information, that an infamous armistice was entered into with the rebels
of those castles, to which Captain Foote had put his name, his lordship
instantly made the signal to annul the truce; being determined, as he
said, never to give his approbation to any terms, with rebels, but
unconditional submission. The fleet was now anchored in close line of
battle, north-west by north, and south-east by south, from the mole
head, one mile and a half distant; flanked by twenty-two gun and mortar
boats, which he had recalled from Procida.
His lordship sent, instantly, Captains Troubridge and Ball to the
Cardinal Vicar-General Ruffo; to represent to his eminence, the opinion
which he entertained of the infamous truce entered into with the rebels.
They were also charged with two papers to his eminence, expressive of
these sentiments; one of which was intended for their perusal,
previously to the agreed surrender. The cardinal, however, declared that
he would send no papers; and that, if his lordship pleased, he might
break the armistice, for he was himself tired of his situation. Captain
Troubridge then asked this plain question--"If Lord Nelson breaks the
armistice, will your eminence assist him in the attack of the castles?"
His answer was decisive--"I will neither assist him with men nor guns."
After much talking, to very little purpose, his eminence expressed a
wish to see his lordship on board, that he might converse with him
respecting this situation of affairs; and they, accordingly, accompanied
him thither. Sir William Hamilton interpreted between Lord Nelson and
Cardinal Ruffo, till he was almost exhausted with fatigue. The dispute
lasted about two hours, and frequently ran very high; the cardinal,
however, proved more than a match for Sir William and his lordship
together in volubility, though far from equal to either in true
eloquence. The venerable Sir William, at length, vexed and wearied,
calmly seated himself; and requested his lady, though less loquacious
than the generality of her sex, to assist their honourable friend, who
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