command, I have only to
heartily wish you success; and to assure you, that I am your most
obedient and faithful servant,

"Horatio Nelson."

The number of seamen and marines mentioned in the margin of the above
letter were--Theseus, Culloden, and Zealous, two hund