Russian ships are said to be at Otranto; but, we know less than
you. If the Austrian armies are beaten, Naples will be lost; if
victorious, our exertions, with the constant loyalty of the lower
order, will hasten the king's return. What are your ideas of the
king's going into the Bay of Naples, without foreign troops? If it
should cause an insurrection in Naples, which did not succeed,
would it not be worse? The king, if a rising of loyal people took
place, ought to be amongst them; and, that he will never consent
to. Alphonso is going to Tripoli; the bashaw has taken another
twist. Lord Spencer disavows the conduct of Sir William Sidney
Smith, as being in any manner independent of me. What will his
lordship say, when he reads the passports? Your wants and wishes
shall, as far as I am able, be complied with. Your bill for extra
expences, if the court will not pay, I will answer for. With kind
remembrances, &c.
"Nelson."
The mode adopted by Lord Nelson, with regard to the Bashaw of Tripoli,
on this occasion, was a master-stroke of policy. In order not to commit
the country, with too much precipitation, though resolved to act with
all requisite energy at the moment, his lordship employed a Portuguese
ship in the business, and selected that of Commodore Campbell for this
confidential service. His knowledge of mankind taught him, that this
officer would not fail to feel gratified by the honour of such a
mission; consequently, be induced to execute it with his best ability.
Simon Lucas, Esq. his Britannic Majesty's consul at Tripoli, had found
it expedient to quit that court for Palermo: but he consented to return
with Commodore Campbell, in order to assist the negociation; and, should
it appear advisable, to resume there his ministerial functions. The
letter which Lord Nelson sent by Commodore Campbell is much too curious
to be omitted. It is, indeed, highly characteristic of it's able author.
"Palermo, 28th April 1799.
"SIR,
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