frigates, is in Egypt; but I expect his return every moment, and
that the Turks and Russian ships and flotilla have relieved him. I
am here, _solus_; for, I reckon the Portuguese as nothing. They are
all flag-officers, and cannot serve under any of my brave friends.

"With every good wish, believe me your most obedient servant,

"Nelson."

From the following congratulatory letter which Lord Nelson wrote, at the
same time, to his old "brother brigadier," the Honourable
Lieutenant-General Stuart, commander in chief of the forces at the
reduction of Minorca, may be learned the very unpromising state of
military affairs with the Neapolitan army at this important period. It
also clearly developes the secret cause of his lordship's sudden recall
from Egypt.

Naples, 6th Dec. 1798.

"MY DEAR SIR,

"Allow me to congratulate you on the conquest of Minorca; an
acquisition, as a sea-port, invaluable to our country. I hurried
from Egypt, early in August; as, by the Earl of St. Vincent's
orders, I was in expectation of being summoned to attend you.
However, I am sure, my place was much better filled by Commodore
Duckworth. The new war commenced here, it is yet impossible to say
how it may turn: whether it will really hasten the ruin, or save
the monarchy. At all events, if the king had not began the war, he
would have soon been kicked out of his kingdom. The king is at
Rome; but five hundred French still hold possession of St. Angelo.
General Mack is gone to Civita Castellana, where thirteen thousand
French have taken post. Mack's force, with him, is twenty thousand
fine young men; but, with some few exceptions, wretchedly
officered. If the French are not soon driven from their post, which
is very strong by nature, Mack must fall back to the frontier on
the side of Ancona. The French have drove back, to say no more, the
right wing of the king's army, and taken all their baggage and
artillery. The emperor has not yet moved, and his minister, Thugut,
is not very anxious to begin a new war; but, if he does not, Naples
and Tuscany will fall in two months. I shall be happy if you will
honour me, at any time, with your commands, here or elsewhere;
being, with the highest respect, your most obedient servant,

"Nelson."

A letter from Earl Spencer had likewise reached Nap