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THE
HAMILTON AND NELSON PAPERS,
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THE COLLECTION
AUTOGRAPH LETTERS

HISTORICAL DOCUMENTS
FORMED BY
ALF RED MORRIS ON
(SECOND SERIES, 1882 — 1893).
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V O L U M E II.
I798–1815.
PRINTED FOR PRIVATE CIRCULATION
I894.
P R E F A C E .
HE letters and papers which occupy the present volume cover
the years 1798 to 1815; but the last ten years of that
period are represented by only a small number of them, which
chiefly relate to domestic matters. The real interest of the series
begins with the victory of the Nile and closes with Trafalgar; and
the central object of that interest is the figure of Nelson. No
memoir or biography of a great man can ever bring before us his
personality so vividly as his own correspondence, and when we have
read Nelson's last letter, written as he goes into his last action,
the silence that follows is more eloquent in telling his fate than
any words of others can be.
But the personality which is here revealed to us is not only that
of the great naval hero who led our fleets to victory, and whom in
imagination we place upon a pinnacle to be admired at a distance;
nor is it only that of the frank, generous nature which seems to have
endeared him to all who served with him or enjoyed his friendship—
“When I think,’ says one who knew him as a friend (No. 86O),
‘When I think, setting aside his heroism, what an affectionate,
fascinating little fellow he was, how dignified and pure his mind,
how kind and condescending his manners, I become stupid with
grief for what I have lost.’ In these letters we have something
besides the hero and the friend ; and we must leave the letters to
speak for themselves.
All must deplore, all must feel shame for, the fact of Nelson's
wild passion for the wife of another man, a passion which
culminated in the birth of a child whose parentage no one who
reads the following pages can reasonably doubt. But, putting
vi PREFACE.
aside for a moment the moral aspect of the situation, and
subjecting the domestic drama which unfolds itself to calm
analysis, what in many points can be more perplexing to the
student of human nature than the conduct of two of the three
persons concerned P Are we to regard Nelson as a hypocrite in
his avowed friendship for the man whose wife he calls his own P
Can an all-absorbing passion produce an exaltation which carries
away a man beyond his own control, and makes him still believe
himself the true friend of the dishonoured husband 2 And are
we to regard Hamilton as a hypocrite, professing friendship for
the man to whose feelings towards his own wife he can scarcely
have been blind 2 And yet how are we to explain such words
of love and affection as those which he uses in a codicil to his will
(Appendix E, 2) in regard to Nelson, “the most virtuous, loyal
and truly brave character I ever met with. God bless him, and
shame fall on those who do not say Amen’? What can be
more astonishing than the domestic arrangements of Merton, the
purchase of the property, and the keeping house in common P
Perhaps we may find the key to Hamilton's feelings in one of
his last letters (No. 684) : he was old and weary, and only
wished for peace and quiet.
The third person in the drama stands on a different footing from
that of the other two ; but we will not resort to the common ex-
pedient of finding an excuse for the fault of the man in the conduct
of the woman. We know Lady Hamilton's history, whence she
came, and how she rose to position. We know her faults. Vain,
theatrical, extravagant she was ; her letters tell us as much.
Illiterate and provincial in speech (‘Emma's Doric,' as Lord Bristol
terms it) she also was. In accounting for her influence, are we
to set her beauty alone against all these repelling disqualifications P
We think not. No mere personal beauty, in face of the dis-
advantage of lack of early education, could by itself have given
her the extraordinary ascendency which she exercised over so
many men. Surely she possessed that charm or fascination—the
venustas which the Roman poet celebrates in his mistress—which
AA’AAPACE. vii
in the long run tells more than mere beauty, and which, combined
with beauty, may render a woman an irresistible power for good
or for evil. -
An impetuous temperament such as Nelson's would be just
the one to be enthralled by such a power; and the condition of
the times may, we think, have contributed to his subjection. A
great war was being waged. Nelson was regarded, and regarded
himself, as the instrument marked out to destroy the enemies of
his country; and he must have habitually lived in a state of en-
thusiasm and exaltation which in peaceful days would have given
place to the more sober progression of life. Under such circum-
stances it was that he yielded to a temptation which in less stirring
times he might have successfully resisted. Let us not condemn
without taking into account all that we charitably can in pallia-
tion of a great offence.
E. R. R.A.T A.
Page 52 (Note) for ‘Cilillo’ read Cirillo.
,, 63 (Letter 420) for ‘Revedy' read Revesby.
,, IO7 (Note) for “Maalay' read Marlay.
,, 149 (Note) for “President’ read Resident.
,, 194 Letter 675 is wrongly placed, it should be Number 819.
THE
HAMILTON AND NELSON PAPERS.
302. A. L. S.“B.’ from Lord Bristol to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated Trieste,
January 6th, 1798. I page 8vo., with Superscription. [H.]
“A very unpleasant difficulty has happened to me with my bankers, Messrs.
Panton of Leghorn.
“Upon the approach of the French to Leghorn, I wrote positive orders to
Panton to remove my effects to Corsica.
“They answer'd me Corsica was in more danger than Leghorn, & retained my
goods in Leghorn.
“As the French approached they, without consulting me, hired a vessel for
Naples, at the incredible price of £1800 sterling, and in it transferr'd my goods
worth £670 at first cost. -
‘The goods are at Naples with either Cutler & Heigelin or the Dogana, I know
not which. -
‘Mr. Noble knows the whole transaction. Can either you or Sr. John Acton
serve me in this affair P If you can, I am sure you will. Io non m'intendo.’
303. A. L. from the same to the same. Dated Venice, January 26th, 1798.
2} pages 4to., with SuperScription and Seal. [H]
‘It is my pride and my glory that in the course of more than 32 years that I
have known you minister at Naples, & experienced both y” protection as minister
and your friendship as schoolfellow I never yet have troubled you once upon
busyness—that pungent thorn in diplomatick sides; but now, my oracle, I must
invoke either your aid or your counsel, or both.
‘Here, then, is my case à la lettre. Upon the menace of a French invasion
into Tuscany I wrote positive, precise orders to Messrs. Panton to send all my
cases over to Basſia in Corsica, where I knew my friend, F. North, would take
care of them.
‘Their answer was the goods were in more danger in Bastia than Leghorn, &
they should not send them.
“The French did advance, & Messrs. Panton, instead of sending my cases to
Bastia according to orders, hired a vessel ('tis said by collusion) at the enormous
freight of £1800 sterling to carry these goods to Naples, at an immense risk from
the enemy's privateers, to be deposited at Messrs. Cutler & Heigelin with orders
not to deliver them untill they were certified that the freight was paid.
‘Now, this freight of £1800 from Leghorn to Naples is for pictures, bust, some
Carrara statues & other marbles to the amount of £750, more or less. The
pictures are chiefly of Cimabue, Giotto, Guido da Sienna, Marco da Sienna, and
all that old pedantry of painting which served to show the progress of the art at
its resurrection, & so, had they been even left to the mercy of the French, might
have been redeemed for a trifle, being, like many other trifles, of no use to any
but the owner.
‘Nay, had not Messrs, Panton not felt sinister intentions, they would have
VOL, II, B
2 7THE A/AM///. TO/W AAVAD - [1798.
lodged the cases in Italian warehouses, or sent them by the Arno to my banker,
A'em 22, at Florence. -
‘Your advice, therefore, how to proceed in the recovery of these goods, &
information whether S. J. Acton, upon proof of these facts and my paying the
usual reasonable freight from Leghorn to Naples, can relieve me from this fraud
& rapine, is what I submit to your experience, your knowledge & your friendship
—certain, very certain, that what can be done will be done by you.
“All here is in the greatest ecstacy of joy at the joyeuse entrée of the Austrians,
& you may bid Emma tell the dear Queen that from Udine here we saw nothing
but festoons, triumphal arches, emblems of Austria, and all that can indicate joy,
content & happiness. -
‘The Corfu fleet is in statue quo, almost all dé/abré & chuck full with booty ;
for God’s sake, for patriotism sake, let not Earl St. Vincent's lose this glorious
opportunity. What thanks Mr. Pitt must give you & what approbation must
you give yourself. -
“My friends here assure me there is upward of two millions sterling booty in
gold, silver, copper, pictures, &c. &c. &c. Ever yours most cordially, with my
love to dearest Emma. I shall stay at Rome [two or three days, & then for my
garret in Caserta.”
804. Facsimile of A. L. S. from Admiral Nelson to Captain Thomas
Lloyd. Dated Bath, January 29th, 1798. Ił pages 4to., with
Superscription. [P.] . -
“There is nothing you can desire me to do that I shall not have the greatest
pleasure in complying with, for I am sure you can never possess a thought that is
not most strictly honourable. I was much flattered by the Marquis’s’ kind notice
of me, and I beg you will make my respects acceptable to him. Tell him that I
possess his place in Mr. Palmer's box; but his Lordship did not tell me all its
charms, that generally some of the handsomest ladies in Bath are partakers in the
box, and was I a bachelor I would not answer for being tempted ; but, as I am
possessed of everything which is valuable in a wife, I have no occasion to think
beyond a pretty face. I am sorry the King is so poor. Had he been worth what
those vile dogs of Opposition think, what a vast sum would have been given to
the Nation ; but I now hope all the Nation will subscribe liberally. You will
believe that I do not urge others to give and to withhold myself; but my mode of
subscribing will be novel in its manner, and by doing it I mean to debar myself of
many comforts to serve my Country, and I expect great consolation every time I
cut a slice of salt beef instead of mutton. The Vanguard will be at Sheerness,
Saturday, and, if this wind holds, she will be at Portsmouth before Thompson f
quits the Channel. I only pray that the French may not be ready to leave Brest.
I have been in a fever ever since the Boadicea’s return with the account of their
being ready for sea. Lady Nelson and my father thank you for your kind remem-
brance of them, and believe me, my dear Lloyd, your,’ &c.
305. A. L. from Lord Bristol to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated Padua,
February 19th, 1798. I page 4to., with Superscription and
Seal. [H.] . -
‘All our account, public & private, announce us in possession of Corfu, &c.
God grant it may be true, for you see by my detail how important a possession it
is, both in point of commerce & immediate revenue. -
‘To-morrow I sett out for AVa//es, not being able to endure the damps of this
* William Petty Fitzmaurice, 2nd Earl of Shelburne and 1st Marquis of Lansdowne, 1737–1805.
The distinguished statesman, best known as Lord Shelburne, in which title he succeeded his
father in 1761. After filling the office of Secretary for Foreign Affairs under the Marquis of
Rockingham he was made Prime Minister, and in 1784 was created a Marquis.
+ Vice-Admiral Sir Charles Thompson. Promoted to be an Admiral in 1794, and afterwards
created a Baronet. He died in 1803. - -
1798.] AWAE/CSOAV PAA’AºA'.S. 3
part of Italy, which lay me up in bed for above the day, deprive me of my appetite,
sleep & spirits; nothing but Naples can restore me, but how to reach it 2 If you
know any magical means pray suggest it, and inclose your letter as usual to Mr.
Day. Oh how I long to stretch myself in my garret at Caserta, & hear all your
excellent anecdotes & dearest Emma's Dorick dialect ; eat woodcock pye &
quaff humble port, till when, adieu.’
306. A. L. S. ‘B’ from the same to Mr. Wyndham. Dated March 9th,
[I7]98. I page 4to., with SuperScription and Seal. [H.]
“I send you the enclosed,” d cacheſſ volanz, that you may judge how necessary
to send it, not only by the speediest, but by the most secret method possible, if
such there be. I am sorry to say that to-day all the contents are confirmed.
‘The success of this canai//e is equal to their arrogance.
“Poor Venice is tumbling out of the frying-pan into the fire ; those beastly,
brutal Austrians are establishing such a despotism that already the populace at
Padua (?) have begun to tear down the Imperial (flag). Quos /upiter vult perdere
dementat prius.
‘And are you yourselves safe in Tuscany, dum proximus arded Ucalegon 2 I
am told not. -
‘I am very ill indeed with this jaundice, e mi /usengo, che c'è ſericolo gia che
sono Žižk che stuffo di tutte guesſe cog/ionerie. Yºº,” &c.
307. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated March 10th, 1798.
I page 4to., with Superscription and Seal. [H.] -
“I trouble you again, my dear Sº, with the inclosed, d cachet vo/ant for Sº Wm,
as I deem the contents infinitely interesting.
‘We are flatter'd here that the Kingdom of Naples is arming in mass.
* 2nd. That the King's troops to the amount of 35,000, comanded by the
Chevalier de Suze, are advancing fast to Rome. -
‘3d. That the Roman dissentients have repulsed, beat & repress'd Masséna,
even, some letters add, fled to Azzcona for re-inforcement. Commérage—
Commérage.
‘For God’s sake enquire of the Neapolitan minister or others, and write me
what you can of it, as it interests me deeply, for they have confiscated all my
immense property there; but having most nobly offered me to ransom it at a decent
price, remains for me to know whether Masséna is likely to remain there to receive
the ransom. -
“At the same time be good to answer me with the same frankness I ask you
if, as all the inns are chuck full, you could give me one room in your house, up
two fair of stairs, where I always slept in my son's time. If not, I shall look out,
& am, with equal regard,’ &c. .
308. A. L. from the same to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated Venice, March
I8th, 1798. 3.} pages 4to., with SuperScription and Seal. [H]
‘For God’s sake, Sº Wm, move heaven & earth to prevent in time the Austrian
Cabinet from playing their cards as ill as they do ; tell our friend, St J. Acton,
that philosopher as well as statesman, what I ALMOST see with my own eyes, the
imperial arms, erected with so much enthusiasm, torn down again at Padua &
Vicenza with the same spirit in consequence of the horrid despotism they are
establishing in that country, yet have they given noble & respectable privileges to
all Dalmatia, wºn stands at the very door of Venice, & therefore is the great
insult. -
‘My physicians, who, as you know, frequent all orders of men, assure me
daily that if the Cabinet Vienna will but grant to the terra firma either the same
* “The enclosed,’ according to a docket of Mr. Wyndham, was a letter to Sir W. Hamilton,
dated March 7th, 1798. - º •
4 THE A/AM/Z7 ON A WD [1798.
privileges as to Dalmatia, or the same as possess the Hungarians, or finally a
transcript of the constitution of Brabant, for wº" country they have been
exchanged, the Ferrarese, the Cremonese, the Modenese make no secret in every
coffee house in the very market-place, to declare publickly, open & undismayed,
that they will give themselves to Austria. This is so publick it is confirmed to
me by all servants, and above a score of Cisalpine officers, who are 4 months in
arrear, & above 300 Cisalpine soldiers to whom as much is due, & who beg charity
on the road, and always receive it from me, not only speak the very same language,
but declare openly their resolution to desert & come here to Venice to be enlisted.
‘My servants saw 3OO Cavalry 'twixt Legnano & Mantua, going to take
possession of the latter, as they told.
“Berthier went through Bologna, as my banker tells me, but had not time to
attend the musical academy, but only to levy by requisition in that night 40,000
Roman crowns, which were punctually given to pay part of the arrear of the
Mantua army.
“My friend, Mariscotti, who married Lady Lanesborough's daughter,” & is a
chargé d'affaires or something equivalent at Milan, writes me by a private hand
that they are at the eve of a civil war, & the Austrian party, by means of the
clergy es/jecially, greatly predominant,
‘That the whole seems to him to depend on the Government establish[d] on the
Venetian terra ſirma, that if a reasonable system of freedom be establish'd, the
Cisalpine rep. is dissolved in less than a month, and, if not, un des/otisme vauf
ôien /'autre, it really makes my heart bleed to see such fine cards so ill plaid, &
to consider by the stroke of a pen the French influence, principles, & despotism
may in the course of a month be eradicated from Lombardy.
‘Did you ever hear the amount of the booty from the Monte di Pieta at
Bologna alone P-three *nillions & an half of Roman crowns, & some of the first
families sett adrift.
“All their plate put into requisition as at Ferrara, not an ounce left in any
house, public or private. -
‘Did I tell you that at Ferra my poor physician paid to their commissary
600 ounces of silver plate, & my publican 400 ounces P and, as you may guess, the
rage of these countries in town & country against the French is outrageous,
undisguised, & unsuppressed. -
- TURIN.
“The private letters from hence keep us all on tip-toe, the revolution is
expected daily; they count 13,000 Piedmontese, one madder than the other in the
Cisalpine army, the very officers receive charity on the publick high-way, you
know how I travel, & I myself have given it ; but their rage against the King of
Sardinia, & their avowed contempt of him is horrid.
‘The same French commissary with the 2 English horses is again repassed,
but no more news of the quarters at Ferrara for 12,000 men, the first column
of 25,000.
‘’Tis here supposed they are too necessary for the quiet of distracted Milan.
Distracted Vienna, I should say, who takes no advantage of such chaos & such
confusion.
‘Coºft, by some accounts is said to be evacuated, by others in statue quo, you
from Ożranto may know the true state ; if evacuated, Lº G. has lost a great
colò de main—I4 ships of the line loaded with plunder, & 2 millions & half of
booty, principally in canon, anchors, cordage, sails, & silver plate. I had
yesterday a very cold letter from Lº Spencert on the subject, full of the warmest
acknowledgements to me : Quot homimes, toſſ sententiae. I should have thought
such a booty & such a revenue at least as good as the Canaries, of whose strength
it seems they knew nothing of the matter.
* Sophia, Lady Lanesborough's fifth daughter, married in 1787 the Marquis Louis Marescotti,
and died in 1840.
† George John, 2nd Earl Spencer, 1758–1834, only son of the 1st Earl, whom he succeeded
in 1783. He went as Ambassador to Germany in 1794, was First Lord of the Admiralty from
1795 to 1800, and Secretary of the Home Department from 1805 to 1807. He was made a K.G,
in 1797,
1798.] AVE/SOAV PAPERS. 5
“If you would know the real state of Lombardy, get Il Monitore di Bologna,
the comptier is a young man of great talents, admirably informed, & neither
embraces nor fears any party; a little cynical on all, & more wit than belongs
usually to a Gazetier.’
309. A. L. S. ‘B’ from the same to Mr. Wyndham. Dated March 24th,
1798. # page folio, with SuperScription and Seal. [H]
“I send you, Sir, as usual, the inclosed for Sº Wº Hamilton, and flatter myself
you will find in it some new and curious anecdotes. There is no doubt but the
Austrian army is advancing with giant Strides into the Cisalpina, probably with a
view to relieve the Q. of Naples, who must otherwise decamp; but whither ?
“Do you think it possible there can be in the capital 40,000 malcontents ready
to rise P
‘I know to a certainty from the Colonel of a regiment, a man of great quality
& a near relation of my own, that the four regiments in garrison at Capua openly
in their cups talked treason, and he himself as he walked his rounds, muffled up,
has often heard them say, “Why don’t these French come and rid us from
Austrian tyrrany ?” The gates will soon be opened to them.
‘I am assured from too good authority that Tuscany is at the eve of a
democracy, & to be incorporated with the Roman Rep : the better to counter-
ballance AWaffles, be it Royal or Republican. Do you believe it P’
310. A. L.S. from Admiral Nelson to his wife. Dated March 31st, 1798.
I page 4to., with Superscription. [H.]
‘I go on board at two o'clock, and, if possible, I shall sail early to-morrow
morning. I have not the scrap of a pen from Mr. Cooper; more than 445 I have
laid out for his son. Mr. Marsh has given Allen” no account of his money
which you gave him to pay into the Funds. Get it !
‘God bless you all, and ever believe me,’ &c.
‘I have opened the letter to say thanks for your letter. In due time send me
Marsh and Creed's account. I have no wishes but for a speedy peace.
‘I have wrote Mr. Cooper to send you an order for £45.’
311. A. L. S. from Captain Lloyd to Admiral Nelson. Dated April 9th,
I798. I page 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘About an hour after you left me I took to my bed with agonizing pains, and
almost sleepless nights ever since. I am now much better, but still in bed, where
I have been ever since Tuesday sen'night, and am bolstered up to tell you that
among all your friends you have not one more anxious for your success and safety
than your faithful and devoted friend,’ &c.
‘P.S.—I shall take care to give your compliments where you wish, and I shall
not be unwatchful of your interest, Ilor the reputation of your Collimander-in-Chief,
‘I must make my letter short, being unable to lengthen it. God bless you,
my good fellow. My compliments to all in the Tagus, if they are allowed to
remain there.”
312. A. L. S. from the Princess Christina f. to her sister. Dated Caserta,
April 26th, 1798. 2 pages 4to, [P.]
On the happy day on which you are sixteen of age a sister—who loves you
* Tom Allen is well known as Nelson's trusty and faithful servant, who, at his own desire,
accompanied his master to sea when he was appointed to the Agamemnon. He was with
Nelson at the Nile, but happened to be away from him at Trafalgar. He was admitted into
Greenwich Hospital as a pensioner in 1831, and died in 1838.
t Mary Christina Amelia Theresa, 1779–1849, third daughter of Ferdinand IV. and Maria
Caroline. She married in 1807 Charles Felix, King of Sardinia. The sister to whom she writes
was Mary Amélie, her next younger sister, April 26th, 1782–1850, married in 1809 Louis
Philippe, afterwards King of the French.
6 THE HAMILTON AND [1798.
most dearly, who, as far as it depends upon her, will contribute all that lays in her
power to please you, and who hopes you will allow her a little place in your heart,
and give her a proof of your affection by forgiving her if she has sometimes done
or said something which might have offended or displeased you—wishes you no
more than three things: the first, that you may live as many years as are formed
by multiplying by itself the number of years you finish to-day, which would make
256; secondly, that you may enjoy these years in good health, free from woes and
troubles of any kind, sort, or manner ; third, that you may enjoy them always in
the company of dear Papa, dear Mama, of the brothers and sisters, and of the
other persons whom you love and in whom you take an interest; finally, I add a
fourth wish, and this is that present circumstances may take a favorable turn, and
that we may be able to pass the rest of our days in happiness, contentedness, peace,
and tranquillity; it is with these feelings that I embrace you most heartily, and I
am, and I shall always be the same, your, &c.
313. A. L. S. ‘C. F. G.’ from Charles Greville to Sir W. Hamilton.
Dated April 30th, 1798. 4 pages 4to. [II.]
‘You will receive enclosed a letter from Sr. Jos. Banks, which, had the times
been quiet, you would have received by a private hand, but is returned, & I give
it the chance of the common post. It may share the fate of many letters, but, I
trust, of those I wrote you some, at least, have given you satisfaction, for in these
times to know that your public conduct is approved, & that your situation is
generaly consider'd as arduous & anxious, must give the satisfaction which a
patriotic mind deserves ; & to know that all my attempts to benefit those who live
on your estate & to improve the country will be so far established as to afford you
both credit and an independant retreat should you be forced to abandon a climate
and a country to which your constitution & affections are almost naturalized.
‘I have witheld much detail of the port of Milford, which is grown since you
saw the Pell farms, & the income, which is improved & not subject to further
drain, joined to the pension which your long services will ensure you, give you
the prospect of an honorable and comfortable retreat.
‘I have been sorry to find you did not give full credit for your receipts, since
the amount you specialy appointed for the commencement of Milford had been
expended, & during the time that drain lasted the steward, you know, was bound
to pay the interest of your mortgage, £600 a year, & last year & the year before
had remitted to Ross & Ogilvy nearly the whole rents. I do not think this year
there will be any diminution of the remittance to Ross, notwithstanding the extra-
ordinary pressure of the times. Sr. Jos. Banks shew'd me one letter in which you
complained that not one shilling had been received from your estate, which made
me very uneasy, but, knowing your confidence in Meyrick & your friendship for
me, I have anxiously wished to see you at home, that you might see the real
situation of your estate. I cannot boast of much insight in Ross's accounts, for,
having had no direction to interfere there, I have never seen your account at their
house nor been consulted, & I have taken on my own direction the Pell farms
only, which are the site of the new town. Davis collects all those rented, &
accounts to Mr. Meyrick, who always makes me witness his examining the
vouchers. I have taken much trouble, & what little I have been able to scrape
together to complete public works I have expended. The Custom house is the
building I shall complete this year out of my own money. I have undertaken to
erect light-houses at St. Anne's Point this summer, having brought the lessees,
viz., yº-Allens, &c., & the Trinity House to allot 4, 2000, which they gave me to
make this improvement. The people who build at Milford have no aid from you,
& a great many houses are getting up, which, considering the times, is extra-
ordinary ; & all who are there are excellent people, & it is a pleasure to see how
easy it is to do good. I trust there is a spirit of good in this kingdom bursting
forth to avert the evil which has been preying on the foundation of all civilized
society, & it is a certain basis of comfort when confidence & mutual good-will
exists between landlord & tenant, & when you go to your estate you will be met
with Smiles & acknowledgments of justice. I look to Milford for such comfort
when others fail. . .
1798.] ME/sow PAPERS. 7
‘At a distance some private details of this may also comfort you, but to what
does the present delirium of continental politicks turn? We are no longer able to
blind ourselves, &, the veil being from our eyes, the spirit of all classes and all
parties tend to the public defence, & the blessing of a free government appears in
this Monarchy; for we shall shew France, if it can land the vast army it has
prepared, that the country will not be passive while the armies meet, & the
metropolis itself will be formidable from its internal force, which daily assumes
the appearance of a place of arms under proper officers. We have just heard of
the events at Vienna, & the house of Austria will not be left single to stem the
torrent. I confess I feel proud of my country in having stood single, but, if the
powers of the continent do not take alarm & catch some sparks of dignity &
enthusiasm from the example of the descendants of Maria. Theresa, the bonds of
civilized society will be rent for ever. My love to Ly H., believe me,’ &c.
814. Extract from the Admiralty orders to Earl St. Vincent. Dated
May 2nd, 1798.’ I page 4to. [H] - *n
‘Your Lordship is to direct the commanding officer of the above-mentioned
squadron (of I2 sail of the line) to remain upon this service so long as the pro-
visions of the said squadron will last, or as long as he may be able to procure supplies
from any ports in the Mediterranean ; and, when from want of provisions or other
circumstances he shall be no longer able to remain within the straits, to lose no
time in rejoining you. If from any favorable change of affairs the squadron should
be joined by any ships of war belonging to any foreign power in amity with this
country, to direct, in either of these cases, such of his ships to rejoin you as may
not absolutely be required to insure his superiority, the moment he shall find
himself in a situation to do so.” ---
315. A. L. S. from Admiral Nelson to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated
‘ Vanguard, off Elba, June 12th, 1798. 4 pages 8vo. [H]
* If the Transfer sloop of war has arrived at Naples, you will know that the
British fleet is in the Mediterranean, and that I have the honour of commanding
it. It has been a misfortune that a fleet was not ordered a fortnight sooner; but,
no blame attaches itself anywhere, and, from Sir Roger Curtis’t junction with Lord
St. Vincent, we are much sooner on the coast of Italy than could have been
expected. But I hope we are in good time to save Naples or Sicily from falling
into the hands of the Enemy. I beg you will assure the King and Queen of
Naples that I will not lose one moment in fighting the French fleet, and that no
person can have a more ardent desire of serving them and of fulfilling the orders
of the good and great Išing our Master. . As I am not quite clear, from General
Acton's Letters to you of April 3rd and 9th, what co-operation is intended by the
Court of Naples, I wish to know perfectly what is to be expected, that I may
regulate my movements accordingly, and beg clear answers to the following
questions and requisitions :— -
‘Are the ports of Naples and Sicily open to his Majesty's fleet P Have the
Governors orders for our free admission ? and for us to be supplied with whatever
we may want P - - 4. -
“If it is convenienſ, I much wish for some frigates and other fast-sailing vessels,
for, by a fatality, all mine have left me. I want information of the French fleet;
for I hope they have passed Naples. -
“I want good pilots—say six or eight—for the coast of Sicily, the Adriatic,
or for whatever place the Enemy's fleet may be at ; for I mean to follow them if
they go to the Black Sea. -
‘As the 12,000 men had not sailed from Genoa on the 2nd of June, nor,
indeed, were they all embarked, I trust, if the French are landed in the Neapolitan
* This ‘Extract’ is in Nelson's handwriting. - - -
f Sir Roger Curtis, 1750–1816, entered the navy young, and became a Lieutenant in 1771,
Post-captain in 1777, Rear-Admiral in 1794, and created a Baronet for his services under Lord
Howe. He afterwards became Admiral of the Red. . - :
8 7 HE HAM// TOAV AAWD - [1798.
territory, that the kingdom will not be lost in a few days, for I again repeat, that
when it is considered that the orders for a fleet to go into the Mediterranean
were only dated May 2nd, and that Sir R. Curtis only came in sight of Lord
St. Vincent on May the 24th, on which moment Captain Troubridge was sent
away with the detachment to join me off Cape Sicie, that the British fleet is
much sooner on the coast of Italy than could have been expected at this season
of the year. . 4.
“I trust, to your Excellency’s goodness in impressing General Acton with a
favourable opinion of my zeal in our Master's service, and although I most readily
admit that many more able sea officers might have been selected for this service,
yet one more anxious to approve himself a faithful servant to his King is not to
be met with, than your Excellency's,’ &c.
316. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated “Vanguard, off Civita
Vecchia, June 14th, 1798. I page 8vo. [H.]
‘I have heard by a vessel just spoke with that the French fleet were seen off
the north end of Sicily, steering to the eastward, on the 4th of June. If they
mean an attack on Sicily, I hope by this time they have barely made a landing,
for, if their fleet is not moored in as strong a port as Toulon, nothing shall hinder
me from attacking them; and with the blessing of Almighty God I hope for a
most glorious victory. I send Captain Troubridge* to communicate with your
Excellency, and, as Captain Troubridge is in full possession of my confidence,
I beg that whatever he says may be considered as coming from me. Captain
Troubridge is my honoured acquaintance of twenty-five years, and the very best
sea officer in His Majesty's service. I hope pilots will be with us in a few hours;
for I will not lose one moment, after the brig's return, to wait for anything.
Believe me your,’ &c.
317. A. L. S. from Sir W. Hamilton to Admiral Nelson. Dated Naples,
June 16th, 1798. 4% pages folio. [H.]f
‘This Government having just received advice of a fleet's having been
discovered from the top of the island of Ischia, consisting of about 14 sail of the
line coming from the westward and running S.-E. b. S. ; it can be no other than
the Squadron under your command, and upon the protection of which the Safety
of Italy depends at this moment. I hasten to send off a Maltese speronara or the
first good sailing boat I can hire to inform you of as much as is known here of
the strength & position of the enemy's fleet.
‘The first division of the Toulon armament arrived off Trapani in Sicily on
the 5th instant, and the 2nd joined it there the 7th ; they were, according to the
account I received from General Acton, 16 sail of the line, French & Venetian,
& that Gen' Buonaparte was on board the Sans Culotte, in which ship were also
the SQavāns, astronomers, naturalists, mathematicians, &c.; not fewer than
2000 men are said to be on board that ship, which, as all the other ships of
war, are visibly much encumbered with lumber of all sorts. IO frigates, 20 gun-
boats, some armed brigs & cutters were seen, & about 28o transports said to
contain at least 40,000 troops. They sent a frigate near the island of Favignana
n Sicily, from which a boat was sent with an officer, who told the governor of
the island that Buonaparte had sent him to acquaint him that the approach of
the fleet need not give any uneasiness to his Sicilian Majesty, with whom the
French Republic was in perfect peace, and that the armament he had the
honor to command had another object, not Sicily.
‘Accounts have since been received by this Government from the com-
* Sir Thomas. Troubridge, was the son of a baker, and entered the navy in 1773. In 1796
he was attached to the Mediterranean Fleet, served off Cape St. Vincent in 1797 and at Santa
Cruz. He superintended the blockade of Alexandria, and was created a Baronet in 1797. He
was lost at sea in the Blenheim with all on board in 1807.
t It appears from the endorsement in Sir William’s writing that this letter never reached
Nelson's hands. -
1798.] MELSow PAPERS. 9
manding officer of the island of Panteleria near Malta, who says, in a letter dated
the 8th instant, that a gun-boat from the French fleet came to that island
desiring to land, but, the commanding officer refusing to permit them, the
officer of the boat still insisted, as he came by order of . Genl. Buonaparte,
who he said was off Malta with 24 ships of the line & 8o thousand men ; but
at last, hearing that the Panteleria belonged to the King of Naples, said it was
another case, that he thought it belonged to Malta. The same felucca, that
brought this intelligence said that the French had captured a Maltese brigg
just off of Malta, and that the Maltese were all under arms preparing for a
vigorous defence. Both in Sicily and at the island of Panteleria many questions.
were asked by the French about a British squadron's being in the Mediterranean,’.
which they thought impossible, and the answer given them was that British
colours had not been seen for two years passed except on board some Gibraltar
privateers. .
‘God send you, my dear Nelson, the success that may be expected from your
well-known bravery and experienced conduct, and with such a chosen band under
your command. * .
‘I hope that my dispatch with one enclosed from Lord St. Vincent directed
to you, and which were brought to me by Capt. Bowen in the Transfer brig last
Sunday, and which I sent off the same day in the Queen Esther, privateer of
Gibralter, to endeavour to find you out, may have reached you. When I am sure
that it was your squadron seen off Ischia, I will send off Capt. Bowen to Lord
St. Vincent with all the information in this letter. .
‘Adieu, my dear & brave friend. Emma, you may be sure, joins with me
heart & Soul in wishing you to crown your glory by the destruction of this boasted
armament, on which the future tranquillity not only of Italy, but of all Europe,
seems greatly to depend. I have the honour to be,’ &c. .
818. A. Draft of L. from the same to (Lord St. Vincent). Dated Naples,
June 16th and 17th, 1798. 8 pages folio. [H.] . . . . . .
‘I was honor'd with your Lordship's most consoling letter of the 22nd of May
last Sunday by Capt. Bowen of the Transfer sloop of war, and immediately
communicated its contents to their Sicilian Majesties and their Ministry. ... Your
Lordship may well imagine how welcome the news of a powerful and
well-chosen British squadron being on its way to protect the Two Sicilies was to
their Majesties, who had just before received the account of the Toulon armament
being on the coast of Sicily. -
‘The following is the account that this Government has hitherto received
relative to that armament. The first division arrived on the Sicilian coast the 5th
of June, and the second, which compleats it, joined them there the 7th of June. They
were then, according to the list I received from Gen' Acton, 16 sail of the line, Io
frigates, 30 gun-boats, some armed brigs & cutters, and about 280 transports with
troops said to amount to 40 thousand men. General Buonaparte, Commander-in-
Chief, was on board the Sans Culotte, as were all the sgavants, naturalists,
mathematicians, &c.; it is said not less than 2000 men on board that ship, which
as well as all the other ships of war appear visibly to be much encumbered with
lumber of all sorts. . - . .
“They remained between Trapani & Marsala for a few days, and Gen"
Buonaparte sent an officer in a boat to the Governor of the island of Favignana
to assure him that his Sicilian Majesty need not be under any alarm from that
fleet, as the French Republic was in perfect peace with his Majesty, and that
the armament had another—not Sicily—for its object. On the 8th instant they
went off towards Malta. Yesterday this Government received a letter dated the
8th June from the Governor of the island of Panteleria saying that a French
gun-boat had been at that island, and an officer wanted to land, but was not
permitted. He said that he came from Gen' Buonaparte, who was with 22, ships
of the line, and 80 thousand men off Malta with orders to land on that island; but,
when the Governor told him it belonged to the King of Naples, he said that
alter'd the case, as he thought it belonged to Malta, and went off very civilly.
fo 7 HE HAMILTON A WD [1798.
He asked many questions relative to a report of a British squadron's being in the
Mediterranean, which they thought impossible to be true. In Sicily they asked
the same, and were answered that for two years passed they had not seen British
colours except on board some Gibraltar privateers. The same felucca that
brought this news from the Panteleria said that the great armament was lying off
Malta, & had taken a large Maltese brig belonging to that place, and that the
Maltese were alarmed and preparing for a vigorous defence.
‘This morning this Government has received advice from the island of Ischia
that yesterday evening from the top of a high mountain in that island they had
Seen a fleet of I4 ships of the line coming from the westward, and running
S.-E. b. S.; if so, it can be no other than Sir Hor. Nelson's squadron. I have
sent off at a hazard a Maltese speronara with a letter for Sir Hor. with the above-
mentioned intelligence, which is as much as we know here, and which may be of
use should the speronara have the good fortune to fall in with the squadron. I
. . have kept Capt. Bowen some days, much against his will, with the hopes of being
able to send your Lordship some certain accounts of the British squadron. I had
wrote so far yesterday; this morning only, June 17th, Capt. Hardy, in the Mutzne,
arrived here, and brought Capt. Troubridge of the Culloden with him, Ad! Nelson
remaining off this bay at such a distance that the hulls of the ships were not
discernable. Capt. Troughbridge gave me a letter from Rear-Admiral Sir. Hor.
Nelson, desiring to be informed if the ports of the Two Sicilies were open to the
King's ships without limitation, and whether they had free liberty to provide
themselves with all sorts of provisions and stores in those ports. The answers to
these questions your Lordship will find in the inclosed copy of the Marquis de
Gallo's,” the present Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, answer to an official
billet I wrote to his Excellency by order of Lord Grenville demanding a categorical
answer to those important questions. I have likewise sent a copy of the same
to Sir Hor. Nelson. Your Lordship will see by the Marquis de Gallo's billet that
this Government is waiting for an answer from London and one from Vienna
before they take the decided part of joining with us openly, but that every assist-
ance that can be given to the King's fleet in the Mediterranean, and that would
not absolutely be a direct violation of their treaty with the French Republic,
might be depended upon. I carried this morning Capt. Troubridge and Capt.
Hardyt to Genl. Acton, and they were much pleased with the answers given to
them by that Minister, who still remains all-powerfull in this country. Capt.
Troubridge having expressed a desire to have an order to the Commanders of
all the ports in Sicily to supply our ships with provisions, and, in case of an
action, to be permitted to land the sick and wounded in those ports, the General
was so good as to give him such a written order in the name of his Sicilian
Majesty signed by himself, and addressed to all the several Governors of the
different ports in Sicily. . .
‘Capt. Troubridge was perfectedly satisfied with this & General Acton's
declarations of friendship ; I really believe they are sincere, and that this Court
will declare, as it certainly ought, that it joins with us without reserve against the
...treacherous enemy, as soon as it can, and that in the meantime every concealed
assistance will be amply afforded to the British fleet, on which the very existance
of this monarchy depends at this moment.
- - ‘Capt. Troubridge did not stay above two hours on shore, and is now on his
way to join Adl. Nelson off the island of Capua, having got pilots to conduct
him through the Straits of Messina in order to reach Malta, where the French
armament certainly was on the 8th instant, and where I hope Ad Nelson will find
... it. I am assured by Genl. Acton that the Grand Master at Malta is prepared, and
* Marzio Mastrilli, Marquis, afterwards Duke de Gallo, I753–1833, a Neapolitan statesman,
sent as Ambassador to Vienna, and afterwards charged by the Austrian Government with the
delicate mission of carrying on negotiations with Bonaparte, which resulted in the Peace of
Campo Formio. In 1802 he was sent as Ambassador to Milan, was made a Duke by Murat,
and Minister for Foreign Affairs. In 1820 he went as Ambassador to Russia.
f Captain, afterwards Sir Thomas Masterman Hardy, 1769–1839, for some time Nelson's
Flag-captain, and his inseparable companion, in whose arms he died. He was created Baronet
in 1806, K.C.B. in 1815, and was subsequently promoted to be Rear-Admiral of the Blue,
1798.] AWEZSON PAPERS. f :
will make a vigorous resistance if attacked by the French, and that he has sent
one of his ships of the line and a frigate with orders to look for and join Adl.
Nelson's Squadron. This is all the information I can give your Lordship at
present ; but I flatter myself that the brave and powerful squadron which your
Lordship has chosen for the protection of these kingdoms will in a few days give
occasion for my sending off a quick sailing-vessel to give your Lordship some
joyfull tidings. -
‘Their Sicilian Majesties have very particularly enjoined me to express to
your Lordship their gratefull sense of the eternal obligation they feel themselves
under to the King, the British nation, and to your Lordship in particular. Gen.'
Acton received your Lordship's compliments with infinite satisfaction, and desires
to be kindly remembered to your Lordship, and that I wou'd assure you that he
wou'd do all in his power for the comfort of the British squadron in the
Mediterranean. I look upon my having detained Capt. Bowen so long as a
fortunate circumstance, as I am by it enabled to give your Lordship intelligence
both of your squadron and of the French armament. I have the honor,’ &c.
319. A. L. S. from Admiral Nelson to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated
‘ Vanguard, Naples Bay,’ June 17th (1798). 2 pages 4to. [H.]
‘Your letter by the boat yesterday did not come to me, but I am just favoured
with yours of yesterday. Captain Troubridge will say everything I could put in
a ream of paper. I have only to observe, in my present state, if I meet the enemy
at Sea, the convoy will get off, for want of frigates. I submit this to you to urge
General Acton upon. If the enemy have Malta, it is only as a safe harbour for
their fleet, and Sicily will fall the moment the King's fleet withdraws from the
coast of Sicily; therefore we must have free use of Sicily, to enable us to starve
the French in Malta. I need not say more on this very important subject. The
King of Naples may now have part of the glory in destroying these pests of the
human race ; and the opportunity, once lost, may never be regained. God bless
you. Depend on my exertions. I am,’ &c.
320. A. L. S. (marked “Private’) from the same to the same. Dated
‘Vanguard, at Sea, June 18th, 1798. 2 pages 4to. [H.]
‘I would not lose one moment of the breeze, in answering your letter. The
best sight (as an Irishman would say) was to see me out of sight ; especially, as I
had not time to examine the Marquis de Gallo's note to you. I send you an
extract of the Admiralty orders to Earl St. Vincent, by which it would appear as
determined by the Cabinet, to keep a superior fleet to the enemy in the Mediter-
ranean ; for the Admiralty you know can give no such orders, but by an order
from the Secretary of State. As for what depends on me, I beg, if you think it
proper, to tell their Sicilian Majestys and General Acton that they may rest
assured that I shall not withdraw the King's fleet but by positive orders or the
impossibility of Żrocuring supplies. I wish them to depend upon me, and they
shall not be disappointed. God forbid it should so happen that the enemy escape
me, and get into any port. You may rely, if I am properly supplied, that there they
shall remain, a useless body, for this summer. But if I have gun and mortar
boats, with fire-ships, it is most probable they may be got at ; for, although I hope
the best, yet it is proper to be prepared for the worst (which I am sure all this
fleet would feel), the escape of the enemy into port. My distress for frigates is
extreme ; but I cannot help myself, and no one will help me. But, thank God,
I am not apt to feel difficulties. Pray, present my best respects to Lady Hamilton.
Tell her I hope to be presented to her crowned with laurel or cypress. But God
is good, and to Him do I commit myself and our cause. Ever believe me, my
dear Sir, your obliged and faithful,’ &c.
321. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated ‘ Vanguard, off the
Pharo of Messina, June 20th, 1798. 34 pages 4to. [H.]
‘I have thought so much, and heard so much, of the French since I left
12 7A/F AAAZZZTOW AAWD [1798.
Naples, that I should feel culpable was I for a moment to delay expressing my
sentiments on the present situation of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. I trust it
will be received as I mean it—as a proof of the lively interest I take in the fate of
their Sicilian Majesties. I shall begin by supposing myself commanding a fleet
attending an army which is to invade Sicily. If the general asked if Malta would
not be a most useful place for the dépôt of stores, &c. &c., my answer would be,
if you can take Malta, it secures the safety of the fleet, transports, stores, &c., and
insures your safe retreat, should that be necessary; for, if even a Superior fleet of
the enemy should arrive, before one week passes they will be blown to leeward,
and you may pass with safety. This would be my opinion. There can be no
doubt but the French know, as well as you and I do, that their Sicilian Majesties
called for our help to save them (even this is crime enough for the French). Here
we are, and are ready, and will shed our blood in preventing the French from ill-
treating them. On the arrival of the King's fleet I find plenty of good-will towards
us, with every hatred towards the French ; but no assistance for us—-no hostility
to the French. On the contrary, the French Minister is allowed to send off
vessels to inform the fleet of my arrival, force, and destination, that, instead of my
surprising them, they may be prepared for resistance. But, this being past, I shall
endeavour briefly to state what in my opinion is now best to be done, and what
Naples ought to do if it is earnestly wished to save Sicily. I shall suppose the
French not advanced since the last accounts, but still on Gozo and Comino, the
fleet anchored between them. By the communication from Naples, they will be
formed in the strongest position, with batteries and gun-boats to flank them. We
shall doubtless injure them, but our loss must be great; and I do not expect to
force them from the anchorage without fire-ships, bomb-vessels, and gun-boats,
when one hour would either destroy or drive them out. If our fleet is Crippled,
the blockade ends ; if not, it will be continued, by attention, and sending two
ships at a time to Sicily to get refreshments, for the summer, at least ; but when-
ever this fleet may be drawn away, and the Ministry find what has passed at
Naples—no co-operation, although we are come to their assistance—who can say
that the fleet will be kept in these seas P I have said, and repeat it, Malta is the
direct road to Sicily. It has been, and may be yet, in the King of Naples’ power,
by giving me help of every kind, directly to destroy this armament, and force the
army to unconditional submission. Naples must soon find us masts, yards, stores,
ammunition, &c. &c. Will not this be a declaration of war against the French F
—therefore, why delay sending help, if it is only six gun-boats at a time P. But
not a moment must be lost—it can never be regained. I recollect General Acton,
in his letter to you calling for our help, says, “Will the King and Ministry wish
to see these fine countries in the hands of the French P” The answer is, “No ; ”
and we have sent the means of preventing it. It may now be asked, Will the
Ministry of their Sicilian Majesties permit these fine countries to fall into the
hands of the French P This will assuredly happen if they do not co-operate with
us. If I have wrote my mind too freely, I trust it will be excused. The import-
ance of the subject called for my opinion. I have given it like an honest man,
and shall wish to stand or fall with it. I am,’ &c.
