he Peer receive me, I know not what you would have done;
but, I can guess. But never mind! I told him, that I had made a vow,
if I took the Genereux by myself, it was my intention to strike my
flag. To which he made no answer.

If I am well enough, I intend to write a letter to Prince Leopold, and
to send him the French Admiral's flag; which I hope you will approve
of, as it was taken on the coast of his father's kingdom, and by as
faithful a subject as any in his dominions.

I have had no communication with the shore; therefore, have seen
neither Ball, Troubridge, or Graham: nor with the Lion; when I have,
I shall not forget all your messages, and little Jack. I only want to
know your wishes, that I may, at least, appear grateful, by attending
to them.

My head aches dreadfully, and I have none here to give me a moment's
comfort.

I send the packet to General Acton; as I think it may go quicker, and
he will be flattered by presenting the flag and letter to the Prince.

Malta, I think, will fall very soon, if these other corvettes do not
get in.

Pray, make my best regards acceptable to Mrs. Cadogan, Miss Knight,
little Mary Re Giovanni, Gibbs, &c. &c. and ever believe me your truly
faithful and affectionate

BRONTE NELSON.

LETTER VII.

June 16, [1800.] Seven o'Clock.

MY DEAR LADY HAMILTON,

What a difference--but it was to be--from your house to a boat!

Fresh breeze of wind, the ship four or five leagues from the mole;
getting on board into truly a hog-stye of a cabin, leaking like a
sieve, consequently floating with water. What a change!

Not a felucca near us. I saw them come out this morning, but they
think there is too much wind and swell.

Pray, do not keep the cutter; as I have not a thing, if any thing
important should arrive, to send you.

Only think of Tyson's being left!

May God bless you, my dear Lady; and believe me, ever, your truly
affectionate and sincere friend,

NELSON.

Lady Hamilton--Put the candlestick on _my_ writing-table.

LETTER VIII.

January 28, 1801.

What a fool I was, my dear Lady Hamilton, to direct that your cheering
letters should be directed for Brixham! I feel, this day, truly
miserable, in not having them; and, I fear, they will not come till
to-morrow's post.

What a blockhead, to believe any person is so active as myself! I
have this day got my orders, to put myself under Lord St. Vincent's
command: but, as no order is arri