believe me, I am sensible of her goodness. Lieutenant Parkinson
will, I am sure, meet with your kind protection; he is an officer
of great merit. Lord Keith writes me, if certain events take
place, it may be necessary to draw down this squadron for the
protection of Minorca. Should such an order come, at this moment,
it would be a cause for some consideration, whether Minorca is to
be risked, or the two kingdoms of Naples and Sicily. I rather
think, my decision would be, to risk the former. I am told, the
alteration of the government is began in this capital, by the
abolition of the feudal system, and that it is meant to be
continued through the country. Sir John Acton is with his majesty:
I need not say more, than that he has the wisest and most honest
head in this kingdom. Sir William and Lady Hamilton are, to my
great comfort, with me; for, without them, it would have been
impossible I could have rendered half the service to his majesty
which I have now done: their heads, and their hearts, are equally
great and good. With every sentiment of respect and attachment,
believe me, my dear lord, your obliged and faithful
"Nelson."
"Earl Spencer."
In the public letter to Evan Nepean, Esq. which inclosed the several
dispatches, Lord Nelson also recommends Lieutenant Parkinson, who is the
bearer, to the notice of the Lords of the Admiralty; observing, that
this officer is sent, by desire of his Sicilian Majesty, to mark that
monarch's approbation of his lordship's conduct. Then, apologising for
the brevity of his letter, when he has so much to communicate, his
lordship adds, that he is writing in a fever, and finds it barely
possible to keep out of bed; but, to the last, begs he will assure the
board, that every exertion shall be made for the honour of his king and
country.
By the surrender of St Elmo, the King of Naples had once more the
satisfaction to behold his own flag waving over the capital, and all the
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