The Squadron now proceeded to the coast of Romagna, and another attack was made upon the town of Pesaro. Captains Brenton and Hoste landed in the command of the Marines, but troops arriving from all parts, the Commodore found it expedient to call off the attacking party. (Note in the Life of Sir Wm. Hoste, Vol. 1. p. 341.)
On the 5th of June the Spartan was ordered to proceed to Malta to refit, and complete her stores and provisions, and from thence to go to Messina, and form a part of Rear Admiral Martin’s squadron for the defence of Sicily. In the latter end of June she left Malta; proceeded to Messina, and was from thence ordered off Naples to join the Squadron employed under Rear Admiral Martin, in co-operating with the British forces under Major General Stuart, which had taken possession of the Islands of Ischia and Procida.
Captain Brenton shortly after received the following letter from Lord Collingwood, dated,—
“Ville de Paris, off Toulon, 30th July, 1809.
“Sir,
“I have received your letter of the 26th May, stating to me your reasons for remaining in the Adriatic, after the receipt of my order of the 18th of April, and detailing your proceedings. Under the circumstances you have represented, I fully approve of your having continued in that sea, until Captain Harwood joined, and I feel much satisfaction, Sir, in this opportunity of signifying the high sense I entertain of your judicious measures, and active services, both in aid of the Austrians, and for the annoyance of the enemy, while you were in the Adriatic sea; but there were more ships in that quarter, than the state of the fleet would admit of, which obliged me to recall the Spartan.
“I am, Sir, &c.
“COLLINGWOOD.”
“Captain Brenton, H.M.S. Spartan.”
Captain Brenton’s mind was completely set at rest by this letter, which not only conveyed approbation of the responsibility he had incurred, but expressed high commendation for his conduct, and even as it were apologized for recalling him from the Adriatic, which to those who know Lord Collingwood, will appear as a very strong testimony of his approval. This testimony was subsequently confirmed by the following letter.