'The Romans threaten daggers if the Austrians, Neapolitans or Spaniards enter their States, and if overpowered mean to burn the Quirinal, &c., I have not, however, much opinion of their prowess.
'I hope King Ferdinand has at last had the prudence to moderate his terms of adjustment with the Sicilians, at least so far as to afford a chance of their acceptance. Admiral Biuder and myself will proceed in 2 or 3 days to convey the ultimatum; I fear they will still be obstinate, but if it is rejected the armistice will be denounced by the Neapolitan General, and the Sicilians must trust to their own resources.
The Prince Regent is expected at Mette to get a new Main-Yard. Sir Charles Napier was at Gibraltar with his squadron on the 8th, and had been joined by the Rodney and Vanguard.
'Believe me, dear Lord Hardwicke,
'Very truly yours,
'W. PARKER.'
* * * * *
A memorandum of the same date from Sir W. Parker informed Lord
Hardwicke that H.M. steam-sloop Bulldog was to co-operate with his
Lordship in the event of any disturbances in Piedmont.
* * * * *
Memo.