322. A. Draft of letter S. from Sir W. Hamilton to Admiral Nelson.
Dated Naples, June 26th, 1798, 5 pages folio. [H.] --
‘I had the pleasure of receiving your packet, dated the 20th instant, off the
Pharo, Messina, by an express felucca sent me by the British Vice-Consul of
Messina, and I flatter myself that you must have been informed before you passed
the Pharo that Malta had been treacherously given up to the French Republic
on the 12* inst., but perhaps you may not have had a copy of the infamous
Convention between the Order of Malta & the Republic, under the mediation of
Aſis Catholic Majesty, and therefore I send you the inclosed copy, N. I. N. 2 is
a list of the French armament, which we flatter ourselves you will, before this
letter reaches you, have blocked up in the harbour of Malta. This Government
expects daily a messenger from Vienna, and upon the Emperor's motions it is
clear that those of this country entirely depend ; they are giving time for the
French to pour in fresh troops into Italy. Ten thousand are already arrived at
1798.] AVAEZSOAV PAPERS, I3
Milan, and twenty-five thousand more are coming from Marseilles. What you
State in your last letter to me is as plain and as true as possible. I read your
letter to Gen! Acton ; His Excy was struck with your statement of the actual
position of the enemy and of Sicily, but still I can get no more satisfactory an
answer than that which I sent to you by Capº Troubridge. They are sending,
however, from hence a sort of naval force & gun-boats into Sicily for the defence
of that island, & which may be ready to act with you as soon as this country
breaks with the French Republic, & which, as you may well imagine, can not
long be avoided, but still the present moment is lost. The letter Cap" Troubridge
& I got from Gen' Acton I look upon as a sort of credential one for you upon
Sicily, and, as that island to my certain knowledge is most partial to Great
Britain, you will be sure of every aid from that quarter. As our good and Royal
Master has, at the earnest entreaty of their Sicilian Majesties, made such a noble
effort in their favour, by sending out the powerfull squadron under your command,
let it save their fine country if possible, & I might almost say in spite of their
teeth, for they do nothing at this precious moment to help themselves. You
certainly now command here, and have already, by your appearance only in these
Seas, saved Sicily from immediate destruction.
‘You know how much I am an enemy to half measures, and your actions have
long proved your determined character. Malta itself, as you know, belongs to the
Crown of Sicily; the opinion I ventured to give here upon the arrival of the news
of its having been given up to the French was that His Sicilian Majesty shou'd
send away Mr Garrat,” the Ambassador of the French Republic, and march on
directly to Rome, sending an express to the Emperor to acquaint him that His
Majesty had thought it absolutely necessary to draw his sword again & throw
away the scabbard, & that he flattered himself that His Imperial Majesty wou'd
not suffer him to be sacrificed by a faithless enemy. The Emperor must then have
come forward, and, by our Government's sending you the frigates, galeots, gun-
boats, & Small vessels, of which you are in want of, directly, there would be the
best chance of counteracting & frustrating all the diabolical plans of the French
Directory. But, alas ! I see plainly there is not energy & resolution enough in
this Government to come to such a decided and, I think, salutary measure. All
our present dependance is in you, my dear Nelson, and I am convinced that what
is in the power of mortal man to do you will do. That God may protect you and
the brave band you have the honor to command, & in so just a cause, is the
constant prayer of, my dear sir, your,’ &c.
323. A. Draft of letter S. from the same to the same. Dated Naples,
June 30th, 1798, 2} pages folio. [H.]
“Last night this Government got certain intelligence from Sicily that the
French armament had left Malta on the 19th ins", having left a garrison there
from six to eight thousand men, some of which are Cisalpines & Polonese. That
there were now in the harbour three French frigates, and a small Maltese ship of
the line, & one frigate, & that there is another fine Maltese ship of the line just
finished, but not come out of the dock. Mon” Garrat tells this Government that
Buonaparte writes him word he is gone to the Levant, & for that reason I should
think he may have taken quite another direction. God send only that you may
get sight of them. The reports from Sicily say that your squadron was seen off
Cape Passaro on the 21* in the morning. Capt. Hope will tell you that he has
had every assistance from this Government in getting in his bread & water in a
short time. They certainly wish us well, but at the same time are, out of fear
oſ the French, counteracting what we are doing for them. For example : I
have just learnt that the Ambassador of the Republic, Mor Garrat, has asked for a
supply of provisions for Malta, and that the answer given by that Government is that
Malta belongs to His Sicilian Majesty now, so the French cou’d not pretend to
* Dominique Joseph Garat, 1749–1833, a French politician and man of letters, at one time
one of the principal editors of the /ournal de Paris. In 1792 he replaced Danton as Minister of
Justice; was afterwards Minister of the Interior, and went as Ambassador to Naples in 1797,
He was a Member of the Academy of Sciences, - - . - . . . . . . ."
I 4 7 HE HAM/Z 7TO/W AAVD [1798.
have the same priviledges of getting a certain annual quantity of corn from Sicily,
as had been granted always to the Order of Malta. However, it ended in Garrat’s
being allowed by that Government to buy corn & provisions in Sicily for Malta
with ready money wherever the laws of Sicily allowed the exportation of corn, so
that you may be sure. Malta will soon be amply supplied. Is it not shocking that
neither the Emperor nor His Sicilian Majesty will abandon their half measures
and take a decided part? You will find by a Gazette Extraordinary of the 2" of
... : June, that I send you by Capt. Hope, that the Rebellion in Ireland is nearly at an end.
. . . . “As your frigates sail to-day, I hope they may soon join you, and that we may
receive the joyfull news of your having overtaken & overthrown the boasted
armament before it can take shelter again.
‘May health & success attend you.’
324. Doc. S. ‘Horatio Nelson.” Dated Vanguard, Syracuse, July 22nd,
1798. I page 4to.” [H.]
IB. Alexandretta. M. Naples.
D. Cyprus. N. Towards the Adriatic.
F. Alexandria. O. Wt end of Sicily.
A. Rhodes. E. S. Wº end of Sardinia, probably
C. Dardanelles. : G. Off Toulon. [St. Peters.
Z. Smyrna. H. Gibraltar. -
W. Cannu in Candia. K. Oristand Bay, in the Island of
X. Syracuse. | Sardinia.
325. A.L.S. from Admiral Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated Vanguard,
Syracuse, July 22nd, 1798. Ił pages 4to., with SuperScription.
[H.]
‘I am so much distressed at not having had any account of the French fleet,
and so much hurt at the treatment we receive from the power we came to assist
& fight for, that I am hardly in a situation to write a letter to an elegant body :
therefore you IIlust on Illis occasion forgive my want of those attentions which I
am ever ambitious to shew you. I wish to know your and Sir Wº's plans for
going down the Med”, for, if we are to be kicked in every port of the Sicilian
dominions, the sooner we are gone the better. Good God how sensibly I feel
our treatment. I have only to pray I may find the French and throw all my
vengeance on them. With affectionate regards to Sir William, believe me,’ &c. :
326. A. L. S. from the same to Sir. W. Hamilton. Dated Vanguard,
- Syracuse, July 23rd, 1798. I page 4to. [H.] -
‘The fleet is unmoored, and the moment the wind comes off the land shall go
out of this delightful harbour, where our present wants have been most amply
supplied, and where every attention has been paid to us ; but I have been
tormented by no private orders being given to the Governor for our admission.
I have only to hope that I shall still find the French fleet, and be able to get at
them : the event then will be in the hands of Providence, of whose goodness none
can doubt. I beg my best respects to Lady Hamilton, and believe me ever your
faithful,” &c. - 4.
‘Mo frigates /–to which has been, and may again, be attributed the loss of the
French fleet.”
327. Copyt of Letter from General Acton to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated
Naples, August Ist, 1798. 4 pages folio. [H]
‘I have seen with a true concern the contents of Adm! Nelson's letters from
* This Document is endorsed in Sir William's handwriting, ‘Key to Sir Horatio Nelson's
motions, Vanguard, July 22d, 1798, from Syracuse,” -
# In the handwriting of Sir W. Hamilton,
1798.] NELSON PAPERS. I.5
Siracusa, I must condole with all of us for the misfortune which has befallen
the activity of our brave Admiral by miscarrying the French in their course,
notwithstanding the most energetical efforts to meet them before their landing an
army. Lord knows in what direction or what is their mischievous project 2
‘We must, however, do as well as we can in this disagreeable, but, not
desperate, case. His Sicilian Majesty has been acquainted immediately of what
you have been so good to communicate to me. Both their Majesties are in the
greatest uneasiness for their own situation in this moment. Admiral Nelson is
certainly at present, and every English squadron, most heartily welcome to all
the ports of the Two Sicilies; but you are officially acquainted only since yesterday,
my dear sir, from Sir Morton Eden, as well as from our own communication, that
the long-wished-for articles of our breaking peace on account of the English
coming to our ports is to be consider'd in the Caste foºderi's by the Emperor, that
article is signed at Vienna the 16th of July only. Therefore, all orders in Sicily
for admitting any English Squadron of whatever number cou’d not be openly
given, and our demands from the respective governors are but an excuse to give
in case of a rupture, to shew that we are in a kind forced to admit them above
the fixed number, in case that the Emperor had lain on us the blame and denied
to support us, as the treaty offer'd did formerly declare that in case only of an
affacé, not provoked from the French, as invasion, &c., we shou’d be defended by
the Austrians.
‘I hope, my dear sir, that, having seen all our papers from Vienna arrived
yesterday, you will be so kind as to do justice with the Court of St James's, with
the Earl St. Vincent, and with the good and sensible Sir Horatio Nelson especially.
I enjoy, however, that every civility was paid to him in Siracusa. We are, since
yesterday, on another footing ; but we are now in danger of a war, directly on
Admiral Nelson's account ; you see fairly our position ; will Adm' Nelson run to
the Levant again without knowing for certain the position of the French, and
leave the Two Sicilies exposed in these moments P Buonaparte has absconded
himself, but in any port he has taken securitys not to be forced. God knows
where he is, and whether we shall not see him again in a few days, if we do not
hear of what a course he has taken; I present all this to your consideration. The
brave Nelson will certainly have them present, he may defeat the French coming
to us, he expected and we hoped, on their passage on our coasts.”
328. A. Draft of Letter from Sir W. Hamilton to Admiral Nelson. Dated
Naples, August 1st, 1798. 6 pages folio. [H]
‘This morning at 12 o'clock I received your packet of the 20th and 22" of July,
from Siracusa, and you may judge of our disappointment, as for ten days past
reports have been current of your having defeated the French fleet in the bay of
Alexandrette on the 30th of June & taken Buonaparte prisoner ; but we must not
repine, you have done what man cou’d do, and as you say very well the Devil's
children have the Devil's luck. I can easily conceive the anxiety of your mind
during your long and fruitless tour in a crippled ship & without a single frigate.
But, as all repining at what is passed is in vain, let us do the best we can in our
present situation. First, let me inform you of all we know here since your
departure of the 17th of June, at noon, when we lost sight of you off the island of
Capua. A Maltese speronara that I sent off with a letter of no great consequence to
you came back with the letter saying he saw your squadron off Siracusa the 21* of
June, steering to the Levant, but could not get up to you. On the 27* of June Cap'
Hope arrived here in the Alcmene in company with the Zer/sichore, the Emerald,
& Bon Citoyen. I went alongside Hope before he came to an anchor, & shew’d
him your letter of the 17th, in which you say, I am in extreme want of frigates, &
therefore urged his sailing in search of you directly. That was impossible, as
he wanted bread & water, but the Teräsichore, having refreshed at Leghorn, was
dispatch'd that night—and the 30th, Capt. Hope, with the Emerald & Bon Citoyen,
sail'd from this port to go towards the Levant in search of you. Three days after
arriv'd from before Cadiz the Lord St. Vincent, armed cutter, with dispatches for
you from Lord St Vincents, and he went off the same day. We know also by
Lord St Vincent's letter to me of the 15% of July, of which a copy is inclosed, that.
I6 7A/E HAMILTON A WD [1798.
the Aigle and Thalia are on their passage to join you, & the Seahorse is supposed
by his Lordship to have joined you long ago. What a very unlucky business it
is that not one of these should have joined you. You will see also that the
Portuguese squadron is supposed on its way to join you. God send you may all
meet soon, and be able to unkennel the cunning fox who must be skulking in
some hole to avoid you, for Gen' Acton assures me he has certainly not got back
to Toulon. The French give out that he has passed the Dardanelles, but be
assured that no certain tidings of the French armament have come to Naples
since the last ship left Malta the 19* of June.
‘As soon as I received your packet to-day I went to Gen! Acton and read
your letters to him, abuse and all—for, indeed, you have reason to be provoked.
However, you will sce by his Excy's letter, which I have just received & is inclosed,
that from yesterday the case is altered. The treaty between the Emperor & this
Court is come & ratified, so that the ports of the 2 Sicilies are from yesterday open
to the King's ships without limitation, and His Imperial Majesty will defend the
King of Naples if attacked on account of his opening his ports to the British
fleet. You will see by the general's letter how anxious their Sich Majesties are
that you should not go far from hence before you hear something sure with respect
to the position of the enemy. You must be the best judge, and I can not pretend
to advise. Mº Littledale is, as I understand, on board the Seahorse frigate.
Cap" Dixon is here in the Lion, with spare yards, ropes, &c., for your squadron,
he had an engagement with 4 forty-gun Spanish frigates, & has brought me the
Dorothea in here. Cap" Bowen of the Transfer will bring you the account of the
gallant action, & the Lion himself hopes to join you in a few days.
‘The Romans on the borders of this kingdom are in arms & cutting the throats
of the French, whose robberies they can no longer endure. 5co Poles & fifty
French cavalry came out of Rome to attack the Romans Peeraits, but they
were surrounded by three thousand & cut to pieces the day before yesterday.
God knows how this will end, but I know the King of Naples ought not to lose a
moment of time in marching forward under the pretence of saving the effusion of
blood of their friends the French. I do not cease preaching, but God knows if they
will listen to me. However, they are eternally in council. I gave your list of
wants for the Vanguard to Gen' Acton, who desires me to tell you he will do all in
his power to get every article ready for you in time, but complains that Lº St
Vincent has seized upon the R. of Naples's cargo of masts at Gibraltar. I will
send a copy of your letter as you desire to Lº Spencer, & the letter to Lºy Nelson
by a Neapolitan messenger, who goes directly to London the day after to-morrow.
God bless you, my dear friend ; it is late at night. Capt. Bowen goes off early
to-morrow, & I hope in God he may meet with you at Syracusa.’
329. A.L.S. from Admiral Nelson to Sir. W. Hamilton. Dated Vanguard,
off Mouth of the Nile, August 8th, 1798. 2 pages 4to., with Super-
scription. [H.] -
“Almighty God has made me the happy instrument in destroying the enemy's
fleet, which I hope will be a blessing to Europe. You will have the goodness to
communicate this happy event to all the Courts in Italy, for my head is so indiffer-
ent that I can scarcely scrawl this letter. Captain Capel”, who is charged with my
dispatches for England, will give you every information. Pray put him in the
quickest mode of getting home. You will not send by post any particulars of this
action, as I should be sorry to have any accounts get home before my dispatches.
I hope there will be no difficulty in our getting refitted at Naples. Cullodem must
be instantly hove down, and Vanguard all new masts and bowsprit. Not more than
four or five sail of the line will probably come to Naples; the rest will go with the
prizes to Gibraltar. As this army never will return, I hope to hear the Emperor
has regained the whole of Italy. With every good wish, believe me,’ &c.
‘I have intercepted all Buonaparte's dispatches going to France ; this army is
in a scrape, and will not get out of it.’
* Captain, afterwards Sir Thomas Bladen Capel, 1776–1853, fourth son, by his second wife,
of William, 4th Earl of Essex. He was promoted to the Vice-Admiral of the Blue in 1825.
330. A. L. S. (in French) from the Marquis de Niza” to the same. Dated
‘Prince Royal, dans la Baye de Naples,” August I Ith, 1798. [H.]
‘Je viens de recevoir votre lettre dans laquelle vous me dites que le Général
Acton, après avoir su mon intention au sujet de majonction avec l'Escadre de
l'Amiral Nelson, n’avoit rien a me proposer de la part de cette cour, et ainsi je
vais sans délai chercher a Syracuse des nouvelles de l'Amiral Nelson, avec le
quel je tâcherai de faire majonction aussitót que possible. -
‘Si quelque raison pouvoit empêcher ma jonction avec l'escadre de Sa
Majesté Britanique, et que cette raison n'empêche pas l’Incendiaire de sºunir a
la ditte Escadre, Soiez Sár que je ne manquerai pas de l'envoier.
‘Je mets à la voille dans ce moment, et j'espère dans peu me trouver vis-à-vis
de Syracuse, J’ai l’honneur d'être,’ &c. -
331. A. L. S. from Admiral Nelson to the same. Dated August 12th,
1798. I page 4to., with Superscription and Seal. [H]
“As the greater part of this squadron is going down the Mediterranean, we
shall not want the quantity of wine or bread ordered ; therefore what is not
already prepared had better be put a stop to. I will settle all the matter, if ever I
live to see Naples. I have the satisfaction to tell you the French army have got a
complaint amongst them caused by the heat, and nothing but water, which will
make Egypt the grave of the greater part. Ever yours,’ &c.
332. A. L. S. from Capt. Dixon f to the same. Dated “Candia in sight,
Aug. 23" (1798). 2% pages 4to. [H.]
‘Cap" Gage,f of the Teräsichore, will bring you the most glorious news, that of
the total overthrow of the French fleet, as follows:
Guerrier. Spartiate.
Conquérant. Aquillon.
E. Souverain. Franklin. Taken.
Tonant. Heureux.
L'Orient blown up and burnt. Timoleon burnt.
Guillaume Tell. Escaped
Généreaux. caped.
‘This noble action took place on the 1st Aug", the gallant Nelson led in at the
head of his fleet. As Capt Gage will tell you in person, I will not keep him one
moment to deprive you & dear Lady Hamilton of hearing it, a moment later than
otherways you wou’d hear them. Joy to you & Lady H. on this happy termination
of the marine war in these seas. The Monster is swept away. The lines are all
in health, and, altho’ they would have been glad to have had a finger in the pye,
they are too loyal to wish the least procrastination to so great & glorious a
battle, which promises so much advantage to our dear country.
‘Joy to the King of the Sicilies, Naples, &c. are in perfect safety.’
333. A. L. S. from Admiral Nelson to the same. Dated Vanguard,
September 7th, 1798. 3 pages 4to. [H.] .
‘The Culloden sails so heavy, by having a sail under her bottom in order to
stop her leak, that it has caused me to be a much longer time than I can at
present spare to make passages. I send the Bonne Citoyenne with this in order
that everything may be prepared for the reception of the Culloden at Castle dell
Mare (which I understand is the place where large ships heave down), and that
* The Marquis de Niza was a Rear-Admiral and Commander-in-Chief of the Portuguese
squadron at Naples and Malta.
+ Captain afterwards Sir Manley Dixon, 1757–1837, entered the navy young, and served in
the American War. He became a Post-captain in 1790, and at the date of the letter had just
been distinguishing himself off Carthagena and at the battle of the Nile. He was appointed a
Rear-Admiral in 1808, Vice-Admiral 1813, and in 1819 was made K.C.B.
# Captain afterwards Sir William Hall Gage, 1777–1864, grandson of Thomas, 1st Viscount Gage.
He was promoted to be an Admiral in 1821, and was a Lord of the Admiralty from 1841 to 1846.
VOI, II. C
I 8 THE HAMILTON AND [1798.
every necessary order may be given for her assistance, for I do not wish her to
anchor at Naples. It is, I hope, in preparation for the Court at Naples to assist
in destroying the French army in Egypt, for, if all their shipping are destroyed,
the army cannot exist; and, if this opportunity is lost by Naples, such another can
never be expected to offer. Our squadron quits the blockade, September 30th,
having no provisions, and, if I am not furnished with the means of continuing it,
the French will get into Syria (which at present they cannot do for want of their
stores), and then I am told they can hold out, which in Egypt they cannot do.
‘I have sent an express to Constantinople, and requested Mr. Jackson* to urge
the Grand Signior, by every regard for his own preservation, to send an army
into Syria, and his fleet and bombs to destroy Alexandria and all the stores in
it. I am writing to the Marquis de Niza, but I fear he will not obey me in going
to Egypt; however, I will do my duty in tepresenting the importance of the
business, and if our allies will not assist in completing what has been so gloriously
begun it is not my fault, and too late they will repent it. I am ignorant if the
Portuguese are at war with the Grand Signior, therefore I send you my letter to
the Marquis de Niza, which you will not deliver if the two nations are at war. If
the letter is delivered, I trust you will (if opportunity offers) say everything which
can induce these folks to be ready to sail the moment of my arrival; for myself, I
hope not to be more than four or five days at Naples, for these times are not for
idleness. With my very best respects to Lady Hamilton, believe me, yours,’ &c.
334. A. Draft of Letter S. from Sir W. Hamilton to Admiral Nelson.
Dated Naples, September 8th, 1798. 4 pages folio. [H]
‘It is impossible, my dear Sir Horatio, for any words to express in any degree
the joy that the account of the glorious & compleat victory you gain’d over the
boasted French fleet at the mouth of the Nile on the first of August occasioned
at this court & in this city. Capº Capel arrived here on Monday last about one
o'clock in the afternoon, and was off the next day with your dispatches for our
Government, and which I hope will be the first authentic accounts they will
receive of the ever-memorable battle of the Nile—a battle I believe of the
greatest importance that was ever fought, the expected good consequences of
which are incalculable. History, either ancient or modern, does not record an
action that does more honor to the heroes that gained the victory than the late
one of the first of August. You have now completely made yourself, my dear
Nelson, immortal. God be praised, and may you live long to enjoy the Sweet
Satisfaction of having added such glory to our country, and most probably put
an end to the confusion and misery in which all Europe wou’d soon have been
involved. This country feels its immediate good effects, and their Sicilian
Majesties, their ministry, and the nation at large, are truly sensible of it, and
loudly acknowledge eternal obligation to your undaunted courage and steady
perseverance. You may well conceive, my dear sir, how happy Emma and I
are in the reflection that it is you, Nelson, our bosom friend, that has done such
wonderous good in having humbl’d these proud robbers and vain boasters. See
in the Malta Gazette inclosed in the packet IV., and read if you can, without
laughing the words at the bottom of page 5: “Une seule nation. . . . . je me
trompe un seul Gouvernement—est encore l'ennemi de la France et le votre. Le
Cabinet de Londres conspire contre la paix et l’humanité; mais reposez vous sur
les guerriers françois du soin de le soumettre, de punir, d’abaisser l'orgueil de
l'Angleterre. E//e apprendra bientôt gue la victoire est ſide/e aur François sur
/es deur élémens. En vain ses vaisseaux fatigueront de leur poids les mers qui
vous entourent; ses soldats n'oseront toucher le sol de votre isle : ou s'ils
paroissent ils y trouveront comme à Ostende le déshonneur ou la mort,” &c.
According to your wish, I did not lose a moment. I lost no time in sending off
Capº Capel, and, that he might get on with speed & security, I obtained from
Gen' Acton the permission that he should go as far as Vienna with one of the
best Neapolitan Cabinet messengers; he is gone by Manfredonia, & from thence
one of His Siº Majº Boats to Trieste. Capel is a fine young fellow, and Emma
* Mr. Francis James Jackson was at that time Ambassador to Turkey. He went in the
same capacity to France in 1801, to Denmark in 1807, and to the United States in 1809.
1798.] A Jº ZSOAV PAPERS. I9
and myself are very fond of your élève, now Capt. Host, who brings you my
dispatches. He is a natural good & warm character. I send you inclosed the
copies of all the important despatches and letters from Malta, in number 12,
which Capt. Bowen, of the Transfer, took in his way to join you & sent to me.
The originals I have sent by Capº Capel to Lord Grenville ; you will see by these
letters the miserable state of Malta, & I have asked Gen' Acton for the freshest
intelligence which he has received from Malta that I may send it to you. I realy
shoud not be surprised if, on your appearance before Malta, the Maltese shoud
rise and massacre all the French, whom they detest most cordially.
“It looks here as if the peace with the French Republic could not possibly
hold much longer, but they seem to be watching & waiting for the Emperor's
motions. Capt. Capel's arrival at Vienna with your glorious news will, I hope,
determine that wavering Government to take a firm & decided part. The K. of
Naples has just raised 50 thousand men more, & has 30 thousand ready in
tolerable discipline. Italy might be cleared of these raggamuffins in a month’s
time. They must learn of you. You did not wait for daylight to attack the
French fleet on the Is" of Aug", nor for the arrival of your four ships from
Alexandria, nor did the Culloden's being ashore prevent your falling upon the
enemy directly like a hawk on its prey ; that is the way to do business.
Atadendo agendogue res publica cresciº-mon tºs consiliis gua timidt cauſa
affellant. How proud I am of feeling myself an Englishman at this moment.
Great Britain alone has truly faced the enemy in support of the good cause, and
Sir Hor. Nelson is the greatest hero of that Great Britain.
‘Adieu, my dear & brave friend,’ &c.
835. Doc. S. ‘From Sir Horatio Nelson to Lady Hamilton.’ Dated
Vanguard, September 13th, 1798. I page folio. [H.]
* FORCE OF THE ENGLISH AND FRENCH FLEETS AT THE BATTLE OF THE NILE.

Number of Number of How tº
ENGLISH. Guns. | Men. Killed.] Wounded FRENCH. | Guns. Men. posed of.
Vanguard... 74 595 || 30 75 L'Orient ... ... ... I2O | IOIO | Burnt.
Orion ... 74 || 59C I3 29 Le Franklin ... ... 8o | 8oo | Taken.
Culloden ... 74 590 ... tº e tº Le Tonnant ... ... 8o 8oo | Taken.
Bellerophon 74 || 590 || 49 148 Le Guſe]rrier ... ... 74 || 700 |Taken,
Defence ... 74 590 4 I I Le Conquérant ... 74 || 7oo | Taken.
Minotaur ... 74 640 || 23 64 Le Spartiate ... ... 74 || 700 |Taken.
Alexander... 74 590 | 1.4 58 Le Timolien ... ... 74 || 700 | Burnt.
Audacious 74 590 I 35 Le Souverain Peuple 74 || 7oo | Taken.
Zealous ... 74 590 I 7 L’Heureux ... ... 74 || 7oo | Taken.
Swiftsure ... 74 || 590 7 22 Le Mercure ... ... 74 || 7oo | Taken.
Majestic ... 74 || 590 || 50 | 1.43 L'Aquillon ... ... 74 || 700 |Taken.
Goliath ... 74 590 || 2 I 4 I L’Artémise ... ... 36 || 3oo Burnt.
Theseus ... 74 590 || 5 3O La Sérieuse ... ... 36 || 300 Sunk.
Leander ... 50 | 343 | ... I4 L’Hercule, Bomb. ... ... 5o Burnt.
218 677 La Fortune ... ... l I 8 7o | Taken.
| Le Guillome Tell ... 8o 8oo Escaped.
Le Généreux ... ... 74 || 7oo Escaped.
La Justice ... ... 4O | 400 Escaped.
La Diane... ... ... 40 | 400 || Escaped.
Complement of men on board the French ships burnt, taken,
and sunk at the battle of the Nile, as by certificates from com: ... 893O

missaries and officers of the different ships... .. º
Sent on shore by Cartel, including the wounded, as by certifi
cates from Captain Barry of L’Alceste * * * * * e º º te e e | 3 IOS
Escaped from the Timo/ien ... ... ... ... 350
Escaped from L'Hercule bomb ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 5O
Officers, carpenters, caulkers, &c., prisoners on board the fleet ... 26o
— 3705
Kill'd, drown'd, burnt, and missing ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ..., 5225
2O THAE HAM// TO AV AAVD [1798.
336. A. L. S. from the same to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated September 13th,
I798. I page 4to. [H]
“The Marquis de Niza is returned from Egypt; I have waylaid him to try to
get him to cruize off Malta, but I never expect any real service from that squadron.
I am sending the Flora to Egypt to beg Captain Hood to stay as long as possible.
I hope to get the ships ready to return to him early in October—that army must
be destroyed. I beg my best regards to Lady Hamilton. Captain Nisbet, who
you remember a boy, is the bearer of this letter. Ever yours,’ &c.
‘P.S.—Pray have the order ready for the Culloden to go to Castel-de-la-Mare
without anchoring.’
337. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated September 15th,
I798. I} pages 4to. [H.]
‘Your highly flattering letter I received yesterday by Capt. Hoste, who I have
sent to the Earl St. Vincent, and with him every paper you sent me. The
Thalia (who has Vang" in tow, having this morning lost her jury-foremast, &c.)
will sail for the Earl St. Vº in 24 hours after my arrival at Naples; therefore, if
you have any letters to go that way, pray have them. With your permission and
good Lady Hamilton's, I had better be at a hotel ; it will not deprive me of
being with you long enough to teaze you, and, as I must have much business with
every officer, it may be more convenient. I am truly sensible of your & her
Ladyship's goodness, & leave this matter to your determination; if you agree with
me, pray order your servant to get me some apartments. I send an ans' to Sir
J. Acton’s very handsome letter, which I request your Excellency will have the
goodness to cause to be delivered. As I hope to be only a few hours after my
dear friend Trowbridge, I shall finish my letter by assuring,’ &c.
338. A. L.S. from Pasquale de Paoli" to (Sir W. H.). Dated London,
- September 16th, 1998. 2 pages 4to. [H]
Will your Excellency allow an old and devoted friend to remind you of his
service, and at the same time to thank you for the courtesy you have shown to
two of my countrymen, Lieutenant Colonel Colonna di Giovellina and Signor
Gianvalerio Valentini, honest men and of influence in the island, who may truly,
on occasion, prove more useful than many others. For this reason I beg of you to
continue them your valuable protection, and recommend to your care the enclosed
letters, because then they will secretly reach their retreat, which is well known to
you as they inform you. This letter contains advice that I have sent for them a
bill of exchange of fifty pounds sterling through Sign. Saffrey to the English
merchant, Mr. Macaulay, which they will divide in equal shares between them-
selves and Colonel Terrandi. If Colonel Terrandi has not yet arrived, he will
not delay long. Mr. Macaulay, not knowing these gentlemen, is directed by
Sign. Saffrey to address himself to your Excellency. Your good heart, always
ready to oblige, will excuse the fresh trouble which I bring you, and I wish in
exchange you would honour me with some command wherein I could show you
the sincerity of my attachment, & the respectful esteem with which, &c.
339. A. L. S. (in French) from the Marquis de Niza to Sir W. Hamilton.
- Dated “Prince Royal, devant Malltre,’ 23rd September, 1798.
2 pages 4to. [H.]
‘Je vous prie d'ayoir labonté de remetre a Sir Horatio Nelson la lettre ci-jointe.
Je n'ai pas osé lui écrire en Anglois, de peur de commettre beaucoup de fautes;
* Pasquale de Paoli, 1726–1807, the celebrated Corsican patriot. When the island was
transferred by the Genoese to France, Paoli was compelled to seek refuge in England, where
he obtained a pension. On the breaking out of the French Revolution he returned to Corsica,
and prevailed upon his countrymen to submit to the English Government; after which he
returned to London, where he died.
I /98.] ATE / SOAV PAPA A'S'. 2 I
jespère que vous aurez labonté de lui dire ga, et de le prier de ma part de vouloir
vous donner les nouvelles que je lui envoie au sujet de la position oil se trouvent les
Malthoiz. Je suis Sür que vous contribuerez beaucoup pour que ces braves gens
soient soutenues.
‘Je vous prie de faire mes plus respectueux compliments a My Lady, et de
Croire aux sentiments avec lesquels j'ai Phonneur d'être,’ &c.
340. A. fragment” of Letter from Sir W. Hamilton to
September 29th, 1798. # page folio. [H]
‘The Neapolitan messenger that was going to Vienna last night being now
ordered to proceed directly for London without touching Vienna, I have only
time to add that Cap" Gage in the Teräsichore arrived here this morning. He
left Malta the 26 ins" when Sir James Saumarezt with his squadron, in conjunction
with the Portugheze squadron under the command of Marq. Nizza, had summoned
by a flag of truce the French to surrender and evacuate that fortress, which was
refused by Mo" Vaubois, the commanding French officer at the Valette, & that
Sir James Saumarez was proceeding with his squadron & French prizes to
Gibraltar, having left the Portugheze to block Malta, and having, at the request of
the Maltese insurgents, supplied them with plenty of ammunition & twelve
hundred Stand of arms. The Maltese say that the French are in the greatest
want at Valetta. This Government as yet has not (at least openly) given any
Assistance to the Maltese Insurgents to recover an Island which they claim as
their own, and the Insurgents are fighting under Neapolitan colours. Most
extraordinary /?
341. A. L. S. from Lord St. Vincent to Lady Townshend. Dated
‘Ville de Paris, before Cadiz, September 30th, 1798. 1 page 4to.
‘I have appointed young Hoste Commander of La Martime, the finest Sloop
of War under my orders, and the best man'd, and you must work double tides
with Lord and Lady Spencer to get him confirmed, for he is made what they call
an Admiralty vacancy.
“Remember me kindly to Lord T., children, & grandchildren, and trust that
I always am yours,’ &c.
342. A. L. S. from Admiral Nelson to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated
Naples, October 6th, 1798. 2 pages 4to. [H.] -
“I beg leave to acquaint your Excellency that the Marquis de Gallo has (I am
informed) order'd a Prize belongs to His Majesty's Brig Transfer, together with
the property found on board her to be seized, on some pretence of being taken too
near the Sicilian shore.
‘I have, therefore, to request that your Excellency will immediately demand
restitution of the vessel & property found on board her, and also satisfaction for
unwarrantable conduct of the Marquis de Gallo (if my information is true). Your
Excellency will not, I am sure, on this occasion, permit any negociation on the
subject until the vessel and property is restored to the agents of His Majesty's
Brig Transfer. I have,’ &c.
“I send your Excellency Cap" Bowen's letter to me on the subject.”
(?). Dated
* The letter is endorsed in another hand, ‘Postscript, Sep 29th, 1798, of a letter from Sir
W. Hamilton’ (without address).
+ Sir James Saumarez, 1757–1836, entered the Navy at 13, and became a Post-Captain in
1781. He distinguished himself on many occasions, and was knighted in 1793; for his services
off Cadiz he received the Order of the Bath, was appointed Governor of Guernsey in 1818, was
made a Rear-Admiral of Great Britain, and eventually succeeded Sir William Young as Vice-
Admiral of England.
£ Anne, Marchioness Townshend, 1754–1819, daughter of Sir William Montgomery, and
second wife of George, Ist Marquis Townshend, 1724–1807, who had succeeded his father as
4th Viscount in 1767. The Marquis entered the Army, was a Colonel of dragoons, and became
a Field-Marshal in 1796. He served under George II. at Dettingen, and commanded in chief at
Quebec after the death of General Wolfe. He was Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland from 1767 to 1772.
22 THE HAMILTON AAWD [1798.
843. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Naples, October 9th,
1798. Ił pages 4to., with Superscription and Seal. [H.]
“I beg leave to submit to your Excellºy the propriety of having a note signed
by this Government, that if Malta falls into the hands of the King of the Two
Sicilys, during the time His Majesty's fleet is in these seas, that all the French
ships of war which may be found in the harbour shall be deliver'd to me in the
instant of surrender, with everything on board them, and with great defference
to your Excellency's better judgement I beg leave to state that in case Naples
should at any future time be forced or inclined to cede Malta, neither would it be
proper to endeavour to get an article signed that Malta shall never be ceded to
any power without the consent of the King. I should not have presumed to
mention this subjcct was it not in my opinion of great importance to our commerce
in the Levant. I have the honour to be,’ &c.”
844. A. L.S. from the same to the same. Dated October 15th, 1798.
# page 8vo. [H.]
“I send you the recipe to make spruce beer and a bottle of the grounds to
work it. God bless you & Lady Hamilton.’
345. A. L. S. from Admiral Nelson to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated
October 16th, 1798. I page 4to., with Superscription. H.]
‘As I send you all Capº Hood'st letters, &c., I shall refer you to Cap" Waller
for particulars; he will tell you of the mutiny in Bonaparte's army, and of the
distress for provisions at Alexandria. God bless you my dear Sir William,’ &c.
346. A. L. S. from Captain Ball; to Lady Hamilton. Dated ‘Alexander,
off Malta,' October 19th, 1798. 4 pages 4to., with SuperScription.
[P.]
‘I cannot let slip this occasion to address a few lines to the best friend and
patroness of the navy, and to assure you and Sir William Hamilton, that I shall
ever retain the most lively sense of the attention and hospitality we all received
at Naples through your goodness. I have brought upon myself a great deal of
envy, by shewing the official order I received from you, at Mr. Head’s, signed a
la Nelson.
“The Marquis de Niza is a candidate for carrying you to Lisbon ; old Barker $
kissed the order, and regretted that he had not a chance; but I stand more in
fear of Foley|| than any one. There was a report made of his ship the day I sailed
which I did not at all like ; however, I shall depend upon your firmness. I trust
that a very short time will put us in possession of the French ships in the harbour
of Malta, viz., Le Guillaume Tell, of 80 guns; La Dianne and La Justice, frigates
of 40 guns, besides two ships, formerly Maltese. The French would be glad of a
* With this letter is a translation of it into French, intended for the Marquis de Gallo, and
in the handwriting of Sir William IIamilton.
+ Captain, afterwards Sir, Samuel Hood, 1760–1815, one of a family of famous naval
commanders, being nephew of Lords Bridport and Howe, and cousin of Viscount Hood. In
1791 he commanded the /uno on the Jamaica Station, then served under Lord Hood in the
Mediterranean, and in 1796 was appointed to the Zealous and distinguished himself at the Nile.
In 1803 he was given the chief command on the West Indian Station. In 1808 he commanded
at Corunna and was created a baronet.
# Alexander John Ball, 1757–1809, one of Nelson's great favourites. He was appointed
Governor of Malta in 1799, was created a baronet, and in 1805 was promoted to be Admiral.
He died at Malta. Coleridge, the poet, acted as Ball's secretary for some months in 1804, during
a visit he paid to Malta for his health, and devoted no less than five essays to him in the Ariend.
§ Captain George Barker, promoted to be Vice-Admiral in 1825.
| Afterwards Sir Thomas Foley, G.C.B., 1758–1833, a distinguished officer who fought off
Cape St. Vincent, at the Nile, and at Copenhagen. He was created an admiral in 1808, and
was Commander-in-Chief at Portsmouth. -
1798.] - ATAE/LSOAV PAPERS. 23
sufficient excuse to surrender, which they will soon have, as they are firing away
their powder very fast. The Maltese have gone too far ever to recede; they keep
up their spirits, and think that the English will do every thing for them—that we
carry with us every where the cornucopia. I think their character partakes a
little of the Corsican breed.
“Mr. Davenport is in good health, und makes an excellent voyageur. He
desires his best respects to you and Sir William. I inclose a letter from the boy
Mrs. Cadogan sent with me. He is a good lad and promises well. My best
respects to her.
“I request that you will have the goodness to remember me to Lady Knight,
Miss Knight, and all my English friends. Pray accept of my best wishes for
your's and Sir William's health,’ &c.
347. A. L. S. from Admiral Nelson to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated off
Malta, October 24th, 1798. I page 4to. [H.]
‘I am just arrived off this place, where I found Captain Ball and the Marquis
de Niza : from these Officers I do not find such an immediate prospect of getting
possession of the town, as the ministers at Naples seem to think. All the country,
it is true, is in possession of the islanders, and I believe the French have not
many luxuries in the town, but as yet their bullocks are not eat up. The Marquis
tells me the islanders want arms, victuals, mortars, and cannon to annoy the town.
When I get the elect of the people on board, I shall desire them to draw up a
memorial for the King of Naples, stating their wants and desires, which I shall
bring with me. The Marquis sails for Naples to-morrow morning. Till he is
gone I shall not do anything about the Island, but I will be fully master of that
subject before I leave this place. God bless you, is the sincere prayer of your
affectionate,’ &c.
348. Copy of Letter from Admiral Nelson to the Marquis de Niza.
Dated ‘ On board the Vanguard, off Malta,' October 24th, 1798.
I page folio. [H.]
‘You are hereby required and directed to proceed with the squadron of His
Most Faithful Majesty under your command to the Bay of Naples, and on your
arrival there to use all expedition in fitting them for sea, and victual them for
three months if provisions can be procured for them for that time.
‘I have written to Captain Trowbridge, of His Majesty's ship Cullodem, to
spare you what salt provisions he is able, after victualling the ships of my own
Squadron to the time directed, and when the squadron under your command are
fitted, you will hold yourself in constant readiness for sea.
‘And should His Sicilian Majesty have occasion for your services, / request
that your Excellency will pay every attention to his commands.”
849. A. L. S. from Sir W. Hamilton to Admiral Nelson. Dated Caserta,
October 26th, 1798. 44 pages folio. [H.]
‘Intelligence arrives so fast from every part, that our friend Capº Troubridge
thinks proper not to wait for your return here, but to send off Cap" Waller to you
in the Emerald with the intelligence I have furnished him with from London and
Constantinople. You will see by the copys of Azara's letters the evidence of what
we knew before—that is, of the corruption and rascality of the members of the
French Directory, and the certainty of the present intention of the French Republic
to ruin and plunder this kingdom. I should hope the news of your most glorious
and complete victory, arriving at Lisbon before the departure of Monº Norhona
for Paris, may prevent his going and stop the ruinous peace which the Court of
Portugal seems to be on the point of concluding with the French Republic.
‘Cap" Troubridge has been with us here two days, and has received every
honour and attention from their Silician Majestys, the young Royal Family, &
Gen' Acton that his known merit justly entitled him to. The General told us
24 THE HA MV/. TO AV AAVID [1798.
yesterday that he had received a messenger from Constantinople, & that
Buonaparte's army was reduced to ten thousand men, and he promised to send
me a note for you from Mr Spencer Smith, of which Troubridge will send you
copies. I do not expect much more than you will find in my dispatches.
‘I have seen Gen' Acton this morning ; he showed me a letter from Mons"
Baptiste, the Neapolitan Chargé d' Affairs at Vienna, with a message to him from
the Baron Thugut in the Emperor's name, advising the King of Naples to act
openly against the French at Malta as His Imperial Majesty would certainly
support him. This takes off all difficulties, but I must do justice to this Govern-
ment by assuring you that it was before determined that the Neapolitan army
shou'd march forward with the King at their head, and at the same time had
resolved to declare it a war of religion. Gen! Mack is gone to visit the troops on
the confines, is to return here on Sunday evening and only stay two hours to make
his report, when he will go on at the head of a column to take a post in the Pope's
state, & will send for the King when he shall think His Majesty's presence
necessary. Gen' Acton shewd me a list of the army in three columns which, on
paper, makes an astonishing appearance, more than 60 battalions of infantry and
thirty squadrons of cavalry. The court and ministry here seein in high spirits, and
they say the army is the same. They have now, I believe, really resolved on the
boaldest measure, & which I think with you to be by far the safest, and a short
time will clear up this matter, I suppose the next Neapolitan messenger from
London, who is expected daily, will bring the new treaty between Great Britain
and the Two Sicilies, & you see by Lord Grenville's last letter to me that our
government has already promised to keep a permanent British fleet in the
Mediterranean. Emma is delighted with the idea of our sons doing homage to
you in your zibelline robe and heron's feather, & diamond aigrette, expected here
from the Grand Signior for you. .
“I received this morning a melancholy letter from Capt. Thompson, late of the
Leander, with the one inclosed for you. It makes one's heart bleed for what he
and Cap" Barry must have suffered, but it is plain they did all that gallant officers
cou’d possibly do. I send you two printed papers from Corfu, which I got from
Genº Acton for you. There is no end of French lies and impertinence, but truth,
honour, & true courage must prevail at last. The first Lieu" and other officers of
the Leander from Ragusa are expected at Barletta, & the Marquis Gallo has wrote
by my desire that they should not be detained longer in quarantine than is
absolutely necessary.
‘The Princess Royal has already felt labour pains, but is now well. As soon
as she is delivered we shall return to Naples to be ready to receive your Excellency.
I have the honour to be,’ &c.
‘P.S. Genº Acton told me also this morning two important pieces of news :
the first that Monsº Bouligny, the Spanish Chargé d'Affaires, had sent yesterday
to Marquis Gallo a letter in Spanish from the Spanish Ministry to threaten this
Court if they made war with the French Republic, & what is particular this letter
came by a French messenger. The other news is that a Neapolitan merchant
vessel had been taken by a French one, & came into Hières & there declared a
good prize, the French Republic being at war with Naples. A boat with part of the
crew of the Neapolitan vessel got off to Leghorn, & have made this deposition there.
‘P,S. I have just received the enclosed letter & papers from Genº Acton,
containing the latest intelligence received by this Court, & which His Excy
thought might be interesting to you. You will observe by the general’s letter
that he is in some apprehension of a Spanish squadron from Carthagena. As
the frigate is going to-night, I have not time to get any of Acton's papers trans-
lated for you. Your Excy must make what you can of them. Adieu, health &
happiness attend you.
350. A. L. S. from Admiral Nelson to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated ‘off
Malta,' October 27th, 1798. 6 pages 4to.” [H]
‘Although I believe I shall be at Naples before the cutter, yet I should be
sorry to omit acknowledging your kind letter of the 20th. When I come to
Naples I can have nothing pleasant to say of the conduct of His Sicilian Majesty's
1798.] NELSOAV PAPERS. 25
Ministers towards the inhabitants of Malta, who wish to be under the dominion
of their legitimate Sovereign. The total neglect and indifference with which they
have been treated, appears to me cruel in the extreme. Had not the English
supplied fifteen hundred stand of arms, with bayonets, cartouch boxes, and
ammunition, &c., and the Marquis supplied some few, and kept the spirit of these
brave islanders from falling off, they must long ago have bowed to the French
yoke. Could you, my dear Sir William, have believed, after what General Acton
and the Marquis de Gallo had said in our various conversations relative to this
island, that nothing had been sent by the Governor of Syracuse secretly—was the
word used by us—or openly, to this island P And I am further assured that the
Governor of Syracuse never had any orders sent him to supply the smallest article.
