on's. He has behaved so unlike a gentleman, but very like
a blackguard, to both Captain Sutton, Bedford, and Hardy, I am
now clear that he never lost one farthing, and that the whole is
a swindling trick. So, you see, my dear friend, how good-nature is
imposed upon. I am so vexed, that he should have belonged to our dear
Parker!

I have now done with the wretch, for ever. I hope he has got nothing
from you; and, if you have promised him any thing, _do not send it_.

Ten o'Clock.

Your kind letters are arrived. I rejoice that you have got into
Merton. I hope to get the letter on shore; but, it is very uncertain.

Ministry, my dearest friend, think very differently of my services
from you! But, never mind; I shall soon have done with them afloat.

Make my kindest regards to Sir William, and all our friends; and
believe me, ever, your faithful and affectionate

NELSON & BRONTE.

I have just got a very kind letter from Captain Read. He says, he
will come and see me, be where it will. He inquired after you and Sir
William.

LETTER XX.

Amazon, Ten o'Clock,
October 12, 1801.

MY DEAREST FRIEND,

This being a very fine morning, and smooth beach, at eight o'clock,
I went with Sutton and Bedford, and landed at Walmer; but found Billy
fast asleep: so, left my card; walked the same road that we came, when
the carriage could not come with us that night; and all rushed into
my mind, and brought tears into my eyes. Ah! how different to walking
with such a friend as you, Sir William, and Mrs. Nelson.

Called at the barracks, on Lord George; but, he is gone to London.

From thence to the Admiral's, found him up; and, waiting half an hour
to see Mrs. Lutwidge, who entreated me to stay dinner, came directly
on board.

I did not even call to see poor Langford; who has been worse these few
days past, and God knows when he will be well. I am afraid it will be
a long time; for several pieces of bone are lately come away, and more
to come.

But Troubridge has so completely prevented my ever mentioning any
body's service, that I am become a cypher, and he has gained a victory
over Nelson's spirit. I am kept here; for what, he may be able to
tell, I cannot: but long it cannot, shall not, be.

Sutton and Bedford are gone a tour, till dinner time: but nothing
shall make me, but almost force, go out of the ship again, till I have
done; and the Admiralty, in charity, will be pleased to release me.

I am, in t