TO THE RIGHT HON. EARL SPENCER.
Cæsar, Douvarnenez Bay, 26th Sept. 1800.
My Lord,
On the supposition that the fleet may have been driven from their station by the late tempestuous weather, and as some anxiety may be excited for the safety of this squadron, I take the opportunity by the Marlborough to inform your lordship of my having anchored in this bay last Tuesday evening, with the ships under my command, where we have ridden the gale out in perfect safety, together with the Montague and Naiad, which ships anchored here on Wednesday.
This is a most spacious bay, and may be considered safe anchorage in any weather: it lies about four leagues to the southward of Brest; from which port it is only separated about five miles by land, over a mountainous and hilly country. As the same winds that enable the enemy's fleet to put to sea, also lead out of this bay, we can always be in time for them; and this appears the most favourable position to prevent their coasting convoys coming from the southern ports. The enemy has endeavoured to annoy the squadron with shells, but at too great a distance to reach any of the ships, and the whole fleet may lie in perfect safety from any of the batteries.
I purpose to remain here until the weather becomes more moderate, to enable me to resume the station off the Black Rocks. In the mean time, ships will occasionally be detached to watch the motions of the enemy in Brest Water. I have the honour to be, &c.
Jas. Saumarez.
In answer to this, Sir James received the following letter from Earl Spencer, then First Lord of the Admiralty.
Admiralty, 30th Sept. 1800.
Dear Sir,