e
object, he determined to steer for Alexandria; with the hope of
frustrating the intentions of this armament, whatever those intentions
might finally prove.

From this period, to the 28th of June, only three vessels were spoken
with; neither of which, though two were from Alexandria, had seen any
thing of the enemy's fleet. This day, the Pharos tower of Alexandria was
perceived by the British squadron: and they continued wearing the land,
with a press of sail, till the whole of them had a distinct view of both
harbours; where, to the general surprise and disappointment of all, not
a French ship was visible.

Having arrived off this port, Captain Hardy was directed to run close in
with La Mutine, and send an officer on shore with the following letter
to Mr. Baldwin--

"SIR,

"The French having possessed themselves of Malta, on Friday the
15th of this month, the next day the whole fleet, consisting of
sixteen sail of the line, frigates, bomb vessels, &c. and near
three hundred transports, left the island. I only heard this
unpleasant news on the 22d, off Cape Passaro. As Sicily was not
their object, and the wind blew fresh from the westward; from the
time they sailed, it was clear that their destination was to the
eastward: and, I think, their object is, to possess themselves of
some port in Egypt, to fix themselves at the head of the Red Sea,
in order to get a formidable army into India; and, in concert with
Tippoo Saib, to drive us, if possible, from India. But, I have
reason to believe, from not seeing a vessel, that they have heard
of my coming up the Mediterranean, and are got safe into Corfu.
Still, I am most exceedingly anxious to know, from you, if any
reports or preparations have been made in Egypt for them; or any
vessels prepared in the Red Sea, to carry them to India: or for any
other information you would be good enough to give me, I shall hold
myself much obliged. I am, Sir, your most obedient servant,

"Horatio Nelson."

The officer charged with this letter, brought back information that Mr.
Baldwin had left Alexandria nearly three months. There were, it
appeared, in the old port, one Turkish ship of the line, four frigates,
and about twelve other Turkish vessels; and, in the Franks port, about
fifty sail of vessels belonging to different nations. The line of battle
ship was observed to be landing