I beg your Excellency will state this in confidence to General Acton. I shall most
assuredly tell it to the King. The justice I owe myself, now I feel employed in
the service of their Silician Majesties, demands it of me, and also the duty I owe
our gracious King, in order to show that I am doing my utmost to comply with
his royal Commands.
As I have before stated, had it not been for the English, long, long ago,
the Maltese must have been overpowered. Including the fifteen hundred stand
of arms given by us, not more than three thousand are in the island. I wonder
how they have kept on the defensive so long. The Emerald will sail in twenty-
four hours after my arrival for Malta. At least two thousand of small arms
complete, ammunition, &c., should be sent by her. This is wanted to defend
themselves : for offence, two or three large mortars, fifteen hundred shells, with
all necessaries, and perhaps a few artillery, two Io-inch howitzers with IOOO shells.
The Bormola and all the left side of the harbour with this assistance will fall. Ten
thousand men are required to defend those works, the French can only spare
twelve hundred ; therefore, a vigorous assault in many parts, some one must
succeed. But who have the Government of Naples sent to lead or encourage
these people? A very good, and I dare say, brave old man, enervated and
shaking with the palsy. This is the sort of man that they have sent, without any
supply, without even a promise of protection, and without his bringing any answer
to the repeated respectful memorials of these people to their Sovereign. I know
their Majesties must feel hurt when they hear these truths. I may be thought
presuming, but I trust General Acton will forgive an honest seaman for telling
plain truths. As for the other minister I do not understand him. We are
different men. He has been bred in a court, and I in a rough element, but I
believe my heart is as susceptible of the finer feelings as his, and as compassionate
for the distress of those who look up to me for protection. The officer sent here
should have brought supplies, promises of protection, and an answer from the
King to their memorials. He should have been a man of judgment, bravery, and
activity. He should be the first to lead them to glory, and the last, when necessary
to retreat ; the first to mount the wall of the Bormola, and never to quit it. This
is the man to send. Such, many such, are to be found. If he succeeds, promise
him rewards : my life for it the business would soon be over.
“God bless you ! I am anxious to get this matter finished. I have sent Ball
this day to summon Gozo : if it resists, I shall send on shore and batter down the
castle. Three vessels loaded with bullocks, &c., for the garrison, were taken
yesterday from Tripoli: ten more are coming, but we shall have them. I had
almost forgot to mention that orders should be immediately given that no quaran-
tine should be laid on boats going to the coast of Sicily for corn. At present, as
a matter of favour, they have fourteen days only. Yesterday there was only four
days’ bread in the island ; luckily we got hold of a vessel loaded with wheat and
sent her into St. Paul's. Once more, God bless you ! and ever believe me,’ &c.
‘This day I have landed twenty barrels of gunpowder (2800 lbs.) at Malta.”
351. A. L. S. from Admiral Nelson to Lord Spencer. Dated Caserta,
November 6th, 1798. 2% pages 4to, [P.]
‘As the Neapolitan courier setts off from Vienna and London in a short time,
* This letter is very much scorched, as if it had been exposed to heat or fumigation for some time.
26 T//E HAMILTO/V A ND [1798.
I have only time to tell you that I arrived with Vanguard and Minotaur in the
Bay of Naples last evening, bringing with me the French garrison, 1217 men of
Gozo (Gozo contains I6,000 persons). Malta in due time will, I doubt not, also
surrender. I am anxious to send a squadron to Corfou, but I wish to see what
this Court may have for me to do of more importance. May I presume to beg
my respects to Lady Spencer, and that you will believe I am,’ &c.
‘P.S. November 8*.-Culloden, Minotaur, a frigate and cutter, sails on Satur-
day the Io" for Corfou, to try if we cannot stir up an insurrection against the
French. My declaration sent 3 weeks ago by a priest from hence, will have had
time to circulate. A popular priest also of Cephalonia goes with Troubridge, if
nothing can be done there T. goes to Alexandria, and settle all matters there. Each
ship has six months’ provisions ; Troubridge has my orders to leave a proper
naval force there, unless the Turks will undertake to continue the blockade (and
effectually), of this my friend is to be a judge, The King went to the army this
morning ; the Queen goes to morrow night, and on Saturday a council is to be
held to consider of the propriety of taking possession of Leghorn. In the event
of that being determined, I have offered to carry the troops necessary—2OOO men.
I have the Portugese here, and will load them. Two frigates and a corvette,
Neapolitans, are just put under my command and our loading mortars, &c., for
Malta. -
‘I have just heard that vessel from Alex” has just arrived at Gaeta, sail'd
October 16th, several came out in the night which Captain Hood was burning (in
obedience to my orders, and to land all the crews to encrease misery). In the
scramble this transport made her escape.
‘2 p.m., October 8*. I was too late for the Courier of the 6*.’
352. A. L. S. from the same to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated Vanguard,
Naples Bay, November IOth, 1798. I page 4to. . [H.]
“Having ordered a squadron to block up the port of Genoa, I have to request
... that your Excellency will cause it to be notified to this Court that all vessels
bound to Genoa, clearing out from this port after the 16” of this present month,
the 26th from Sicily, and a due time from all other parts of His Silican Majesty's
dominions, I shall order to be seized and destroy’d. Your Excellency will also
have the goodness to communicate the blockade of Genoa to the foreign ministers
residing here. I have the honour to be,’ &c.
353. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Vanguard, November
I5th, 1798. I page 4to. [H.]
‘Will you have the goodness to write a line to Gen! Acton to beg that I may
have as soon as possible the names of the reg” intended to be embarked, with
their number, in order that each reg" may be kept as much as possible together,
as it may be some inconvenience to order a few ships south, &c. &c., for the
officers. I will do all that business, and what money I lay out of my pocket I
shall hope will be repaid me. I also wish to know the exact day and, when
within a March of Naples, the exact hour the troops from camp will be on the
Mole, that boats may be ready to receive them. I wish to send the corvette brig
to Malta if Gen' Acton has no objection, the frigates as was arrainged by us at
St. Germaino.’
354. A. L. S." from the same to the same, Dated Naples, November 16th,
1798. I page 4to. [H.] -
‘The Terpsichore frigate shall sail on Sunday morning for Leghorn, & Cap'
Gage shall go to Pisa or Florence (if the Marquis de Silva is not at Leghorn) and
deliver the letter as directed. I hope the ministers of the Great Duke will make
no difficulty in admitting the Neapolitan troops, for, if they do, Leghorn will not
be the Great Duke's one week. The more I think the more I am satisfied of the
* His first signature here as Lord Nelson.
1798.] NELSoy PAPERS. 27
absolute necessity of keeping the French out of it. I know not yet the names of
the Reg", or the numbers of each Regt in order to arrainge the embarkation ; I
was in hopes to have received it this day. The corvette I shall dispatch to Malta
to-morrow, if your Excellency has any commands, the frigates will sail with me
in order to keep the secret.”
855. A. L.S. from the same to Lady Hamilton. Dated ‘Thursday Noon’
(November 22nd, 1798). I page 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“Not being able to get our anchor out of the ground, allows me to say on
paper that I am your & Sir William's affectionate friend. May God Almighty
bless and protect you both, is the fervent prayer of your Nelson.
‘P.S. Pray grant me the favour of getting well.’ -
356. Copy of Document. Dated Vanguard, Leghorn Road, November
28th, 1798. I page 4to. [H.] -
“We, the Commanders of the troops of the King of the Two Sicilies, and of the
Squadron of His Britannic Majesty, now before Leghorn, demand of the Governor of
Leghorn the free and instant admission of His Sicilian Majesty's troops into the
town and fortress of Leghorn, and everything thereunto depending.
“If you refuse, we have powers to enforce our just demand, which will
undoubtedly and instantly be done. DIEGO NASELLI, Commander-in-Chief.
‘NELSON, Commander-in-Chief.
‘Accordata quanto sopra, mediante la Capitolazione firmata questa sera stessa
28 Nov. 1798, alle ore sei e tre quarte, dai Vascelli delle rispittivi Corti d'Inghilterra
e di Napoli. - DE LAVILETTE,
* Genl. Govr. Interino.”
357. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated November
29th, 1798. I page 4to. [H.] t
‘The thing is done, that's enough ; none but Culloden & Minotaur with me,
nor can I guess were the other part of my squadron is got to. I shall sail for
Naples the moment the weather moderates ; I have much to tell you. God bless
you, and believe me ever,’ &c.
‘We have taken the whole Ligurian Navy—two 20-gun ships.”
358. A Mem. S. “Nelson.' Dated Vanguard, at sea, December 12th,
1798. 4 pages folio.
“At 3 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 28th., anchor'd in the N9ern road of Leghorn;
at # p", receiv'd from Mr. Wyndham, a letter begging that I would not summons
the Town 'till he had spoke with me. Gen! Naselli, who receiv'd a letter from the
Duke de Sangro, having read my letter to the Gen', as he did his to me, I thought
I perceived a dislike to my having any thing to do in summoning the Town, hurt
as I most undoubtedly was at this appearance, yet I desired Mr. Harryman to tell
the Gen', before Genº Novi, that if he thought that his summons alone was proper
that I had no desire to put my name to it. The General’s answer was clear that
he thought it best for himself alone to summons the Town, which he did, and sent
an officer with it. I am certain that I was never more hurt in my life, being clearly
consider'd by the General as a nothing, as a Master of a Transport. My feelings
almost got the better of my prudence; however, I considered this a sacrifice
necessary for the King of Naples. As the officer was going on shore he met the
Duke de Sangro and Mr. Wyndham coming on board the Vanguard. They very
properly brought the officer back with them, and said to Genº Naselli and myself
that it was necessary that I should sign the summons. The General said he had
no objection, and wish'd always to concert measures with me. I told the ministers
I had no desire whatever to sign the summons unless they thought it right, which
they having thought, a new summons was wrote by me, and signed by General
Naselli and myself. It was carried by an English and Neapolitan Officer, and
28
THE HAMILTON AND [1798.
attended by the two Ministers. At # p” 8, the Officers return'd with a paper
signed by the two Ministers, all parts of which I had no objection to, except that
which consider'd Leghorn as a neutral place, altho I considered this part of the
paper signed by the Ministers as impossible, to be complied with for a moment
after the troops were in possession, and although the Governor's acquiescence to the
admission of the troops was founded in appearance on the good faith of the paper
signed by the Ministers of the two courts. I thought my object was to get possession
on any terms, and that I should be ready to take all or any part of the Odium, of
breaking them for the advantage of His Royal Highness the Great Duke and the
King of Naples. The troops were immediately landed under the direction of Cap'
Troubridge, &, although it blew a gale of wind, by I 1 o'clock possess” was taken of
the gates and Mole Head battery by 3 o'clock on the afternoon of the 29th, all the
Troops' baggage & Artillery were landed, and I received a long letter from Mr.
Wyndham, saying that he had heard I was dissatisfied with the terms the Duke de
Sangro and himself had signed, that he considered himself only as my agent (which
I never knew till this moment), and that, if I had not approved of the terms, I should
have sent them on shore again, that they were the only ones by which the town
would have been delivered up, that from my letter of the 8th, from Caserta, he
thought that I would afford every protection to the Great Duke, and that I did not
want to make a conquest of Leghorn &c. &c., and desiring to see me before I
sail'd, hoping what he had heard was not correctly stated, and that if it was incon-
venient for me to come on shore, he would come off to me. My answer was, that
I had said and believed that it was impossible for Leghorn to be a neutral port, that
I had no object of plunder in taking possession, and that I was ready to shed my
blood in defence of the Great Duke and his rights, that I would be on shore
in # an hour whether it blew or rain’d (both of which it did at the time of writing);
in 5 minutes after this letter came a second, enclosing one from the Russian
Minister, giving information of the intention of the French to force their privat-
eers out of the Mole this night, and submitting to me what was proper to be done,
for the case was now altered. I immediately went on shore and told Mr. Wyndham
that I never would say behind his back what I would not say to his face, my
belief that Leghorn could not be neutral. For instance, could a French privateer
go out of Leghorn as she had done 24 hours before, take an English or Neapoli-
tan, and bring her into port P. It was impossible. The discourse was finish’d
amicably, and we went to Genº Naselli, relative to the French privateers and the
numerous enemies' vessels (of England) in the Mole. My wish was for the
General to seize all the privateers, and to prevent the sailing of any of the
enemies (of England's) vessels 'till he received orders from his Court. The
General’s answer was that his Sovereign had not declared war against the French.
My reply was that if he had not in reality, whatever he might have done on
paper, that I never would have taken the trouble of bringing him to Leghorn.
This conversation ending by the Gen” pledging himself to prevent any vessel
quitting the Port till he receiv'd orders from his Court, and which I promised to
procure as expeditiously as possible.’ .
359. A. L. S. from Admiral Nelson to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated
l/anguard, Naples Bay, December 3rd, 1798. 2 pages folio. [H.]
“I beg leave to acquaint you that on the troops of his Sicilian Majesty being
put in possession of Leghorn, there were laying in the Mole a great number of
French privateers, and some of such force as to do the very greatest mischief to
our commerce, if permitted to sail from Leghorn. The Neapolitan General
commanding in Leghorn refuses to seize the French vessels, under pretence that
the King of Naples is not at war with the French. I have, therefore, to request
that your Excellency will demand that orders be instantly sent to the General at
Leghorn for the seizure of every French vessel. I forbear making those
observations which the case will allow of, as I am satisfied the General means to
do what he considers right for his Sovereign, even at the expense of the British
COIn IſlerCe.
‘I have also to observe that about seventy sail of vessels calling themselves
belonging to the Ligurian Republic (before called Genoa) are ready to sail,
1798.] ATE LSON PAPERS. 29
loaded with corn, for Genoa and France; and as Genoa is equally at war with
Great Britain as the French—for I consider the self-named Ligurian Republic as
at present only a province of France—I submit to your Excellency the propriety
of urging the Neapolitan Government not to permit the departure of the corn
from Leghorn, which must expedite the entrance into Italy of more French troops.
General Naselli has, at my request, laid an embargo on all vessels, till he receives
the orders of his court. He sees, I believe, the permitting these vessels to depart
in the same light as myself, but there is this difference between us—the General
prudently, and certainly safely, waits the orders of his court, taking no responsi-
bility on himself; I act, from the circumstance of the moment, as I feel it may be
most advantageous for the honour of the cause which I serve, taking all responsi-
bility on myself. I have the honour to be,’ &c.
360. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton, Dated ‘Tuesday
Night’ (December 4th, 1798).” [P.]
“If you have not recº my letter from Leghorn Roads, you will like to know
that we took possession last Wednesday. I send a paper for you and Sir Will”
to read, it is my private memorand” and not to be communicated. If you will
have the goodness to have the carriage at the Mole, I shall have great pleasure in
coming to you as soon as possible.
‘God bless you for comforting me with your letters, I have had nothing else
like comfort. I saw the Marqº (de Niza) at a distance in Porto Ferraio, also had
Com” Cambellt on board to breakfast and lunch etc. under Monte Christo. I
hope for good news from the army. Several vessels with runaways from Civita
Vecchia arrived on Wednesday at Leghorn.”
361. A. L. S. from Sir Sidney Smith to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated ‘Tigre,
off Malta, December 1 Ith, 1798, 25* day since my departure
from England, although I have been but 21 days under sail.’
4 pages folio. [H.] -
‘It is with the most heartfelt satisfaction that I profit by the opportunity my
present situation gives me of renewing my correspondence with you after a long
and painful interruption. -
* I left England the 15 Noz', arrived at Gibraltar the eighth day, staid four
with Lord St. Vincent, and have flown hither on the wings of the wind on my
way to Constantinople, whither I am going with full powers in conjunction with
my brother: as Minister to sign and give effect to all he has already agreed to on the
part of our court; of this you will probably be already apprised by Lord Grenville;
if not, I beg to introduce myself to you as your colleague in that quarter, &
coadjutor in your efforts to give a final overthrow to the colossal power under
whose rod all Europe has so long groaned, congratulating you on the success of
your endeavours in so glorious and good a cause. You can readily conceive the
gratification it will be to me to give them a blow whenever the naval force
committed to my charge can reach them ; it is not without regret that I quit this
spot, where I see the ensign of revolt, the standard of anarchy and rebellion
at the mast-head of their only remaining line of battle-ships hereabouts
without exchanging a shot with her, but I hope to be off Alexandria time enough
to burn a little of the Tigre's powder, in conjunction with my friend the gealous
Aſood, who naturally falls under my orders when we meet as being my junior, &
you no doubt see the policy which dictated the measure of annexing diplomatic
* Nelson arrived at Leghorn on Wednesday, November 28th, and returned to Naples on
Wednesday, December 5th.
+ Donald Campbell, a naval commander in the Portuguese service. He was made an
Admiral in 1814, and died in 1819.
# John Spencer Smith, Sir William's younger brother. In his youth he was page of honour
to Queen Charlotte, but was subsequently engaged for many years in diplomacy, and was, at the
date of the letter, Ambassador to Turkey. He died at Caen in 1840.
30
THE HAM// TO AV A/VD [1798.
rank to the naval officer who will have to act in concert with the Russians and
Turks, and likewise the delicacy of not superseding my brother, or annexing a
stranger to him in that situation after all he has done towards bringing
matters to their present favourable crisis. I need not tell you how happy I shall
be to receive your advice on this occasion, or the readiness with which I shall
follow it ; the object of this letter is to request you to give it me freely as an old,
very old friend, and as frequently as possible. You will, no doubt, mention my
being so far on my way when you write to Lord Grenville. I part company with
Cap" Ball to-night, and proceed to the eastward with a fair wind, having every
prospect of making as quick a passage as ever was made in these seas; you know
I am my own pilot, having bought my experience by hard labour in the little
Swallow, and, when a man does not depend on timid Greeks, he can, by dint of
labour and a good look out ahead, do more than they ever venture to attempt in
navigation. The new moon comes in very dpropos for my archipelago sailing, and
I hasten to profit by it ; dāropos of pilotage, I beg to repeat my thanks to
General Acton for his very valuable present of the survey of the coasts of Naples,
together with my very best wishes for his welfare and success. I find, on looking
it over, I have not that part which delineates the coast of Sicily, it being at that
time unfinished, as well as I recollect; may I beg of you to procure & forward the
last edition to me, for I have felt the want of it on my approach to this coast in
the two last dark nights.
“If there be a proper way of conveying my best respects to his Sicilian
Majesty, I know you will not omit so to do in gratitude for the gracious reception
your kind presentation of me procured me. I ventured to appeal to his protection
when in prison, as being persecuted under the denomination of an incendiary &
violator of the laws of nations, for an act done under the order of his commanding
General & Admiral at Toulon, but I beg leave now to explain that I did it merely
as affording the Directory an opportunity of relinquishing their absurd perse-
cution which they themselves began to see in that light, though they would not
yield up the point to l'infäme Pitt. I know not whether his Sicilian Majesty's
Minister at Paris ever communicated my letter to his court; if not, I dare say you
will think with me that he ought ; be it as it may, I am much better pleased to
owe my liberty to the Royalists of France, who, I am persuaded, are the majority
of the population, than to any favour of the miscreant gang that now govern that
unhappy country. I know them well, and I assure you my contempt for them
is so perfect that it leaves no room for any other sentiment respecting them. I
shall ever act against them without rancour, but not with less energy and perse-
verance, my conviction being that, if ever a crusade of Żreur chevaliers was
necessary, it is so now against these inſidels, and I beg to be considered as a knight
of Malta on this score if ever the order is re-established on this ground, which I
think it ought.”
362. A. L. S. from Admiral Nelson to the same. Dated Naples,
December 12th, 1798. I page 4to. [H.]
‘I have to request that your Excellency will demand from this Government
weither the King of the Two Sicilies is at war with a country calling itself the
Ligurian Republic, or weither the King intends to protect in his ports the flag
of that Republic (known to us as the Republic of Genoa) with which the King,
our master, is at war, and which can only be considered as a country conquered
by the French.”
363. A. L. S. from Sir Sidney Smith to the same. Dated Tigre, off Malta,
December 12th, [I7]98. I page 4to., with Superscription. [H.]
“I beg the favour of you to forward the enclosed letters by the German post, as
likewise the two in my large letter of this day's date, according to their addresses.
‘I have further to request of you to cause assistance to be given to my tender,
the Tiger Cat, should she stand in need of any to enable her to proceed to
Constantinople after me. Mr. Perry, the purser of the Tigre, will be answerable
for any provisions Mr. Woodward may find it necessary to demand.’
1798.] AVE/LS'0/V PAPAE/RS. - 3I
364. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to the same. Dated Naples, December
I4th, I798. I page 4to. [H.]
* As I have been informed that this kingdom is invaded by a formidable
French Army, I think it my duty to acquaint your Excellency, for the information
of the English merchants and others residing at Naples, that the three English
transports in this bay have my directions to receive such effects of the English
as they can stow, and that the whole squadron is ready to receive their persons,
should such an event be found necessary as for them to embark. I have the
honour to be,' &c.
* N.B.—I need not say that I mean valuable effects, and not household
furniture. I also beg leave to recommend that anything sent on board ship should
be done with as little bustle, and as much secrecy as possible.'
365. A. L. S. from the same to Commodore Campbell. Dated Naples,
December 2Oth, I798. I page 4to. [P.]
* I desire you will without a moment's loss of time proceed with two armed
boats to ,* and then you will .%
* A person will probably be there to give you information. Relying on your
judgement for this important service. I am,' &c.
366 A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Lady Knight.f Dated Naples,
December 2oth, 1798. # page 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
* Commodore Stone will take care of you ; do not be alarmed, there is in truth
no cause for it. Ever yours,' &c.
367. Copy of * Mémoire' of " Thimoléon d'Espinay Saint Luc.' Dated
Ratisbon, December 28th, 1798. 3# pages folio. [P.]
* Qui a pour objet des effets ou valleurs trouvées sur la flotte françoise au
combat naval d'Arbouckir provenant de propriétées de chevaliers de Malthe, ou
d'autres, possesseurs conformément à la déclaration noble, et généreuse du
vainqueur, le Lord Amiral Nelson.
* Thimoléon d'Espinay Saint Luc, comte du Sº Empire, chevalier de l'ordre
souverain de Malthe, receu de minorité à la fin de l'année 1778, par feu son parent
le grand maître de Rohan, officier du roy de France dans le régiment du
Perche alors commandée par son père, volontaire gentilhomme au corp d'armée
de Bourbon en I792, adjudand à l'armée Autrichienne, et l'année suivante
l'un des deffenseurs de Maestricht, successivement dans le cadre d'Allonville au
service d'Angleterre, et aujourd'huy officier dans le corps de Rohan au service de
l'empereur et roy ; fils du général marquis d'Espinay Saint Luc, de la promotion
du 9 Mars, I788, comte de Rosendal, et du Sº Empire, députtée commissaire de
la noblesse Françoise par délibération généralle du mois de Novembre 179I,
reconnue et reçue en cette qualitée au conseil des princes françois où étoint les
ministres de Russie, et de Suède, et l'amiral prince de Nassau le 6 Janvier, 1792,
commandant la même année les compagnies de gentilshommes de Normandie et
d'Anjou, et au siège de Maestricht en I793, issue des sires d'Espinay qui étoint
à la tête de l'armée de Guillaume le Conquérant à la fameuse battaille de Battel
donné en Angleterre en IO66, ayant l'honneur d'appartenir aux rois d'Angleterre
comme sortie par Jeanne de Courcy du sire de Courcy, chevalier Baneret, l'un des
principaux seigneurs de la cour du roy d'Angleterre, dont le descendant du même
nom est encor aujourd'huy pair de la Grande Bretagne, et par Alix d'Alençon,
Jeanne de Dreux, et Jacqueline de France, dont descendent les seigneurs d'Espinay
et des Hayes, gouverneurs d'Arque, et de Dieppe, et comandant dans le comté
d'Eu, pour le roy d'Angleterre au I4° siècle, suivant que le tout appert par un
" The two places marked with an asterisk are blank in the original.
t Lady Knight was the widow of Rear-Admiral Sir Joseph Knight, and the mother of Miss
Cornelia Knight. She died in I799.
32
7CH E A /AAMMMC 7TO /V A WD [1798.
procès verbal de la commune de Paris du 15 9º, 179o, en exécution du discours
du roy du 5 Février précédent, qui le reconnoint forcément descendent des anciens
chevaliers conquérants de la Neustrie, de l'Angleterre, et de la ville de Paris sous
le règne d'Henry IV., protestant contre le décret d'abolition de la noblesse
Françoise comme chef de sa maison pour toutes les branches qui en existent
rapportées dans l'histoire des grand officiers de la couronne de France par
déclaration publiée, et imprimée, à Mons le 3o Juin, 179o, dont acte luy a été
donnée à l'échiquier de Rouen au rapport du conseiller de Ménars le 27 7ºr°
suivant, et de dame de Montvallat d'Antragues Cormont, Comtesse du Sº Empire.
* Expose que la terre considérable de Sº Prest, proche Chartre, et celles de
Gasville et d'Allonne dans le même département appartenantes à la dame sa mère
ont étées saisies, de même que toutes celles de son père, par le gouvernement
régicide non pas pour cause d'émigration n'étant pas domicilliés en France lors
de la Révolution, mais d'abord parceque son mary avoit été employé général
major, et commissaire dans le pays d'Hainaut Autrichien par lettres patentes de
l'empereur avec l'agrément par écrit du Roy Louis XVI., du 3I Mars, I79O, parce
qu'il avoit reçue chez luy en cette qualité le Roy et la Reine actuelle, à leurs sortie
de France, et pour avoir signé, et fait signer en cette qualité la lettre de la
noblesse françoise à feue S. M. l'Impératrice de Russie ; la propriétaire fit
signiffier à Paris une opposition à ce séquestre, le 7 Fevrier 1793, tant en son
nom que celuy de l'exposant, auquel il étoit assurée une somme de I 5o milles livres
pour tenire galeon à titre de légitime ; et peu de tems auparavant le représentant
Lacroix à Liège, qui étoit de Chartre, lui envoya renouveller à Maestricht la
proposition de vendre cette terre, sans doute pour le même acquéreur qui luy en
avoit desjà offert 18oo milles livres, valleur méttallique, en May 179I, qu'elle a
appris depuis être pour son bailly Péthion, alors maire de Paris. Le Prince
Frédéric de Hesse Cassel, chevalier de l'ordre de la Jarretierre, commandant dans
cette place depuis la déclaration de guerre fit arrester comme espion le porteur de
propositions, mort dans les prisons de cette ville, qui étoit un ministre réformée
enciennement moine, mariée à une relligieuse ; mais quoiqu'il ne fut pas permis,
suivant les propres loix de la république, de vendre cette terre d'après la
réclamation de la propriétaire avant qu'il y fut statuée définitivement et au
préjudice du droit de l'exposant qui étoit entier n'étant point compris sur la fatalle
liste des émigrés, le pressant besoin d'argent pour l'armement de la flotte de
Toulon a portée le ministre de la finance, Ramel, d'écrire à l'administration d'Eure
et Loire de vendre cette terre sans délay, parce que le réclamant se trouvoit
nominativement sur la liste des rassemblements que l'Angleterre avoit fait à
Jersey et Guernesey pour porter le fer et le feu dans leurs patrie et pour avoir
prettée serment au gouvernement ennemy de la république sauf à accorder
quelques indemnitées à la mère, s'il y avoit lieu ; mais on sçait que ces sortes
d'indemnitées, s'acquittent en eſfets qui n'ont, pour ainsi dire, plus aucune valleur ;
ainsi le prix de cette terre ayant été employé à l'armement et équipement et
provisions de cette flotte, le gouvernement Anglois se trouve en avoir profittée par
la prise totalle qu'il en a fait, et le brave et généreux Amiral Nelson, ayant rendue
et offert de remettre les effets armoriées, et tout ce qui se trouveroit appartenire
ou provenire des chevaliers qui n'avoint pas suivis Bonaparte, et de tous
propriétaires quelconques, le chevalier d'Espinay Saint Luc, protestant par acte
authentique envoyée à la langue Russe contre la perfide et honteuse capitulation
de Malthe, et reconnaissant pour grand maître temporel et protecteur S. M.
l'Empereur de toutes les Russies, Paul premier, sous la réserve de la suprématie
spirituelle au Sº Siège apostolique, espère qu'il éprouvera de la grande et noble
générosité du vainqueur d'Arbouckir comme les dignes chevaliers ses confrères
qui ont une propriétée à réclamer une indemnitée de sa légitime qui luy a été
vollée pour être placée sur cette flotte à cause du serment qu'on luy reproche
d'avoir fait à son souverain, qui puisse aussi pour le présent faire subsister ses père
et mère chargée de six enfans, dont quatre en bas âge, qui par cette raison se
trouvent privées des avantages accordées à ceux qui comme eux étoint habitant et
naturalisées grands privilégiées de la Belgique, ou résidents dans les pays neutres,
suivant le traitée de Campo Formio, ce qui les auroit mis dans le cas de recouvrir
quelques parties de leur fortune et de pouvoir exister en Allemagne ; et c'est pour
cela que l'on n'a pas crue devoir se rendre à charge à la nation angloise, en
I 799.] A /º/,SOAV AA PAEA’.S. 33
profittant des secours offerts a raison du grade d'officier général, mais aujourd’huy
que la vente de cette terre paroist irrévocable, que l'exposant a perdu sa propriétée
affectee au service de l'orde de Malthe pour la cause cy-dessus expliquée, et que
le prix en a tournée au profit du trésor de sa Majestée Britannique, on ose se flatter
que l'invincible héros du Nil aura égard à cette réclamation, qui est faitte en
consequence de sa déclaration, et dans le cas oil il fauderoit actuellement s'en
référer aux ministres du roy on espère qu'il voudera bien les porter a accorder au
moins à cette nombreuse famille la méme grâce continuee au général Martange,
et autres en résidence dans les pays neutres. C'est a dire une somme équivalente
a ce qui auroit été perçue depuis le passeport accordée à cet effet sur la demande
de Monseigneur Comte d'Artois pour l'ambassadeur d’Angleterre à la Haye, le
12 Janvier 1795, indépendamment de l’indemnité personnelle que le réclamant a
droit d’attendre d’un aussi grand et généreux gouvernement.’
368. A. L S. from Captain Blackwood” to Lord Nelson. Dated Penelope,
Leghorn Roads, January 4th, 1799. 3 pages 4to, [P.]
‘My publick letter, I trust, will sufficiently explain my taking upon me to
deviate so materially from my orders, a step I was alone induced to take from
the idea that I should be the first to communicate intelligence which I believed
must be of consequence, add to which, as the wind was strong at N.E. when I
sailed, I did not think that taking Palermo in my way would make much
difference as to the time of my arrival on my station. I must also confess to your
Lordship that I did not wish to fall in with Lord Keith, who would most probably
have changed the good orders your Lordship gave me. Under these circum-
stances I hope to appear justified. The very kind attentions I received from
your Lordship as well as from Sir Wm and Lady Hamilton (an event the more
flattering from the little knowledge you had of me) induces me to say that, if any
arrangements should render your Lordship's return to England necessary,
nothing would make me more happy than your Lordship's making every use of
the Pene/offe.
‘On the day of my departure from hence I was applied to, through the Consul
by Mrs. Wyndham, to give a passage to the Dutchess of Sorrentino, who was thus
far on her way to Palermo (a request I was the more ready to comply with, from her
having letters to Sir Wim and Lady Hamilton, as also from my knowledge of that
Lady in England); fearing, however, to trespass too much on your Lordship's
indulgence by delaying to get on my station, I am obliged to put her on shore at
this place, which I regret much, as her arriving Soon at Palermo is of much
consequence to her affairs. s
* I shall not trouble your Lordship with any detail respecting the Dutchess of
Sorrentino's views in Sicily, all of which are sufficiently explained in her letters to
Sir Wim and Lady Hamilton. I have, therefore, only to request my best com"
may be made to Sir Wm and Lady Hamilton, and, with much respect and esteem,
I have the honour to be,’ &c.
369. A. L. S. from Sir W. Hamilton to Charles Greville. Dated Palermo,
January 6th, I 799. 5 pages 4to., with SuperScription and
Seal. III.]
‘You have certainly the means of getting every intelligence of the singular
events that have rapidly taken place in the kingdom of Naples, and from my last
dispatch to Lord Granville you will hear of the King and Queen of Naples and
all their Royal Family having been obliged to take refuge on board the Vanguard,
and by the contrivance and assistance of Lord Nelson and I are safely lodged in
their Palace here with a treasure in jewells and money of not less than
two and a half millions sterling. Emma has had a very principal part in
* Captain, afterwards Sir Henry, Blackwood, 1770–1851, youngest son of Sir John Blackwood.
He entered the navy young, and became a Rear-Admiral in 1814. He was the bearer of the
dispatches announcing the battle of Trafalgar, and was created a Baronet in 1814.
VOL. II. ID
34
TAZAZ AAMILTOAV AAVD [1799.
this delicate business, as she is and has been for several years the real and only
confidential friend of the Queen of Naples, It is impossible for me to enter into
particulars at present, as I am just got out of bed, where I was confined for some
days with a fever from cold and bile. I am, however, thank God and James's
powder, quite clear at this moment, and shall, I dare say, recover my strength in
a few days.
“My former dispatches to Lord Grenville will have prevented his Lordship
from being too much surprized at receiving one dated from Palermo. I must
own, however, that I never could have imagined that a fine army of near fifty
thousand effective men, commanded by Mack, allowed to be one of the best
generals in Europe, cou’d moulder away and be reduced to less than 20 thousand
in 22 days without ever having had anything like what cou’d be called an action,
and nothing but treachery and stinking cowardice cou’d have caused such a cruel
reverse, for the French were never more than seven or eight thousand effective men,
and in all Italy there were not more than 27 thou" French when the Neapolitan
army march" to Rome in confidence of the Emperor's army marching forward at
the same time, we yet know nothing of that army. Naples pretends to be much
disgusted at the departure of the Court, but you will see that it will end in their
fraternizing with the French. This kingdom is certainly loyal, but it must put
itself into a true state of defence, & the French must be kept out of Calabria
if possible, for you know it is but 3 miles over from that coast to Messina. The
French were at Fondi & in Puglia by the last accounts, & said to be reinforced,
but that is all the same, as not a man of the Neapolitan army will fight, and the
officers are the first to run away.
‘Lord Nelson, however, has taken care that none of his Sicilian Majesty's
ships of war or gun-boats shall fall into the hands of the enemy. He is the most
humane and active man I ever met with. He lives always with us, and by his
friendship I have at least secured all my best pictures and collection of vases on
board of one of his victualling transports, but I shall probably lose a great deal of
valuable furniture in my houses of Naples and Caserta. I have left my house at
Naples, servants and all except two, to go on another month as if I was there, and
we shall see what sort of respect the French will show me; certainly for 35 years I
have been hospitable to many French travellers, and perhaps they may not
plunder my house. The poor Queen of Naples is all despair, having also lost
Prince Albert of six years of age in our voyage, and who died in Emma's arms of
repeated convulsions. We had a violent gale of wind, stronger, Lord Nelson says,
than he ever had experienced in 30 years' service, & I fear a transport, with all the
Corsican emigrants under British protection and pay, are gone to the bottom.
Hatchets were brought up to cut away the masts of the Vanguard if the gale
had lasted, in short, I have so many circumstances to relate that I could fill sheets
of paper; for the present it is enough to assure you we are safe, having my
pictures and vases on board a good transport, and that I hope to be with you
early in the spring, but cannot think of leaving their Sicilian Majesties in their
present moment of distress.
“Some King's ships will certainly be going from hence to Gibraltar or perhaps
to England in the spring, or it may happen that Lord Nelson, whose health is by
no means robust, may like to go home about that time; if so, his Lordship would
certainly take us. I really am in want of repose, having had for these six years
past the whole load of business on my hands, and since the arrival of the British
Fleet in the Meditteranean my labours have been doubled, and I feel age creeping
upon me, but I will bear up as long & as well as I can, & not give up as my
father did twenty years before he died, calling himself a dying man, and so we
all are. Adieu, my dear Charles, Emma's kind love attends you.
‘P.S.—Since I wrote the above we have had news from Naples of the 4th
inst, which would give some hopes that the Capital may still be saved. The
French having made an attack on Capua were repulsed with loss; this is the
first stand the Neapolitan army has made, but I that know the Carte du Pays at
Naples, & think that the nobility and Paglietti Lawyers are ripe for a revolution,
& will, in the end, join with the French. The people are attached to the King of
Naples, but you know what little dependence there can be on mobs in any country.
In short, my opinion is that Ferd. IV. will soon be only King of the one
1799.] AVA. ZSOAV PAPERS. 35
Sicily, by the grace of God and the bravery of Lord Nelson on the 1st of
August.
*P.S.—what can the Emperor be doing to allow of Naples and Tuscany
being lost P’ ”
370. A. L. S. from Lady Hamilton to the same. Dated Palermo,
January 7th, 1798. 8 pages 4to. [H]
‘I have only time to write you one line, as Sir William is not sure he can have
a moment to spare to-day to let you know of our arrival here ; we cannot enter
into details of our being oblidged to quit dear Naples, if you are acquainted with
Lords Grenville or Spencer you will know the particulars from them—know only
the Vanguard, Lord Nelson, brought us off with all the Royal family, & we
arrived here on Christmas Day at night, after having been near lost, a tempest
that Lord Nelson had never seen for thirty years he has been at sea the like ; all
our sails torn to pieces, & all the men ready with their axes to cut away the
masts, & poor I to attend & keep up the spirits of the Queen, the Princess Royall,
3 young princesses, a baby six weeks old & 2 young princess, Leopold & Albert,
the last six years old, my favourite, taken with convulsion in the midst of the
storm, & at 7 in the evening of Christmas Day expired in my arms, not a soul to
help me, as the few women her Majesty brought on board were incapable of
helping her or the poor Royal children, the King & prince were below in the
ward room with Castelcicala, Belmonte, Gravina, Acton, & Sir William, my
mother their assisting them, all their attendants being so frighten’d, & on their
knees praying. The king says my mother is an angel. I have been for twelve
nights without once closing my eyes; for 6 nights before the embarcation I sat
up at my own house receiving all the jewells, money, & effects of the Royal
family, and from thence conveying them on board the Vanguard, living in fear of
being torn to pieces by the tumultuous mob who suspected our departure, but
Sir Wºº & I being beloved in the country saved us. On the 21st, at ten at night,
Lord Nelson, Sir Wºº, mother, & self went out to pay a visit, sent all our servants
away, & orderd them in 2 hours to come with the coach, & ordered supper at
home. When they were gone we sett off, walked to our boat, & after 2 hours
got to the Vanguard. Lord N. then went with armed boats to a secret passage
adjoining to the pallace, got up the dark staircase that goes into the Queen's
room, & with a dark lantern, cutlasses, pistols, &c., brought off every soul, ten in
number, to the Vanguard at twelve o'clock. If we had remained to the next day
we shou’d have all been imprisoned. But we remained 2 days in the bay to treat
with the Neapolitans—but, alas, with such vile traitors what can you do P it is
not a month since Mack went out with forty thousand men, & shamefully to tell
those forty thousand have been frightend & beat by about six, eight, or ten at
most, nor cou’d the brave, unhappy Mack make them fight, all the officers bought
by the French, & all the army naturally corrupt. The gallant Mack is now at
Capua, fighting it out to the last, & I believe coming with the remains of his vile
army into Calabria to protect Sicily, but thank God we have got our brave Lord
Nelson. The King & Queen & the Sicilians adore, next to worship, him, & so
they ought, for we shou’d not have had this Island but for his glorious victory.
He is call’d here—Mostro Zióeratore, mostro Salvatore.
‘We have left every thing at Naples but the vases & best pictures, 3 houses
elegantly furnished, all our horses, & 6 or 7 carriages I think is enough for the
vile French, for we cou’d not get our things off not to betray the Royal Family,
& as we were in councel we were sworn to secrecy, so we are the worst off, all
the other ministers have saved all by staying some days after us. Nothing can
equal the manner we have been received here; but dear, dear, AWaffles we now
dare not show our love for that place, for this country is jelous of the other. We
cannot at present proffit of our leave of absence, for we cannot leave the Royal
family in their distress. Sir William, however, says in the spring we shall leave
this, as Lord St. Vincent as order'd a ship to carry us down to Gibraltar, God
only knows what yet is to become of us, we are worn out : I am, with anxiety and
fatigue ; Sir W* as had 3 days a bilious attack, but is now well ; my dear,
adorable queen, whom I love better than any person in the world is allso very
36 7A/A A/AM/Z ZTO AV A/VD [1799.
unwell, we weep together, & now that is our onely comfort. Sir William & the
King are philosophers ; nothing affects them, thank God, & we are scolded even
for shewing proper sensibility. God bless you, my dear Sir; excuse this scrawl.
‘I had a letter yesterday from Graham” of Minorca, he is very well. I never
saw him, but we are in correspondence. God bless you, give our loves to the Col ’
371. A. L. S. from Charles Greville to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated St.
James's, January 9th, 1799. 4 pages 4to. [H.]
‘I have this moment been told by Lº Spencer that a cutter will sail from
Plymouth with Mr Gifford for the Mediterranean ; I catch at the opportunity to
write to you. We are in the affecting uncertainty as to the success of the
Neapolitan arms, & the accounts from France give us reason to expect that some
checks of importance have occurred, but we hope it is merely of advanced parties.
9 mails are due from Hamburgh, & the ice renders the Elbe inaccessible ; we
have sent to try on different parts of the coast—so much for the public Concerns.
I am just told by Lº Spencer that an officer on board the Colossus has told him
there were 4 large boxes belonging to you, what they were I know not, but I
dread the result of enquiry lest some of your invaluable collections may have been
in those cases. This ship you have possibly heard arrived with a convoy safe to
Scilly, where she drove from her anchor on a rock, and foundered in the midst of
the other ships, who were all safe, & the crew alone were saved except one or two.
I am still in hopes that the cases were not such as I augur. As I received a letter
by the courier from Ly H., dated on the 8th Novº, in which she did not mention
one word, nor has any letter from you given me any advice of embarkation of any
effects of yours, and I know it would not have escaped you to direct me to provide
for their reception, & to insure to a certain amount. This account has aflicted
me much, & I trust you will not lose any opportunity tho duplicate or triplicate
to enable me to look out in case of any future embarkation of effects, &c., & at
least to cover, if not to prevent, loss. I do not say more on this occasion, for I
wish to discredit what I have stated from too good authority, & I know you are
as good a philosopher as myself, therefore do I not offer impertinent comfort, but
join in regret. Should the unsettled fate of Italy make the deposit of fine works
of art the object of safety occasion to remove them—nothing so safe as the king's
ships—& a lucky hitt might repair the loss if, as I fear, the 4 boxes contained yº
collection, the articles of which are invaluable & their loss irreparable; but the
reparation of the value paid is a matter of serious consideration, & the public
purse will not be opened to replace it. The finance of this country is greatly
supported by the amazing extent of commerce, & even at this time there seems
an emulation in rendring the public supplies productive.
‘The fine works of art find purchasers, & only last year the D. of Bridgwater,t
L* Carlisle, & Lº Gower paid £45,000 for the Orleans Collection Italian School,
3oo pictures, & they are now selling, & within these ten days have sold above 30
pictures, the Sebastian Del Piombo for £3500.
‘I have no aprehension for your personal safety, you have a safe retreat from
the British fleet, & your perseverance in your station, & your attachment to the
Royal Family & people of Naples do you honor, & will be the source of comfort
on reflexion, may every good event attend you & them, & at all times believe me
truly & affely yours,’ &c.
“Say everything kind from me to Ly H., Mrs C.,’ &c.
* Colonel Thomas Graham, afterwards Lord Lynedoch, a well-known military commander
in the Peninsula War, who gained the victory of Barossa. He frequently received the thanks of
Parliament for his services, and Sheridan, referring to them during the retreat to Corunna, said
that in the hour of peril Graham was their best adviser, and in the hour of disaster their surest
consolation. He was created a peer in 1814, but refused the grant of 2000l. per annum which
was intended to have accompanied his elevation. A highly interesting account of him is given
in the Złmes for December 20th, 1843.
† Francis Egerton, 3rd Duke of Bridgwater, 1736–1803, the great founder of inland navigation
in this country by the celebrated Bridgwater Canal. He died unmarried, and the greater portion
of his wealth went to his nephew, George, Baron Gower, afterwards 2nd Marquis of Stafford
and 1st Duke of Sutherland, 1758–1833, eldest son of the 1st Marquis of Stafford and Lady
Jouisa Egerton,
1799.] A ELSOAV PAA’AºA'.S. 37
372. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated January IOth, 1799.
I} pages 4to., with Superscription. [H.]
“I wrote yesterday at the Levee to you, to ensure the opportunity Lº Spencer
gave me to send a letter. I write again this morning on the chance of its being
in time for Major Gifford, being more anxious concerning the state of the Colossus
since I heard how much you was interested. I find that she sunk in deep water
near shore, & it is probable when fine weather comes some things may come
ashore, at least, I augur well from this circumstance. They took on board Lº
Shouldham,” & to avoid the superstition of sailors put him in a lead coffin &
enclosed it in a long box, to be unlike a coffin. Some one who knew that it was
between decks & likely to be got at, told the Scilly people there was great treasure
in a box, describing it, & when the guns, &c., had broken all before them, & the
ship was on its side, they got the box, & you may suppose their disappointment
when their prize proved a dead admiral. I find your boxes were deep in the hold;
therefore, till the ship is to pieces, they will remain there, &, even if they with-
stand the shocks of a ship, whose timbers, &c. give way to their force, it is a hope
but a forlorne one.
‘I am desired by Symmonds to send a letter for T. Foley to your care, & I
cannot avoid mentioning to you Cap" Broughton, who is under Admiral Nelson
& commands a fire ship. Admiral Goodallt has wrote in duplicate to recommend
him to Nelson, & he has been long on Lº Spencer's list as my protégé ; he is an
officer of so distinguished character for his standing that I have been urgent to
secure his promotion, & when Lº Spencer sent him to serve with Nelson he told
me he could not shew his desire to oblige me more than by sending him into the
Mediterranean to serve under that Admiral, who would give him opportunity to
distinguish himself. Adieu once more. My kind love to Ly H., & believe,’ &c.
373. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated Palermo,
February 5th, 1700, 2 pages 4 to [H]
“An official letter on the subject of the complaint of Prince Liuzi, Secretary of
State, relative to some armed boats having boarded a vessel in quarantine. He
affirms that gross misrepresentations have been made, and assures Sir William
that his orders are the very strictest as to the regulations on which so much
depends the health of all countries.’
374. A. L. S. from Captain Ball to Lady Hamilton. Dated Alexander,
off Malta, February 5th, 1799. 2% pages folio, with Superscription.
[P.] -
‘I will not attempt to describe how much I feel flattered by the attention with
which I have been honoured by your Ladyship and Sir William Hamilton, for
which I am in a great measure indebted to Lord Nelson's friendship. You both
feel such a regard for him, that you never lose an occasion of proving it. I may
be quoted as a strong instance. What a fortunate circumstance it was to have
the Vanguard at Naples when you were obliged to quit your hospitable mansion.
I cannot express my astonishment and sorrow when I first heard of the political
revolution which the Jacobins have effected. I hope the Sicilians will not catch
the infection : they are already spreading reports to prejudice the people against
the King ; they have propagated that the first edict he issued on his arrival at
Palermo was to restrict shooting, and threatening severe punishment on any
person caught in particular districts.
* Molyneux, Lord Shouldham, entered the navy at the age of ten, and became a Captain in
1746. In 1772 he was Governor of Newfoundland, became Rear-Admiral in 1775, and in 1793
Admiral of the White. He died at Lisbon in August, 1798. - -
ºf Samuel Cranston Goodall became a Captain in 1762, a Rear-Admiral in 1793, Vice-Admiral
in 1794, and Admiral in 1799. In 1793 he took one of the divisions of the fleet out to the
Mediterranean, when, during the occupation of Toulon, he acted as Governor of that city. In
1794 he commanded under Admiral Holtham, but at the end of 1795 he applied for leave to
strike his flag, being disappointed, it was said, at not succeeding to the command of the fleet.
38
7A/E HAM///, 7'O/W A VD [1799,
‘I wish the Lazzaroni would send all the traitors and Jacobins to Nelson's
Island, Bequier (Aboukir) Bay, or give them to our friends, the Mammalouks and
Bedouins. I am sorry that a butcher is at the head of the Neapolitan mob, as he
may cause a good deal of blood to be shed.
‘Lord Montgomery* and Major Gordon have been on board the Alexander.
I am sorry their short stay will not give me an occasion of proving my desire of
being useful.
‘I am prevented writing to Sir William, and thanking him for his interesting
letter, which he did me the honour to send, but I shall do it by the Vanguard. I
cannot get the Maltese to meet and transact business ; they oblige me to be with
them so much, that the fatigue has considerably impaired my health. However,
it will soon be over. I beg my best respects to Sir William. I have the honour
to be,’ &c.
375. A. L. S. from Lady Elizabeth Foster to Lady Hamilton. Dated
D[evonshire] House], February 8th, [I7]99. 24 pages 4to. [P.]
‘This letter will be given you by Mrs. C. Lock,+ and whilst I request of you to
shew every attention in your power to Mr. and Mrs. Lock, whom you will find
most uncommonly amiable and pleasing, and a very valuable acquisition to you,
forgive me if I cannot help availing myself of the same opportunity to express to
you the universal tribute of praise and admiration which is paid to the very great
courage and feeling which you have shown on the late melancholy occasion. I
feel most excessively anxious about the poor Queen, the King, and their present
situation. All England takes part in their misfortunes, and their fate seems to
interest more than any event has done since the great dreadful one at Paris. I
pray God protect them.
“I must trouble your Ladyship with a request also to let me know what has
become of a person you was very good to, poor Miss Ashburner. I am very
anxious about her, and wrote to her twice without receiving any answer—and,
pray, have the poor Rosses escaped to Sicily P. The Duchess of [Devonshire]
begs her best compliments to your Ladyship and Sir William Hamilton, to whom
I beg to add mine, and pray believe me, yours sincerely,’ &c.
876. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Captain Ball, with a Postscript by
Lady Hamilton. Dated Palermo, February 9th, 1799. I page 4to.
“I send you the Benjamin, Captº Thompson, but I beg you will endeavour to
keep him out of the way of the Tunisan cruizers, for I should be sorry if any
action took place which might loosen our friendship with the Bey. We have
nothing new here as yet, all is quiet at Naples and its environs. The French flag
is flying, and they have fitted out the frigate and brigg, and I have my fears they
will drive off the Mutine, When I get the Minerva she shall cruize off Naples,
God bless you ! Sir Wºº & Lady Hamilton desire their regards. You are loved
by the fair and esteem’d by the brave ; so say yours,’ &c.
‘I have only time to say, my dear friend, that Sir William & I shall be most
happy to see you make haist. Do, or else entre mous Fate will carry me down. I
cannot enter now into the false politicks of this country. A ora, ever yours.”
377, A. L. S. (marked private) from Sir Sidney Smith to Sir W.
Hamilton. Dated ‘Tigre, off Andros in the Archipelago,'
February 22nd, 1799. 2 pages 4to, [H]
‘I have to acknowledge and thank you for your long letter of 34 Jany from
Palermo, containing the melancholy details of the late events in that quarter.
The first sensation of regret with me on these occasions invariably gives way to
* Archibald, Lord Montgomerie, 1773–1814, eldest son of Hugh, 12th Earl of Eglinton. He
was a Major-General in the army.
+ Mr. Charles Lock was for some time Consul-General at Naples. He afterwards went on a
mission to Egypt and the Levant, and died of the plague in the lazaretto at Malta in 1804.
I799.] NEASON PAPERS. 39
that of indignation, and an inward desire to clip the wings and pare the claws of
these merciless harpies. I accordingly work double tides, and don't despair of
sending a beseiging force to do it. I am discouraged from writing to you at
length to Palermo from the paragraphs mentioning your idea of quitting it for
England. If you don’t come back, as the next best thing to having my brother"
near me, to the southward, is to have him on the interesting Scene of action to
the westward of my station, I wish you would give the hint of his being
appointed your successor, you know he is ate fait des affaires.’
378. A. L. S. from Lady Hamilton to William Beckford. Dated
Naples, February 23rd, 1798. 4 pages 4to.
‘Sir William desired me to write to you and recoomend Mr Benelli,” the tenor
singer, to sing at the opera house in London. You will find him very modest,
amiable, good, and an excellent singer, not one of those that gives themselves
airs. He will sing as long as you like ; he composes, and is excellent on the
pianoforte. Pray, do, my dear sir, protect him, he will suit you and your stile of
singing, as he shall soon be in England.
‘What a pleasure it will be for us to come to dear Fonthill; to walk forth
together, and you to ciceroni us to your great towers, little towers, your ridings,
in short, to all your improvements. How have we often wished for you at Naples,
for, believe me, Sir William loved you dearly; as to myself, I will not tell you
whether I do or not, it will be a greater pleasure for you to find it out. Indeed,
I do not, nor shall I ever, forget your kindness to me, nor the happy days we
passed at Fonthill, & I hope we shall still pass many more such.
‘Sir Wm is very well and desires his love to you, and believe me, dear sir,
your,’ &c.
379. A. L. from Lord Bristol to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated Venice,
March 28th, [I7]99. [II.]
“I write a triplicate of this day's intelligence as it appears to me equally
important and certain.
“The night before last Gen! Lusignan arrived at nine o'clock at the inn, the
Golden Eagle of Padua. His Excellency went immediately to bed, but his aid
de camp informed us they had met a courier of P. Charlest carrying the news that
his R. H. had attack'd & beaten one whole wing of the French near Bregentz, and
that when he came away the whole army of Jourdan was in perfect flight.
‘Yesterday, Wednesday morn, just as I was mounting my horse, arrived an
officer express from the army at Legnago with the glorious news that the Austrians
had totaly beaten those execrable highwaymen, the French, between Legnago &
Bevilacqua, taken above 5000 prisoners, & laid 3000 of Mess" les Perruquiers dead
on the spot, and were pursuing the rest. -
“In this case you may expect the universal revolt of all the Cisalpine, since, as
I came from Milan to Verona, nothing could be more loud, clamorous, or general,
than the discontent of all ranks of men—not a single recruit could be obtained.
‘Dear Sir Win, make the K. of Naples sensible how very thankfull I am
to him for the protection he so readily & so effectually granted to my property
at Rome.
‘You once mention'd to me a wish you had to quity" political situation at
Naples, but not your residence there, provided you cº find a person who would
cede to you a proper share of the emoluments.
‘I have a relation who, I believe, could obtain the minister's consent, & at the
* Antonio Peregrino Benelli, 1771–1830. An Italian tenor singer who made his first
appearance at Naples in 1790. In 1798 he came to England, where he was favourably received,
but went to Dresden in 1801 and remained attached to the theatre there until 1822, when he
lost his voice. He then became professor of singing at the opera at Berlin, but quarrelling with
Spontini retired into Saxony, where he died of grief and more or less in want.
† The Archduke, Ferdinand Joseph, 1755–1806, fourth son of Francis I. and Maria Theresa,
a General in the army, and Captain-General of Lombardy.
4O TA/A. AAA/// TO AV A/VD [1799.
same time satisfy your desires, if they remain the same as they were. You may
direct to me under cover to—il Conte Giovanni Brigido, Trieste, and the letter
will not miscarry.
- “If the Cisalpine be well managed, it may be put into universal insurrection,
for nothing can equal the general penury, distress, and discontent there
reigning. -
“Poor dear Mack is removed to Briançon in Dauphiné. Adieu, adieu.’
380. Doc. (in Italian) endorsed by Sir W. Hamilton : ‘Plan of Prince
Trabea to send a Flag of Truce to Genoa, & other proposals,
not approved by Lord Nelson.’ 24 pages folio. [H.]
On all accounts it is necessary to render less unpleasant the consequences of
war, because otherwise, owing to the present position of the belligerant nations,
our products remaining on our hands, as it was once the case in America with the
metal which we are in need of, we shall not be able to perform our many duties,
which are indispensable and useful at the same time.
I would propose, therefore, that a ship with a flag of truce should be sent to
Genoa in order to make arrangements for the weekly departure from here (Naples),
to Genoa and back to this capital, of a sea mail for the reciprocal convenience
of trade, as such a mail might also carry important messages, and, if the
Government of Genoa should agree, it might also send here a ship with a flag of
truce which would be welcome here, such ships as described proving of reciprocal
and necessary advantage to merchants for the transmission of letters and bills of
exchange, no reprisal for this to be permitted. -
That the said ships with a flag of truce should have no other crew than of
subjects of their respective nation, and that in case they should carry passengers
each government may be at liberty to forbid their landing.
That the duties on messages, or on exportation or importation of goods,
should not be reckoned at a rate superior to the tariff of the year 1738.
To better meet the present situation and engagements, the most excellent
Admiral Lord Nelson, himself a naturalized Palermitan, should grant for six
months to twenty ships with Sicilian flag free English passports, which would
enable them to export goods, corn, etc., to Lisbon, Gibraltar, or Mahon, and
do a coasting trade in Spain to dispose of their cargoes and buy metal in exchange
for other products and then return home.
If the most excellent Chevr Hamilton and Lord Nelson, both devoted to the
service of His Majesty the King of the Two Sicilies and interested in all the
possible advantage of this kingdom and its inhabitants, will think fit to approve
of this plan, and guarantee the fulfilment of what is proposed in it, a list of the
above-mentioned Sicilian ships will be duly forwarded, with the details concerning
the quality and the quantity of products which each of them will be enabled to
carry, and orders to keep in readiness the first ship with a flag of truce for Genoa
will be given, and afterwards, if the proposed mail line be approved by that
Government, all the other weekly boats will be fixed.*
381. A. L. S. from Sir W. Hamilton to Charles Greville. Dated
Palermo, April 8th, 1799. 5 pages 4to., with Superscription and
Seal. [H.] .
‘From being driven from my comfortable house at Naples to a house here
without chimneys & calculated only for summer, we have all suffer'd in our health,
but as I wax old it has been hard upon me having had both bilious and rheumatic
* On the back of the document is the following memorandum in Nelson's handwriting, and
signed ‘N.’ and dated “April 7th, 1799':– “If H. S. M. chuses to send a flag of truce to
Genoa it will, of course, be respected by the English, and requires no passport. It is for the
Court to consider if the French or Barbary cruizers will respect it. - 4.
“All Sicilian ships will be taken under convoy for Mahon, Gibraltar, & Lisbon, the same as
British ships. A convoy will sail from Palermo the latter end of this week.’
1799.] AELSOAV PAPERS. - 4 I
complaints. I am still most desirous of profiting of the King's leave and of
returning home by the first ship that Lord Nelson sends down to Gibraltar, as I
am worn out and want repose; but as I realy now see a very good prospect of Lº
Nelson's carrying back their Sicilian Majesties to Naples in the Vanguard &
placing them again on that throne, and that hitherto Lord Nelson, not knowing
the language, could not have done without our assistance, and I see that his
Lordship is very desirous of my staying with him a little longer, as is the Court,
I will have patience. Lord Nelson has sent Cap" Trowbridge with 5 sail of the
line with frigates and bombs, & has already taken possession of the islands of
Ischia, Procita, & Capri, & has blocked up Naples. The French at Naples are
not more than 2500 men, and they occupy the castles. The civic jacobine army
there consists of 20,000 men, but all the Lazaroni & common people are firm in
their attachment to H. S. MW. The French sent I 500 to Salerno, where there are
risings in favor of monarchy; 3OO only have returned, & most of them wounded.
In Abruzzo there are also considerable risings, and Cardinal Ruffo's” army in
Calabria is increased to 15 thousand men, & is getting on to join the King's
friends at Salerno. In this situation of affairs you see plainly that if the good
Russians land at Brindisi, or anywhere on the coast of Puglia, it will decide the
business; or, if the Emperor of Germany's army is moving forward, as we are
told, towards Bologna, the French will speedily retire from Naples, and we shall
soon carry all before us. As yet, it is Great Britain alone that has offered the
least assistance or comfort to this distressed Royal Family.
‘You cannot conceive their gratitude, and also of this whole island, towards
the English, for you see Gen' Stuart has secured Messina for them. You may
judge, my dear Charles, what it is to keep a table for all the poor British emigrants
from Naples, who have none, & for the officers of the fleet, as Lord Nelson lives
in the house with us, & all business, which is immense, is transacted in our house.
I began so & it must go on, tho' I should run myself a little more in debt, as it
can not last long, & finally I hope the King & his ministers will take my circum-
stances into consideration; if not, you know I am a philosopher & will do as well
as I can. As to my 8 cases, all of the best vases in my collection that were on
board the Colossus, I fear none will be recovered, & it is a pity, for never in this
world will such a collection be made again. The cases are so well made & vases
so well packed, that I dare say they may float when the ship goes to pieces, and
they are all cover'd with tow and strong canvas, & rope on the outside, so that
they would not break against the rocks ; most of my pictures & some few vases
are on board a British transport in this port, but the French have taken most of
my furniture at Naples, Caserta, & Pausilippo, which I had not time to carry off,
having left Naples in such a hurry. Emma makes a great figure in our political
line, for she carries on the business with the Queen, whose abilities you know are
very great. Malta is much distressed, but still holds out. Capt. Ball in the A/ear"
has blocked that port all the winter, & after such hard service we expect Russians
daily with troops, to whom the citadel will Surely surrender. As Lock is here &,
as you know, appointed Consul Gen' at Naples, if we get back, as I hope soon, to
Naples, I mean to leave him a sort of chargé d'affaires and lose no time that I may
get home & have a little summer to season me for the London winter. But, if
unfortunately this business shou'd drag on the summer, it wou’d not be prudent
for me to dash into a London fog at once, & I must wait next spring, & God
knows I have little time to lose, for I feel old age coming on fast. I know you
will, without my having given you the commission, have given directions to
watch the wreck of the Colossºs. I love Lº Nelson more & more—his activity
is wonderfull, and he loves us sincerely.”
* Fabrizio Dionigi, Cardinal Ruffo, 1744–1827, a member of a noble Neapolitan family,
created a Cardinal in 1794. Known to be of a very enterprising disposition, he had been made
Vicar-General and Commander of the Neapolitan Royalists, and had just been sent, at the date
of the letter, to head the movement against the French in Calabria, the latter being eventually
obliged to give up Naples. He went to Venice in 1800 to attend the conclave at which Pius VII.
was elected Pope, and again in 1824 for the election of Leo XII. After this he retired into the
country and occupied himself in agricultural pursuits. Nelson, in one of his letters, calls him “a
swelled-up, well-fed priest.’ - - ... •
42 7A/B, HAM//Z 7 O/V AAV/D [1799.
382. A. L. S. ‘B.’ from Lord Bristol to Mr. Day.” No date (1799 P).
# page folio, with Superscription and Seal. [H.]
“By the greatest luck in the world I have found a man will lend me 4,200 &
more, so that if you can not by any means make a better bargain for me agree to
the due mille Pezzi duri which shall be deposited, but die hard I beseech.
‘You wrote to me also for a deposit of A, IOO, & you could make some superlatif
acquisitions ; this, too, by the same means I can afford you, so that you may
make an eventual conditional bargain, & sent me a list of what you mean
to buy. -
“As soon as the weather & my health permit I sett off for Rome.’
383. A. L. from the same to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated Trieste, April
24th, [I7]99, 7 pages 4to. [H]
‘I am come here on purpose, my dear Sº Wºº, to communicate to you, if
possible, some of those numerous & amazing events wº" in so short a time are
preparing the downfall of that gang of thieves, pickpockets, highwaymen, cut-
throats, & cut-purses called the French repub
“And most fortunately, Gallot has sent an express to the Neapolitan consul
here, wºn orders to forward the important packet immediately by any possible
Il 1622.11S. -
‘Now this very incident reminds me of a plan I long ago conceived for a very
short, expeditious, & safe conveyance from Manfredonia to Vienna, &, of course,
from Otranto or Tarento, &c. -
“The different communities thro’ Dalmatia, from Spalatro to Zara, or even
Fiume, may in less than one short month form a very practical road, thro' a lime
stone country, such as I have often made thro’ the county of Derry, for at most
five shillings, or perhaps ten carlins or Pauls per perch, that is 2 I feet long.
“If barriers or turnpikes be established on the road, the different communities
can more than repay themselves, & all they want is an engineer to direct their
works, & lay out the road.
“The highway from /Juino here lies exactly thro' such a country, has turnpikes
upon it, &, as far as I can learn, cost about 8 or ten pauls by the fertica or
2 I feet. -
‘As every parish can work at the same time within its own district, one
thousand Žertica can be finished as soon as one hundred.
‘I have often travelled this road on horseback, & often traversed my horses
from Manfredonia to Lesina or Sãalato, & from thence to Zara is but one single
day's journey by change of horses. So much for a road so important to the two
courts at present, for I conclude your courier can go perfectly safe through the
two Calabrias to Reggio. -
‘Now for news. -
‘On the 9th, P. Charles beat Jourdant a third time between Schaffausen &
Soleure more decidedly than cver; Jourdan recallcd, and one, Ernouff, $ in his
* Alexander Day, 1772–1841, a miniature painter, who resided many years in Italy, whence
he brought a fine collection of pictures, many of which are now in the National Gallery.
ºf Marzio Mastrilli, Duke di Gallo, 1753–1833, a Neapolitan statesman and diplomatist. He
went as Ambassador to Vienna, and was entrusted by the Austrian Government with the
delicate mission of carrying on the negotiation with Bonaparte, which resulted in the treaty of
Campo Formio. He succeeded Acton as Prime Minister, became Viceroy of Sicily, went as
Ambassador to Milan, and assisted at the coronation of Napoleon as King of Italy. When
Joseph Bonaparte replaced Ferdinand on the throne of Naples, Gallo became Minister for
Foreign Affairs, and went as Ambassador to Russia in 1820. He died in retirement.
† Jean Baptiste, Marshal Jourdan, 1762–1833. He served for six years as a private, and on
the breaking out of the Revolution was made commander of a battalion of volunteers, and
distinguished himself on many occasions, becoming General-in-Chief of the Army of Italy in
1804, and a Marshal in 1806. He was afterwards appointed Governor of the ‘Invalides.”
§ Jean Auguste, Baron Ernouf, 1753–1827, a general in the army, and in 1810 Governor of
Guadaloupe, which he gave up to the English, and on his return to France was imprisoned and
condemned to be exiled.
1799.] A’A.M.SOAV AAA/EA’.S. 43
place ; Berne in the hands of P. Charles, & all the canton of Zurich in full
insurrection, 40 pieces of canon SAID to be taken, &c.
“So much for Germany.
“In Italy, the French, beaten everywhere, with the loss of at least 30,000 men
as Count de Luc can tell you, are not retired, but run away to Lodz, & the
intercepted letters from Schererº & Moreaut declare they must quit Lombardy
unless that blockhead & old woman, Macdonald, whom I saw in confinement,
can evacuate Maples & fly by forced marches to his succour. Mind that. The
lettels are plittled allul publisli'ul.
“All the Mantuan, Brescian (not the Bergamasc,--but the Cremonese &
Milanese in absolute revolt & insurrection, & the pityfull blackguard Milanese
Directory fled to Turim to avoid the stilettos of the mob of Milan. Never was a
more crane-neck'd insurrection. The crowing cocks or Gall; bid ſair Ilow for
being capons.
‘Peschiera & Mantua both blockaded perfectly, & the first before this day
most probably taken.
“If DELMASS and MARION, the one comandant du chateau, the other de Wa
place de Mantoue, remain in office—then Mantua will soon be deliver'd to the
Austrians, for to my certain Åmowledge these two have for months past been in
most intimate correspondence with the Generals Kaim, Godesheim, Elsnitz,
and Captain Hunt, and the PLAN was often fixed between them to introduce upon
the weekly market day between two & 300 soldiers and officers disguised like
peasants, Captain Hunt himself to be one of this military masquerade, & at
midnight to open one gate, & admit the Austrians, but it seems, that for reasons
not to be conceived, the cabinet of Vienna, Özen suffet d caution, did not relish this
stratagem, & never could be brought to consent to it. This fact I learnt both
from Hunt & from Gen' Elsnitz. Make your own shrewd remarks on it.
‘MARION is a natif of LORRAINE ALLEMANDE, of the ancient régime, &, like
all those of that denomination, a warm Royalist & a most bitter anti-republican.
He was comandant de la Place de Ferrara when I was arrested in my bed at the
village Pedo, first post & halfway between Ferrara & Bologna, & at the tail of the
I4 huzzars or cut-throats came into the first of these towns.
“I remained there 18 days under the inspection of a Council of War, in spite
of my two passports, French & Cisalpine, a prisoner upon a neutral territory.
‘MARION & his wife, wºn AUGUSTE & his wife, first aide de camp to Gen!
Gyeux, or more properly Gueux, since he robbed me of a costly double barrell’d
gun, & four more decided Royalists could not exist, dined w” me every one of the
18 days.
“Marion & Auguste both assured me that the decided plan of Barras & his
colleagues was to push the boundary of their rep: as far as the Elbe, & to give the
Court of Vienna any equivalent whatever, either in Bavaria, Silesia, or Turkey;
but have it they would to destroy the British trade, & occupy a coast from
Bayonne to Hamburg.
* Barthélemi, Louis Joseph Scherer, 1747–1804. He was General of Division in 1794; was
sent to Italy in 1795, and defeated the Austrians at Loano. He was Minister for War in 1797,
and early in 1799 was again sent into Italy, and again fought with the Austrians, but was this
time defeated and forced to retreat. He was then recalled, and never again employed.
+ Jean Victor Moreau, 1763–1813, one of the most illustrious generals of the Revolution. He
served under Dumouriez, and became a General of Division in 1794, succeeding Pichegru in 1795
as Commander of the Army of the North, eventually, in 1799, served in Italy under Scherer,
who ceded to him the chief command. In 1800 he gained the victory of Hohenlinden, but in
1804 he was arrested, accused of high treason, and condemned to exile. He retired to the
United States, where he remained until 1813, when he returned, joined the Russian army, and
was fatally wounded under the walls of Dresden.
# Etienne Jacques Joseph Alexandre Macdonald, Duke de Tarente, 1765–1840, General of
Division in 1796, Governor of Rome in 1798. Scherer's reverses forced him to evacuate the
kingdom of Naples, but he obstinately disputed with Suwarrow the passage of the Trebia.
Disgraced in 1804 for having defended Moreau, he retired until 1809. He fought, however, at
Wagram, where he was made a Marshal and Duke, and afterwards commanded in Russia.
§ Antoine Guillaume Delmas, 1768–1813, a French general, killed at Leipsig.
| Claude Marion, 1777–1847, a general of artillery, and writer on military matters.
44 TAZAZ AIAA)/// TO W AAWD [1799.
“Poor Gen! Berthier,” who had so nobly ransomed my immense property at
Rome for 400/. sterling, came to visit me in my sick-bed at Pedo. -
“Ne croyez pas, milord, que moi ou Moreau ou votre ami Marion, Qu méme
Delmas, nous servons par goût, par principe, ou par choix cet exécrable Directoire,
ce tas de voleurs, ou mème ce charlatan Bonaparte. Nous servons tous par
nécessité pour éviter la persécution, ou pour faire le peu de bien que nous
pouvons Selon les occasions.
* “Mais de grâce, milord, écrivez a votre grand Pitt de ne plus persister a
attaquer cette execrable Rép. des côtés oil elle est herissée de fortresses, et oil
les deux partis sont au moins égaux.
“Mais que toutes les armées entrent par les pays méridionaux. Que le pauvre
roy, L. 18, se mette avec sa clique de Condé à la tête d'une de Ces armées, et on
verra que trois quarts de l'armée Rép. se rendra à lui; qu'on exige partout le
serment de fidèlité à un roi constitutionel, & qu'on déporte tout-de-Suite tout ce
qui est Rép.: hommes, femmes, & enfans.
* “Faites remarquer a votre cabinet que depuis Marseilles, Montpelier,
Carcassone et Bourdeaux jusqu’à Paris, il ne se trouve une seule fortresse.
‘“Que les sept huitièmes des habitans sont Royalistes, composeront une 4ème
armée, & vous aideront a chasser ces geux de Rép. ; (I*) L'armée Pruss, pourra
entrer par Lyon, ville tant de fois en état de siège; (2*) L'Autrichienne par Gênes
& Toulon ; (3°). Le Russe ou par Cette & Marseille, ou débarquer sur les bords de
la Loire. º .
‘“300,000 hommes dans les provinces méridionales—comment est-il possible
que les provinces sept. dépourvue des secours méridionaux de tout espèce, vin,
bestiaux, argent, recrues, peuvent résister 2
* “On fera la paix, milord, ou sur les bords de la Loire ou sur les ramparts de
Paris, et alors, si on a le bon sens de partager la France, cédant le nord au
Directoire, & conservant le midi pour le roi, c'en est fait de la France pour jamais,
elle n'inquiétera plus l'Europe, & jamais plus elle ne sera puissance maritime ; et
votre Angleterre, d'où je me fais gloire de dériver mon origine, n'aura plus
rien a craindre.” Here was the substance of his declamation, w” I took down in
writing as soon as he was gone, & wºn he seemed to pronounce w” an amazing
spirit of revenge, antipathy, & hatred to Barras, Buonaparte, & indeed the whole
French nation.
‘Gen! Delmas was lodged immediately under my room at Milan, & my
balcony looked down directly upon his.
“After various civilities between us, he asked leave to make me a visit.
‘Such an offer was too interesting to be refused ; he told me he was not
unacquainted with what had passed between BERTHIER & me, as well as between
Marion & me.
‘That both Marion & he, Delmas, were determined on the first occasion to
give full proofs of their abhorrence of the present execrable system of iniquity, w”
must moulder away on the first bursting of a new war.
‘This & great deal more of the same kind passed between us, w” now is
verifying, & I am certain the French are now going out of Italy much faster than
they came into it. Adieu ! -
“In a few weeks I set out for Pyrmont; but, dear Sº Wºº, send me a passport
for SICILY, enclosed to the Neapolitan consul here at TRIESTE, tho’ I am morally
certain you will all be in Naples before long. .
“If you continue wishing to resign, I can find you a purchaser. Adieu, my
best love to dearest Emma, & my duty to the dear Queen.’
* Pierre Alexandre Berthier, Prince de Wagram, 1753–1815, one of Napoleon's most
devoted generals. After serving in America, whence he returned as a Colonel, he was made
Commandant of the National Guard at Versailles, served in la Vendée, then in Italy, and took
possession of Rome in 1798. He then became Minister for War, and on the proclamation of the
Empire, was made a Marshal, and afterwards Prince de Wagram. In 1808 he married the
daughter of William, Duke of Bavaria, and died a tragical death at Bamberg, having either
fallen or been thrown out of a window into the street, where he was found in a dying
condition,
I 799. AVAE ZSO/V AAA’AºA2S. 45
384. A. L. S. from Sir W. Hamilton to Charles Greville. Dated
Palermo, April 28th, 1799. 4 pages 4to, [H.]
‘As every day produces some extraordinary event in the Kingdom of Naples,
& all in favour of his Sicilian Majesty, and that I realy see great probability of
his being seated again, & very soon, on his throne of Naples, I have neglected
some opportunities of getting down to Gibraltar on my way home that have offer'd.
I knew well that if some negociation was to be necessary between His Majesty,
his nobles, & people, no one cou’d go between them with such a probability of
success as myself, and they all knew it; beside, Lord Nelson, for want of
languages and experience of this court & country, without Emma and me, wou"
be at the greatest loss every moment. Considering all this, altho' I have
rheumatism in my hip, and am tired and worn out almost, I will not abandon
their Sicilian Majesties in so very interesting a moment. It will be a glorious
circumstance if we can recover Naples without any further aid than that of Great
Britain; at this moment there are not two thousand French in Naples, and they
seem to be on the wing, having called in their outposts. Troubridge, with 5 sail
of line of frigates, has made himself master of all the Island, and of Salerno,
Sorriento, & Castel a Mare, and keeps Naples in hot water. The people are all
Royalists, & the Neapolitan jacobins & French dare not trust their civic guard,
suspecting many of Royalism also. Cardinal Ruffo with an army of 3C
thousand men is marching from Calabria to Salerno, where a large body wait to
join His Eminency.
‘On the other side of Naples is the Grand Diavolo, an outlawed priest with 20
thousand men at his command, & all for the King, he is besieging Gaeta. In
short, all looks well, but must depend on the advantages the Emperor's armies in
Italy & on the Rhine may attain, & from the French evacuating Tuscany, &
appearing to be on the wing from Naples, it is probably true, as report says that
the Emperor has had great advantages at Verona & on the Adige. As I have
written fully to Lord Grenville, you will hear of the flattering situation we are now
in. I am sure if we had 3 thousand British troops at this moment we might
return to Naples to-morrow. No news yet of the Russians either at Malta or
Brindisi. I hope affairs will be so far settled here that I may be able to get off
by the end of next month or middle of June, for if my return home was deferr"
longer I should not reach London until winter, which would be a dangerous
experiment for my worn-out and rheumatic carcass. The first of all satisfactions
is the sensation of having done one's duty, and that satisfaction I have hitherto
had, & will not part with it in the last moment, altho', as you know, the confused
state of my affairs call loudly for my return home. I need not desire you to use
every possible means to recover the 8 cases of my vases, for without them, in
which is the cream of my collection, the rest are nothing. I do assure you never
again will such a collection appear, as I paid well, & got everything that was
most precious, & now few are to be found. It is well, however, that most of the
best are published, & the drawings of them very exact. Coll Graham was with
me yesterday from Minorca, he is going to take the command of the citadel of
Messina. I was heartily glad to see him. Adieu !’
385. A. L. S. from Josiah Nesbit to Lord Nelson. Dated Thalia, Off
Malta,' May 4th, 1799. I page 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘I am sorry to find from Mr. Tyson's letter that you thought I was very
imprudent in messing in the gunroom, which I had not the least idea of doing,
only until I got to Palermo, where I could fit myself out. I have now determined
to do every thing in my power to deserve the unmerited promotion which you
have given me, and hope my endeavours for the future will always meet with your
approbation, as you are the only person on earth who has my interest truly at
heart, and I trust and hope my future conduct will effectually do away my former
folly. I have been off Lanosa and have taken two vessels, by one of which I
shall send this letter to-morrow. Captain Ball has given me another cruise off
Lanosa, and I hope we shall take something more. And believe me,’ &c.
46 THE HA A/// TO AV AAVD [1799.
386. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated May 19th,
1799. I page 4to., with Superscription and Seal. [H.]
“I send you Capºn Hallowell's* note to Capº Troubridge. If Duckworth joins
I shall have a respectable force ; you may depend I will do my best. I have
wrote good Lady Hamilton a line this evening, but sent it to Lieu" Lamb, it being
of no very particular consequence weither the passports got to her at night or in
the morning. The moment I get my dispatches I shall write to her; although
this will come to you very late, yet it is of too much consequence to keep from
you one moment.’
387. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Vanguard, May 20th
(1799). I; pages 4to., with Superscription. [H]
“I see a fellucca coming to us and, as it blows too fresh for them to keep
the sea, I have ordered them to keep close to the shore, and if the weather
moderates then to join me, if not, to proceed to Maritimo. The Zealous is very
near us. I hope Ball will join to-morrow. We have a miserable foul wind ; this
vexes me. I know from circumstances that he must have had my letters on the
I4th. I have, on examining the Captain of the Swallozy, almost settled my
opinion that the French fleet have come up close to the Barbary shore, and
perhaps their object may be after catching Ball, which God forbid, to go on to
Egypt. God bless you,’ &c.
‘Pray, give the enclosed f to my good Lady.”
888. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated May 21st, 1799. § page
4to. [H]
‘I have done nothing new since I wrote Lady Hamilton this morning, except
that our wind is as bad as bad can be ; how it vexes me I need not say. I send
you a copy of Lord St Vincent's letter. You shall know every thing good, bad,
and indifferent, and believe me,’ &c.
389. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated May 23rd (1799).
I page 4to. [H.] -
“No sight of Ball's squadron I do not like it ; I have sent off the Swallow
Portuguese corvette to Minorca, the cutter to Pantaleria, and the sparanarro to
Maritimo ; the latter shall go to you the moment she returns, so shall something
* Captain, afterwards Admiral Sir Benjamin Hallowell, Carew, 1760–1834. He entered the
navy at an early age, and took post rank in 1793, was present at the battle off Cape St. Vincent
and at the Nile, where he was mainly instrumental in the destruction of the Orient, out of the
wood and iron of which ship he had a coffin made, which he presented to Nelson, who was
eventually buried in it. IHallowell became a Vice-Admiral in 1819, and in 1828, succeeding
to the estates of the Carews of Bedfordshire, he assumed the name and arms of Carew. He is
said to have been a man of gigantic frame and vast personal strength.
+ The ‘enclosed is the following:—
\
bo ſ ſ Culloden .................. 74
5 Zealous ..................... 74
3. Starboard or Weather & *: tº tº & tº º tº e g g º & e g g g tº & %
º Division. Swiftsure .................. 74 Lord Nelson’s
# ^- Alphonso .................. 74 line of battle,
May 20th, I'700.
§ ſ Principe Reale ......... IOO y , 1799
s | St. Sebastian ............ 74.
.# Larboard or Sea < Goliath tº $ tº e º tº a tº e º 'º tº $ tº e º 'º º Q ºn 74
CŞ Division. | Audacious ............... 74
\ - U. Minotaur .................. 74
1799] NEZSOAV PAPERS. 47
else when I get any news, or no news. This moment I have had an account that
the French fleet were seen off Cagliari, stands to the N. E. However, this news
on closer examination proved to be false; but, if true, it made me form my plan
for the defence of Palermo from a capture by a sea attack, and you may assure
their Majesties and Gen! Acton that if the whole fleet pursue me I will not pass
to the eastward of Palermo, but will there make my stand, and, I believe, should
prevent the whole F, fleet from destroying us. I will stand or fall with their
Majestys and you & Lady Hº ; noth9 shall swerve me from this determination.—
# pºt II, the sparanaro is just returned from Maritima, where they have heard
nothing of the French fleet.’
390. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Vanguard, May 25th,
- 1799. 2 pages 4to. [H.]
‘Your two letters of the 21st & 22nd arrived at 3 o'clock with 2 from G| Acton
and one from Colº Graham, for the perusal of which I thank you. The cutter
gone to Pantellaria goes to Minorca the moment of her return, and if she has
heard nothing of the French fleet I shall return and anchor with the whole
squadron in the Bay of Palermo, as many of our Naples ships want to compleat
their water & provisions, which they will do in 24 hours. The Portugese want
everything, for, as Duckworth means not to join me, I can only hold myself in
readiness at moment's notice for any service, either in a whole body or detach-
ments, as the Earl may direct. If the enemy are gone to Toulon and the news
from Paris and Italy is true, they will not come out at present. The line of battle
ships with me must not be again separated, therefore Malta must trust to the
Russians. I will direct the Lion to remain at Procida for the protection of the
islands, but nothing more is in my power at present. You will, my dear Sir
William, communicate this in confidence to Gen' Acton, the mass may believe
the ships are going to their former destination. I shall write my Lady she may
4ell the Queen, for she is a great woman and is satisfied I act as I really think
best for the common cause. With sincere & cordial thanks for all your kindness
when present, & good wishes when absent, believe me ever yours,’ &c.
“Trowbridge, who was with me, & Hardy desire their kindest regards.’
391. A. Doc.” S. ‘Nelson.' Dated May 25th, 1799. I page folio, with
Seal.
‘WHEREAS I, Horatio Nelson, K.B., Rear-Admiral in His Majesty's fleet,
have belonging to me two gold boxes set with diamonds, one bearing the picture
of his Imperial Majesty the Emperor of all the Russias; the other, a nearly round
box set with diamonds, said to have been sent me by the mother of the Grand
Signor, I do hereby give and bequeath the last-mentioned nearly round box,
&c., &c., &c. to my dear friend, Emma Hamilton, wife of the Right Hon. Sir
William Hamilton, which I request she will accept (and never part from) as token
of regard and respect for her every eminent virtues (for she, the said Emma
Hamilton, possesses them all to such a degree that it would be doing her injustice
was any particular one to be mentioned) from her faithful and affectionate friend.
‘I also request that my friend, the Rt. Hon. Sir William Hamilton, K.B., will
accept of fifty guineas to purchase a ring, which I beg he will wear for the sake of
his sincere friend.
‘I declare this as a codicil to my last will and testament, on board his Majesty's
ship Vanguard, this 25 May, 1799, off Maritimo Isle.’
392. A. L. S. from the same to Lady Hamilton. Dated May 26th, 1799.
I page 4to. [H] -
‘Many, many thanks for your letters; but, as neither of ours can go by post, we
must trust to the mercy of a boatman who cares not for our anxiety. , I send you
the passports for the vessels, only tell me how I can be most useful, and that is
* Printed in Mr. Morrison's Catalogue, First Series, vol. v. p. 10.
48 TA//7 H.A.!/// TO AV AATD [1799.
enough—the thing is done. There is not a vessel in sight, therefore I can send
you nothing new. Pray do not trouble yourself to send me fruit, for, to say the
truth, I have no stomach for eating. May God Almighty bless you and all my
friends about you, and believe me amongst the most faithful and affectionate of
your friends,’ &c.
‘I have no boat with me, therefore I cannot send again till one comes.’
393. A. L. S. from the same to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated May 26th, 1799.
2} pages 4to. [H]
‘I am truly sorry you should have cause of complaint on the very serious
subject of breaking quarantine, but I hope the first vessel of war which arrives
will most severely flog the midshipman who suffered such a thing and the men
that did it; indeed, they ought to be shot. It is in such points as these that we
get hated by foreigners. I can only say this shameful conduct shall have no
protection from me, but, on the contrary, the severest reprobation. I must admire
the Queen's Jour', so flattering to me; but, in truth, she cannot wish me better
than we three wish her. I do not believe the Spanish fleet will trust themselves
in Brest. They may get to Ferrol, but all guesses relative to the mad plan of the
French are nothing, no reasonable conjecture can be formed. The Lion is in
sight, but no sign of the Earl St Vt cutter or Capt. Ball's squadron; as to our friends
in the West, they have forgot us. Thank God, when Ball joins, we are fully
capable of taking care of ourselves. Although I apprehend no danger, yet, suppose
the French were to push for Syracuse, it might be difficult in the present state of
the military in Sicily to dislodge them for a time, and it is their infernal principles
I dread, not their prowess. I am confident also they will not come to Palermo
whilst I have I I sail of the line, but I think an enclosed work of two or three guns
with forges for shot should be erected at the bay beyond the king's house at the
Colli. I mean more as a guard agº a surprise of landing there than as a regular
work, for all countries must in the end be defended by the bravery of the in babit-
ants. Noon, Lion just arrived. I never heard of such infamous conduct to the
Russian brig, it cannot surely be a man of war; if it is I will bring the Captain to
a court martial directly. Pray tell Mushin so; I will write to him by the next
boat. When this goes I have none with me, therefore cannot send off till I get one.
‘Cap" Dixon has alarmed me at not bringing any news of Ball's squadron, all
my fears are awake for his safety; as to us, the devil shall not take us.”
394. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated May 27th (1799).
3 pages 4to. [H.]
“I send you an answer to Count Mussin P. Bruce's letter, which I beg when read
you will send to him. If the circumstance is true, there is no reparation that is
not due to the Russian Flag, but it is so infamous that I almost doubt the whole
history. I wish, if strong enough, the Russian brig had sunk the frigate, but if it
turns out to be an English frigate I will venture to have my head cut off. How:
ever, nothing shall be wanting on my part, with your prudent council, if, as I
suspect, she is a Gibraltar privateer, alias Zīārate, for taking away the Cap”
Commission. All goes on well by your accounts on the Continent. Pray God
it may continue, and i fit does, & the F. F. gone into Toulon, they will not come
out again, but I cannot account why I have not heard of Ball's Squadron. I must
be very uneasy till I hear of them, and form a thousand conjectures.
‘The Earl St. Vº cutter which left Palermo the 23rd, is not yet come to me.
Z’Entreprenant which I sent to Pantelleria not returned, nothing from Duckworth,”
* Sir John Thomas Duckworth, 749–1817. He entered the navy at eleven years of age and
became Post-captain in 1780. In 1793 he was given the command of the Orion, which formed
part of the Channel Fleet under Lord Howe. He went to West Indies in 1795; in 1798 was sent
to join Lord St. Vincent in the Mediterranean, and command the squadron ; was sent to convoy
the troops to Minorca, and to cover operations in that island. He was made a Rear-Admiral in
February, 1799. In 1800 he commanded the blockading squadron off Cadiz, and captured a rich
Spanish convoy, his share alone of the prize money being said to be 75,000l. From 1810 to
1813 he was Governor and Commander-in-Chief at Newfoundland. On his return to England
he was created a Baronet, and in 1817 was appointed Commander-in-Chief at Plymouth.
1799] wezsow PAPERS. 49
or the Earl. We are compleatly in the dark, to say the truth had I known or
could have guessed at A* Duckworth's intention not to have come to my help,
I had no great business at sea, but being out I know had I returned the next day
all Palermo would have fancy'd that I wanted to find shelter, & that the F. F.
were at my heels. When L'Entreprenamt joins & they know nothing of the F. F., I
shall bring the Squadron to Palermo, and I would have you, the court, and all Paler-
ſno be assured that, whilst I have a ship left, their Majestys and the city shall
be defended, therefore weither they hear nf me this day Ol' hour, they may rest
assured I do not for a moment forget they are in my charge. If they will find boats,
I will send every hour exactly where I am, but the boats must be with the Vang".
I know the boats are hired, but can you or I make the rascals sweat at the oar 2
Was there anything of real importance, I would detach a ship and land an
officer somewhere on the coast. Having said all this, I readily conceive your
anxiety by my own, and that, if we do not hear from our friends, we fancy 10,000
things. May God,’ &c. -
I o'clock, morning of the 28th.
‘Many thanks for your letter and enclosures, which I return. I thank you for
your kind wishes, about my health. I can say with truth that I have not been
free from headache, sickness, and with want of rest, for I know not what sleep is
since I left Palermo. I am seriously unwell, and have given notice to my squad-
rom that if I am ordered to blockade Toulon, that my health will not allow it, and I
shall give up. . The ship in sight is, I fear, the Strombolo. Why Ball has not joined
me is wonderful. Ever your,’ &c. ‘Saw Pelligrini this morning.’
395. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated May 28th (1799).
I page 4to. [H] -
‘Ball's letters, with thanks for your goodness, I recº last night at Io o'clock,
and towards 4 this morning she went again from us to Palermo. At 5 a fellucca.
which left you on Saturday arrived, & at # p", those which left you yesterday came
to me. It is calm, I therefore send you one back to say I am turning my head
towards you. Many of our ships, if wanted for the blockade of Toulon, must be
compleated in their water & provisions. All your news is excellent, and I hope
Bonaparte will have his quietus in Egypt, as well as poor Wilmot and Major
Oldfield. Should Ball have staid off Malta, it is clear the F. fleet are not bound
first that road, therefore I intend he shall continue the blockade with every pre-
caution of having ships well to the westward, to give him the information till the
arrival of the Russians, when only Cap" Ball & the Alexander shall remain, but
I shall say all my say when we arrive, for I am almost worn out with anxiety. To
fight is nothing, but to be continually on the stretch for news & events of the
greatest importance is what I find my shattered carcass very unequal to.
“God bless you, and believe me ever yours obliged,’ &c.
396. A. L. S. from Charles Greville to the same. Dated June 8th, 1799.
5 pages 4to., with Superscription and Seal. [H.]
