All together, I am much
unhinged.

To-morrow, if the wind lasts, I shall be off Toulon.

Sir William Bolton is safe, I heard of him this morning. I hear, that
a ship is coming out for him; but, as this is only rumour, I cannot
keep him from this opportunity of being made post: and, I dare say, he
will cause, by his delay, such a tumble, that Louis's son, who I have
appointed to the Childers, will lose his promotion; and, then Sir
Billy will be wished at the devil! But, I have done with this subject;
the whole history has hurt me. Hardy has talked enough to him, to
rouze his lethargic disposition.

I have been much hurt at the loss of poor Mr. Girdlestone! He was a
good man; but there will be an end of us all.

What has Charles Connor been about? His is a curious letter! If he
does not drink, he will do very well. Captain Hilliar has been very
good to him.

Colonel Suckling, I find, has sent his son to the Mediterranean;
taking him from the Narcissus, where I had been at so much pains to
place him. I know not where to find a frigate to place him. He never
will be so well and properly situated again. I am more plagued
with other people's business, or rather nonsense, than with my own
concerns,

With some difficulty, I have got Suckling placed in the Ambuscade,
with Captain Durban, who came on board at the moment I was writing.

March 31st.

The history of Suckling will never be done. I have this moment got
from him your letter, and one from his father. I shall say nothing to
him; I don't blame the child, but those who took [him] out of the most
desirable situation in the navy. He never will get into such another
advantageous ship: but, his father is a fool; and so, my dear Emma,
that _ends_.

The box which you sent me in May 1804, is just arrived in the Diligent
store-ship.

I have sent the arms to Palermo, to Gibbs. The clothes are very
acceptable; I will give you a kiss, for sending them.

God bless you! Amen.

April 1st.

I am not surprised that we should both think the same about the
kitchen; and, if I can afford it, I should like it to be done: but, by
the fatal example of poor Mr. Hamilton, and many others, we must take
care not to get into debt; for, then, we can neither help any of our
relations, and [must] be for ever in misery! But, of this, we [will]
talk more, when we walk upon the poop at Merton.

Do you ever see Admiral and Mrs. Lutwidge? You will not forget me when
you do.

To Mr