1798. On 26th December arrives at Palermo and is much gratified by his reception as a popular hero.
1799. On 5th April he changed his flag from blue to red.
1799. On 8th June joins the Foudroyant.
1799. On 24th June arrives off Naples and cancels the agreement of capitulation of the forts.
1799. On 29th June has the aged Admiral Prince Carraciolo hung at the Minerva's fore yardarm at the instigation of Lady Hamilton and the royal profligates of Naples. This act remains a blot on his name.
1799. July 13th to 19th disobeyed Admiral Keith's orders to proceed to Minorca.
1799. On 29th July becomes Commander-in-Chief in the Mediterranean.
1799. On 8th August returns again to Palermo.
1799. On 13th August he is created Duke of Bronte.
1799. On 5th October sails for Port Mahon, Minorca.