‘I am Sorry to inform you that only about ten vases and pateras, of which one
only is of consequence, has been preserved from all the wreck. That a box was
opened is most certain, but what I recover'd was obtain’d from the people by one
of the many employed to watch the landing of any cases by the sea. I was
assured by Major Bowen that these were thrown on the beach by the sea. The
one I mention as of consequence is the drinking cup with the boar & sheep's
head. I am still in hopes more may be thrown up. -
‘As to your decision to remain, I can not only say that it’s like your own good
judgment biased by your good heart. I wrote you that Lº Grenville had said that
he hoped you would not quit the Court at this time. I told him he should not
only say so, but assure you of the King's approbation, to which he said he had
done so in the strongest terms. I told him the losses of all sorts required your.
Coming to know how you could go on, & the addition of salary, indemnification,
&c., would be not only just but politick. I have every reason to believe that they
will act as liberaly in your absence as in your presence, but I saw them considering
VOL. II, E
$o 7 HE HAM// TOM A/V/) [1799.
Mr Windham's case, to which they have attended, & to Mr Smith at Constant.
who has been directed to give an estimate of his losses by the fire. It would not
have been wise in me to urge further than the magnitude of your losses to be
beyond the scale of others & your services longer, and I therefore wish you to
advise me how far I could be justified in claiming for you. It occurred to me,
that as Ly H. had been so instrumental in good, that you might obtain a rever-
sionary interest in a pension when you chuse to retire, but at present to confine
your claim to indemnification, & this should be what would put you in the same
state as at the alarm of invasion or the return of the British fleet to Naples you
was. It is not likely they will pay all, but it will be right to state all your losses,
Sº the increase of debt since you was left the single minister in Italy.
‘Ly H. has desired me to send her a dress. I hope she will not think I invent
some like Sicilian & Italian, & antique dresses, but, literaly, they now dress their
hair after Sicilian medals, & the effect is very becoming, but they all look like
nymphs. I spoke to many & all admire her conduct, & the P. of W. particularly,
of his own accord, told me that, after the Q. of N. account of Ly H. conduct to her,
she might be assured that all would be made pleasing to her when she arrived
again in Eng". It is very much my wish to see you, but not this autumn. The
winter of London and its society—its hours & fashions are so different of late—
that was it not for my retreat at Paddington I should be sick of it, & I therefore
hope you will come next spring, the season all are in town, & the climate less
hostile to rheumatisms. -
‘I do not know when the messenger returns, but, as I am told to expect it
dayly, I send this letter to be in time. Tell Ly H., with my kindest remembrance,
that all her friends love her more than ever, & those who did not know her admire
her. I will write to her by the first opportunity, & in the meantime have prepared a
little parcel such as the messenger can carry, & I will be always ready to obey her.
‘I am going this moment to Wales. I have undertaken for £2Ooo to build
new lighthouses at the entrance of the harbour, which will be finished this season.
All is going on well, & no further drain will arise to you, & the improvement of
income & the good I am doing will, I am sure, meet your aprobation.
‘Tell Graham that his friend, Barrallier, is my prime minister at Milford.
‘I need not say that the eyes of Europe now are turned to Italy with the hopes
of regeneration. May you return to Naples, & be instruinental to the great outline
of pacification. The reform of abuse is difficult at all times, but it is necessary to
be kept in view on the first arrangements, & when justice & security of property
can be assured, the return of the monarch may be the moment to stem corruption
& the abuses of a weak gov". -
“M” & M* Lock & the Miss Locks are very sensible of your kindness to their
son. Adieu, believe,’ &c.
“Remember me to M* Cadogan.”
397. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to the same. Dated June 16th, 1799.
I page 4to. [H]
“I send you Mr Magra’s” letter, and I am glad His Majesty has got a truce for
the war, although from M* M’s letter I am ignorant whether Gº Bº is a guarantee
for the treaty, yet I hope the Bey will think she is, and consequently pay more
respect to it, or it is probable the Court may wish to ratify the treaty (if it is come).
If they send the ratification to me I will endeavour to get it to Tunis as speedily
as possible. May God bless you,' &c.
‘Pray do not keep the cutter for anything the Court may have to ans" the
Tunis letter, they can send it by a boat, & if the cutter is kept I have nothing with
me to send you information by.”
398. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated June 17th, 1799. I
page 4to. [H]
‘A ship passed the rear of the fleet in the night. I hope she was from the
* Mr. Perkins Magra was British Consul at Tunis,
1799.] AVELSOAV PAPERS. 5i
Earl, and that you and my Lady have executed my commission of breaking open
all the letters. I have not been very well, but this day is almost the finest I ever
saw. . We are about 12 miles west of Ustica. I think the vessels from Naples
must have had letters for me, but they only spoke the St. Sebastian & Lion. You
shall know everything, for, believe,’ &c. -
“I send you a copy of my letter to Lord Rh. Pray return the Magra's letters.”
899. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated off Trapani, June 18th,
I799. I page 4to. [H.] -
‘Ball is in sight. I have now only to wish for 2 or 3 three deckers, & then I
Care not how soon I see the French fleet. My situation is a cruel one, and I am
sure Lord Keith has lowered me in the eyes of Europe, for they will only know of
18 sail, and not of the description of them ; it has truly made me ill. I hope the
anchors left by the Powerful & A//homso will be got up, for they are invaluable
to us, the Alphonso having only one left. It is the finest weather, & I wish you
and my lady could enjoy a little sea air. If your situation will allow to be at sea
for a few days I will come off Palermo for you, and if I am to go away to fight I
will promise to land you from some frigate. Ball and Foley are on board perfectly
well, & desire to be kindly remembered.’
400. L. (French translation) from the Bey of Tunis to Lord Nelson.
Dated at the Bardo of Tunis, the well guarded city, the abode
of felicity, the 24th of the month Moharrem of the Hegira, 1214
(June 27th, 1799). I page folio. [P.]
A Ragusan vessel commanded by Cap" Antonio Giacome Cristich, from
Smyrna with a cargo on account of my subjects, was some days since taken by a
Portuguese frigate, who took her into Marsa Silocco, Malta. Some Turkish and
Tunisian passengers who were on board of her have been sent here in a Maltese
Tartane; but, although they are liberated, their effects and merchandise are stopt.
Ragusa being bound by the reciprocity always acted upon by friendly and
neutral powers to guarantee protection to the persons and property of those under
their flag, I shall have recourse to the Senate of that republic, if the cargo should
be declared confiscated ; but considering the time that would elapse before justice
could be obtained, on account of the distance between Tunis and Ragusa,
considering that various other vessels coming from the Levant with cargoes on
account of my subjects were also met and boarded by the Portuguese ships, and
permitted to continue their voyage, that not three months since Capt." Pietro
Zombrovich, Ragusan, ſroin Alexander for Tunis, was also taken by a Portuguese
frigate, and carried into Malta, and afterwards released by order of Commander
Alexander Ball, I have determined to communicate the fact to your Lordship,
both to save time, and if, as I firmly believe that your Lordship should also consider
the detention unjustifiable, that you would be pleased to give orders for her
release, so that the merchandise may be saved.
I trust your Lordship will remember that it was in consequence of the letter
of the 17 March last, with which your Lordship kindly honored me, that I assured my
subjects they might safely trade, and that I even informed my Corsaires that they
had nothing to fear from the Portuguese squadron, which was entirely under your
orders. They therefore engaged freely in speculations and commerce upon the
certainty that they would not be exposed to such risks and losses as inevitably
must ruin them in having to recover their merchandise by process of law, should
it be confiscated contrary to the stipulations and treaties of all the European
powers with respect to the Barbary trade, who in their turn have always faith-
fully observed them. In soliciting the favor of an exact reply on the transaction
from your Lordship, I have the pleasure to renew the assurance of my esteem and
of the high consideration with which I am, My Lord, your Lordship's very
affectionate friend, &c.
52 THE HAMILTON AND [1799.
401. A. L. S. from William Compton to Lady Hamilton. Dated
Posilipo, Monday, 1st July, 1799. 3 pages 4to. [P.]
‘I would make many apologies for presuming to trouble your Ladyship with
a request again, but, being really in the cause of true humanity, I flatter myself those
sentiments in your breast will induce you not only to pardon my intrusion, but
also to calm the agonies of an unfortunate daughter who trembles for her unfor-
tunate father, and with your powerful intercession, with the worthy gallant Lord.
Nelson, relieve the young lady from all future fears. You yourself know the
family of Marchetti. They were always and have always been staunch Royalists,
but, for the great misfortune of the family, have had a son unprincipled and of
violent different sentiments. He has already paid the price of his guilt by his life,
but not till he has brought great troubles and disasters on his worthy, innocent
parents, who have had their house sacked twice, viz., at the K’s departure, & now
on his restoration. The young lady's alarm arises from the order posted up of Lord
Nelson, but I can assure you that the ſather has always preserved his principles
of loyalty, and that the employment he had was forced upon him by the ferocious
Republicans, amongst whom 'tis said the system of terrorism introduced by the
infamous Robertspiere was gaining ground. - -
‘The poor man is not a genius, but really a good inoffensive being. The
young lady was, I believe, intended for my dº friend's nephew, but this vile son
has ruined them all. She herself is the bearer to throw herself at your Ladyship's
feet, & Lº Nelson will, I am sure, give way to emotions of pity natural to the
brave, especially to Britons, in favour of an unfortunate daughter & family, &
grant a full protection to her father, &c., &c., notwithsts that general order, and
his Lords”, I know, is too just to confound the innocent with the guilty, & will
distinguish between the weak & the wicked, the forced & the voluntary occupiers
of offices, and also the nature of the functions. They are old acquaintances of
my dº friend's (long known, too, to me), and she most earnestly unites her
strongest Solicitations to your Ladyship with those of,” &c.
*P.S. Pray present our best respects to Sir Wm., & remember us to Mr. Graefer.”
402. A. L. S. ‘J. B.’ from Sir Joseph Banks to Robert Greville. Dated
Friday mag (1799). I page 4to., with superscription. [H]
“As the sillyness of my Lincolnshire looby has disapointed you from seeing
what I conceive to be a great curiosity in the way of grazing, I send enclosed
for your inspection two scetchest which show how very artificially the fat of
this animal is bred on the haunches, the part you know which London gluttons
pay any price for, if tolerably fat.
‘He will attend to-day till one, & to-morrow at the Rem. I have no hopes of
your being able to attend. I say this merely that you may be informed.’
403. A. L. S. (in English) from Dr. Cirillo” to Lady Hamilton. Dated
from on board the St. Sebastian, July 3rd, 1799, 5 pages 4to., with
SuperScription. [H.]
‘I hope you won't take it ill, if I take this liberty to trouble you with a few
lines, in order to make you recollect that nobody in this world can protect and
save a miserable and innocent being, but you. I have lost everything, my house
is but a heap of ruins; I don't know what is to become of my desolate family, I
am quite in the dark, not knowing whether my poor old mother exists or not,
after the general destruction. Milady, you are a sensible and charitable lady, I
know your sentiments of humanity, therefore you alone may do everything in my
favour. You are the intimate friend of Lord Nelson, he justly esteems you, and
he has the power from the King of Naples to dispose of everything. The
conduct of my life, before and after the French Revolution, has been always
honest, pure, and loyal. I was often called in to attend French people, while
* Mr. Graefer was Nelson's agent at his estate at Bronté.
† Two pen-and-ink sketches of the hinder part of sheep accompany the letter
# Dominico Cilillo, the King's physician.
1799.] AVELSOAV PAPERS. 53
they were ill, but never had any intimacy with them, and never entertained any
correspondence whatsoever with them. When General Championet came to
Naples, he sent for me and appointed me for one of the members of the
Provisory Government he was going to establish. The day after I sent to
him a letter, and formally resigned the employment, and saw no more of him.
During three months, I did nothing else but support with my own money, and with
that of some charitable friends, the great number of poors existing in the town.
I invited all the Physicians, surgeons, and apothecharies to go round to visit
poor sick persons, who had no possibility of curing their disorders. After this
period, Abrial” came to settle the new Government, and he insisted upon my
accepting of a place in the Legislative Commission. I refused the second and the
third time; at last I was threatened and forced. What could I do, how could I and
what could I oppose? In the short time, however, of this administration, I never
took an oath against the King, never wrote, nor never said any single offensive word
against any of the Royal Family, never appeared in any of the public ceremonies,
never went to any public dinners, never put on the national dress; no public money
came through my hands, and the only IOO ducats in paper, that were given to me,
where distributed to the poor. The few laws, that passed in my time, where
only those that could prove beneficial to the people. All other affairs where
transacted by the executive commission, which concelead every thing from us.
These, Milady, are real facts, and even if I was to die this very moment I would
not conceale the truth to you. Your Ladiship knows at present the true history
not of my crimes, but of the involuntary faults I was carried in by the force of the
French army. Now, madam, in the name of God, don't abandon your miserable
friend. Remember that, by saving my life, the gratitude of an honest family
will be eternal ' Your generosity, that of your husband and of the great Nelson,
are my only hopes.
‘Procure me a full pardon from our merciful king, and the public will not loose
an infinite number of medical observations collected in the space of forty years.
Remember I did all I could to save the Botanic Garden at Caserta, and tried to
be as useful to the children of Mrs. Greffer as I could. I think it unnecessary,
madam, to trouble you any longer, you must pardon this long letter and excuse
me in the present deplorable condition. I beg you to present my best respects
to Sir William, and to Lord Nelson, while I am, Madam,’ &c.
404. A. L. S. from W. Wyndham to Sir. W. Hamilton. Dated Florence, -
July 13th, 1799. I page folio. [P.]
‘My Secretary, M* Penrose, has my directions to lay before you the letters I
have written to the Cheº Seratti with the papers, &c., for your perusal & for His
S. Majesty's information in case that M* Seratti should have left Palermo. Should
M* Seratti be still here he will communicate it to you, the affairs are prosperous
beyond our hopes.
‘I am sorry, most heartily sorry, that after our last meeting all discord is not
forgotten, and feel much mortified that either you or Lady Hamilton should feel
resentment against M* Penrose, whose conduct has always been as far as I have
known loyal & gentlemanly.
‘I hope all rancour will cease, and that you will perceive that by any act M*
Penrose may have done, you are not injured even in the most trifling degree. The
machinations of some ill-liberal persons, attempt to work upon your temper &
influence you against Penrose as they did against me whilst at Palermo.
‘l despise their lies & calumny. Ly H. would do much better to do the same.
I am,’ &c.
405. A. L. S. from Sir. W. Hamilton to Charles Greville. Dated ‘on
board the Foudroyant, Bay of Naples, July 14th, 1799. 4 pages
folio. [H.]
“I profit of the return of M* Sylvester, the King's messenger, to send you a
* André Joseph Abrial, 1750–1828, a French politician who organized the so-called Parthe-
nopean Republic. - - -
54 7A7A2 AAA/ZZ 7 OAV AAVO [1799.
line, but I realy am so worn out by the long dispatch I have been obliged to write
to-day to Lord Grenville that I can scarcely hold my pen. By our present
compleat success I am more than repaid for having, as you know, sacrificed both
my health and private interests for the good of the common cause in which we
have so long been struggling. The arrival of the King's fleet in time has saved
this capital from the utmost anarchy and confusion. Lord Nelson has secured
all the chiefs of the Jacobine nobility & their party, who wou'd otherwise have
escaped the hand of justice by the rascality or imbecility of the King's Vicar
Gen', but I cannot go over the same ground again of my letter to Lord Grenville.
By applying at His Ldpº office you may know the contents of that letter, as I
suppose you have friends there as you have everywhere. When Lord Nelson
was entreated to go to Naples with his whole fleet, 19 of the line, their Majesties
requested me to accompany Lº Nelson, who did not know the language & had
not the long experience of the country, & of which I was perfectly master. We
had full powers, but nothing but my phlegm cou’d have prevented an open rupture
on the first meeting between Cardinal Ruffo and Lord Nelson. Lord Nelson is
so accustomed to dealings fair & open, that he has no patience when he meets
with the contrary, which one must always expect when one has to deal with
Italians, &, perhaps, His Eminency is the very quintessence of Italian finesse.
We have now been here 18 days, & His Sicilian Majesty on board this ship 3
days. We have now nothing political to think of, & Lord Nelson is occupied
with the taking of Capua & Gaeta, which I dare say will be done in a few days.
To-morrow the brave Capº Trowbridge & Hollwell go upon that attack, &, as
Gaeta is blocked by sea and land, we flatter ourselves that in a few days there
will not be a Frenchman left in the kingdom of Naples when those 2 remaining
fortresses are taken. Trowbridge took the strong castle of St Elmo in ten days,
a regular engineer wou'd have been 6 weekes making his approaches. The King
just came the night before the surrender, & saw from this ship his own standard
hoisted. My head is so confused with long writing on this subject that I must
referr you to my letter to Lº Grenville. I have been told most of the goods &
cannon have been recovered from the wreck of the Colossus. I hope in God my
8 cases, that were so very carefully packed, may be of the number. Spare no
expence, my dº Chaº, to recover them if you can, as the like were never seen, or
ever will be. I still think I am in time to get home before the winter sets in, and
as their Sicº Majesties will probably be very soon firmly seated on their throne of
Naples, I may profit of the King's leave, which has remain’d in my pocket more
than two years. You will find me much worn & am little more than skin and
bone, as I have very little stomach. Perhaps my native air may give me a
bracing, but I expect more from a perfect repose from all vexatious business than
any thing else.
“Probably some ships will soon be sent home from Palermo, and Emma & I
shall profit of one. Every Capt. wishes to serve us, and no one are, I believe,
more popular in the navy at this moment than Emma and I. It will be a heart
breaking to the Queen of N. when we go, she has realy no female friend but her,
& Emma has been of infinite use in our late very critical business. Lº Nelson
& I cou’d not have done without her, all of which shall be explain'd when we meet.
You can not conceive the joy of Naples on seeing me arrive again, and we have
had the glory of stepping between the King & his subjects to the utility of both.
In short, the King's fleet & a little good management & temper has placed their
Sicº Majesties once more on their throne of Naples.
‘L" Nelson is enraged at the thought of the Brest fleets having probably got
into the ocean again. You shall hear again when we return to Palermo &, I hope,
see us soon after. With,’ &c.
406. A. L. S. from Lady Hamilton to the same. Dated Foudroyant, Bay of
Naples (July 14th,” 1799). 2 pages 4to., with Superscription and
Seal. [H.]
‘Lieut. Parkinson will deliver this to you; he carries a letter to the King from
—-rrºr
* St. Elmo surrendered July 13th.
our King. We have placed him on his throne again. Parkinson is a worthy
good man; he will tell you our situation here, for I have no time to write, having
so much to do, but you will be pleased to find we have done all in our power, and
succeeded for the Royal Family & this kingdom—but Mr Parkinson will inform
you. God bless you, & believe me,’ &c. -
*P.S.. I came with a particular commission from the Queen to the Royalists,
& all is as we wished. St. Elmo surrendered yesterday.”
407. A. L. S. from Captain Ball to Lord Nelson. Dated ‘Alexander, off
Malta,' July 17th, 1799. 2% pages folio. [P.]
‘I have the honour to acquaint your Lordship of my arrival here the 8th inst.
with the ships under my command. Captain Maling, of La Bonne Citoyenne,
informed me, that there had not been any particular occurrence since he last
wrote to your Lordship.
‘I inclose a letter from Lieutenant Vivion, whose conduct during my absence
merits my warmest commendation. The late Grand Master has a strong party
here, to counteract the views of the Emperor of Russia ; he is protected by the
Emperor of Germany, who is extremely jealous of Paul getting himself elected
Grand Master, to accelerate his plan of possessing the sovereignty of Malta, and
I have not a doubt but the three Knights of Malta, mentioned by Lieutenant
Vivion, were sent here expressly to effect a counter revolution. I intercepted
Some letters last March from the late Grand Master, exciting his agents here to
strengthen his party by every possible means, and to assure them of the protection
of the Emperor of Germany. I immediately arrested the principal agent, and
sent him to the island of Comino, after extorting a list of the persons concerned,
Some of whom are the best families on the island, and who know that I am
acquainted with their attachment, and watch narrowly their conduct ; they,
therefore, keep very quiet, and I believe many are now warm partisans of the
English.
‘The Maltese at present are very obedient to the laws. During my absence
a large body of men assembled in a riotous manner, and insisted on the repeal of
a law which the Congress had passed ; their appearance was so formidable that
Lieutenant Vivion thought it prudent to concede. Since my arrival the rebellious
leaders have been arrested and sent to Barbary, to the great joy of the peaceable
inhabitants, and I trust it will prevent any further opposition to the laws of the
island. The French have a few friends in the country who are exciting the people
to insurrection, but I am convinced they will not succeed so long as we are enabled
to pay the Maltese armed peasants.
‘The French garrison are lingering out in the hope of a succour, but, when
they hear of His Sicilian Majesty being restored to his dominions and their fleet
being blockaded, I am of opinion the French soldiers will oblige General Vaubois*
to capitulate. I send this by the Benjamin, as her provisions are getting short.
I have the honour to be,’ &c.
408. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to “Signora Madre, Mrs. Cadogan.
Dated Foudroyant, Naples, July 17th, I799. Ił pages 4to., with
Superscription. [P.]
‘I cannot longer resist the pleasure it will give me to write you a line, especi-
ally as I can tell you that Sir William is grown very much better since his
embarkation. Our dear Lady is also, I can assure you, perfectly well ; but has her
time so much taken up with excuses from rebels, Jacobins, and fools, that she
is every day most heartily tired. Our conversation is, as often as we are
liberated from these teazers, of you and our other friends in the house at
Palermo ; and I hope we shall very soon return to see you. Till then recollect
that we are restoring happiness to the kingdom of Naples, and doing good to
* Claude Henri Belgrand, Count de Vaubois, 1748–1839, a French general; at the date
of the letter Governor of Malta, which he was forced to evacuate after months of privation, in
1800. - -
56 THE HAMILTON AND - [1799.
millions. Remember me kindly to Graeffer and the children. Tell them I hope
they are much improved in their dancing, and particularly in French, as I hear
you have taken a new master for them. Believe me we all long to see you, and
we will go and dine at the Colli from a dinner of your ordering for us. Captain
Troubridge goes against Capua to-morrow, and I am sure he will very soon take
it. Mr. White goes with him as a volunteer. Harryman is made a Colonel, and
he now hopes Lady K. will have no objection to his connection in her family—in
short, the poor man is almost mad with anger. God bless you, my dear Madam,
and believe me,’ &c. . . . .
409. L. S. from the officers of the Leviathan to Lady Hamilton. Dated
Leviatham, Naples Bay, July 17th, 1799. 2 pages folio, with
superscription. [P.] -
“We, the undersigned officers of his Majesty's ship the Leviatham, having
sought, but in vain, some means of alleviating the miseries of the unfortunate
family of Peatti, who are on board here ; have at length unanimously assured
ourselves that their most effectual deliverance would be obtained if your Lady-
ship's interference could but be procured on their behalf. The reason we venture
to address ourselves to you in particular is plain, because we have heard many
instances of your Ladyship’s unbounded humanity, which we trust will plead an
excuse (more powerfully than anything else can) in our request, ‘that your Lady-
ship will be pleased to present his Sicilian Majesty with the enclosed petition.’
We all feel ourselves deeply impressed with the horrid crime of disaffection to
one’s lawful Sovereign, and the miseries to one's country that must inevitably
ensue; but when we consider the frailty of human nature, how apt mankind are
to be misguided, and, above all, the sincere and unfeigned repentance of the
Peatti family, of which we have been eyewitnesses, we have flattering hopes that,
aided by your Ladyship's benevolence, they will have the good fortune to
experience their King's pardon. We have the honour to subscribe ourselves with
the highest respect,’ &c. *
&
410. A. L. S. from Capt Ball to Lord Nelson. Dated ‘Alexander off
Malta, July 18th IZ99. I page 4to. [P.] -
‘I have the honour to acquaint your Lordship, that a deserter is this moment
come out of La Valetta, who corroborates the distressed state of the French
garrison, and, in addition, he says that there is very little water left on the Cotonaro
side, and that they get their supply from La Valletta. General Vaubois has given
order to clear all the gardens of vegetables, to prevent any water being used
there. He likewise says the French soldiers will oblige General Vaubois to
gºpulate upon the appearance of an additional force. I have the honour to be,”
C.
411. A L. S. from Lady Hamilton to Charles Greville. Dated ‘ On
board the Foudroyant, Bay of Naples, July 19th, 1799. 8 pages
4to. [H.]
‘We have an opportunity of sending to England, and I cannot let pass this
good opportunity, without thanking you for your kind remembrance in Sir
William's letter. Everything goes on well here. We have got Naples, all the
Forts ; and to-night our troops go to Capua. His Majesty is with us on board,
were he holds his Councils and Leváes every day. General Acton and Castelci-
cala with one gentleman of the bedchamber attend His Majesty. Sir William and
Lord Nelson with Acton are the King's Counsellers, and you may be assured
that the future government will be most just and solid. The King has bought his
experience most dearly, but at last he knows his friends from his enemies, and
allso knows the defects of his former government, and is determined to remedy
them. For he has great good sense, and his misfortunes have made him steady
and look into himself.
“The Queen is not yet come, She sent me as her Deputy ; for I am very
1799.] NELSON PAPERS. 57
popular, speak the Neapolitan language, and ſam] consider'd, with Sir William,
the friend of the people. The Queen is waiting at Palermo, and she is
determined, as there has been a great outcry against her, not to risk coming
with the King ; for if it had not succeeded [on] his arrival, and not been well
receved, she wou'd not bear the blame, or be in the way. We arrived before the
King 14 days, and I had privatly seen all the Loyal party, and having the head of
the Lazeronys an old friend, he came in the night of our arrival, and told me he
had go thousand Lazeronis ready, at the holding up of his finger, but only twenty
with arms. Lord Nelson to whom I enterpreted, got a large supply of arms for the
rest, and they were deposited with this man. In the mean time, the Calabreas
were comiting murders, the bombs we sent to St. Elmo were returned, and the citty
in confusion. I sent for this Pali, the head of the Lazeroni, and told him, in great
confidence, that the King wou’d be soon at Naples, and that all we required of
him was to keep the citty quiet for ten days, from that moment. We give him
onely one hundred of our marine troops. He with these brave men kept all the
town in order, and he brought the heads of all his 90 thousand round the ship on
the King's arrival ; and he is to have promotion. I have thro' him made ‘the
Queen's party,’ and the people at large have pray'd for her to come back, and she is
now very popular. I send her every night a messenger to Palermo, with all the
news and letters, and she gives me the orders” the same [way]. ... I have given
audiences to those of her party, and settled matters between the nobility and Her
Majesty. She is not to see on her arrival any of her former evil counsellers, nor
the women of fashion, alltho Ladys of the Bedchamber, Hformerly her friends and
companions, who did her dishonour by their desolute life.
“All, all is changed. She has been very unfortunate, but she is a good
woman, and has sense enough to proffit of her fast unhappiness, and will make
for the future amende honorable for the fast. In short, if I can judge, it may
turn out fortunate that the Neapolitans have had a dose of Republicanism.
“But what a glory to our Good King, to our Country, to ourselves that we—
our brave fleet, our great Nelson—have had the happiness of restoring the King
to his throne, to the Neapolitans their much-loved King, and been the instru-
ment of giving a future good and just government to the Neapolitans ! The
measures the King is taking are to be approved of. The guilty are punish'd, and
the faithful rewarded. I have not been on shore but once. The King gave us
leave to go as far as St. Elmo's, to see the effect of the bombs. I saw at a dis-
tance our despoiled house in town and villa Emma that have been plundered. Sir
William's new apartment, a bomb burst in it ! But it made me so low-spirited,
I don’t desire to go again.
“We shall, as soon as the Government is fixed, return to Palermo, and bring
back the Royal family; for I foresee not any permanent government, till that
event takes place. Nor would it be politick, after all the hospitality the King and
Queen received at Palermo, to carry them off in a hurry. So, you see, there is
great management required. I am quite worn out. For I am interpreter to Lord
Nelson, the King, and Queen ; and altogether feil quite shatter'd ; but, as things
go well, that keeps me up. We dine now every-day with the King at 12 o'clock.
Dinner is over by one. His Majesty goes to sleep, and we sit down to write in
this heat; and on board you may guess what we suffer.
“My mother is at Palermo, but I have an English ladyt with me who is of
use to me in writing, and helping to keep papers and things in order. We have
given the King all the upper cabbin ; all but one room that we write in and
receive the ladies who come to the King. Sir William and I have an apartment
below in the ward room ; and as to Lord Nelson, he is here and there and
everywhere. I never saw such zeal and activity in anyone as in this wonderful
man. My dearest Sir William, thank God l is well, and of the greatest use now
to the King. We hope Capua will fall in a few days, and then we will be able to
return to Palermo. On Sunday last we had prayers on board. The King
* It would seem that Lady Hamilton regarded herself in the summer of 1799 as nothing
more than an agent for executing the Queen's orders, and sending Her Majesty budgets of
intelligence. . -
+ Probably Miss Knight.
58 THE HAMILTON AAWD [1799.
asisted, and was much pleased with the order, decency, and good behaviour of the
men, the officers, &c. Pray write to me. God bless you, my dear sir, and believe
me.’ &c.
". P.S.— It would be a charity to send me some things; for in saving all for my
royal and dear friend, I lost my little all. Never mind.”
412. A. L. S. from Mr. Compton to Lady Hamilton. Dated “Posilipo,
Sunday, July 20th, 1799.’ 4 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“Tho' we have not been to pay our personal respects to your Ladyship, Sº Wm,
& Lord Nelson, be assured that botli Mº Compton & myself have often had you
in our kindest remembrance, &, having had more than once an opportunity of
enquiring after all your healths, happy to hear you were well, sent our best
respects. On Wednesday Mrs Compton was so sick the whole time we were on
board Adm' Duckworth, that she has declared against going on the sea again,
unless very smooth. If tolerably so, we intend ourselves, however, the honor of
waiting on you for half an hour to-day after dinner from the Mole, but, as you
are all so occupied with your royal guest, we judged it proper first to enquire
whether it would not interfere with any of your Ladysp's & agreeable party's
political or pleasureable arrangements.
“In the meanwhile, dear Lady Hamilton, pardon my dº Mrs Compton & me
for being earnest, humble suitors to you, and also soliciting you to exert your
interest wºn Lord Nelson to join his influence to your & Sr William's to carry a
point we have very much at heart to succeed in with his Neapolefan Majesty &
his Minister, the speedy reinstating my friend Don Franchino di Martino in the
rank and emoluments of his former posts in the army. I assure you, my Lady,
and also Lord Nelson, that his AWeapolitan Majesty will do no more than an act
of real justice in granting it. His My will do himself honor by it, & the Minister
will refute the censures universally cast on all Neapolitans, that bribery & self-gain
is the only road to success, and that a bribe supplies the place of all merit. With
such a system all government must totter to its foundation, and how can any king
expect to be well served when loyal, faithful, brave officers, who have seen much
active, hard service, experience neglect, whilst, by a bribe to underlings in office
or undue means, cowardice, treachery, inability, inexperience, can be all overlooked
& find preferable employment, to the ruin of the king's army, which greatly wants
veterans ?
‘I had the honor to enclose to Sir William a memorial for the King from my
friend, D. Franchino di Martino, who had been many years Cap" of Cavalry &
Command" of Brigade. Sr Wim was so obliging as to present it, as is the usage
here, to Gen' Acton, & to promise me he wº particularly recommend that (&
Martino's son-in-law, D. Nicolo Ferraris, also Capºn of Horse) to his Excy, & wº
also get yr Ladyship & Lord Nelson to speak to the Gen' in favor of Martino's,
&c. Permit me to add our hearty thanks to your Ladysp. & Lº Nelson, as well as
to Sir Wºº, for such mark of favour.
‘I am sure Lord Nelson, your Ladyship, Sº Whº, indeed, everybody must be
sensible how much his Neapolitan Majesty wants to form a respectable, tho’ not
a large army, since, to the disgrace of so populous a kingdom, his present sole
reliance for the recovery of his castles is on the bravery, &c., of Captains of men
of war with a few of their gallant Englishmen, out of their element, too, & a hand-
ful of Russians, yet my unfortunate friend (&, I dare say, many other experienced
officers) is not employed, tho' out of a most rare true attachment to his Majesty,
with a numerous family, 2 or 3 sons also in the same corps with him, he had
resisted all applications at a great risque to serve the Republic, and he & his sons
have been these 8 months out of pay.
“From the known nature of the Neapolitan political machine I am sensible
that, notwithstanding Sir Wº's, your Ladyship's, & Lord Nelson's kind intentions,
if they are not strenuously supported by your repeatedly pressing the King &
Minister, perhaps the subalterns, nothing will be done, but the memorials remain
unheeded. I beg, therefore, that Sº Wºº, your Ladyship, & Lord Nelson, will
pardon our earnestness in entreating the most urgent joint solicitations that his
Majesty (the Minister) will put into immediate actual service, with his former
1799.] MELSOAV PAPERS. 59
rank & pay (or even a higher, as a reward for his conduct) his tried faithful
servant, Cap” Franchino, placing also his sons, and also further attach his
son-in-law, D. N. Ferrari by reinstating him as Capº. I wish his Majesty had
had all such subjects, he wº not have been reduced to the cruel necessity of
calling on the rapacious Calabrese, or even to the owing his restoration to the
vigour of our brave gallant nation. ' ' , , -
“I fear his M' will find himself much embarrassed with the Calabrese, who
value themselves highly as his restorers. -
“In the letters I have had the honor to write to Sir Wm, I noticed Martino's
services more fully, so will not intrude on your Ladyship with a repetition, as
Sº W* will, of course, have communicated the contents to your Ladyship &
Lord Nelson.
‘You can have no idea, dº Lady Hamilton, how I am persecuted here by all
sorts of people, some I cannot any way get rid of. Don Biaggio Rinaldi, Curato
of Scalea, Province of Coscenza, in Calabria, is always teazing me about his
memorial to the King. I am obliged to forward another for him to Sir William
for his M'. He has high pretentions, having brought 180 men, his vassals, with
him, & spent a great deal, he says, of his own money. -
‘I hear that the Calabrese in general claim a promised gratuity from the
King; they grow very impatient at the delay. Some say the English won't always
be here (meaning to keep some order), therefore, I am apprehensive, if some
prudent or vigorous measures are not taken to satisfy or send them home, we
may see Some confusion. Many of the men pester Joseph, my man, with papers,
he is afraid & obliged to take them.
* I hope our brave English will soon return from Capua, & not catch disorders.
‘Pardon, dº Lady Hamilton, this long letter. Pray present all respects, &
accept the same from us both, & remember us to M* Graeffer & good M* Cadogan
when you write, who we hope is well, and I have the honor,’ &c.
418. A. L. S. from the same to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated Posilipo,
July 28th, 1799. 4 pages 4to. [P.]
‘The person whose papers I now enclose has persecuted me continually to
send it to your Excy; he is one of those Calabrese who forms high pretensions. It
is with reluctance I have been obliged to yield to his importunity without yet
understanding whether or not he had been, as he seems to state, recommended
by your Excy to the Secretary at War to be received into his office. I hope you
will excuse this trouble, as I merely mean to enclose it to avoid further
importunity.
“I was extremely rejoiced to hear the good news, and Mrs. Compton was not
less so. If Lord Nelson sh" send any armed vessel to Leghorn, she shall be
extremely obliged to his LordsP, yr. Excy, & Ly H., to favor her with as
long a previous notice as possible; I will engage that, tho’ trusted to one of the
female sex, the information shall remain an entire secret. She is extremely
anxious that her little boy should have an education, which he cannot have at
Naples. He has two first cousins at the Royal College of Prato, which is a most
excellent one ; it would be an agreeable situation for her son to be with them—-she
has long wished to send them ; the sudden entry of the French into Tuscany has
prevented her. I should send one of my people with him, to see him safe & take
care of him to Prato. My Tuscan servant knows the place very well, the distance
from Leghorn is not great. M* Compton would be extremely obliged to Lord
Nelson if he wº permit her to avail herself of the opportunity of the first armed
vessel he sends, and would let the young gentleman & his attendant have a
passage in it to Leghorn, and she sh" be glad of a day or two to get his things,
&c., ready. My man wº be back from Prato in 3 or 4 days, so as to return by the
same vessel, or some other. -
‘I cannot resist the painful sensations of my heart in seeing the dejected &
distressed family of my old friends, Martino, and the hardship of an old faithful
officer & servant of his S. M., who has been 8 months living on his own little
money (at 70 p" cº loss) yet w" not yield to the pressing solicitations of the
French & N. Rep. to enter into service at advanced pay. He behaved bravely
6o THE HAMILTON AND [1799.
to the very last, & had a severe illness from the fatigue, whilst I know several
provided for without pretensions—'tis contrary to the K.'s own proclamation that
they are not employed.
‘Capt. Wade is made a Major. He has not seen nor been in active service to
the last, as Martino, but he is advanced ; he is not a Neapolitan ; he is, however,
Irish, is that superior merit P. The public affairs are not more pressing than when
he & others were promoted ; individuals compose the public, & sh" not starve.
Chomel is in full pay & service, the Russian Minister warmly espoused him. Can
Lord Nelson, can Ly. Hamilton, have, or deserve, less influence from the K. than
he P There is no indelicacy in asking justice for an officer of his My. I vouch
for him, I have been here & witness of his zeal & loyalty. I beg, my dº Sº, that
you will not delay your earnest solicitations; I shall esteem it the highest obliga-
tion. The I* of Aug. approaches, shall any heart be sad P Mine is so at present.
How happy sh" I be, it woºl call down God's further blessings on our arms to use
the due right which the glory of that day gave Lord Nelson, yr E. E. & all the
English nation to ask reasonable favors, whereas I ask what is a strict act of
justice from his S. M. for a subject of his own of long proved loyalty.
“Oh that the glorious I* of Aug" would give joy & happiness to the family I
solicit for Oh that to yº national I might unite my own, in having the patent or
commission of full rank pay & arrears, as indeed the K” proclamation promised,
to deliver on that glad day to D. Franchino di Martino. His sons served with
credit as cadets, one wounded ; his son-in-law, Ferrari, is a gallant brave officer.
I wº answer for his loyalty, &c. His Majesty wants officers & persons of approved
loyalty & courage; ’tis a favour done to him to point them out to him, he honours
himself by doing them justice, ’tis by justice that Kings reign. Indolence often
has the ill effect of neglect. We know this government of old. Pardon me, dº
. Sº, for entreating exertions & your powcrful coadjutors. Pray present our best
respects,’ &c.
414. A. L. from Scipione Marziale to Lord Nelson. No date (July,
1799 P) Ił pages folio. [P.]
Scipione Marziale, Alfiere of the regiment of Agrigento, humbly sheweth that
on the 17th of June, some of the people, more for the sake of plunder than from
loyalty to the King, attacked your petitioner in the public stleet, and after loading
him with abuse and insults of every description, dragged him to the bridge of La
Maddalena. The petitioner's only hope was (well knowing his perfect innocence)
that he should be brought before the State Council, which after 17 days of painful
confinement occurred, the Council saw him, heard him, declared him innocent,
and ordered him to be acquitted. He left the prison, but his satisfaction was of
short duration, for another mob of villains under the same pretext of Jacobinism,
assaulted and plundered him, and conducted him on board the Commandant, in
order that they should thereby deprive him of all means of clearing himself. Their
design failed, however, as the certificate of Br. Brock, already presented to Your
Excellency, verifies all that is recapitulated in this petition, and amongst other
things, that Marziale not only was not arrested by order of the Council, but on
the contrary without any order being issued. Now, as it is well known to Your
Excellency that all such arrests without the usual orders are not only unjust, but
criminal, your petitioner has recourse to your well-known justice, in order that, by
virtue of your royal diploma of the 29th of June, he may be restored to liberty ;
and your petitioner will ever pray.
415. L. from Eugenio Palumbo and Gabriele Pica to the same. No
date (July, 1799). Ił pages folio. [P.]
Don Eugenio and Gabriel Pica, Neapolitans, beg to state to your Excellency
that being compelled to join the National Guard under the late Government, and
in the Garrison of Castell a Mare, on the 15th of June last, when the Piazza and
fort of Castel a Mare surrendered to the glorious arms of His Majesty, it was
stipulated with the Commander of the Seahorse, that the garrison of Castell a
Mare should be free to depart unmolested, and this was guaranteed by the
1799.] WELSOAV PAPERS." 61
*
English. In consequence of this capitulation, the said Palumbo and Pica
believing themselves, as in fact they were, under protection, retired to their
home in Naples, but they had scarcely reached it when they were surrounded by
a troop of Lazzari who robbed them of their clothes and ornaments and took them
to the Granili del Ponte, where they were thrust among the other prisoners, and
reduced to a state of misery, exciting compassion even there. They assure your
Excellency that they never were disloyal to the sacred person of His Majesty,
but were constrained to join the National Guard by force, and feel persuaded
that the generosity which distinguishes the English, the respect they religiously
show both for the rights of the people and the conditions of war, will induce you
to restore them to liberty, which by virtue of the capitulation they are entitled to,
and are now so unjustly deprived through popular violence. They supplicate
your Excellency to order them to be released from the guard ship, and that they
may be put on board the Seahorse, where the principal part of the garrison of
Castell a Mare already is, as they desire to testify their attachment to their
Sovereign by offering themselves as volunteers ready to shed their blood on any
occasion for the glory of His Majesty. Their hope is in the justice and gener-
osity of your Excellency, for which they will be ever grateful, and pray, &c.
416. A. L. (in English) from the Marquis Lazarini to the same. No
date (1799 2) I page folio. [P.]
“The Marquis Lazarini dares not call presumption his humble address to
your lordship, but rather a respectfull confidence that every body to have to your
generous lordship, whose chiefly delight is to succour the poor, the needy, and
gratify every one that puts himself under the shadow of your protection. The
suppliant then being a father of a great numerous family, and wanting of all
necessary to supply his duty to his unhappy family, having all his goods confis-
cated by the great Kingly court, intrireats and prays your lordship to have pity
of him whose advocate is your heart. Do but hear its dictates, and the suppliant
will be happy for all ages, everlasting your famous name, to the glory of your
nation, to the pleasure of this foron [sic], to the honour of mankind, to the terrour
of your and our impious enemies. God give to your lordship with a long life, all
his blessings, while the Suppliant, prostrate to your feet, waits for your grace.
God grant it.’
417. A. L.S. from Lady Hamilton to Charles Greville. Dated, Foudroyant,
Bay of Naples, August 5th (1799). 3% pages 4to, with superscrip-
tion and seal. [H]
‘As Sir William wrote to you to-day, my dear sir, I will only say that the
kingdom of Naples is clear. Gaéta and Capua have capitulated, and we sail to-
night for Palermo, having been now seven weeks, and everything gone on to our
wishes. We return with a kingdom to present to my much-loved Queen. I have
allso been so happy to succeed in all my campanes, and every-thing I was charged
with. The King is in great spirits. I have received all the ladies for him, and
he calls me his Grande Maitresse. I was near taking him at his word. But, as
I have had seven long years' service at Court, I am waiting to get quiet. I am
not ambitious of more honours. IZ est àonze d’étre chez le Roi, mais mieux d'étre
chez soit. We have had the King on board a month, and I have never been able
to go once on shore. Do you not call that s/avery 3 I believe we shall come home
in the spring. It is necessary, for our pockets and bodys want bracing. , Captain
Oswaldº will give you this. He has been indefatigable under Troubridge, and
goes home to be made Post. God bless you, and belive me, my dear Greville ('tis
not a crime to call you so (), &c.
‘My mother is at Palermo, longing to see her Emma. You can’t think how
she is loved and respected by all. She has adopted a mode of living that is
charming. She as a good apartment in our house, allways lives with us, dines,
* Captain James Oswald was the third son of the Rev. Dr. James Oswald, of Auchincruive.
He died in 1822. - -
62 THE HAMILTON ANZ) [1799.
&c., &c. Only, when she does not like it (for example, at great dinners) she
herself refuses, and as allways a friend to dine with her ; and La Signora
Madre dell'Ambasciatrice is known all over Palermo, the same as she was at
Naples. The Queen has been very kind to her in my absence, and went to see
her, and told her she ought to be proud of her glorious and energick daughter
that has done so much in these last suffering months. There is great prepara-
tions for our return. The Queen comes out with all Palermo to meet us. A
landing-place is made,-balls, suppers, illuminations, all ready. The Queen has
prepared my cloathes—in short, if I have fag’d, I am more than repaid. I tell
you this, that you may see I am not unworthy of having been once in some
degree your élève. God bless you !’
418. A. L. S. from Sir W. Hamilton to his sister.” Dated ‘ On board
the Foudroyant, in the Bay of Naples, August 5th, 1799. 3
pages 4to, [H]
“Do not think, altho’ I never write, that you are out of my thoughts. I
remember with gratitude your predilection for me in my infancy, and am sure,
notwithstanding some untoward circumstances, that your affection for me has
never been extinct. I have been looking with pleasure these two years for the
moment to profit of the King's leave, and return home & see my friends, but I
never cou’d answer to my conscience, to abandon this Royal family in their cruel
distress, &, thank God by my stay, I may without vanity say, I have been
instrumental in placing their Sicilian Majestys again on their throne of Naples.
The season is so far advanced, & my health has been so impaired, that I dread
dropping in London in the midst of a winter fog, so that I believe I must give up
the pleasing thought of seeing you again, untill next spring, by which time I
hope the French will be brought to a sense of their iniquity, & affairs may be
nearly returned to the statue quo as before the war.
“I beg you will accept of these lines as an effusion of my heart, & hope they
will find you in a pleasanter state of mind than when we parted last. God bless
you,' &c. -
‘P.S.—You will read the news we send from hence to-day in public papers, &
they are very good. It is Great Britain alone that has stem'd the wicked
torrent.”
419. A. L. S. from Matthew Wade to Lady Hamilton. Dated Naples,
August IOth, 1799. 54 pages 4to, [P]
‘This juncto of State proceeds so slowly, that in my oppinon they are aug-
menting the number of Jacobins every day. The object, while present, calls the
tenderness of the wife, the father, and mother, but when it no more exists the
wife cryes for half an hour, the mother a day, and the father employs the same
time to console the old woman, and thus the object is forgot.
