"His Excellency, Don Antonio Gutierrez, Commandant General of the
Canary Islands."
To this friendly epistle, the Spanish governor immediately returned the following liberal answer—
"Santa Cruz de Teneriffe,
26th July 1797.
"SIR,
With the highest pleasure, I received your esteemed favour, proceeding from your generous and well-disposed mind; since, on my part, I conceive, no laurel is due to him who only fulfils what humanity dictates: and I have done no more, in behalf of the wounded men, as well as others who disembarked; and whom, after all warfare has ceased, I ought to consider as brothers.
"If, in the state to which the uncertain fate of war has led you, it were in my power, or could any thing that this island produces afford the least comfort or aid to you, it would yield me the truest satisfaction: and, I hope, you will admit of a couple of large flasks of Canary wine; which, I believe, is none of the worst that this island produces.
"A personal intercourse will give me great pleasure, when circumstances permit it, with a person so deserving, and of such distinguished qualifications as you so feelingly indicate. Meantime, I pray God to preserve you in his holy keeping; and am, Sir, your most obedient servant,
"Don Antonio Gutierrez.
"P.S. I have received, and highly esteem, the cask of beer, and cheese, which you have done me the favour to send me."
"Rear-Admiral Nelson."