I think, he will give it up soon; and retire to Sicily, if the French will allow him.
Acton has never dared give Mr. Elliot, or one Englishman, a dinner.
The fleet are ready to come forth; but, they will not come for the sake of fighting me.
I have this day made George Elliot, post; Lieutenant Pettit, a master and commander; and Mr. Hindmarsh, gunner's son, of the Bellerophon, who behaved so well this day five year, a Lieutenant.
I reckon to have lost two French seventy-fours, by my not coming out in the Victory; but I hope they will come soon, with interest.
This goes to Gibraltar, by Sutton, in the Amphion.
I shall write the Doctor in a day or two. I see, by the French papers, that he has kissed hands.
With kindest regards to your good mother, and all at Merton, &c. &c. &c. ever your's, most faithfully and affectionately,
NELSON & BRONTE.