‘It’s supposed that Rocco Romano has marched towards Rome. It's said he is
ruining the country with raising contributions. I believe he should be stoped,
as it’s a bad example to let so many men live upon plunder. It was supposed
that there wou'd be many of those deluded people tied up this week, but I
don’t find that there is any business of that kind gone forward. There is a
scruple of conscience in the matter, as they are hanged upon the King's account,
the hangman is, I am told, entitled to no fees; therefore, if the fellow does not
make his fortune now, I hope he will never meet so favourable an opportunity.
“I beg leave to remind your Ladyship that the Governour's finances is become
very low, and I suppose in a short time I will lose my credit, as my house was
plundered when in prison, under a protest of finding papers and being a
Royalist, and after by the Calabrace before my return here, for been a Jacobine.
The last was a dirty business, as they robbed my mother-in-law of her shift.
* Elizabeth Douglas Hamilton, Countess of Warwick, 1720-1800, Sir William's eldest
sister, who married in 1742 Francis, 1st Earl of Warwick. She was buried privately in West-
minster Abbey. : .
1799.] NEZSOAV PAPERS. - 63
She said six, tho' I never knew her and her daughter to have more than three, as
I well remember they usually disputed who was to put on the clean shift of a
Sunday morning, however, I was obliged to buy six shifts in order to live quiet.
Pray assure her Majesty and General Acton that I can’t hold out much longer;
Besides, my family is increased. I have got a cat and a horse, which has been
robbed frome by the Jacobines. I met him with a prince, and took imediately
possession of liim as my real proprity.
‘I have succeeded with my authority as Governor, in recovering much of our
friend Mr. Macalay’s proprity. I am sorry some of his friends has purchased
many things under their real value from a person they knew not authorised to
dispose of them. I am told a conspiracy has just been discovered, and a sum of
money found, in order to let seventeen of the principal Jacobines escape, now
confined (and they say marked for execution), in the Castell-nuovo ; they say the
Governor (from whom they have taken the command) is deeply conserned in the
business. I am sorry for him, tho' I have no acquaintance with the man, but I
am told he is a brave man and a soldier. But there is something in the air of
the climate that softens the nerve so much, that I never knew a man—nay,
nor a woman of the country—that cou’d resist the temptation of gold.
‘P.S.–In this moment 8oo of the boys part for Toulone.
‘I had the good fortune to succeed in regard of having the young man removed,
without mentioning your Ladyship's name, which I was resolved never to do, though
you gave me no prevention about it. But, the moment the business was concluded,
the Governour was changed, and I am told the young man is one of the seventeen
concerned in the present conspiracy now dicovered. I advised the person whom
conveyed me your Ladyship's letter, not to appear so interested in the business
for the present, if the young man remained in this world for a few days, the
present Governour is a friend of mine and a reasonable man, of consequence,
everything consisting, not deviating from his employme" as Governour, will be
done in order to render the young man’s sejour as happy as his present situation
will admit.’
420. A. L. S. from Sir Joseph Banks to Charles Greville. Dated
Soho Square, August 14th, 1799. 24 pages 4to, with Super-
Scription. [H.]
‘I am heartily glad to hear that you are alive & well, & to have an opportunity
of thanking you for the plants from Skiddaw, all of which came safe, & are now
growing on my bog, except the only one I had a great desire to see, & that, ster-
ganium ražans, is dead & rotten, sic transit, &c., as the sun dial says. I wish it
was in my power to tell you the price of one, that I never ask for, because it is
regulated by us in a certain proportion to the price of seed at Hull which propor-
tion having once approved I have wholly forgot.
“Seed at Hull was at Christmas, 4, 16 Ios. for that,
at Lady Day, 4, 17,
at Midsummer, A. 18,
& a rising market, which appears by the present price of £18 Ios. stated in your
letter. If you want any further particulars please to write to Mr Milnes, who will,
I am sure, for his own sake, answer fully all such questions as you choose to put
to him, and you know that you are always at liberty to use my name on all
occasions in which you think I have influence to obtain your wishes. We leave
London on the 18th, and expect to arrive at Revedy on the 22*, where we shall
remain as usual for 2% months, except only a few days at Lincoln races, which
begin the 17th of this month. If anything tempts you to take our route, which is
certainly the straitest line from Castle Howard to London, we shall be happy to
See you & to shew you fen plants in their natural habitations. -
‘Pray give my respectful compºs to your noble host when he returns from his
chasse—I had the honor of spending sometime with him as a schoolfellow at
Eton--and to Lady Carlisle--a liberty I should not have taken had not her
Ladyship done me the honor of acknowledging me at St. James's some short
time ago in making enquiries after your peregrinations.' -
64. THE HAMILTON A WD [1799.
421. A. L. S. from Lady Elizabeth Foster to Lady Hamilton. Dated
Devonshire House, August 18th, [I7]99. I? pages 4to, [P.]
‘I have kept my bed these last few days, whº prevents my writing above a
line to thank you for your kind letter & to congratulate you on the happy change
of affairs at Naples. Have the goodness to offer my sincerest congratulations to
their Majestys on this occasion ; nobody can rejoice more sincerely than I do, &
amidst the general joy could not you, dear Lady Hamilton, add to the number of
happy my friend, Miss Ashburner, & let her be a bride at last? I really believe
. Perconte to be a worthy man, & that he would make her happy. Adieu, dear
Lady Hamilton. The D* D. desires her best compº to you, &, with mine to
Sir William Hamilton, I am,’ &c.
422. A. L.S. from the Marquis Belmonte to the same. Dated ‘Thursdaie
Morning,' I 799. I page 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘I pray to give me your and Lord Nelson's news. I hope you'll kom to dine
with me after to-morrow, and pray to carry also with you Miss Knigth, Cap"
Berry, and D* Cambell. I’ll be very happy to pass half a day in a so grateful
comittee. Our excellent, adorable Queen has been last night severely indisposed;
she is the martyr of her own too delicate feeling. Adieu, my dear Lady Hamilton.’
423. Copy of letter from Evan Nepean to Lord Nelson. Dated Admiralty
Office, August 20th, 1799. 3 pages folio. [H.]
‘I am commanded by my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty to inform
your Lordship that, from the circumstances of Lord St. Vincent's having returned
to England for the recovery of his health, and Lord Keith, with other flag officers,
having quitted the Mediterranean in pursuit of the combined fleets of the enemy,
which are arrived at Brest, your Lordship is become senior officer of his Majesty's
ships in the Mediterranean ; and that, till the return of Lord Keith or some
other your superior officer, you will have all the important duties of that station
to attend to.
‘It is probable Lord Keith will have left for your Lordship's information and
guidance such orders and instructions as he may have received either from their
Lordships or from Lord St. Vincent. But, lest his having quitted the station
unexpectedly should have prevented his doing so, their Lordships think fit that I
should point out to you those objects to which it will be necessary you should be
particularly attentive.
‘Your Lordship is on all occasions to cultivate to the utmost of your power the
most perfect harmony and good understanding with all his Majesty's allies; co-
operating cordially with, and assisting as far as circumstances will admit, their
fleets and armies, and protecting their subjects : for which purposes you are, till
the French shall be entirely driven out of Italy, to keep such a part of your
squadron as may be found necessary on the coast of Genoa, to prevent them from
receiving supplies, or to distress them in any other way that may be found
practicable. Your Lordship is also to take such measures as shall to you appear
most effectual for the speedy reduction of the town of Malta.
‘Your Lordship is to be particularly attentive to the protection of the island of
Minorca, where you are to station such a force as, from the information you may
receive of the intentions of the Spaniards to attack and the preparations they
make for that purpose, you shall judge necessary.
‘Your Lordship is to watch the motions of the ships remaining in the port of
Cadiz, stationing off that port a sufficient force to blockade it, not only to prevent
their ships of war from putting to sea, and their merchant ships from entering,
but also to ensure the safety of the convoys passing to and from the
Mediterranean. -
‘Your Lordship is to be attentive to the trade of his Majesty's subjects, and
that of his allies, giving it every protection in your power, and appointing convoys
º one port to another, whenever other more essential services will admit
Of li. . - - .
1799.] AVAEZSOAV PAPERS. 65
... ‘AS, from the great exertions of the ships under the orders of Sir Sidney Smith,
the French have been driven out of Syria, and as they will probably be very soon
driven out of, or entirely destroyed in Egypt, it is their Lordships’ commands that
you do, wheneveryou shall be informed of this, and that the services of Sir Sidney
are no longer required on that coast, call the ships away, and employ them on
other service.
...Having stated to your Lordship the different services to which it is necessary
to direct your attention, I have only to add that their Lordships have the greatest
confidence in your zeal and exertions to perform them as far as the force under
your orders will admit.
‘I have the honour to be,’ &c.
424. A. L.S. (marked private) from Mr. Spencer Smith to Sir W. Hamilton.
Dated Constantinople, August 28th, 1799, 8 pages 4to. [H]
‘Many thanks for your friendly, interesting, and instructive letter of 25. past,
which, owing to Lord Nelson's kindness and Consul Foresti's activity, reached
me in little more than a fortnight, greatly to the general encouragement of our
friends, and Count de Ludolff's more particular comfort and revival.
“We really are much indebted to you for your Christian-like, amiable, good
offices between my brother and our incomparable Admiral. I assure you, had .
his Lordship known us better he would not have harboured displeasure against
his sincere and hearty admirers and co-operators here, so long even as may have
been the case. I, for my part, hope to have given proofs enough that when it
becomes a question to advance the King's service, to honor those by whom he is
well served, and enhance the value of our national performances here, that Tros
Zyriusze mezhë mul/o discrim. Lord Nelson, Captain Hood, Sir Sidney Smith,
Owe me equal justice upon this point. Nay, even Captain Mackellar, by the
grace of the Admiralty, Commander of the Charon, who treated us all here like
so many earcisemen (and fa/Aed of cutting off the ears of one of the infeºffrefers of
zzy legation), would, if SWORN TO THE TRUTH, be forced to acknowledge that no
British ship ever received more solid hospitality in any foreign port, nor his own
person, I am bold to say, such a distinguished reception azzywhere. I am con-
vinced that, was I only to allude to half the circumstances of his public conduct
and private language when here, he would never have an opportunity of repeating
Such an offensive display, which is farther than I wish to carry vindictive justice,
but it is necessary for the harmony of my intercourse with the navy, and for their
Own popularity here, that violence of behaviour, punctilious self importance, and
the mistaken idea of gaining consequence in the eyes of the people by setting at
nought, and treating de hazá em bas, the national establishments on shore they
have been accustomed to respect, and which, unfortunately, formed the principle
of M* Mackellar's conduct, should be corrected by suitable instructions from the
Admiral to future visitors of the same description.
‘I have not failed to make known to my brother His Sicilian Majesty's gracious
and flattering remembrance. I hope that Count de Ludolff does not fail to do
justice to the Constancy of my co-operation upon all occasions that admit of my
shewing my sincere respect for his Court, and I should be much gratified if you
would take an opportunity of expressing my personal as well as official attachment
to the Neapolitan interests. I may, I am sure, anticipate Sir Sidney's affectionate
Compliments to your good self; and the commission to assure Lord Nelson of
his respect for him as a chief, his esteem for him as a man, and emulation of him
as an officer, and add that I, who know him from infancy, can vouch for his heart
being in its right place, and incapable of jealousy or envy, or any of the other
vices of the Litany. I am often astonished at seeing the way he is misrepresented
in the world, and how enthusiastic attachment to his profession, military ardour,
and the laudable ambition of youth, is taken for Quixotism affectation of singularity,
or vain glory. I should not (if I am not extremely mistaken in my ideas of the
gallant Hero of the Nile) be surprised to see my brother his flag captain, if they
ever served three months together.
‘I congratulate you most heartily upon all the brilliant and salutary events that
must have led so much to your individual comfort. May I beg you to make such
VOL. II. F.
66 THE HAMILTON AND [1799.
compliments common to Lady Hamilton, whose interesting qualities and amicall
disposition are not confined to the Two Sicilies. The only present the French
officers whom we delivered from the gallies half naked last winter, some of whom
had served with rank in Italy, was a Żasſe Jntaglio of her Ladyship's fine profile,
which they gave en ärzótát de reconnozssance to my wife, with Such eulogiums as
bore the stamp of veracity & sincerity. I have had occasion to verify the reality
of the likeness by a duplicate on the Abbé Bertrand’s finger, from whom, by the
bye, you will find a letter inclosed. He came here from Trieste a few weeks ago
much recommended to me by Lord Henley,” and I have shewn with much pleasure
to this interesting man, AEsop in mind & body, such attentions as my own deranged
position since the fire has left me in a situation to shew, inhabitating my neighbour's
roof. Lord Grenville gives me some hopes that His Majesty may be pleased to
make me some allowance from his royal bounty towards helping me to bear the
ruinous loss I have incurred—ruinous, as you may suppose, to a younger son of
Jack Smith's, tho’ the amount may not sound great to the ears of Majesty or Ministry.
“As your communications, both maritime and continental, are now open, it
would be carrying coals to Newcastle to give you any European intelligence. As
I give Lord Nelson an account of Levant operations in his department, I shall
confine myself to what must be news, great news, to you.
‘On the I2. February Lord Mornington't received a letter from 7%%00 Szeltaun
expressive of a reluctant assent to the admission of our embassy so frequently
and earnestly proposed to him. But the season for negotiation thro’ the pacific
channel so unavailingly opened by the Governor-General was now elapsed. His
Lordship had already ordered the army to move | He, therefore, replied on the
22. February, referring Tippoo to the Commander-in-Chief, who the same day
passed the frontier and commenced the operations on the 5. March by the reduc-
tion of several forts. Tippoo was at this time supposed to be encamped in the
Eastern vicinity of his capital, but it appeared that he had marched on the
28. February to attack our Western army under Gen. Stuart at Periapatam, where he
was completely defeated on 6. March by very inferior numbers. Here he remained
till II. March, when he retreated hastily to Seringapatnam, which he reached on
the I4. On his passage to meet General Harris, which took place between
Su/tariftet and Malavel; on the 26", giving battle the next day (27. March), when
he lost 2000 men & 6 standards. On the 29th Gen. H., by a happy maneuvre
turned the enemy, forded the Cavery at an unexpected place, and took post 15
miles from the Capital ; during which Lieut. Col. Read was employed reducing
the Country to the N. of Riakoża, while Lº Col. Broun, at the head of a respect-
able detachment, began his operations to the S. by the reduction of Caroor on
5. April. On the 8. & 9. he made himself master of Errode & Arravacourchy. On
I. April Gen. H. moved towards Seringapat", and on ye 5 encamped 2 miles S.W.,
of that city. . On the 6. we took several outposts, and Gen. Floyd $ was sent to
operate the junction with the Bombay army, which took place on ye Io". From
this time the siege went gradually on till the 4. May, when Gen. Harris ordered
the place to be stormed at I p.m. At half-past 2 o’clock Seringapatam was the
General's headquarters; Tippoo Sultaan no more, his two elder sons fallen with
him, and the most distinguished of his generals; while the remainder of his family
and Government were prisoners in the British camp. The above is the cream of
what Lord Mornington has been so good as to write to me on this occasion which
I sent home last night. -
* Morton Eden, Ist Baron Henley, 1752–1830, Lord Auckland's youngest brother. He was
º iºn times engaged in important diplomatic missions, and was for some time Minister at
IeSCIGI’l. -
ºf Richard, 2nd Earl of Mornington and 1st Marquis of Wellesley, 1760–1842, eldest brother
of the Duke of Wellington, created a Marquis in 1799 for his eminent services as Governor-
General of India. He was also twice Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland.
if George Harris, Ist Lord Harris, 1746–1829, a general in the army who frequently
commanded in India, and was created a Baron in 1815.
§ Sir John Floyd, I748–1818, went to Madras as a Lieut.-Colonel in 1782, and remained
there 18 years, during which he showed himself the most accomplished English cavalry
commander who ever served in South India. He was promoted to be a General in 1812, and in
1816 was created a Baronet.
1799.] AWELSOAV PAPERS. 67
‘And thus, my dear sir, I repay you in kind for all your good news. Pray shew
Lord Nelson as much of this letter as you may think likely to please him, and
he will doubtless communicate to you all the sea news worth knowing ; tho’ they
may be no longer so to him by this circuitous route.
‘Foresti having informed me that the Admiral and yourself have written home
in his favour, I have done so likewise ; not that I suppose such recommendation
to need a makeweiglit, but because I have really experienced much utility, both
officially and individually, from his active zeal and intelligent correspondence,
that I should be wanting to myself to be behind hand in an act of justice and be
Sorry to be left out in Such a mark of attention to merit.
‘It may be useful to be known in your quarter that the East India Company's
agent at Aleppo, Mr Robert Abbott, is dead and replaced by Mr John Barker.
‘M* Mournagem d’Ohsson, of very notorious reputation, has been superseded
by the Court of Sweden, who have sent here a Mº König as Chargé d'Affaires.
His Jacobin predecessor has set out for Stockholm by way of Zante and Corfou,
&c. &c. Az/7s ate ſecteur. I have,’ &c. -- -
‘P. S. I annex a paper long ago copied for you and forgotten on my Secretary's
table, as also an India newspaper by way of Remf/issage.’
425. A.L.S. (marked private), from Sir Sydney Smith to Sir W. Hamilton.
Dated ‘Tigre, Limasol, September 9th (1799). 4 pages 4to. [H]
“I reserve the question of Lord Nelson's censure of me unheard for a chapter
apart, not that I mean to enter into any new discussion about it, being perfectly
satisfied of his return of cordiality towards me, as conveyed to me in strong terms
by Captain Stiles, and confident that, as we have both but one object to which all
our exertions tend, we never can separate far. Could he have conceived how much
such a letter as his first to me paralized all my exertions, and destroyed all
combination with these helpless, stupid people, he would never have written it.
The same hand, however, which gave the blow, has applied the remedy, & I now
go on again with confidence, anxious only that my last letter to him (which I
think I collect from yours you have seen) may not be construed to imply an
intention of tenacity & self justification, beyond what every man ought to manifest
who values the esteem of the person with whom he is in discussion. I could
appeal to the source from whence I received my powers and instructions, whether
I have done anything beyond what the service required in the line pointed out to
me by them. My heart bears testimony that I never felt otherwise towards Lord
Nelson than as his inferior in all professional matters, with the most cordial
esteem for, and admiration of him personally, considering myself then under
every point of view, public and private, entitled to his confidence and support. I
own I felt the knock-down blow from behind at a time when I had as much as I
could well manage in front, very severely. I hope no ill humour appear'd in my
answer, & that the weight of some of the expressions has not had the effect of
renewing his displeasure after his letter of the 24 July, which I had not then
received ; if it has, I trust to you to remove it. Nobody certainly is so well able
as the mutual friend of both, & I hope I need not assure you of the deference with
which I shall receive any advice you may have the goodness to give me on that
or any other subject for my guidance. Having said thus much, I may take my
leave of this for ever, I hope, & let my attention revert to the arduous duties before
me, which I assure you, considering the extent of my official correspondence, & the
various languages I am obliged to treat in, are quite enough for any one head. ... I
feel happy that you are going to remain the winter, as well on the score of the
public service & useful co-operation as on account of your health, which must suffer
from a sudden change of climate at the bad season. I beg my kindest regards to
Lady Hamilton. I trust you have the goodness to keep me alive in the
remembrance of the King, as the person whose quarantain he was graciously
pleased to shorten in order that I might go to Toulon, where my heart had long
been. I shall be happy when the time comes, that I may claim a similar
indulgence in the confidence of the precaution English ships always take within
themselves to preserve health. You know best how far it may be proper to Say
anything from me on the score of congratulation. I need not tell how strongly I
68 7 HE A/AM/Z TO AW AAV7) [1799.
who know the directorial vilains, thoroughly feel the value of all that has passed
lately towards their final overthrow. Their speculation on our empire in India
are at an end as you will see by the enclosed papers. Let me hear from you
frequently, and as much in detail as you have been so good as to write hitherto, &
believe me,’ &c.
426. A. L. S. from Matthew Wade to Lady Hamilton. Dated Naples,
September 14th, 1799. 2 pages folio. [P.]
“Every thing here is held in suspense. The great question is, who is to be
hanged, and who is to be beheaded. Few or none dispute that they don’t merit
death, but then to prolong the moment, each produces his privilege, just as if it
was of any consequence whether a man goes to Heaven in a coach and six or in
a wheelbarrow. In the meantime nothing is done. They may form as many
junctos as they will, the more, the more delays and the more subject to intrigues.
In short it must be one man that can resolve, and has authority to do it.
‘I have here your friend Monsignore Gambone, and as I am told he has some
propriety I have unighted with him in the same prison two miserable fellows that
has nothing to eat, and desired them that as soon as Monsignore's dinner arrived
that they shou’d partake of it, as surely that is real equality and liberty.
‘I have been told that Lord Nelson is expected here every moment in a
frigate, and from hence to take the command of the grand fleet, then it seems he
is destined to destroy the French. I am very sorry he quits these seas, as his
name alone was of consiquence, and we are far from been quiet here, and if I
don’t mistake, he will be very poorley re-implaced by the Muscovite fleet.
Besides, we are far from being quiet here. This juncto of state proceeds so
slowly in not hanging the guilty, nor freeing the innocent, occasions a great
ferment in the people. Besides, their own situation is far from being agreeable,
as they were under the necessity to call for sixty of the English marins in order
to guard them, where I was obliged to attend for some time.
“Nothing has been done in regard of your Ladyship's and Lord Nelson's
recommendation in regard of me, so that my situation becomes every day more
disagreeable, as am subject to many unavoidable expenses attending the
employment without any pay or perquisites of consiquence, my finance is become
very low, therefore, I beg leave to pray that your Ladyship will take an opportunity
to mention this doleful circumstance to her Majesty or General Acton. I beg my
respects to Mrs. Cadogan, Sir William, Lord Nelson, Mrs. Graffer and family,
Messrs. Gibbs, Noble, Nudi, Macaulay, and am,’ &c. -
427. A. L. S. from Mr. Compton to the same. Dated Posilipo, Naples,
September 16th, 1799. 8 pages 4to, [P.]
“Having resolved to go to the Continent, and there wait for an opportunity to
get to England, I could not think of quitting this miserable city without apprizing
your Ladyship of our approaching departure, and particularly thanking you for
all your obliging kindnesses during the short time you honoured the Bay of
Naples with your stay.
‘Mrs. Compton requested me to make her best acknowledgements & grateful
remembrance acceptable to your Ladyship, for your & Lord Nelson's kind
protection of the good Mr. Marchetti, unfortunate, but innocent of all real fault,
and highly meritorious in having saved to his sovereign's loyal subjects a large
portion of the contribution required by the French, whom he, by this means,
deprived of the opportunity of carrying away more than two-fifth parts of the sum
they had exacted, & notwithstanding all threats concealed, instead of discovering
the bales of merchandise entrusted to him by Æmg/ish merchanás, and after the
French departure, sending them to the custom house for those English
merchants benefit.
“He never would suffer a Frenchman in his house. He was always, a most
loyal Subject, & when forced he never took the least active part in the place he
had been compelled to fill. He associated with none of his colleagues; did not
even know them. On this view Lord Nelson & your Ladyship obtained on
I799.] AVE/SOAV AAAAA’.S. 69
request to General Acton, that he should not be arrested by the Giunto, & with
your parting words told us he was perfectly safe, the order being given to the
Giunto to exempt him. Nevertheless he has always people coming to frighten
him, pretending they are to arrest him. We have been extremely worried, & are
persuaded it is all knavery, by a parcel of fellows, to alarm & fleece the poor man
who is ruined, having been twice sacked, & lost great sums in money & policies
there, & his family will be so if the seguestration is not taken off. His trade will
be destroyed if he cannot answer the bills, which he is hindered from doing by all
his paper being sequestered. D" Lady Hamilton, compleat your own good work,
obtain the sequestration to be taken off, & a quietus sent him by his Majesty's order
from the Giunto. For God’s sake restore a worthy, honest man & family to their
former state, not only their blessing & gratitude will attend y” Ladyship for ever,
but we ourselves shall carry with us to England & everywhere a grateful sense of
it as a favour & kind memorial bestowed on us, & we shall be happy to blazon so
noble a work of goodness & charity of y" Ladyship, &c., in England and amongst our
countrymen abroad. Permit me also, dº Lady Hamilton, to solicit also your interest
in support of the memorials I forwarded for Cap" Martino & family's being
employed, as he & his sons were distinguished for good & brave conduct in his
S.M.'s service, & never were employed by the Republic, and also for D. Nicolo
Ferrari, who married Martino's eldest daughter, a brave, clever officer long in his
My's service, forced by the French to serve in the National Civic Cavalry. He
was only inspector a very short time, took not in any way an active Zarſ, had no
other way to avoid being shot, or forced to serve in the troops of the line sent agst
his My’s forces. He shammed sickness, & thus escaped the earliest day possible
to the Cardinal, who actually employed him in his rank of cap" but was
unfortunately obliged to supersede him on the coming out of his My's order. I
am sure if y” LyºP saw his dejected air y” heart w" feel pain. His My has not, I
know, a more loyal subject. I beg yr Lady"P’s favour for his restoration, & the
employment of Cap" Martino & his 3 brave sons as officers. I have had a long
friendship, & I shall be eternally obliged to your LWBP. It will be some comfort to
M* Compton & me for leaving this once agreeable residence, but now a wretched
one. Your Lady"P delights in serving the unfortunate, ’tis for such only I
solicit. I have no other views than doing good thro' your Lady"P” means. I
have no doubt of your Lady"P's readiness to assist these, my old friends, to oblige
me, who shall always retain a due sense of the favor.
“But, my dº Lady Hamilton, your very soul will be so moved with the distress
of our most unfortunate country woman, Mrs Palombi & her family, that I should
think I affronted your own humane feelings and female sensibility if I was to
endeavour to increase your disposition to give them immediate SucCour by any
solicitations or arguments of mine or of my d", tender M* Compton; in attempting
to heighten I might weaken the colouring which her own pathetic address has
given to her dreadful situation. In short, she & her family are in an actual
starving condition. Mºs C. & I have had particular opportunities of knowing it.
You wº be shocked at the scene of misery which that house presents—3 children,
one at the breast, no money, no servants, scarcely one to attend the children &
all; Mºs P. herself brought up in a manner which has made her helpless, besides
her being always an invalid. I assure you, d" Ly Hamilton, no pen of mine, nor
an hundred more, cº paint their great & Small miseries ; the task w” be too
painful for me to detail, & too distressing for your Ladyship to read. We have
done all in our power, we have assisted them considerably in many ways. Had
it not been for us an English lady, well-born, well-educated, & with far better,
nay, considerable prospects in life before her unfortunate marriage; living at ease
in plenty & luxury at her father's, a gent” of a good estate, the transition is the
more horrid, & in a foreign country, without one to help her, without any other
tie than mere acquaintance. I cannot pretend to support So large a family. We
have, however, the satisfaction of humanity to a really worthy lady & Country
woman, & may say that without us she & her family wº have absolutely starved.
Nearly allied too, as she is, to Sir Wim Hamilton & his B. Mº’s Minister, with
splendid fortune & appointments, the favorite of the K. & Q. of the 2, Sicilies, and
who I may say has been highly instrumental individually & nationally in reinstating
them to their throne of Naples, if they will come to possess it & restore happiness
70
7TAZAZ AIAA/V/L7 OAV AAV/D [1799.
to this once flourishing city. Indeed, my Lady, you & Sº Wº have a right to ask
almost anything of their Majesties. We shall not long be in this country. . With-
out your effectual aid what will become of M* P. & her family P Shall it be told
that so nearly allied to Sº Wm they perished thro’ absolute want, or put a miserable
end to a wretched existence thro' despair?
“They are over head & ears in debt, by what I find ; amidst the large donations
of their Majesties, five hundred ounces bestowed on so noble a charity as relieving
her & family for the present out of their very pressing difficulties really would not
be missed out of their Majesties’ purses. To them it wº be nothing; it wº be
laying up a lasting treasure in Heaven; those alms wº go up before you & them
to the throne of Grace, an acceptable intercession to God, before whom even
kings & queens, as well as us, all must be judged hereafter. Tho' the Chev” may
not be fit for a place which requires great talent, yet in all countries there are
many employments which require no talents at all. At this time such an one w”
not be refused to Sir Wm for a Neapolitan nearly allied by marriage to Sº W*.
Persons under the pressure of distressed circumstances, my Lady, do not, we
know, appear to advantage ; set a little at ease they would both be more agree-
able, & owing every thing, their very existence, to yº Ladyship, would with
grateful hearts sound yº praises as their saviour from destruction. Pardon me, my
dº Lady Hamilton, for requesting the most speedy relief for them, and, if not too
great a presumption to hope such an honour, Mrs Compton & I shall feel proud &
happy if you will condescend to give us a few lines. We beg you will present our
most sincere best respects & esteem to Lord Nelson, assuring him that whereever
we shall be the sense of his kindness & our joy at every success, &c., that shall
attend him will follow us; the same for your Ladyship will also accompany us, and
I have the honor to remain with all regard & respect,’ &c.
‘Mrs C. & I beg our best respects to Sr Win and kindest remembrances to
good Mrs Cadogan, & compº to Mrs Graffer, hoping to hear y LWFP, &c. &c., all
enjoy your healths.
‘P.S. Sir Wºº & Lord Nelson will be so obliging as to communicate to your
Ladyship my letter to each of them, indeed I consider the writing to one the
same as to all. Your joint exertions to oblige M*C. and me will be irresistible.
Who cº refuse anything to your Ladyship's winning graces? My dear Mrs
Compton having a just claim of 1212 ducats on the effects of the Piatti rebels for
a debt due to her late husband, more detailed to Sr Wim & Lord Nelson—it becomes
a debt attached to the effects seized for their Majesties, for Piatti’s effects being
confiscated for their treasons, there is no reason that an English lady sha suffer
by her debtors having turned traitors, therefore she earnestly requests your Ladysp
to use your interest that so much may be directly paid to her out of the effects of
Piatti. It was money, the merchandise sell for money, and as we are going to
leave the Country she relies on their Majesties’ generosity and justice to order the
immediate £ayment to her of the twelve hundred & twelve ducats in money. It
is her’s, not mine. 'Tis the only personal favour we have troubled yº Ladyship,
Lº Nelson, or Sr Wim with. The unfortunate are happy in having such noble,
generous, kind, powerful protectors. I cº be only of small use to them in my
private sphere. Permit me to supplicate yº leave to transfer them more particu-
larly to your Ladyship's real protection, as they are about to lose their mediator
out of this Country. I have always told them that I claimed no merit in serving
them with my & M* Compton's little aid, but that all the merit was your LadyśPs,
and that your heart was glad of opportunities to do good. I lament & beg your
Ladyship, Sº W*, & Lº N., will pardon me for having so often troubled you ;
blame, I entreat, the times & situations, not any forwardness of mine.
‘Last, Friday I was obliged to urge strongly his Majesty's exemption of
Marchetti from arrest by the Giunto at Lord N’s request, Lord Nelson's signed
protection, written by your Ladyship, against people who came without any order
of the Giunto to produce, and I was sure his gracious Majesty, or his Minister, wä
never break their word to Lord Nelson, or disrespect his signature, that therefore,
contrary to your Ladyship's last words to us, no counter order existed. I looked
on it as a trick to fleece the poor man by frightening him. I smartly reprimanded
those who pretended to come on such an errand. I shewed Lord N’s paper, &
related all M* C's, Solicitations, Lº N.'s great caution and prudence before he
1799.] AVE/SOAV PAA’AºA'.S. 71
applied, and the good effect of it. To prevent all misrepresentation, only I just
mention it, if necessary, I have the details, even rough papers of the people wº
they unawares left behind, & will shew a premeditated insult on the insult, & that
the man was acting with his eyes open. I wrote a full account to Cap” Trowbridge
& have had it back, and am now perfectly convinced all was of Neapolitan character
—a villainous artifice. I would not give way to it ; my strict adherence to truth
& honor are well known, if necessary I will send the detail.’
428. A. L. S. from Captain Ball to the same. Dated Malta, October 9th,
I799. 2% pages 4to. [P]
‘Although I could not be personally with you on the birthday of his Grace de
Bronté, my heart participated in all your joys. I frequently reflected on the
delights which you and Sir William feel whenever you can give further proofs of
your esteem and friendship for his Grace.
‘I have just received his letter acquainting me with his intention of collecting
his squadron and steering to intercept the enemy. I sincerely hope the Cruise
will re-establish his health, which the bad air of Palermo did not agree with.
“I suppose you will soon return to Naples. There cannot now be any danger
from Jacobinism. Thank God it is no longer the rage, and that the Jacobins
themselves begin to be ashamed of it. Our scene at Malta will be very active.
I hope soon we shall succeed in compelling the French to surrender. I write to
Sir William to request he will once more sland ſorth the benevolcnt friend of the
Maltese, and if your Ladyship will have the goodness to second his views and
prevail on the Queen to assist us, you will save thousands from misery and death.
I have just procured for your Ladyship a very beautiful ass, and one of the best
in this island. I shall request the Marquis de Niza to give me an opportunity of
sending it.
“I beg you to accept of my sincere good wishes, and that you will believe me,
with infinite respect and esteem,’ &c.
429. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated ‘Foudroyant,
October II*, 40 leagues from Mahon.’ 34 pages 4to. [H]
“I wrote you a line last night by a vessel we spoke 16 days from Naples, bound
to Mahon, in case anything should have prevented my reaching that island. As
the wind is to the Eastward, if General Fox * is not arrived, it is my intention to
push for Gibraltar, arrainge matters there if the French are coming this road, and
return to Mahon, to enforce the very strong letter I have wrote to Sir James St.
Clairt to lay before General Fox (should I miss him), representing in my best
manner the absolute necessity of taking Malta, and in 14 days I hope to be in
Mahon. Their Sicilian Majesty's may rest assured of my zeal in the service of
our own King, and it so happens that I can never serve him so well as by paying
every attention to the affairs of their Sicilian Majestys, and thus my public duty
becomes my private happiness. I hope the air of the Colli has agreed with you
better than the Mole. I cannot say the sea air has in the least benefitted me, but
that may be altributed to the news of thc Saſa/22/2c, which I did not know till after
I got on board & Cap" Briggs was gone to you, viz., that the Toulon ships had
been met with at sea steers for Malta, which now I do not believe, but I sent him
to Malta in the moment, and in the next place to the desire of making a quick
passage and having first a gale of foul wind and since light breezes ; till this
morning we have never had what might be called a fair wind, but I now hope to
* Henry Edward Fox, 1755–1811, son of Henry Fox, 1st Lord Holland, and younger brother
of Charles James Fox. He was gazetted a cornet at the age of 15, served all through the War
of Independence, became a Captain in 1774, a Colonel in 1783, and Lieutenant-General in 1799.
In 1804 he was appointed Lieutenant-General of Gibraltar, and in 1806 to the command of the
army in Sicily, when he also became Ambassador at the Court of Naples. In 1808 he was made
Governor of Portsmouth.
f Sir James St. Clair-Erskine, 2nd Earl of Rosslyn, 1762–1837, nephew of Alexander
Wedderburn, 1st Earl of Rosslyn, whom he succeeded in 1805. Sir James was a general officer,
and was Colonel of the 9th Dragoons, *-
72 7TA/AE A/AM/ZZ TO/V A/V/O [1799.
get off Mahon at daylight, have Darby on board before 8, and by noon made sail
to the Westward, for I am almost sure Genº Fox cannot be arrived. Except the
Far! St Vincent cutter, none of the small vessels follow me to Gibº, and she only
for the purpose of carrying you intelligence. Your letters, therefore, except by
her or some very extraordinary event will find me at Mahon, with every,’ &c.
‘I 1 o'clock. Not a syllable of news at this place. The Earl St. Vincent
cutter was the last vessel from Gibraltar.”
430. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Port Mahon, October
I3th, 1799. 4 pages 4to. [H]
“After finishing all my business at that moment at Mahon, and having left the
island, I fell in with the Bu// Dog sloop of war from Gibº, the 2nd Oct in the even&
(in which ship came passenger Sir Edwd Barry to command the Foudroyant).
By her I have letters from Ad! Duckworth telling me that our outward bound
Mediterranean convoy had put into the Tagus on the information of the enemy's
Squadron being off Cape Ortegal. This squadron has never been seen since the
8” or 9” Sept, and both at Lisbon & Gib" they almost doubt that any squadron
has been seen. However that may be, Ad! Duckworth is so sure that they are
not in his rout that he was going with the homeward bound convoy to the West-
ward of Cape St. Vincent, and from thence off Lisbon to bring the Med” convoy
to Gib". All this information determined me to return to Mahon as my arraing-
ments for getting ships to Gib" are upset by the disbelief of intelligence. I
am in a fever of anxiety about these ships seen steering towards Malta. The
Salamine, who I sent to Niza, may be hourly expected. I went to Sir James St.
Clair Erskine last evening, Gen! Fox not expecting to leave London till the end
of Sep., but from what I saw I am fearful I shall not get a soldier for the Service
of Malta or for the kingdom of Naples, but this morning I am going seriously to
talk with him on these subjects. " If Malta should unfortunately be relieved
perhaps all our efforts will be in vain. Now I am just come from Sir James ; he
sees all the difficulty of taking Malta in the clearest point of views, and therefore
it became an ardous task to make him think that with God’s blessing the thing,
was possible (as to troops for Italy it is out of the question, for by a direction from
M* Dundas it is desired to draw the English garrison from Messina, & nothing,
you will recollect, prevented this measure long ago but my keeping back the order
for the embarkation of the garrison)—but to return to Malta, which is at present
my great object. If it is not relieved by men embarked in those ships, Sir James
will, I think, aid the attack with 1500 troops, stores, &c., from this island, but
even this will only be provided the Russians will give IOOO good men, the garrison
of Messina, which he calculates at IOOo more, Iooo landed from the ships, besides
all the Maltese which will bear arms or work in our batteries. I have promised
to take care I feed them & never to leave them. I know all this will be an
expence of £50,000 to our country for one month, but I mind nothing to finish
Our Italian matters, & to place H. S. My free from all danger and annoyance.
Sir John Acton, I am confident, will support us with corn for Malta & whatever
else we may want. This has been my first conference, but Gen! Fox being
expected it is a sad stumbling block. However, I am to go to Palermo & Settle
the other part of this arraingment, and be all ready to meet at a certain time &
place. It has cost me four hours hard labour, and may be upset by a fool.
However, I have prevailed on Sir James to command the expedition even as
Commander-in-chief at Minorca. My next will be by words as soon as I can
arrainge the many matters wanted here. We have just saluted ships & forts for
our glorious success in Holland. Yours,’ &c.
481. A. L. S. from Captain Ball to Lady Hamilton. Dated Malta,
October 23rd, 1799. 2 pages folio, with Superscription. [P.]
‘I had the pleasure of writing to you by the Transfer, as I have experienced
your goodness on a variety of occasions, and know the pleasure you have in
alleviating the misfortunes of others. I most earnestly solicit your influence
with her Sic. Majesty to assist the Maltese. Sir William will shew you my letter
on the subject. If your Ladyship knew half their sufferings I am sure you would
1799.] AVAZZ,SO/V AAA’AA’.S. 73
be their warm advocate. I have more uneasiness and anxiety on their account
than I can describe. However, I hope yet all will end well, and that we shall
meet next year in dear old England. I hope you will soon get into your
comfortable and hospitable mansion at Naples, where Sir William can have the
enjoyments he has been accustomed to. I suppose by this time his Grace of
Bronté has joined you. I wish he could be prevailed on to write less because I
am very apprehensive he impairs his health by leaning so much ; pray inform
me of his state of health. I trust that Sir Thomas Trowbridge will now forget
what he considered his misfortune in the battle of the Nile, and which preyed
much upon his mind. I suppose the Palermo fetes are now over, but when you get
to Naples you will have a fresh round to welcome your return, before which I hope
you will re-establish your health to enable you to go through such hard Service.
‘I have the honour,’ &c. - -
432. A. L. S. from Canon Emmanuele Gavallä to Lord Nelson.
Dated Zante, October 30th, 1799. 2 pages 4to.
Having with the help of God escaped from the dangers of the Naples
revolution of December 22°, I went to the siege of Corfu, whence in compliance
with my duty I informed your Excellence of my arrival. On my return to my
native country, I have submitted a report to this noble council, on the scheme
which I had formed for the liberation and happiness of these islands, and
as proofs of my assertions, I sent copies of the programms, which by order of your
Excellency were printed there, and then delivered to me for the said Salutary
purpose. Sigº Spiridion Foresti, most zealous Consul in this town, corroborated
my statements, adding that your Excellency honored me with your most kind
benevolence, and that you wished to see me reinstated in my parish of Cefalonia,
whence without any reason I had been expelled by the French. The council
received my statement with full satisfaction, but instead of endeavouring to
reinstate me in the parish of Cefalonia, formerly ruined by the French, thought
best to bestow upon IIIe the curateship of Sant Antonio at the Lazzarettos in this
my native town, as indeed they elected me by the majority of votes on the same
day. My bishop wishing, moreover, to give a manifest sign of his sympathy
towards my humble person for having worked for the good cause among so
many dangers and tribulations, he was pleased to appoint me a canon of his
cathedral.
As all this has reached me through the kind patronage of your Excellency, I
fulfil now my duty to inform you of it, while I submit at the same time my most
humble expressions of thanks, and beseech you to order the Consul Sigº Foresti
to give some hint to this noble council, of your most kind satisfaction for what
they have decided to my advantage out of respectful homage to your wishes. As
God does not disregard the prayer of the humble ones, I trust also that your
Excellency will not disdain from casting a benign look upon these rough lines,
and that you will receive with your usual boundless benevolence my ardent
supplications. While I have the high honor of kissing with devotion that
victorious hand which has been the means to save religion and a throne, I beg
to remain with deepest respect, &c.
433. A. L. S from the Duchess of Buccleuch” to Sir W. Hamilton.
Dated Dalkeith House, October 30th 1799. 3 pages 4to. [H].
‘Will you allow a very old acquaintance to trouble you with a letter of
recommendation, which I have been very earnestly solicited to write to you in
favour of the Vicomte de Vaudreuilt who is very desirous of entering into the
Neapolitan service with the rank of Col. He commanded a reg" in the French
* Elizabeth Montagu, Duchess of Buccleuch, daughter of George, Duke of Montague, and
wife of Henry, 3rd Duke of Buccleuch, whom she married in 1767. She died in 1827.
+ Jean Louis, Vicomte de Vaudreuil, 1763–1816, cousin of Joseph, Count de Vaudreuil,
under whom he served before the Revolution, on the breaking out of which he emigrated, and
did not return to France until after the ‘A’estauration.’ He married in 1783, Victoire Pauline
de Caraman, who after his death became “Dame de Compagnie' to the Duchess d’Angoulême,
74 7THE A/AM/Z 7 OM AAWD [1799.
service before the Revolution, he has now the rank of March' de Camp in France.
After the Revolution, he served in Holland in an emigrant corps which is now
reduced, & I believe him to be a very good officer.
‘I have known both him & Made de Vaudreuil, who is a most estimable woman,
ever since their misfortunes have obliged them to take refuge in this country, &
it would give infinite pleasure to have it in my power in any way to be of service
to them or render their present situation more comfortable. They are not
entirely unknown to you, having been at Naples some years ago; but, from the
variety of strangers you have seen travelling, they think you may not remember
them, & therefore wished very much that I would recall them to your
remembrance. They naturally think that at this time any recommendation from
the British minister must have great weight, and indeed there is little doubt
it must. I cannot conclude my letter without congratulating you on the happy
termination of the troubles in the country which you have so long inhabited.
That you must feel a particular interest in what concerns it, & also upon the
noble exertions and success of our brave countrymen on this occasion. I will not
detain you longer than to assure you I am with much regard,’ &c.
“The Duke of Buccleuch desires me to make his best compliments.’
434. Copy of a letter from Lord Nelson to the Czar of Russia.” Dated
Palermo, October 3 Ist, 1799. 4 pages folio. [P.]
‘As Grand Master of the Order of Malta, I presume to detail to your Majesty
what has been done to prevent the French from re-possessing themselves of the
island, blockading them closely in La Valetta, and what means are now pursuing
to force them to surrender.
‘On the 2nd of September, 1798, the inhabitants of Malta rose against the
French robbers, who having taken all the money in the island, levied heavy
Contributions, and Vaubois, as a last act of villany, said, “As baptism was of no
use, he had sent for all the church plate.’
‘On the 9th I received a letter from the deputies of the island, praying
assistance to drive the French from La Valetta. I immediately directed the
Marquis de Niza, with four sail of the line, to support the islanders. At this time
the Crippled ships from Egypt were passing near it, and 2000 stand of arms,
complete with all the musket-ball cartridges, were landed from them, and 2CO
barrels of powder.
‘On the 24th of October I relieved the Marquis from that station, and having
taken the island of Gozo, a measure absolutely necessary in order to form the
complete blockade of La Valetta, the garrison of which at this time was composed
of 7000 French, including the seamen and some few Maltese. The inhabitants
of the town about 30,000. The Maltese in arms (volunteers), never exceeded 3000.
I entrusted the blockade to Captain Alexander John Ball, of the Alexander, of 74
guns, an officer not only of the highest merit, but of the most conciliating manners;
from that period to this time it has fallen to my lot to arrange matters for the
feeding 60,000 people (the population of Malta and Gozo), and the arming of the
peasantry, and, what is the most difficult task of all, that of keeping up harmony
between the deputies of the island. Hunger, fatigue, and corruption appeared
Several times in the island, and amongst the Deputies. The situation of Italy,
and in particular the kingdom of Naples, oftentimes reduced me to the greatest
difficulties where to find food.
‘Their Sicilian Majesties, at different times, have given more, I believe, than
40,000Z. in money and corn. The blockade has, in the expense of keeping the
ships destined alone for this service, cost full 180,000l. sterling.
