Sir Sidney to the utmost of my power. It is matter of regret, that
no squadron of Turks and Russians are yet gone to Egypt; for, I
want all our ships for Malta, Sicily, Naples, and Leghorn: and my
only wish is, that the Turks and Russians would take care of all
the French to the east of Malta. Our situation here is quiet; but
who can say, if the French get into our neighbourhood, that we
shall remain so? In Calabria, the people have cut down the Tree of
Liberty; but I shall never consider any part of the kingdom of
Naples safe, or even Sicily, till I hear of the emperor's entering
Italy: when all my ships shall go into the Bay of Naples, and I
think we can make a revolution against the French; at least, my
endeavours shall not be wanting. I hope to go on the service
myself, but I have my doubts if the King and Queen will consent to
my leaving them for a moment. A few days past, I was presented, in
due form, with the freedom of the city of Palermo in a gold box,
and brought upon a silver salver. I have endeavoured so to conduct
myself, as to meet the approbation of all classes in this country,
and I hope to be equally fortunate in meeting your lordship's. A
ship is in sight, from Malta. I shall keep this letter open till
her arrival; but I do not expect any thing particularly good. The
blockade must continue, to the end of the chapter; for neither
Maltese, nor Italians, will fight by themselves. Ever your
lordship's faithful, and obedient,
"Nelson.
"P.S. I send your lordship copies of Captain Ball's letters from
Malta. It is not for me to judge the propriety of Captain Ball's
plans; but, I can assure you, he is a man of great judgment and
abilities, and ought to have a recompence for all his expence and
trouble."
The letters of Captain Ball principally related to taking men into
British pay; those of the Turkish and Russian admirals, from Corfu, were
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