Wm. Warre.
[2] Lt.-Col. 23rd Dragoons.
H.M.S. “Resistance,” St Helens, May 24th, 1808.
Many thanks, my dear Father, for your letter of yesterday, and the books and wine, about which I have just written to Messrs Smith and Atkins, directing them, if we are sailed, to send it to care of Markland at Gibraltar. Here we are with the wind as foul as it can blow, and too hard to put to sea. We shall sail the first opportunity, and are not a little anxious to get off. Nothing can exceed the General’s and Capt. Adam’s kindness. We are as comfortable as on shore, and as happy as possible.
We have not the least idea of our destination. Reports I never believe. If the General does not know, it is not likely any newspaper can. I received my books and wine safe, for which accept my thanks. The books, at all events, I could not read if I had them not. They are therefore as well with me, and God knows how long we may be on board or away.
I am glad you intend to call on the Duke. It is as well; and pray do not forget to assure Ld. Mostyn of my gratitude and sense of his kindness towards me. I have written, or rather I wrote the day I left town to Seymour, but, should I not get his answer at Cork, must send Rankin on shore; and to go without a servant is very inconvenient indeed. Therefore I think, if you could hire me a steady, honest servant, it would be worth while his coming to Cork to me; or the General thinks it would be better to ask General Calvert, by “empenho”[3] to send me an order to Cork for him to accompany me at all events.
Adieu; we are ordered off by signal. May God preserve and bless you all, is the constant prayer of your affectionate son,
Wm. Warre.
[3] By desire.