‘It has pleased God hitherto, to bless our endeavours to prevent supplies
getting to the French, except one frigate, and two small vessels with a small
portion of Salt provisions. -
* Paul I. Petrovitch, 1754–1801, Czar of Russia, son of Catherine II., whom he succeeded
in 1796. After the occupation of Malta by the French, the then Grand Master, de Hompesch,
having accepted a pension from the Directory, was declared a traitor to his Order, and the
Grand Mastership was offered to Paul under reservation of the papal supremacy with regard to
spiritual authority. - ---
1799.] NELSow PAPERS. 75
‘Your Majesty will have the goodness to observe, that until it was known that
you were elected Grand Master, and that the Order was to be restored in Malta,
I never allowed an idea to go abroad that Great Britain had any wish to keep it.
I therefore directed his Sicilian Majesty's flag to be hoisted ; as I am told, had the
Order not been restored, that he is the legitimate Sovereign of the island. Never
less than 500 men have been landed from the squadron, which although with the
volunteers not sufficient to commence a siege, have yet kept posts and batteries
not more than 400 yards from the works. The quarrels of the nobles, the
misconduct of the chiefs, rendered it absolutely necessary that some proper
person should be placed at the head of the island. His Sicilian Majesty,
therefore, at the united request of the whole island, named Captain Ball as their
chief director, and he will hold it until your Majesty, as Grand Master, appoints a
person to the office.
‘Now the French are nearly expelled from Italy by the valour and skill of
your generals and army, all my thoughts are turned towards placing the Grand
Master, and the Order of Malta, in security in La Valetta; for which purpose I
have just been at Minorca, and arranged with the English General a force of 2500
British troops, cannons, bombs, &c., for the siege. I have written to your
Majesty's Admiral, and his Sicilian Majesty joins cordially in the good work of
endeavouring to drive the French from Malta. The laborious task of keeping
the Maltese quiet in Malta, through difficulties which your Majesty will perfectly
understand, has been principally brought about by the goodness of her Majesty,
the Queen of Naples, who at one moment of distress sent 7000Z., belonging
absolutely to herself and children, by the exertion of Lady Hamilton, the wife of
Sir William Hamilton, my gracious Sovereign's minister to the court of the Two
Sicilies, whom your Majesty knows personally, and by the bravery and
conciliating manners of Captain Ball. If your Majesty honours these two persons
with the decoration of the Order, I can answer, none ever more deserved the
Cross, and it will be grateful to the feelings of your Majesty's most faithful and
devoted servant,’ &c.
435. A. L. S. from Mr. Compton to Lady Hamilton. Dated Leghorn,
November Ist, 1799. 4% pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘Your Ladyship's kindness to my dear Mrs Compton & myself on your return
to the Bay of Naples, remains so strongly impressed upon us that we have anxiously
wished for the honor of a few lines from Palermo to just acquaint us with your, Sr
Wm's, Lº Nelson's health, & how matters were going on—that is, whether there
was any probability of our having the pleasure of soon seeing you all with their
S. M. & Royal Family at Naples. Tho' we are removed hither, we still retain
the same friendly sentiments, & wish to know how you all do. A gay life we
know you have all led, but we hope it has agreed with your Ladyship's & their
healths. We heard some time ago that Lº Nelson had left you to command the
fleet off Minorca, we hope he was in a better state of health than when here, we
beg your Ladyship when you write to his LordsP will present our best respects &
most friendly remembrances to the Hero of the Nile. We greatly regretted to
hear that Buonaparte & his Etat Major, 3 Generals, had escaped from Egypt in
consequence assacred/y of pressing orders from the Directory to abandon that army
to command one to re-establish their affairs in Italy. I hope & believe he will
find that impossible, opinions being much changed, & people's eyes open'd since
his departure. He is at Marseilles, & I think his political abilities, his skill in
corrupting Generals, &c., are to be more dreaded than even his military talents
& abilities. It is a current report that the French have got 4 SPs of the line & 5
frigates well equipped, & sailed from Toulon with the resolution to relieve Malta.
‘We hope, dear Ly H., that you are not without some British ships for your
protection in Sicily. All here is quite orderly & peacable, we have fortunately
met with good apartments, rather too few but the best in town, & are already well
settled, having freighted an entire Polac & brought everything with us—fine
provisions, but dearer than Naples, the weather is as warm, & therefore, being a
place not subject to fogs as Florence & the climate warmer, I have taken the
apartments for a year, but we shall go occasionally to Florence, tho' I still hope
76
THE HAMILTON AND [1799.
to get to England in the spring. If we can be any way useful to your Ladysp or
Sir Wim we beg you will command us in all in our power.
‘I have done myself the honor to write to Sir Wºº, and most earnestly entreat
your Ladyship's co-operation & good offices with his. I am sure your compas-
sionate heart will feel pleasure in such charitable acts. If Giuseppe Castalio of
Ischia, the Capt of my Polac, the Madona addolorata ed anime del Purgatorio, &
his father a very experienced one, had not been able mariners, we might have
been food for the fish, and his courage in firing our cannon and our putting on a
good countenance when attacked saved us from a trip to Tunis, at least greatly
contributed to save us. The unfortunate Capºn whose Polac has been taken being
related to my brave Capºn will I hope, together with the clear justice & right of
his, obtain him your Ladyship's with Sir Whº's aid & recommendation to their
S. S. My’s government to recover his ship.
‘We beg your Ladyship will present our best compliments & regards to your
good worthy mother and remember us both also kindly to M* Graffer, &c.
* P. S. The whole Marchetti family every day bless your Ladyship's goodness,
and will ever retain the most grateful sense of your Ladyship's protection, which
they wish for an opportunity to acknowledge by any possible service or means,
and beg their best respects & humble thanks may be accepted by yº Lady"P,
Sir Wm, & Lord Nelson, their kind protectors, and their most loyal, eternal
attachment to their gracious Sovereigns they shall be happy to testify. I am not
without hopes that the sequestration too will be shortly taken off & a total
reinstatement take place.
“With your Lys'Ps tender heart pray remember the terribly distrest state of
poor M** Palombi's family almost starving. -
‘P. S. Permit me to add that as you & Sir Wm may not perhaps go to
England by sea this winter, we hope for the pleasure of entertaining you here in
the spring, by which time perhaps, all Italy being cleared of the French, you may
be able to travel by land, by making only the short sea passage from Palermo to
Leghorn. We shall rejoice in the pleasure of seeing your Ladysp & Sr William ;
Naples was nothing without you two whose house made all alive.’
436. A. L. S. ‘M.’ from Lord Minto to the same. Dated Vienna,
November 2nd, I799. 5; pages 4to., with Seal. [H.]
‘I must snatch one word for you to-day as I feel rather bolder after having
broken the ice by the last messenger to Sir W. It is, nevertheless, a real consola-
tion that the English character has lost nothing of its lustre by this honourable
tho' unsuccessful service, & that the expedition appears to have failed from causes
which the uniform bravery & even the constant victories of the troops could not
prevent. We have not lost an action since our landing, & all but the 19th Sept
were signal victories. Let me talk, however, of pleasanter things. Does our Q.
condescend to remember a true servant after three years' absence & silence P I
certainly never plaid the fool so much in my life as in these eight days, & I am
no wiser yet.
“But you & she are, I believe, both accustomd to make fools of wiser men.
You are fit to make Cymons of Solomons & Solomons of Cymons.
‘Pray tell me, my dear Ly H., if you may, whether there is the least chance of
her coming here. -
“If she does you will come too. What a jubilee for somebody I have heard
whispers of such an intention. I know not what to wish, not being sure what is
best for her to whom I wish everything that is good, but I have a great confidence
in her own judgment. I remember a time when I did not wish it, & when it was
talked of. Will things be more secure in her absence now P that seems to be the
question. It is sure that if all was safe at home her presence here could not fail
of doing good. I am persuaded the Empress loves her.
‘How is it indeed possible that her daughter should not? I cannot tell you
the pleasure I feel in the Empress's company. I always get a word or two about
the Q., & the Empress seems so truly interested & touch'd when she speaks of
her that I am touch'd also without daring to shew it. Independent of this snug
fellow-feeling which I must keep to myself, her own manners are particularly
1799.] AWELSOAV PAPERS. 77
captivating, & I am always glad of a presentation, which is the only opportunity
I have of seeing her & indulging my affection for the mother in the company of
the daughter. I have scraped an acquaintance with the Dutchess Giovanni for
the same reason. I sat & heard her talk of the Q. the other day for two hours
without interrupting her or letting her imagine how much I was enjoying it all the
time. God only knows if I ever can have the happiness of rendering her any
service, but if I never loved her before I should now that she has suffered so
cruelly. When shall I hear of your return to Naples P Nothing seems done till
that is accomplish".
“L’Abbe Gian Santi is as frank & cordial with me as possible, but I cannot
tell even him how true a friend I am. If it were possible to let the Q's confidential
friends know that I may be entirely trusted, it might by possibility lead to good,
& the confidence could at least never be abused. I wonder whether I shall ever
kiss her hand ; I lost my opportunity once, & that you know is seldom recovered
with a lady. I hope by this time you think me sufficiently foolish still, especially
for an old fat fool, for I am both more than ever, notwithstanding which I continue
in love with my wife, & with Sir William’s wife, & consumedly, as Scrub% says,
with our nameless friend & mistress, besides half a dozen small passions here at
Vienna, for some of us are beautiful & many most amiable & agreeable. I wish
you would come & see them with your Queen, & make them all hide their diminishd
heads. Ly Mintot is, I hope, on this side of the water by this time. I expect
them all here in the course of this month. I must tell you that Anna Mariai has
not been without a ring which you gave her an hour since she left Naples; she is
a famous monkey & I hope will be pretty, but as yet she is a shrimp. God bless
you, my dearest Ly Hamilton, lay me at the proper feet & believe,’ &c.
‘P. S. You may perhaps have heard that Col' Drinkwater § married Miss
Congalton last Summer & has moreover got her with child. This match made us
all extremely happy as well as the parties concerned. Hardman has been
threatening marriage some time with a relation of the Irish Speaker's, but is
still a batchelor. The Freemantles|| are a most happy couple & have been
giving his Majesty subjects ever since they began in a corner of my cabin on
board the Anconstant. Pray tell me how poor Clarke has fared in all the miseries
of Naples. My kindest love to Sir William, for I believe I have only sent him a
stiff, dispatchy sort of letter; but, although I am flirting all this time with you &
making true love to somebody else, I am in a great hurry, being in the midst of a
messenger to London. Your friend Small is succeeding extremely in London;
he is a great favourite of the P. of Wales, & indeed of the publick.’
437. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to “Captain Ball, Chief of the Island of
Malta.’ Dated Palermo, November 24th, 1799. I page folio. [H.]
“I love, honor, and respect you, and no persons ever have, nor could they if
* A character in Farquhar's Beaux’ Stratageme, who remarks in Scene iii. Act 3, ‘You must
know that I am consumedly in love.’
+ Earl Minto married, in 1777, Anne Maria, eldest daughter of Sir George Amyand. She
died in 1829.
† Lord Minto's eldest daughter. She married, in 1832, Lieutenant-General Sir Rufane-
Shawe-Donkin, and died in 1855.
§ John Drinkwater, afterwards Bethune, 1762–1844, author of the History of the Siege of
Gibraltar. He had acted as Deputy Judge Advocate for Corsica under the Vice-Royalty of
Lord Minto, and was at the battle of St. Vincent. He retired on half pay, and afterwards filled
some small offices, until in 1811 he was appointed Controller of Army Accounts and filled the
post until its abolishment in 1835. At his death he is said to have been the sole survivor of the
siege of Gibraltar. He married Eleanor Congleton, niece of Lord Minto, and assumed the
name of Bethune after the death of his wife's brother, who had inherited that name and property.
By his wife, who died in 1848, he had three sons and four daughters.
| Admiral Sir Thomas Francis Fremantle, 1765–1819, entered the navy at the age of I2,
became a Captain in 1793, and soon after was put in command of the Inconstant. He was for
some time under Nelson, and distinguished himself particularly at the evacuation of Leghorn.
He took part in the battles of Copenhagen and Trafalgar, was promoted to be Admiral in 1810,
commanded in the Adriatic from 1812–1814, and was appointed Commander-in-Chief in the
Mediterranean in 1818. He married Miss Elizabeth Wynne, by whom he had nine children.
78 THE HAMILTON AAWD [1799.
they were so disposed, lessen you in my esteem, both as a public officer and a
private man. Therefore never let such a thought come into your head, which
was never more wanted to be clear from embroils than at this moment. I trust
the Marqs will stay till the Russians arrive, or that he is relieved by Troubridge,
who I espect every moment, and from the delay I think the troops may come
with him. The Foudroyant is in momentary readiness to go to Messina to fetch
Cºl Graham. But, my dear friend, your holding your part so long as you have
is matter of the greatest credit to you; but, alas! I am neither able to do justice to
my friends by telling a good story like Sir S. S., nor are we so near home as
Holland. If you are forced to ever quit the island it cannot lessen your exertion
or abilities; and do not let such an event, should it unfortunately happen, depress
your spirits for a moment. And believe me,’ &c.
438. A. L. S. (with initials) from W. Beckford to Sir W. Hamilton.
Dated Fonthill, December 23rd, 1799. 3 pages 4to., with Super-
scription and Seal. [H.]
‘Provided, my dear Sir William, that a great gulph is no longer between us,
and that I come to you or you to me, I shall be contented, for be assured it is
quite impossible for me to express how eagerly I long to see you and the tutelary
Divinity of the Two Sicilies once more. s
“Tell your lovely Emma that I am enchanted with her remembrance, and I
feel all the force and kindness of the little line she wrote at the bottom of your last
very affectionate letter of the 9th Octº, which I only received a day or two ago.
‘By this time perhaps a letter from me very strongly recommending Huberº of
Geneva to your protection may have reached you. By this same epistle you will
also learn my extreme eagerness to pass some time with you—if at Fonthill so
much the better; but when I wrote last I dared not hope for this (to me) greatest
of satisfactions. I therefore indulged some expectation of being able to reach
you in Italy.
“Should circumstances so fall out as to oblige you to remain a little longer
with their Sicilian Majesties (who must feel wretched at the thoughts of your
leaving them) let me know, and I will set forth in spite of winds, waves, and war,
rats, and robbers, and I wait your answer with impatience, and remain with,’ &c.
‘The abbey will astonish you ; the weather is sorrowful, dull, and bitter cold.
What a climate How will you be able to bear it? I am warming myself by the
Altieri Claudes which have found their way to Fonthill, and being magnificently
framed, well-placed, and tenderly washed by Tresham, appear in the utmost glory
and perfection. I who have bowels for works of art know how to feel the sad loss
you experienced by the wreck of the Colossus.’ -
439. A. L. S. from Lady Nelson to Lord Nelson. Dated 54 St. James's
Street, December 26th (1799). 3% pages 4to., with SuperScription
and Seal. [H.]
‘Cap" Hardy has made us all happy by the flattering accounts he gives us of
your health. I mentioned your letters were written quite out of spirits ; he
assures me that is owing to the tiresome people you have to deal with. It is
impossible to tell you how much pleasure the arrival of Cap" Hardy has given to
a// our acquaintance. When I enquired after poor George Bolton Cap" H. did
not seem to know anything of him, Susanna t was surprised, the conversation
droped, and Maurice i informed me the next morning that the little boy died on
his passage from Gibraltar to Minorca; I own at first I was afraid he had fell
overboard. M* Bolton and Kitty have been absent from home some weeks,
* François Huber, 1750–1830, a Swiss naturalist, author of some works on natural history,
the best known being a treatise on bees. He became blind, and was nursed by a devoted wife.
+ Susannah, Mrs Bolton, was Nelson's eldest sister. She married, in 1780, Thomas Bolton,
Esq., of Wells, Norfolk, and died in 1813. “Poor George’ was her second son, who had just
died at sea at the age of twelve. ‘Kitty’ was her second daughter; she married, in 1803, Capt.
Sir William Bolton, R.N., and died in 1857.
# Maurice Nelson, 1753–1801, one of Nelson's elder brothers, a clerk in the Navy Office,
1799, 1800.] AVE/SO/V PAPERS. 79
which frets our good father; yº sister assured us Mº Bolton was guite easy &
happy in his circumstances. I repeat all these things as I find one half of my
letters never reach you. Everything you desired to be sent you will receive by
the first frigate. Cap" Hardy told me you would be gratified if I sent Lady
Hamilton anything, therefore I shall send her ladyship a cap and kerchief such as
are worne this cold weather. I have ordered a suit of cloths for her Majesty's
birthday. I am frightened to tell you the expense of your new chariot, nothing
fine about it, only fashionable, A352, harness, &c., for one pair of horses.
C* Suckling * has called several times, and seems highly gratified by my civility.
Good Cap" Locker desires I would give his love to you, in short, I was to say
everything that was kind and affectionate for him, and at ye same time I was to
tell you he is grown quite old; one of his hands are stiff, which prevents him from
writing. Lord Hood is still at Bath; I must write to him. I have seen Capt
Hardy, for he is wonderfully anxious for your coming home. The Parkers t are
in town, Lady P. was kind and attentive to me. Unfortunately, Sir Peter in going
upstairs with a candlestick in his hand fell backwards, very much bruised, and
one of his legs cut in several places; no danger is apprehended from the fall, but
altho' this accident happened upwards of a fortnight, he is not out of his room.
Adm' Poleſ looks well, desires to be kindly remembered to you. I am clothed in
two suits of flannel, and I hope I shall be the better for it; my health is much
mended within this month. And A* Pringle desires me to tell you he longs to
see you; he has been very ill with a complaint in his head; he is better, and they
give him hopes of getting quite well ; he has bought a house and land on the
borders of England, 7 miles from a town, which he finds very inconvenient. I am
now going to take this letter to M*A. Stanhope, who sends all your letters, for I
cannot bear the idea of your not receiving them when truly I write once a week.
God bless my dearest husband. Our father's blessing attend you.’
440. Copy of Letter from Lord Nelson to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated
Palermo, January Ioth, 18OO. I; pages folio. § [H.] -
‘Your Excellency having had the goodness to communicate to me a dispatch
from General Acton, together with several letters from Girgenti, giving an account
that a violence had been committed in that port by the seizing and carrying off to
Malta two vessels loaded with corn, I beg leave to express to your Excellency my
real concern that even the appearance of the slightest disrespect should be offered
by any officers under my command to the flag of his Sicilian Majesty; and I must
request your Excellency to state fully to General Acton that the act ought not to
be considered as any intended disrespect to his Sicilian Majesty, but as an act of
the most absolute and imperious necessity, either that the Island of Malta should
have been delivered up to the French, or that the King's orders should be antici-
pated for these vessels carrying their cargoes of corn to Malta.
“I trust that the Government of this country will never again force any of our
Royal Master's servants to so unpleasant an alternative. I have the honour
to be,’ &c.
441. A. L. S. from Captain Troubridge to Lady Hamilton. Dated
January 14th, 18OO. 4 pages folio. [P.]
‘I am duly favoured with your Ladyship's letter of the 8th inst., & feel most
* Colonel Suckling was the illegitimate son of Nelson’s maternal uncle, Mr William Suckling.
+ Admiral Sir Peter Parker, 1723–1811, son of Rear-Admiral Christopher Parker. He
served in the West Indies, under Admiral Keppel off Belleisle, in America, and on the Jamaica
station, where he and his wife, who had been a Miss Nugent, made Nelson's acquaintance, and
were very kind to him. Sir Peter was promoted to be Rear-Admiral in 1777.
+ Admiral Sir Charles Morice Pole, 1757–1830. He entered the navy in 1772, took post
rank in 1779, was made a Rear-Admiral in 1793, Vice-Admiral in 1801, in which year he was
made a Baronet for his services off Cadiz. He was Lord of the Admiralty in 1806, and died
Admiral of the White.
§ The letter is endorsed by Sir William : “Copy of Nelson's letter to me on my having
communicated General Acton's complaint of the violence committed at Girgenti. The original
I sent to General Acton.’
8o 7 H.A. AAA/ZZ 7 ON A /W7) . - [1800.
completely happy at your promise to play no more. Be assur’d I have not written
to you from any impertinent interference, but from a wish to warn you of the ideas
that were going about, which you could not hear off, as no person can be indifferent
to the construction put on things which may appear to your Ladyship innocent,
and I make no doubt, done with the best intention—still your enemies will, and
do give things a different colouring.
‘I will not trust to paper the business of the singer, the ill-natured turn it may
get induced me to put your Ladyship on your guard. I think it has gone to Pisa,
and from thence to London. You may not know that you have many enemies,
I therefore risk your displeasure by telling you. I am much gratified you have
taken it as I meant #—Étérely good. You tell me I must write you all my wants.
The Queen is the only person who Zushes things; you must excuse me, I trust
nothing there, nor do Z, or ever shall asſé from the Court of Naples any thing but
for their service, and the just demands I have on them. I feel their ill-treatment
and deep intrigues too much ever to forget or forgive them. I feel so conscious I
did not deserve it from them or their Ministers, nor can I ever thank them for the
corn. Trabier,” when he heard we had taken the strong but necessary measures to
oblige them to comply with the treaty, writes to say, if they refuse to go, oblige
them. Does the worthless traitor think he can deceive me by his hackneyed
villazny, no, öe assured not, I keep a watchful eye on them all—they do not
carry on their intrigues, even with the assistance of Mr. Tough,t 2&nzzołżced.
Lucky for the two miscreants they got notice to be off without coming here.
Certainly the Court has no right to account to me for what they do—all I ask is,
not to fractice their intrigues on me while I am serving them well, with a risk of
half ruining myself by the sums I have sent different ways to purchase corn,
which I am not, or will not benefit by, tho’ I take the risk of the sea &
the enemy. I believe their Sicilian Majesty's have never experienced as much
from their own subjects. I even turn'd to their Majestys' use all I got at the
islands, which certainly was the property of the captors; you may tell them I
paid the advice boats which used to go daily to Palermo, Salerno, &c. &c., and
laid out £500 out of my pocket from the first of my going to the islands to my
leaving Naples for Cività Vecchia, not counting the expense of wines, &c., while
I commanded at St. Elmo, Capua, &c. The whole time I have been employed
in their cause I kept people in pay to procure information, & rewarded many I
thought deserved it agreeably to the Queen's directions: but they never offer'd to
zeżay. I must also tell you that I was chequed on the Cze/Zoden’s books while on
shore, and shall lose my pay for that time. Had I been serving my own Sovereign
I should have had immense allowances—I had nothing. I even paid from
my private purse the feed of all the horses, a public table, wood, cart-hire,
s?ys, & a thousand other ſhings which are too tedious to relate. This will shew
your Ladyship that I ever was a great economist, or the sum would have been
considerably greater. Finally, I should have been a very rich man if I had
served GEORGE //Z. instead of the King of AWaffles. I state these things, among
the many, to shew you I am not sore without cause. I pray your Ladyship to
believe me, your,’ &c.
“With all I have stated I shall continue to serve them, & use the same
exertion I have always done in their cause. I never suffer party to interfere with
service. I beg my compliments to Sir William. The new Admiral, I suppose, will
send us home—the new hands will serve them better, as they will soon be all from
the north, full of Æðerality and generosity, as all Scotts are with some earceptions.”
442. A. L. (incomplete) from Lady Nelson to Lord Nelson. Dated St.
James's, January 13th (18OO). 4 pages 4to. [H.]
‘I have had the happiness of seeing Lieut. Leahey, he assures me you are
* Prince di Trabia, a Neapolitan Minister.
f Mr. James Tough was English Consul at Palermo.
† This was George Keith Elphinstone, Lord Keith, 1746–1823, a well-known naval com-
mander. He entered the navy in 1762, served in India, China, and the Mediterranean, and was
made a Post Captain in I775. He distinguished himself on many occasions, and for his services
at the Cape was created a Baron in 1797. In 1801 he became Admiral of the Blue, and com-
manded against the French on the coast of Egypt. He married Hester Maria, eldest daughter
of Johnson's Mrs. Thrale.
1800.] AVELSON PAPERS. 81
well, which I hope is true; seeing Capt. Hardy and the Lieut has put me in spirits
and makes me well, in spight of the rhumatism. Maurice has just left us, he tells
[us] Cap" Boyl” has received all your boxes. I hope Lady Hamilton will like
her cap, all I can say it's the whim of the moment. Sir William, I find, has
determined to leave Sicily in the spring. The Honºle M* Padget,t I hear, is
going to Naples by land ; he told M* Coleman his stay abroad was very
uncertain, 6 months or 6 years. His plate is handsome ; Rundall shewed me a
few things, and was given to under[stand] the order might be larger. Admiral
Waldegravej called to hear if you were expected home. I told him what the
young men told me “that you were anxious to return home;’ he thought you
Ought, rest would be of service. Our good father came up in hopes of hearing
the chat of the day; however, the A* had an answer to his question and took his
leave ; he wishes to be continued on the Newfoundland Station, but Maurice
thinks he won’t have it. Lord St. Vincent keeps himself very snug indeed, for
no one sees him ; some say he is ill (Lord Bridport,' I hear from his family, has
no thought of giving up his command); he promised to give a dinner on the 14th
of Febº, I hope he will. Good Capt. Locker|| wishes his hand would let him
write to you ; he looks well, but his memory is very so-So, which makes our good
father rather impatient, for he cannot bear to hear the same thing twice; I wish I
could say his body was as strong as his intellectual powers. I have almost made
him promise to consult some physician about that weakness he has had some
years, which rather increascs. I have had a letter from M* Nelson to say she
had rather for her daughter to be with me than anybody, therefore she requested
I would receive her, and when school opened I would take her there. The rector
she thought would go to London with his children, therefore they will all be in
London in a few days. I have paid for your new carriage 4,342. You will be
astonished to find how very expensive every[thing] is grown since you left England,
and I sometimes flatter myself it will not be many months before you are con-
vinced of it in person. Our father sometimes seems to have an inclination to go
to Bath late in the spring. M* Matcham" is recovered from his late alarming
indisposition, he had lost the use of all his limbs, owing to a cold which was
allended by a billious fever. M* VI. wrote to her father they had an offer to sell
Shepherd Spring, but they would not do it if they thought you would wish to
purchase it ; £5000 was the sum offer'd. Mr Nelson desired I would answer the
letter for him, which I did, saying it was impossible for me to say much on the
Subject, but that from your letters I had no idea of your wishing to make any
new purchases, and that Mr Nelson thought that if they could sell it to advantage
it would save them a great deal of trouble hereafter. M* Matcham is deter-
mined whenever we have peace to go to France, and if there is anything
like an established government numbers will do the same. Lord Keith is
gone to Minorca; we are anxious to hear if he intends going to Sicily; some
say he will . . . .”
* Charles Boyles, son of a collector of customs at Wells in Norfolk, appointed to the Raison-
able at the same time as Nelson. He obtained post rank in 1790, and died a Vice-Admiral of
the Blue in 1816. -
+ Afterwards Sir Arthur Paget, 1771–1840, younger brother of the 1st Marquis of Anglesey,
who was about to replace Sir W. Hamilton as Envoy to Naples.
# Admiral Sir William Waldegrave, afterwards 1st Baron Radstock, 1753–1825. He
was the second son of John, 3rd Earl Waldegrave, and distinguished himself particularly in
the victory obtained over the Spanish fleet off Cape Lagos in 1797. He was created a Baron
in 18oo.
§ Alexander Hood, 1st Viscount Bridport, 1727–1814, a great naval commander, younger
brother of Admiral Sir Samuel Hood. He distinguished himself at the siege of Gibraltar in
1782; off La Hogue in 1794, when he was created Baron Bridport; off Lorient in 1795, and in
the mutiny at the Nore in 1797. He succeeded Lord Howe as Vice-Admiral of Great Britain,
and in 18oo was created a Viscount.
| Captain William Locker, 1730–1800, one of Nelson's dearest friends, afterwards Lieutenant-
Governor of Greenwich Hospital.
T Mr. George Matcham, 1754–1833, married in 1787 Catherine Nelson, 1767–1842,
Nelson's youngest sister.
VOL. II. G
82 7 HE HAMILTO/V AAWD [1800
443. A. L. (in the third person) from Don Camillo di Fortuna to Lord
Nelson. No date (18OO). I page 4to.
Praying Nelson's interference in his favour that he may be set at liberty, he
having been falsely accused by secret enemies, his house sacked, and himself
thrown into prison, where he is lying ill and in danger of death. He expresses
his feelings of loyalty towards the King of Naples, and declares that no evidence
has been found against him.
444. A. L. S. ‘W. H.’ (mutilated) from Sir W. Hamilton to Charles
Greville. Dated Palermo, January 25th, 1800. 7 pages folio,
with SuperScription and Seal. [H.]
‘We have now the post open, but in this very retired part of the world our
news is not of a very fresh date when we receive it. The strange events that
have taken place lately at Paris makes us naturally expect some great changes,
and I am one that shou’d not be surprised if it shou’d end in the restoration of
the French Monarchy. Be that as it may, I am determin'd to profit by the King's
leave and return home in the spring, and I hope at latest to be in London for the
King's birthday. I shou’d prefer returning by sea if a good opportunity shou'd
offer, but, that failing, mean to go to Naples & post it through the Tirole. I was
realy so worn down last year with anxiety of mind, change of climate, having
suffered here extreme damp & cold in the winter, & violent heats in the Summer,
which gave me a constant diarrhea, that I doubted realy if I shou'd get home
alive; but I am now in better health than I have been for some years, and pick
up a little flesh. Riding and asses' milk, which I prescribed to myself, has done
me more good than anything else, & occasionally a little bark & rhubarb. [Lord
Nelson continues to live with us, so that my house is always full of marine officers,
and altho' I must own that] I am a little tired of keeping open house so long as
I have [& which I realy cou’d not do without Emma's doing the honours so well
as she does],” yet I must own that I have made some very valuable acquaintances
among the officers of the fleet, in all of which (and I speak of almost every officer
in the Mediterranean service) I have found more or less real merit. I have been
induced, as you know, to stay at my post because my conscience wou'd not permit
me to leave it. Without me Lord Nelson wou’d not stay here, and without Lord
Nelson their Sicilian Majesties wou'd think themselves undone. However, his
LordP having fairly reinstated them on their throne of Naples, it is their fault if
they don’t keep fast there ; all we cou’d do has been done, & all the efforts that I
see are making to keep me on here by the Court will not surely prevail, but home
I go in the spring. I realy now can serve them better by being in England than
by staying here. The Queen is realy so fond of Emma that the parting will be a
serious business. However, I say and mean not to resign my office—I go home
to settle my affairs, which God knows are in much confusion, and to get a little
relaxation. I do not give up my house at Naples; but, as I am 69 years old, it is
nonsense to take any decided resolution about returning here or not. Shou'd
England agree with me I think I may remain, but otherwise I can do no better
than bask out the remainder of my days in the Naples’ sun, & in that case I wou'd
bring out an active Secretary to write for me, for I cannot labour as I have
hitherto without any assistance. It is certainly very flattering to me that after
37 years' residence at Naples all shou'd appear so very anxious that I shou'd
remain with them.
“Whilst the French remain’d at Naples a commissary was lodged in my
house, and made use of my furniture, coaches, & horses, saying he wou'd
carry nothing away, but at last he went off with three of my carriages. The
pictures I had taken care of, or they wou’d have gone instead of being here in
good cases. As to my vases that is a sore point, they had better be at Paris than
at the bottom of the Sea ; have you no good news of them P they were excellently
* The portions in Square brackets have been crossed out, but not sufficiently so to prevent
their being deciphered.
1800.] AVE/CSO/V PAA’A.A.S. 83
packed up, & the cases will not easily go to pieces, & the sea water will not hurt
the vases. All the cream of my collection were in those eight cases on board the
Colossus, & I can’t bear to look at some remaining cases here in which I know
there are only black vases without figures. However, drawings were made of all,
& the prints for the 4* volume were engraved and are with Tischbein, who I
hear is in Germany. He is an honest man, and most excellent in drawing after
the antique.
“I write this letter just to open my mind to you, my dear Charles, and out
with whatever comes uppermost. I shall not enter on politicks further than to
say that the last courier from Petersburg has raised the spirits of this Court, &
we hope the Emperor will return to the coalition. It is provoking that the Russian
troops were just going from Messina to Malta when they were ordered home ;
their appearance only at Malta wou’d probably have induced Vaubois to give up
Valetta, where they certainly are in the greatest distress for provisions. Lord
Nelson is gone a cruize in the Foudroyazzá without saying where ; I make no
doubt but that his LP will go to Malta before he returns here. Lord Keith wrote
to me from Minorca lately & saying that he shou’d probably soon see Lº Nelson
& me at Palermo. . . . .
‘Adieu, my dear Charles. I will write when I have fixed my motions, & I
wish you wou’d write me some little account of my affairs. Yºº,” &c.
445. Copy of a letter (in Italian) from the Vizir's Headquarters at the
reconquered port of El-Aarish on the borders of the desert. Dated
El-Aarish, January 28th, 18OO. I page folio.” [H]
Ever since the conquest of El-Aarish, and during twenty days, daily conferences
have taken place between the Sublime Porte, General Desaix, and Commodore
Smith, and have resulted in an arrangement between the belligerants as follows:
The French will retreat to Alexandria with the honours of war, artillery, arms &
ammunition, and such of their supplies as they might still have, and at the end of
a Inonth will leave for France—but this is not all. The Porte undertakes to pay
to the French any expenditure they have made in building fortresses, etc., in
Egypt. In the following week the Grand Vizir will resume his journey to Grand
Cairo with most of his troops.
446. L. S. from Paolo Rinaldo to Lord Nelson. Dated Tunis, February
2nd, 1800. 2 pages folio, with SuperScription. [P.]
Showing that he has been held in slavery in Tunis for eleven months, having
been taken in March, 1799, off Malta in a Neapolitan brig, Captain Cesare, bearing
Nelson's passport for transporting provisions to Malta, Consigned to General
Ball, in which vessel the writer embarked as English interpreter, having served
on board various English ships of war for seven years, part of the time in the
West Indies and America. He therefore prays His Excellency that he may be
liberated from slavery, having been taken while under the protection of His
Excellency’s passport. Not having received any assistance whatever from the
English Consul at Tunis during the eleven months he has been a prisoner, he
prays that at least some assistance may be afforded him from the English Consulate
to support him whilst he remains in slavery.
447. A. L. from Prince di Fitalia to Lord Nelson. No date (early in
February, 1800). A page 4to, [P.] -
Prince Fitalia presents his compliments to His Excellency the Duke of
Bronte, and begs the favour of his company in his box at the Theatre Royal of
St Cecilia, on the evening of the 9th February, and to supper in celebration of the
public fête—assured of his thanks should he accept it.
* Endorsed by Sir William Hamilton : “Spencer Smith, Constantinople, Feb. 18", 1800.’
84 THE HAM/LTOW AND [1800.
448. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated February
3rd, 18OO. Ik pages 4to. [H.]
‘As I must go on board my Commander-in-Chief I send Allen on shore to
enquire how you all are. We are ten days from Leghorn, where they have no
news so late from England as that brought by the Constance frigate. Lº Minto
had wrote M* Wyndham some time back that he was just setting off for Prague,
and that all matters were likely to be settled between the two Emperors. No
posts had arrived at Leghorn from any part of the world owing to the extreme
bad weather. I dare say Lord Keith will come on shore directly, and I have no
doubt but you will find him all you wish, and much more able to serve their
Sicilian Majesty's than I have been. If Lº K. does not come on shore immediately,
I shall. Till then, adieu ; and believe me,’ &c.
449. A. L., S. from Sir W. Hamilton to the Chevalier Italinski.” Dated
Palermo, February IOth, 18OO. I page 4to., with Superscription
and Seal. [H.]
‘Count Pouschint has sent a packet from your Court for Usacoff to Lord
Keith, who sends a frigate to Corfu on purpose to-morrow to carry that dispatch
and his dispatches. If you have any letters for Corfu, send them to me to-night
or by 8 o’clock to-morrow morning, & they will go safe and speedily. Ever, my
dear Sir,’ &c.
450. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Sir W. Hamilton, Dated February
12th (18OO). I page 4to. [H]
‘Could Lord K. suppose that I did not wish to write to your house even if
I had not been absent half an hour—he must have been a beast to have thought
so—but, as I sent on board the Queen Charlotte to say that if the brig was going
to Palermo I wanted to write, it was neglectful not to wait for my letter, or to send
the Commander to me. I am far from well, and have half promised Jeffersonſ to
take an emetic this evens. May God bless you and my dear Lady, and believe
me,’ &c.
‘P.S. Tyson Š sends your pens. We all think of those we have left.”
451. A. L. S. from the same to the same. No date (February, 1800).
I page 4to. [H.]
* I just write you a line to say Nelson knows nothing, nor should I have known
the Ad! was going to send to Palermo if I had not sent to know. I feel all, and
notwithstanding my desire to be as humble as the lowest midshipman, perhaps, I
Cannot submit to be much lower, I am used to have attention paid me ſrom his
Superiors,’ &c.
452. A. L. S. from the same to Lady Hamilton. Dated February 13th,
I8OO. 2 pages 4to. [P.]
‘I do not send you any news or opinions, as this letter goes by post and may
be opened, and as I wrote to you and Sir William yesterday, nothing particular
has occurred. We are now off Messina with a fresh breeze and fair. Mr. Roche
has had the goodness to come on board. To say how I miss your house and
company would be saying little ; but in truth you and Sir William have so spoiled
me that I am not happy anywhere else but with you, nor have I an idea that I
ever can be. All my newspapers are purloined at Gibraltar, and I suspect a
* Russian Minister at the Court of Naples for whom Nelson had much regard.
† Minister at War for the Navy and Army in Italy, in which capacity he was succeeded by
Italinsky.
† Mr. Michael Jefferson was a naval surgeon. -
§ Captain John Tyson was Nelson's Secretary in the Vanguard and Foudroyant, and was
afterwards Clerk of the Survey in Woolwich Dockyard. He died in 1814. .
1800.] AWEZSOAV AAAAA’.S. 85
gentleman there has sent them to Lord Keith, for they are all stars. I see in
Lord Grenville's note to Paris he concludes with saying that the best mode he
can recommend for France to have a solid peace is to replace its ancient princes
* the gºne May the Heavens bless you and make you ever be satisfied that
am,’ &c.
‘You will make my kindest regards to Sir William and to all the house, also
duty to the Queen.’
453. A. L. S. from John Thomas Roche to Lady Hamilton. Dated
Messina, February 14th, 18OO. 2 pages 4to., with Superscrip-
tion. [P.]
‘Yesterday passed by on his way to Malta the hero of the Nile, Lord Nelson.
I went on board to know if he had any commands, and his Lordship gave me the
enclosed letter for your Ladyship, & at the same time beged I would myself put
it in the post, so I promised; but, not thinking the post neither so safe nor
expeditious as a private hand, I made diligent enquiries for Some one going to
Palermo, & at last found the bearer, who promised to deliver it into your hands;
thus far I trust I have fulfilled the promise I made to that great and good man,
whom I thought I could never see enough of.
‘I came here about three months agoe for the benefit of my health, & proposed
to return to Naples, but finding the air agree with me I mean to stay here. I left
my furniture and things in Naples, also a woman who has for a long time taken
care of & managed the affairs of my house ; this woman is a German of the name
of Madam Duri. It is above a month since she applied to the Giunto for a pass-
port to come here, but these upright judges, under one pretence or other, refused
her one. As I have more than once experienced your Ladyship's condescension
& goodness towards me, may I presume on this occasion to Sollicit one more,
which is to give me a letter to Prince Casiro, the Viceroy, or some one of the
Giunto at Naples, to desire them despatch this woman’s passport, & I assure that
she will not meddle with politicks. Your Ladyship's according me this favour
cannot encrease the greatness of my respect and veneration, but must be con-
sidered as an emanation of that divine urbanity & Condescension by which you
have attached to yourself the admiration and respect of mankind, and of none
more than,’ &c.
‘P.S. M* Gibbs will forward to me any letter your Ladyship may write.
Compº to Mrs. Cadogan.’
454. A. L. S. from Lady Nelson to Lord Nelson. Dated St. James's
Street, February 17th (1800). 3.} pages 4to., with Superscription
and Seal. No. 8, since the commencement. [H.]
“My two letters to you last week was written very much out of spirits. Our
dear father was extremely ill, I never thought of seeing him again sitting by the
fireside. That pleasure I have really had ; he is very, very weak; he tells me he
thinks he may go on for some time longer. The fabric has had such a shake that
it can never recover its former strength. I rejoice to see him free from pain, & I
hope he will remain so. He would not allow any of his children to make him a
visit. I think the Matchams will be here in the spring ; they are gone into Hamp-
shire to conclude the business of the sail (sic) of Shepherd's Spring. These are
the chief articles of family news. A sad account of Captain Pearson’s” health, he
has had a relapse of the yellow fever, I am truly sorry for it ; his leave of absence
went out some time back. I have seen Adº Bligh,t his account of that terrible
fever is truly frightful; he made many enquiries of you.
* Captain, afterwards Admiral Richard Harrison Pearson, took post rank in 1798, was made
a Rear-Admiral in 1825, and died in 1838. -
f Admiral Sir Richard Rodney Bligh, 1737–1821. He entered the navy about 1751, and
served under Admiral Byng, and then under Sir George Rodney. He was posted in 1777,
. ºmial in 1794, Vice-Admiral in 1799, and Admiral in 1804. In 1819 he was
made a G. C. B. - -
86 7A/A2 AAA//Z7 OAV AAVZ) [18oo.
* Col & Mrs Suckling have left town ; it was not in my power to show them any
civilities. Maurice Suckling has taken a farm within a mile of Horace Suckling;
Mr Maurice Nelson told him sailors seldom make good farmers, he said he wº do
his best. In consequence of our father's illness I declined going to M* Walpole's*
last night. By way of persuading me, she mentioned that the Prince of Wales,
two of his brothers, and the Stadholder, the Duke of Gloster if he could, and a
great many fine people. I believe she will give me up for being too humdrum.
Sir Peter and his family are all gone into their new house in Wimpole Street—it
seems a large, handsome house. Lady Berryt is expected at Kensington next
week. John Berry and his wife are on the eve of embarking for America. The
Walpoles are still [in] the country. Mr W. Bolton has been staying at Bath for
three weeks ; he called yesterday, I was not at home. Our father had him up to
asſé how the four Āings went on . VERY HIGH PLAY, HIGHER then ever. M*
Higgins has written to me on the subject of one of his sons going to sea, a lad I 5
years of age. I do not know what to do. Cap" Hardy and every body was very
uncertain of your coming home, therefore I asked Cap" Foley to take him, and he
joins the EZeffhant this week. As to public news, the papers gives you a ful and
perfect account. Mºs Hamilton is a perfect recluse in Harley Street—neither
stirs out, nor admits any inside her house. Susanna has recovered from her illness,
we think she must go home, she requires a great deal of exercise, which she can-
not have with me. Our dº father intends writing to you. God bless you, and
believe me,’ &c. “My love to my dear son.’
455. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated “February
18th (18OO), p° 5 o'clock.’ page 4to., with Superscription and
Seal. [H] -
‘I have got the Généreux and a frigate full of troops and stores for Malta, and
am making sail after 2 frigates and a corvette. Ever, my dear Sir William,' &c.
“No bad ball, but unmasked.” -
456. Extract from a letter of Lord Nelson's to Lady Hamilton (in the
latter's handwriting). Dated “I 8th (February, 18OO). I} pages
4to, [H.]
“I feel anxious to get up with these ships & shall be unhappy not to take them
myself, for first my greatest happiness is to serve my gracious King and Country,
& I am envious only of glory; for if it be a sin to covet glory I am the most
offending soul alive. But here Z ame in a heavy sea & thick fog—Oh, God the
wind subsided—but I trust to Providence I shall have them. I8th in the evening,
I have got her—Ze Générezzº—thank God | 12 out of 13, onely the Gazz//azzme
Tel/e remaining; I am after the others. I have not suffered the French Admiral
to contaminate the Foudroyant by setting his foot in her.’j.
457. A. L. S. from Sir W. Sidney Smith to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated
Tigre, Cyprus, February 18th, 18OO. 23 pages folio. [H.]
‘Your kind offices and the Duke of Bronté's liberality and goodness of heart
has enabled me to gratify my wish to be on the best terms with him. I ever felt
most cordial towards him, & by so much as I was grieved at not finding that
* The Walpoles and the Sucklings were connected by marriage, as were also the Sucklings
and the Nelsons.
† Louisa, Lady Berry, daughter of the Rev. Dr. Foster of Norwich, and wife of Rear-Admiral
Sir Edward Berry.
† The letter is endorsed by Sir William Hamilton : ‘I desired Lady H. to make me a little
extract from Lá Nelson's letter to her, which was a sort of journal. I fear your LP will scarcely
be able to make out her hasty scrawl; but Lord Nelson's sentiments, expressed in his own
words, doe him so much honor that I trust your LP will excuse the liberty I take in having sent
; paper for your Lordship's private perusal. “W. H.” The ‘LP’ was probably Lord
3renville, * -
1800.] AVAEZSOAV AAAAA’.S. 87
return I hoped for, I am gratified at now being on the best terms possible, so that
the service goes on smoothly and pleasantly. His Grace will have communicated
the information sent down by the Cameleon of the Convention for the evacuation
of Egypt being signed on the 24th, & ratified by the Vezir on the 31st. This
termination of my labours is by so much the more gratifying as we had not the
means of forcing the enemy out of Egypt by arms, & the first approaches to an
arrangement by negotiation were not very promising, as you will see by the
enclosed paper, which I request of you to communicate to our friend the Duke,
having no copies of them made when I made up his packet, but you being so
near him makes it the same thing, and I have thus the pleasure of proving my
remembrance of you. You see the nature of the intrigue begun by Mustapha
Pasha, my stupid automaton at the battle of Aboukir, & cut up by my intercepting
the letters sent by sea. I have kept the intriguers from renewing either that intrigue
or succeeding in one begun by those who were altogether averse to this best &
only practicable mode of settling the business, & have by patience and temper
brought it to a happy conclusion. It remains for me only to carry these armed
men safely past your shores, which I shall take every care of, & I am not without
hopes that the example and the little utility of Malta to them, now that this army
is going home, will induce that garrison to surrender, or at least accept similar
terms as a great favour. Dear Sir Will", yours,’ &c.
“In great haste.” -
458. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated off La
Valletta, February 20th (18OO). I page 4to. [H]
‘Many, many thanks for your kind letter by Capt. Morris.” You will have
received my express from Syracuse, and I know what pleasure it will give you
to find that Nelson, by leaving his Admiral without signal, for which / may be
broke, took these French villains. Lº Keith received my account and myself like
a philosopher (but very unlike you), it did not, that I could perceive, cause a
pleasing muscle in his face. If this 22 sail of the line, which Lº Keith has notice
of, really arrive in the Med” I trust we shall give a better account of them than
the last fleet, it cannot be worse. I am very sick and unwell. I have not had
the least communication with the shore, therefore have heard nothing from Ball,
Graham, or Troubridge. Ever,’ &c. -
‘P. S. Sir E. Berry't begs you will not forget to put his letter in the
Post Office.”
459. A. L. S. from Captain Tyson to Lady Hamilton. Dated ‘Audacious,
On my passage to Syracuse, February 21st, 18OO. 2% pages 4to.
[P.]
‘Many thanks, my dear Lady Hamilton, for your kind note enclosed in Lord
Nelson’s letter. You will, no doubt, be surprised when you see this dated from
the Audacious, but I have left Lord Nelson. Be not alarmed, my Lady, it is for
my benefit, and only for a time, and that great and good man proposed it, and I,
of course, acquiesced. I send you herewith many letters from him, and all under
cover to General Acton. His Lordship has explained the whole in his letters,
therefore it is needless for me to repeat it. However, it may be needful to say
that the Captains who were at the capture of the Généreux have done me the
honour to appoint me the prize agent, which when it was understood by Lord K.
there were a number of black looks and orders given respecting the prizes which
* Captain, afterwards Sir James Nicoll Morris, entered the navy under the care of his
father, and was by his side when he fell in the action off Sullivan's Island. He then served
under Admiral Barrington and obtained post rank in 1793. In 1803 he was employed off
Genoa, commanded the Colossus at Trafalgar, became a Rear-Admiral in 1811, a K.C.B. in
1815, and was promoted to be Vice-Admiral in 1819. He died in 1830. -
t Rear-Admiral Sir Edward Berry, 1768-1831. He entered the navy in 1779, served under
Nelson in Agamemnon, and was posted in 1797. He was taken to Court by Nelson, who,
on the king remarking on the loss of his right arm, promptly presented Berry as his right hand.
He 3. knighted in 1798, was made a Baronet in 1806, and attained the rank of Rear-Admiral
II]. I &2 I,
88 THE HAMILTON AND [1800.
I did not like ; therefore I went and waited on him, and told him the whole of
the circumstances, and that it was necessary for the benefit of the captors that Z.
should have the direction of the sales of them, and at the same time I gave his
brother and secretary one half of the agency, which brightened all up again, and
now I am one of the best fellows in the world with him. I have got orders from
him to the officers at Mahon to purchase every thing she has got in, and Supply
me with store-houses, &c. I almost regret that I had not been born a Scotchman,
and had not Lancashire produced a Lady Hamilton, whom I am so proud of calling
my countrywoman, I do not know; but I might hail from the north of the Tweed.
‘I have been keeping jubilee as well as you at Palermo on the 18th instant;
while you were masking I was congratulating our good Lord Nelson on his having
taken the fourth Admiral this war, and twelve out of the thirteen ships that went
to Egypt. In a note I wrote to Captain Martin on the 16th instant, I told him
that Lord K. I supposed was come to reap laurels at Malta. Little did I think
then that Nelson should snatch them to decorate his own brows with them from
the other that wants them so much, for Nelson had enough before. I beg you
will excuse my hasty scrawl, as it blows hard, and we have just made Cape Passaro,
and I hope to-night to get on board the Généreur to proceed in her to Mahon. I
Cannot now give you any particulars of the circumstances attending the capture ;
however, you have them, I know, from our good Lord Nelson.
“God bless you all. If I have time I will write to Signora Madre from
Syracuse, and I beg you will believe me with the greatest sincerity and truth,’ &c.
460. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated February
25th, 18OO. 2 pages 4to. [H]
“Ten thousand thanks for your letter by Capº Compton. My situation is to
me very irksome, but how at this mom" to get rid of it is a great difficulty. The
French ships are here preparing for sea; the Brest fleet L" Keith says may be
daily expected, and with all this I am very unwell. I was in hopes I could have
come and staid 2 or 3 weeks quiet in your house, with" a care or a thought of the
Service, but for a short time that prospect is vanished. Something must come
forth in 2 or 3 weeks, and the first moment which offers with credit to myself I
shall assuredly give you my company. Lord Keith will tell you that he is going
first to Syracuse, and then to the Gulph of Genoa, but every moment may change
his plans, if he has any. I am made truly happy by the event of the Grand Master's
favour to our dear and highly meritorious Lady & to Ball, the cross never before
was so well bestowed. The money came safe to Malta, and the corvette sail'd
weeks past. Lº St. V* has not, nor can have, any power over the Meditº fleet, Lº
Keith is Commander-in-Chief, and I have not been kindly treated. When I can
rest a little quietly, I hope I shall be well enough to get through this campaign.
When you see me it may be unexpected, perhaps crossing the country from
Girgenti, for a visit of rest I am determined to take. Ever, my dear Sir
William,' &c.*
461. Copy of Letterf from he same to the Emperor of Russia. Dated
Foudroyant, Malta, February 26th, 1800. 13 pages folio. [P]
‘The gracious manner in which your Imperial Majesty has complied with my
request has filled me with the greatest gratitude, and I shall only again presume
to say that the Cross of Malta has never yet been worn by two persons who have
merited and will adorn it more than Lady Hamilton and Captain Ball. They are
equally sensible with me of your Majesty's goodness.
‘In the fulness of a grateful heart may I presume to lay at your feet the sword
of the French Admiral Perrée, who I had the good fortune to capture in the
* This letter is addressed at the bottom: ‘Rt. Honble, Lord Keith, K. Bh,” but is certainly
to Sir W. Hamilton.
† The letter is endorsed by Lady Hamilton : “Copy. Lord Whitworth, our then Minister
at St. Petersburg, had the Emperor's orders to write home that I might be permitted to wear
the order. I not only received the deputys from Malta, but in a few hours I sent off 3 ships
laden with corn, and got £7000 from the Queen, but give 500 ounces of my own to relieve them,
Nelson was out with his fleet at that time, looking for the French fleet,”
18oo.] AVE/SOW PAPERS, 89
Généreux of 74 guns, together with a large store ship, on the 18th instant, having
on board 2000 troops, with provisions and ammunition for the relief of La Villetta.
This capture will doubtless much facilitate the fall of the place, and enable me to
see the flag of the order flying in La Villette, which, that it may soon do, is the
fervent prayer, and shall be the utmost exertion of,’ &c.
462. A. L. S. from Captain Ball to Lady Hamilton. Dated Malta,
February 27th, 18OO. 3.} pages folio. [P.]
‘I most sincerely congratulate your Ladyship on the distinguished mark of
favour which his Imperial Majesty, the Emperor of Russia, has been pleased to
Confer upon you in creating you Chanoiness of the Order of St John of Jerusalem.
He has been graciously pleased to confer upon me the honour of Commander of
the same order, from which I derive a double satisfaction. The first in the honour
of being your brother and defender; and secondly from the consideration of its
being a token of regard of my invaluable friend and patron, Lord Nelson. This
memento will have the same effect upon your Ladyship's mind. With what joy
you must have received the news of his Lordship's success in the capture of the
French Admiral’s ship, the Générezza, with a corvette, and the dispersion of the
rest of the enemy's squadron bound to Malta, not one of which will ever attempt
to make for the destined port. We may truly call him a heaven-born Admiral,
upon whom fortune smiles wherever he goes. We have been carrying on the
blockade of Malta sixteen months, during which time the enemy never attempted
to throw in great succours until this month. His Lordship arrived off here the
day they were within a few leagues of the island, captured the principal ships and
dispersed the rest, so that not one has reached the port. I dined with his Lord-
ship yesterday, who is apparently in good health, but he complains of indisposition
and the necessity of repose. I do not think a short stay here will hurt his health,
particularly as his ship is at anchor, and his mind not harassed. Troubridge and
I are extremely anxious that the French ships (/Le Guillaume Tel/ in particular)
and the French garrison of La Valetta shall surrender to lim. I would not urge
it if I were not convinced that it will ultimately add both to his honour and
happiness. It will only be a sacrifice of a short time, after which he may retire
to enjoy the air and society of his good friends at Palermo. What a gratification
it would be to us if you and Sir William could pay us a short visit. We could
make up a snug whist party every evening for Sir William, but we should fall
very short in our attempts to amuse you, when we consider the multiplicity of
engagements and amusements you have every day at Palermo.
‘Troubridge is extremely ill of a bilious complaint, which will require time to
get the better of. I write to Sir William by this conveyance. I therefore only
send my best respects to Miss Knight and M* Cadogan. I wish we could bring
about a match between the former lady and Captain Gould :” he has money
enough for both, and she abilities. Adieu, my dear Lady and sister. May you
live a thousand years; but at all events may you be supremely happy while you
live, prays your,’ &c.
463. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated February
28th, 18OO. I; pages 4to. [H]
‘The Cameleon brig arrived this morning from Egypt, and brought the letters
from S.S.S. of February 14th, at Cyprus ; the result is that after much writing
and talking, a convention was signed on the 24th January at El Arash between
the Commissioners, on the part of the Grand Vizier, and Gen! Kléber,t mediated
* Sir David Gould, 1757–1847. He received post rank in 1789, served in the Leeward
Islands, was at the reduction of Corsica. He was appointed to the Audacious, and joined
Nelson in 1798 and distinguished himself at the Nile. He assisted at the blockade of Malta,
and afterwards went to the West Indies. He was made a Rear-Admiral in 1807 and Vice-
Admiral in 1810. In 1815 he was made a K.C.B.
+ Jean Baptiste Kléber, 1753–1800, one of the most celebrated of the Republican generals.
He first served in the Bavarian army, but in 1792 enlisted under the French flag, and distinguished
himself on many occasions and rapidly reached the rank of General. He took Alexandria, com-
90 7A/A2 AAAMAZ7 OAV AAV7) [1800.
and confirmed by Sir S. S. The French are to go off with their arms and be
landed in France under the garantee of all the allies. I send you S.S.S. last private,
but volumes go to Lord Keith. The French are to have as a present 3Ooo Bourses.
I know not how much money is contained in one, but the sum must be enormous.
The French were to evacuate Cairo March 14th, and to hold Alexandria, Rosetta,
& Aboukir till all were embarked ; a truce was to take place immediately. I am
a little hurried, for the cutter is just returned from Corfou, Uschakoff is ordered
to return to the Medit", but he says his ships are unable at this season. The
French ships are preparing to come out this night, and I am preparing to fight
them the moment their nose is outside the harbour ; may God grant me success.
I am truly very ill, but ever,’ &c.
464. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated February 28th, I80O.
I page 4to. H.]
‘I have letters wrote both to you and Lady Hamilton which will this night
or to-morrow morning go off by Girgenti. I therefore only state that the Cameleozº
is this moment arrived from Egypt, and brought me dispatches which I am send-
ing off to Lord Keith, that the Turks and French did on the 24th January sign a
convention for the return of the whole French army to Europe with their arms in
their hands. I consider this event of such importance for you to know that I take
the chance of this reaching you before the other. Sir S.S. agrees to the whole.
With the kindest regards to Lady Hamilton, believe me,’ &c.
465. A. L. S. from Captain Ball to Lady Hamilton. Dated Malta,
March IOth, 18OO. I page folio. [P.]
‘Our dear friend, Lord Nelson, has determined to return to Palermo for a
short time for the re-establishment of his health. I was very desirous that he
should prolong his stay; but, as I perceive he requires repose and the Society of
his good friends at Palermo, I rejoice at his going, as the great and important
services he has rendered to all Europe who are enemies to the French entitle
him to every honour and happiness. We shall not meet such another—such rare
qualities seldom combine in one person. I never can expect to gain so valuable
and true a friend—such good fortune can only happen once in a man's life. His
Lordship has been pleased to give me a most flattering proof of your favourable
opinion of me, which I shall preserve as an invaluable deposit. . .
‘My very best respects to Sir William Hamilton, I hope for the pleasure of
seeing you both before you embark for England. I have the honour to be, with
great respect, my dear Madam, your Ladyship's most obliged,’ &c.
466 A. L. S. from Richard Bulkeley* to Lord Nelson. Dated Chaceley,
Tewkesbury, March 12th, 18OO. 34 pages 4to. [P.]
‘Your very kind letter of the 8th October reached me about six weeks ago; it
came by way of Cork. Accept my sincere thanks for the manner with which you
received my recommendation of Mr. Beaufort.t I trust and believe he will not
prove a discredit to either of us. I have been twice in London within the last
manded in chief in Syria when Bonaparte left for France. He was assassinated at Cairo by a
Turkish fanatic. His body was eventually buried in the ‘Place d’Armes’ at Strasburg, a bronze
statue being erected over it in 1840. -
* Mr. Bulkeley was with Nelson at the attack on St. Juan, and was much attached to him.
Nelson obtained a commission for Bulkeley’s son Richard, mentioned later in the letter. He
served as a Midshipman on board the Victory, was wounded at the battle of Trafalgar, was
made a Lieutenant in 1806, and died in 181o.
ºf Sir Francis Beaufort, 1774–1857, Hydrographer to the Navy. He entered the navy in
1787, saw a good deal of active service, and received post rank in 1810. He was much
employed in surveying, and in 1829 was appointed Hydrographer to the Navy, a post he held
for twenty-six years. In 1846 he was made a Rear-Admiral on the retired list, and retired from
the service in 1855. His scientific work was solely in connexion with his office, but he was a
Fellow of the Royal Society, and contributed papers to some scientific journals.
1800.] - WELSOW PAPERS. 91
four weeks. Both times I saw, as you may suppose, Lady Nelson very often, &
your good old father on whom the hand of time presses hard ; he appears
gradually to sink, and with Christian resignation to look forward to those blissful
regions which are the ultimate abode of such men as him. God grant him an
undisturbed journey and the reward he merits. Lady Nelson's health appears
much mended since last summer. She looks anxiously for your return, but, as
well as the rest of your friends, knows not how to flatter herself. Reports have
been so many and positive, that at last I expected to see you so soon as to
determine me not to write. However, I find it so uncertain that I can withhold
no longer, and the report of an expedition from hence to the Mediterranean almost
assures me that you can't come home for the present. For the sake of the
general cause, I wish from my heart that I may not see you till you have given
fresh cause for enzy, to be envied by the brave and deserving may be
reconcileable, for from such men one expects liberality. But to be the envy of
&/ockheads and fellows who, if the opportunity presented itself, could not and
would not if they could avail themselves of the precious moment, quite drives me
mad. For one part of the many things said of you you may have some reason to
be vain, for it has begot you the prayers & praises of the fair sex who a/Zimpatiently
await your return, each hoping that she may be one of the select few who are to
become slaves to your amorous passion. I mention this that you may come back
to us, determined to gratify your own countrywomen as much as you have by all
accounts others in your Italian States.
“In three or four weeks I hope to move to a house which I have just purchased
in Shropshire; my address, remember, when you write will be /zed/ow, Shropshire.
You may recollect one evening I called on you and Lady Nelson in Bond Street,
my boys were with me; you then showed them your sword, that, with what passed
at the same time and frequently hearing me speak of you, made such an
impression on one of them who is in his thirteenth year, that for two years past he
has been Secretly indulging a fancy to go to Sea. This, however, he cautiously
kept to himself, believing that I would not give my consent. However, within
the last six weeks lie deteriuined on wri/Zng himself ſo yozz to solicit your
intercession with me. He actually wrote a letter which I intercepted, and this
led to a discovery which surprised, and of course led to a conversation in which I
found him so determined that no arguments I was master of could move him from
his purpose, and at last I have been forced to make him happy by promising that
if he applies diligently to mathematics, French, and Italian until he is fourteen, he
shall then pursue his inclination, and by that time I trust in God peace will be
restored, so that he will have quite an ºff-hi//game before him. However, as you
have Ózł him, you must be his physician. I hope you may be back by the time
Pat takes his seat in the Imperial Parliament, for it will be necessary some cool
and determined hands should be in each house to keep my poor countrymen in
Order. I am endeavouring to be one of the hundred in the Lower House, but I
fear I have not much chance. .
‘Mrs. Bulkeley desires her best regards and compliments to you, and I am,’ &c.
467. A. L. S. ‘W. S. S.’ from Sir W. Sidney Smith to Sir W.
Hamilton. Dated Tigre, between Alexandria and Candia, March
I8th, 18OO. 4 pages folio. [H.]
‘Your letter of the 6th of March reaches me at the moment I was going to
acknowledge those of the 27 & 28 Jany. The letters you have read were from the
dissatisfied portion of the army which may be called the evacuation party, and
written in concert to make them agree in order to over-reach the colonist party.
The latter pass their time so much better on their estates here with Oriental
luxuries, women and everything but wine, than they would in Paris, where they
know they would not be able to recover their pay, that they are outrageous
against Kléber for having signed the Convention. The fact is there was just
discontent enough in the army for it to be a favourable time to profit by it, and
get them all out of the country together. The Turkish purses given them are
only the anticipation of three months’ revenue given in ready money to pay the
92
7A7A2 AAMIZ7 OAV AAWD [1800.
arrears of the army and stop the mouths of non-contents, the Turkish
Government, by article 16, entering into the immediate receipt of the current
revenues, and relinquishing full magazines to a very great amount, the deficit
remaining as a debt due from France to the Porte. Now, even if the two latter
clauses were not in the conditions, it is no bad bargain to buy the farm of those
revenues with certain benefit of survivorship—in fact, Egypt itself, for a sum under
I2O,OOO!., or three months’ purchase; therefore, the mention of the purses is only a
manière de £arler, indicating dissent to the measure, which, I assure you, was
maturely weigh’d & sufficiently discussed by the persons most interested in
opposing the demands for these favourable conditions, & which of course would
not have been granted at last if there had been a better alternative. If the
conditions are not executed now that the Turkish troops are advanced into the
country, and that the French advanced posts have been given up to them, it will
be productive of much mischief and no possible good, for even suppose after
Kléber had beaten the Vezir, which in all human probability he will, that the
continued efforts of an immense population drives the French out of Lower Egypt,
nothing can ever eradicate them from Užffer Egypt, where a French revolutionary
colony would be a perpetual thorn in our side. I hear Austria is jealous at our
sending troops to fight against her. But suppose for a moment that Bonaparte's
intrigues change, the Vezir, whose credit must of course be much shaken by this
check he has met with at the moment of his being about to enter Cairo, and that his
successor should be a man to listen to Bonaparte's suggestions, he may bring his
Egyptian army northward, and with a centre of 18,OOO men in regular battalions,
& two wings of Turkish light troops who will fight if they have certain support to
rally to occasionally (N.B. If the allies frown too much, Kléber may persuade the
present Vezir to this) I ask any reasonable man, whether Austria and Russia have
not much more to fear in this way than by this army (united now by a common
interest only), being dispersed in the mass of the population of France, to carry
their swords and their complaints of Bonaparte's tyranny, cruelty, desertion,
ambition & ‘usurpation’ into every department and every family. Believe me, the
question has been fairly weigh’d in that point of view, and I have no doubt of this
army going home being the worst thing that can happen to his power. Surely if
he is so anxious that they should not set their foot in France, we need not be so
anxious to favour his wishes by keeping his colony for him, or rather restoring it
to him. It is still ours if we choose to receive it, for Kléber stands firm to his
engagement, requiring a delay in the evacuation of Cairo proportionate to ours,
and has ascendency enough in the army to keep the clamours of Bonaparte's few
partizans in good order. I earnestly hope you will be able to convince Lord
Nelson that what has been done is for the best, for I should be very sorry to have
him feel otherwise towards me than he has done since your kind offices induced
him to conceive more favourable ideas of my sentiments towards him than he did
at first. I thank you very much, my dear Sir William, for your kind enquiries
after my health. I have had a bowel complaint, from the life led in the desert,
which was common to us all, and has been fatal to mankind ever since Moses'
time. I was soon well again, but am half blind with so many nights’ writing, &
heartily tired of my double duties. It is now difficult for me to see, so good
night, or rather good morning, for the present. Yours,’ &c.
468. A. L. S. (marked private) from Mr. J. Spencer Smith to Lord
Nelson. Dated Constantinople, March 20th, 1800. 2 pages
4to. [P.]
“After supposing you by this time enjoying offum cum dignifate at home, I
have the satisfaction of learning your return being countermanded in such a
Credible way as encourages me to return you a few lines of acknowledgement for
your obliging letters of 4 and 6 November, and the useful and agreeable present
by which they were accompanied, and which were safely delivered by the bearer.
I am quite ashamed that you should be, as is possible, still in our neighbourhood,
and perhaps think me remiss in an attention of this nature, an inattention I am,
believe me, incapable of, particularly towards one whose public character I
1800.] AWEZSO/V PAPERS. 93
venerate, and whose private acquaintance I am so ambitious of as your Lordship's.
If you do remain in the Mediterranean I do not despair of still shaking by the
hand your Lordship and Sidney, and our good old Sir William, all at once, for I
am doing my best to get out of this mousetrap, and certain folks your Lordship
saw en passant at Palermo will not be backward in assisting me therein, nay,
perhaps they came here with the intention of anticipating my wishes upon this
SCOre. -
“From the unprecedented stagnation of my communications with my brother
I suppose your Lordship must infallibly know more about him than I can tell
you ; and, as I send this letter a cruizing voyage after you thro' Lord Minto's
hands, I shall induge in any speculations which may be thrown away or arrive
out of season, which I presume to flatter myself can never be the case with the
assurances of my being ever,’ &c.
‘P. S. I do not know whether you ever took the trouble of directing your
correspondents in London to settle the Straal accompt with my bankers, as it is
an age since I heard from them. But if you have not, as I happen to be in want
of money here from various causes, it will be useful to me if you will send me a
bill for the amount thro' Foresti, or thro’ the squadron in our seas. My best
respects to Sir W. & Lady Hamilton. Adieu.’
469. A. L. S. from Captain Ball to Mr. Macaulay. Dated Malta,
March 22nd, 1800. 24 pages folio, with Superscription. [P.]
‘Many thanks to you, my dear friend, for your two letters from Girgenti, and
one from Palermo, dated the I4th inst, which contain the most pleasing informa-
tion. Be assured that I will never forget the kind interest you take in my concerns.
I assure you that I miss you very much, and hope your stay will be very short at
Palermo. I request you to return as soon as possible. You have the good wishes
of all the Maltese, who have a true sense of your disinterested zeal in rendering
them services and enlightening their minds. I have had several petitioners for
the place of Ingénieur et Sierintendant des grands Chemins in the room of Signior
Macoli, but, since I have explained that the only profit you gained by your labour
was a good appetite, they all hope you will return and enjoy the same many years,
in which I most sincerely join them. I send off to Count de Jatt 60,000 scudi ;
everything goes on smooth, Caruana is coming round, and behaves very well. I
shall write to General Acton a letter of thanks the 24th, and I shall send you a
longer letter. I rejoice sincerely that our worthy Italinsky has obtained the dis-
tinguished honours he so much merits. I shall write him a congratulatory letter
in a day or two. I shall attend to all you have said in your letters, which I
consider very essential.
‘Pray let me know what Sir William Hamilton is determined on ; he is the
most amiable and accomplished man I know, and his heart is certainly one of
the best in the world. I wish he and her Ladyship would pay me a visit; they
are an irreparable loss to me, for I am convinced that, but for their influence with
their Sicilian Majesties and his Ministers, the poor Maltese would have been
starved, and my head would have been sacrificed in their moment of despair. I
long to know Lord Nelson's determination; it is impossible that any person can
feel more pure regard for him than I do, for I have seen him in the hour of danger
and difficulties, and I never can forget his great and immortal traits. General
Graham will not allow my Maltese to make false attacks, all I can urge will not
do. I can perceive that he gives in to Lord Keith's prejudices, as he relates
and repeats whatever is against our friends at Palermo. He does not do it to
mº, ºwing that my friendship revolts at it. Adieu, my dear friend. Believe
me,’ &c.
470. A. L. S. from Captain Tyson to Lady Hamilton. Dated Le
Généreza, Port Mahon, March 23rd, 1800. 3 pages 4to, [P.]
“After some of the most severe gales of wind I have experienced for many
years, we arrived here on the 16th ins", having split most of our sails, and very near
94 THE HAM/Z TON AND [1800.
losing our masts. The gale we had coming from Naples was nothing to the one
we had on the 9th of the month. We were obliged to run IOO miles before the
wind to save the masts, and the sea breaking on board the ship on both sides ;
fortunately she was very tight in her bottom. This will, no doubt, put you in
mind of Allen on board the Vanguard, ‘while the sticks stand,’ &c. I am sorry
to find this place so badly stocked with every thing—no tea, coffee, sugar, or
cheese to be had, or indeed anything fit to eat. I am exceedingly anxious to
hear of our invaluable Lord Nelson, as in his last letter he mentions a return of
the pain in his heart, of which he suffered so much coming from Egypt. I hope
he is recovered again, and that you have heard from him lately that he is so.
Every day here seems a week, until I get back to him I shall not be easy. I am
using all my efforts to get the Généreux cleared, but she has such a quantity of
provisions and stores on board that I cannot get any storehouses here to put them
into, and I shall be obliged to land them on the wharf, and sell off as well I can.
I have no assistance from any one except the officers of the dock-yard. Another
expedition sailed from Toulon for Malta on the 5th of this month. I hope and
trust Lord Nelson will fall in with them, and I doubt not the issue. The French
have not one ship of war of any description at Toulon ; at present only one
corvette which escaped us on the 18th of February. Should an opportunity offer
for this place, may I beg the favour of your Ladyship to tell me all about Lord
Nelson, my anxiety is very great on his account. I feel more than I can express
about his health.
“The weather is so cold here, and not one square of glass in our cabin windows,
that I am half starved, and have been in bed all day yesterday in a fever and
Sore throat. The French rascals broke all the windows before we took possession
of her, and I cannot get a lodging on shore for money. An English ship is going
to Palermo in a few days, when I will send you up what I can collect, as I know
your city does not produce much. May I also beg the favour of you to desire
M* Cadogan's Secretary to tell me all the news of Palermo, &c. My head is so
bad at present that I am really not able to write to them, and my throat is so sore
that I can only swallow liquids. If it continues I shall go to the hospital, for we
have no surgeon, or any attendance from other ships.
‘I hope that good Sir William enjoys his health, to whom I beg of
you to make my respectful compliments, and that he may long do so as
well as your Ladyship, M* Cadogan, &c., is the sincere wish of your Lady-
ship's,’ &c. -
‘A kind of gaol fever has carried off a number of our men, and we have two
lieutenants at the hospital, and about fifty men with it, which makes me very
anxious to get out of her.’
471. A. L. from Prince di Trabia to Lord Nelson. Dated Palazzo,
March 24th, 18OO. § page folio, with SuperScription. [P.]
Informing Lord Nelson that he is forwarding two letters and a small box,
which have been sent to his care from Malta for his Lordship.
472. A. L. S. from Lady Nelson to Lord Nelson. Dated St. James's St.,
March 25th (18OO). 4 pages 4to., with Superscription and Seal.
[H]
‘The Admiralty yesterday received letters from Lord Keith dat'd Jany 21; he
mentions your joining him in good health—thank God for it ! I hope you have
seen my Josiah, that you love him not for my sake, but his own. Our good father
is wonderfully recovered, but still very feeble. Aunt Mary's* death has hurried
him; many letters from the Rector passed on the occasion. The will was in our
* Lord Nelson had three aunts on his father's side :-Mary, who died in 18oo; Alice, who
married the Rev. Robert Rolfe, Rector of Hilborough ; and Thomasine, who married John
Goulty, Esq., of Norwich, -
1800.] AWEZSOAV AAAAA’.S. 95
father's possession, but many memorandums were found in chests of drawers, M*
Goulty is left £150; Mrs Rollf, A20 or £30 for the repairs of the house; Charlotte,
Aſ2O. The Rector writes to his father : ‘knowing you were left everything, M*
Nelson or myself never made use of any undue influence with my aunt in her
last illness,’ and in the same letter hopes with your father's assistance to purchase
the house which is left to M* Rollf, as she intends selling it. Our father observed
the necessity of committing the Rector's letter to the flames, which I think he
has done. I should not be surprised to see Mr & Mrs W. Nelson in town about
Easter, as our father told W. N. his children should spend the holidays with him.
Charlotte can be accomodated, but where Horace will be put I can’t tell. M*
Miller called, and requested you would have the goodness to notice the young
man she recommend'd to you, and gave me a letter to forward to M* Vernon
Gambier Yates, Mid on board Ze 7% gre, which I shall this day take to Lombard
Street. Cap" Kelly is in town for a few days; I asked him what he intended
doing in regard to the legacy—“they know it's due, and I shall be glad to receive
it ; I will speak to Morton about it.' But I have seen such terrible quarrels in
my own family about money that I dread to say a word; between you and I they
are paying Mº Hamilton great court. I spoke to Mrs Hamilton and requested
that it might be paid, it had been due upwards of I2 months; what will be done
time will discover. The Parkers are very attentive and kind to me. A* Parker
is in a very ill state of health. Lord S. Vincent is still confined to the house ; it
has been said his Lordship neglected his health too much in Italy. Lady S"
Vincent told me she now began to hope he would get well. We see very little of
Maurice. I will thank you to notice Cap" Hammond; * his father and mother
have been very civil to me. I had last night the pleasure of reading your letter
to our father, dated Palermo, Febry 7th ; it made him cheerful, and I believe made
him sit up one hour later. I hope 7%a/za will be your last stay in the Mediter-
ranean, for my son would not like England without you. So many new fashions
about visiting, that were I to attempt to give you an idea it w" fill a sheet. God
bless you, & believe me,’ &c.
473. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated March 29th (1800).
2 pages 4to., with SuperScription and Seal. [H.]
‘I have this instant received a note from Adº Young,t who tells me if I can
send him a letter for you in an hour he will send it, therefore, I have only time to
say I have at last had the pleasure of receiving two letters from you, dated Jº 20%,
25. I rejoice exceedingly I did not follow the advice of the physician and our
good father to change the climate, and I hope my health will be established by
hot sea bathing and the warmth of the summer.
‘I can with Safety put my hand on my heart and say it has been my study to
please and make you happy, and I still flatter myself we shall meet before very
long. I feel most sensibly all your kindnesses to my dear son, and I hope he
will add much to our comfort. Our good father has been in good spirits ever
since we heard from you; indeed, my spirits were quite worn out, the time had
been so long. I thank God for the preservation of my dear husband, and your
recent success off Malta. The taking of the Générezza: seems to give great spirits
to all. God bless you, my dear husband, and grant us a happy meeting, &
believe me,’ &c. -
‘Our father's love and blessing attend you.
‘I don't seal my letter with black least I should alarm you.
‘My love to my dear Josiah.' -
* Captain, afterwards Admiral Sir Graham Eden Hamond, 1779–1862, entered the navy in
1785, served under Lord Howe, was at the blockade of Malta, and at the siege of Copen-
hagen ; captured some Spanish treasure ships in 1804, and was at the reduction of Flushing in
1809. He was made a Rear-Admiral in 1825, Vice-Admiral in 1837, Admiral in 1847, and
Admiral of the Fleet in 1862. He succeeded his father as 2nd Baronet in 1828.
‘f Admiral Sir William Young, a distinguished naval officer. He obtained post rank in 1778,
and was promoted to be Rear-Admiral in 1795, and one of the Lords of the Admiralty from
I795 to 1801. He died, Admiral of the Red, in 1821, at an advanced age. . . .
96 - THE HAMILTON A WD [1800.
474. A. L. S. ‘Bronté Nelson of the Nile, from Lord Nelson to Sir W.
Hamilton. Dated Palermo, March 30th, 1800 3 pages 4to.” [H]
‘As, from the orders I have given to all the ships under my command, to
arrest and bring into port all vessels and troops returning, by convention with the
Porte, to France, and as the Russian ships have similar orders, I must request
that your Excellency will endeavour to arrange with the Government of this
country, how in the first instance they are to be treated and received in the ports
of the Two Sicilies ; for it is obvious I can do nothing more than bring them into
port ; and, if they are kept on board ship, the fever will make such ravages as to
be little short of the plague.
‘It is a very serious consideration for this country, either to receive them, or
let them pass; when they would invade, probably, these kingdoms. In my
present situation in the King's fleet, I have only to obey; had I been, as before,
in the command, I should have gone one short and direct road to avert this great
evil—viz., to have sent a letter to the French, and the Grand Vizir, in Egypt, that
I would not, on any consideration, permit a single Frenchman to leave Egypt;
and I would do it at the risk of even creating a coldness, for the moment, with
the Turks. Of two evils, choose the least; and nothing can be so horrid as per-
mitting that horde of thieves to return to Europe.
“If all the wiseheads had left them to God Almighty, after the bridge was
broke, all would have ended well. For I differ entirely with my Commander-in-
Chief, in wishing they were permitted to return to France; and, likewise, with
Lord Elgin on the great importance of removing them from Egypt. No ; there
they should perish, has ever been the firm determination of your Excellency's
most obedient and faithful servant,’ &c.
475. Copy of Letter, S., from the same to Lord Elgin. Dated Palermo,
March 31st, 18OO. I; pages folio. [H]
‘By the Neapolitan courier, and the courier of the Captain Pacha, I am
honoured with your Excellency's letters from February 18th to March 1st, all of
which, by the very first opportunity, I shall forward to the Commander-in-Chief,
who is at Leghorn ; and he, of course, will answer your Excellency fully on the
subject. But I cannot help most sincerely regretting that ever any countenance
was given to the Turks to enter into such a treaty with the French ; for I ever
held it to be impossible to permit that Army to return to Europe, but as prisoners
of war, and in that case, not to France. And was I Commander-in-Chief, even
when the thing was done, I should have refused to ratify any consent or appro-
bation of Sir Sidney Smith, and have wrote to both the Grand Vizir and the
French General the impossibility of permitting a vanquished army to be placed
by one ally in a position to attack another ally. In doing this, I should have
taken all means to have made the Sublime Porte sensible of the necessity of the
conduct Great Britain was forced to, but I never should for a moment have forgot
my text—that, at all risks of giving offence, not one Frenchman should be allowed
to quit Egypt.
‘I have sent all your Lordship's private letters to Lord Keith, who will, I am
sure, make a proper use of them. I write by this occasion a letter to the Capitan
Pacha, in answer to his, and I am sending them all to the Commander-in-Chief.
With every sentiment of respect, believe me, my dear Lord, your,’ &c.
476. Extract of a private Letter, S., from the same to the same. Dated
Palermo, March 31st, 18OO. § page folio. [H.]
‘I have no scruple in declaring that I should have refused to ratify any tacit
* The letter is endorsed by Sir William : ‘Disposal of the French troops that may come
from Egypt.”
f Thomas Bruce, 7th Earl of Elgin, 1766–1841, a general in the army and Ambassador to
Turkey; best known as the collector of the famous Grecian antiquities now exhibited in the
British Museum under the denomination of the Elgin Marbles. -
1800.] MELS OM PAPEA’.S. 97
approbation given by Sir S. Smith to such a treaty, and have positively refused
permitting a French ship or French man from sailing on the seas with security.
The landing of these troops in Europe may be its destruction, not only as the
most hardy troops in the world, but as bringing to a certainty the plague.”
477. Copy of Letter, S., from the same to the Capitan Pasha. Dated
Palermo, March 31st, 18OO. Ił pages folio. [H]
‘By the arrival of your Excellency's courier, I have been honoured with two
letters, both of which I have transmitted to Lord Keith, who at present commands
the British fleet in the Mediterranean ; and I can assure your Excellency that
there is not the smallest cause for alarm, even should the whole combined fleets
of the enemy venture into the Mediterranean ; but, in my opinion, they will not
again come inside the Straits. Respecting the Second part of your letter, the
sending ships to Egypt to escort the French army to France, I have left my
Commander-in-Chief to answer that part of your Excellency's letter. But I
cannot help regretting, and with the deepest sorrow, that any such treaty should
have been entered into with the French invaders and despoilers of the fairest
Provinces in the Ottoman Empire, more especially as I own I see not how it is
possible to fulfil the treaty ; for one ally cannot have the power of getting rid of
an enemy's vanquished army, by sending them with arms in their hands to fight
against a friend. Could I have been fortunate enough to have been either at the
camp of the Grand Vezir, or with your Excellency, it would have been easy to
convince, that no ally could consent to receive 16,OOO troops to fight against
them. I regret in the extreme that the Foreign Ministers at the Sublime Porte
did not make proper representations of the impossibility of permitting the return
of such an army but as Žºrisoners of war (for in no other way could they be
allowed to pass) must be obvious to every capacity. But, situated as I am at
this moment in the Mediterranean fleet, my station is only to obey the orders of
my Commander-in-Chief. I rejoice to hear that your Excellency enjoys good
health, and I trust the time will come when I can assure you in person with
what respect and attachment I feel myself your faithful friend,’ &c.
478. A. L. S. from Captain Ball to ‘Her Excellency la Chevalière
Hamilton.’ Dated March 31st, 18OO. I page 4to., with Super-
scription. [P.]
‘Your Ladyship in reality condescends to treat me like a brother, and I
declare upon the faith of a chevalier that I will devote my time to prove myself
deserving your confidence. I shall hope to see you soon at Malta ; in the mean
time I am sure you will not allow our invaluable friend Lord Nelson to fret at not
being present at the capture of the last French ship composing the Egyptian fleet;
it would not have added to the importance of the achievements he has already
gained. I have written to him and to your most estimable Sir William. God
protect your Ladyship,’ &c.
479. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated Palermo,
April 9th, 18OO. I? pages 4to. [H.] *
“I send your Excellency an extract of a letter from Sir Thomas Troubridge,
which I request you will have the goodness to communicate to his Excellency
Sir John Acton. I have also had several, and very serious, applications made to
me to know when the £60,000 sterling is to be paid for the capture of Civita
Vecchia and Rome. By the British laws, the whole of the public property became
the immediate property of the captors ; and they had a right to it, if they chose
to exert that right. But situated as his Sicilian Majesty's affairs were in the
Roman State, they thought it better to submit the matter to me, and to give up
everything—the rich museums, the ships in the port of Civita Vecchia, &c. &c.—
* Endorsed by Sir William : A copy sent to Gen! Acton, on the subject of the capitulation
of Rome & Civita Vecchia.”
WOL. II. H
98
7 H.A. HAM/Z 7 OAV AAVD [1800.
to his Sicilian Majesty's officers. The above-mentioned sum was arranged and
agreed to, I understood, by General Acton ; for although certainly not a quarter
of what was right, yet the exertions to get that right would have forced the
Romans to call in the Austrians, and to expel the Neapolitan troops by insurrec-
tions of the people. I own I am anxious, and feel my credit with the captains,
officers and men committed that this sum of money should be paid before I quit
my present situation, which my health forces me to.
‘I am confident your Excellency will do everything which is right and just for
the brave officers and men under my command, and who look up for protection
to, my dear Sir William, your faithful and obliged friend,’ &c.
480. A. L. S. from Captain Dixon to Lord Nelson. Dated Lion, at
Syracuse, April 9th, 1800. 2 pages folio. [P]
‘I have the honour to inform you of the ready condition of the Zion to proceed
on service, and that I shall sail this evening, if the wind permits, with two trans-
ports full of French prisoners for Malta. I inclose your Lordship a list of them
as correct as I can procure.
‘The Foudroyant, which your Lordship will hear from Sir Edward Berry, is
almost ready to proceed where you may direct, and in tolerable state, considering
the bad wounds in the lower masts. Guillaume 7e// will be ready in four or five
days.
‘I have taken upon me to appoint Lieutenant Inglis of the Penelope to command
her ; likewise the boatswain and carpenter, and the Master of Bonne Citoyen is
removed into her. I hope your Lordship will approve of this ; they are careful
and good officers, and the state of the prize requires such.
‘We have many stories as to what has been stowed in prizes in Valetta ; the
French Admiral allowed there was money in her, when he found she was entering
in Safety into this port, and a Neapolitan says he was at the stowing away a
number of brass cannon in the hold, and that in some money was stowed. As for
the cannon I believe him, but not a syllable of the latter.
‘Our wounded in the two ships are doing very well. I visited the hospital where
the French are yesterday, and had the pleasure to find the French officers and
surgeon fully satisfied with their treatment, indeed I never saw a better hospital.
“I condole with your Lordship most sensibly on the melancholy fate which
has attended the Char/offe.
“I beg my best respects and compliments to Sir William and Lady Hamilton,
and the good mother, and have the honour to remain with the highest esteem and
respect,’ &c.
481. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated Palermo,
April IOth, 18OO. 2 pages 4to. [H.]”
“Reports are brought to me that the Spanish ships of war in this port are
preparing to put to sea—a circumstance which must be productive of very
unpleasant consequences to both England and this country. It is fully known
with what exactness I have adhered to the neutrality of this port ; for, upon our
arrival here from Naples, in December 1798, from the conduct of his Catholic
Majesty's Minister, I should have been fully justified in seizing these ships. We
know that one object of the Spanish fleet, combined with the French, was to
wrest entirely from the hands of his Sicilian Majesty his kingdoms of the Two
Sicilies. The Spaniards are, by bad councils, the tools of the French, and, of
course, the bitter enemy of his Sicilian Majesty and family. The conduct I have
pursued towards these ships, circumstanced as they are, has been moderate and
truly considerate towards his Sicilian Majesty. -
“The time is now come that, profiting by my forbearance, the Spanish ships
are fitting for sea. It is not possible, if they persist in their preparations, that I
* Endorsed by Sir William : ‘On the subject of the Spanish ships preparing for sea. A copy
sent to Sir J. Acton.’
1800.] AVAZZSOAV AZAAAA’.S. -- 99
can avoid attacking them, even in the port of Palermo ; for they never can or
shall be suffered to go to sea, and placed in a situation of assisting the French,
against not only Great Britain, but also the Two Sicilies. I have, therefore, to
request that your Excellency will convey my sentiments on this very delicate
subject to his Sicilian Majesty's Ministers, that they may take measures to prevent
such a truly unpleasant event happening, which would be as much against my
wish as it can be against theirs ; and I request that your Excellency will, through
the proper channel, assure his Silician Majesty that his safety and honour are as
dear to me as that of our Royal Master. I have the honour to be with the greatest
respect, my dear Sir William, your Excellency's,’ &c.
482. A. L. S. ‘B’ (in French) from Lord Bristol to the Queen of Naples.
Dated ‘ā San Luccio, ce 18 Avril, I80O.' I # pages folio, with
Superscription. [P.]
“Vous scavez a quel point je suis attaché a votre personne, vous ne scavez pas
a quel point je m'intéresse a vos interêts ; mais en voici la preuve, et fiez vous, je
vous en conjure, a l'adorateur de vos talens et de votre Coeur sensible.
‘Si vous étes dans le cas d'exiger du nouveau Pontif les Marais Pontins, soyez
sūre que la plus mauvaise administration vous fera rendre 400,000 livres Sterlines,
ou bien 800,000 onces Napolitaines par année.
‘Elles contiennent 400,000 arpens de terres, chaque boisseau de froment semé
rende 45 boisseaux de profit, et chaque boisseau de grano Žurco rende I IO boisseaux
de profit.
“Ces Marais Pontins ne rendent presque rien alla camera di Aloma, 6tant
accordes a des pantalons et des boufons come Duc Braschi, Architecte Morelli
& Rapini.
“Il faudra les diviser ces Marais Pontins en fermes de deux cens arpens, & rien
de plus, et bätir, ou faire bátir, une maison pour chaque deux Cens arpens.
‘Si Votre Majesté trouve a propos d'adopter cette idée je réponde du reste.
Le terrain au moyen des digues que je ferai faire se haussera en dix années de
plus de dix pieds, et, je le répète, vous fera un revenu de plus de 400,000 livres
sterlines. .
‘En cas que vous voulussiez y ajouter la petite ville de de Velletri, je m'engage,
moi, de la rendre un autre Gibelterra, ou un autre Luxemburg, et le tout Sera un
domaine royal Supérieur à tout ce que possède aucun monarque en Europe, et
vous mettera dans le cas d'abolir bien des impots onereux au peuple Napolitain.”
483. A. L. from the same to Lady Hamilton. No date (April 18th,
1800). # page folio, with Superscription. [P.]
‘DEAREST EMMA, The enclosed is a project for the improvement of the
Pontine Marshes, in case the queen and her counsel chuse to exact them from
the new Pope Joan, or whore of Babylon.
‘I myself was the first to advise the late Pope to the drainage. I began the
drainage with Rapini; they contain 800,000 acres, well worth 800,000Z. sterline;
and, believe me, the Camera, as it is called, does get IOO!. Sterlin. Now or never
is the moment.’
484. A. L.S. from Sir W. Hamilton to Charles Greville. Dated Palermo,
April 22nd, 18OO. 4 pages 4to. [H.]
‘I have this day presented my recredential letters to their Sicilian Majesties,
and M* Paget having presented his credential letters, to-morrow we go with Lord
Nelson in the Foudroyant to look at Malta, & shall return here in a few days,
when Lord Nelson expects an answer from Lord Keith, having asked his Lord-
ship's permission to return home on account of his health, which indeed is much
impaired by wounds & Such constant exertions his Lordship has been engaged
in so many years. Lord Keith will probably grant his LordP's request for a frigate
:
:
:
**
:
.
TOO 7"HAE A/AM/7. TON A W/) [1800.
or ship to carry him home, [and in that case we are to return home with his Lord-
ship, &, which is my ambition, will have to travel together]. The taking of the
Guillaume Tell by the Foudroyant has completed Lord Nelson's task, and he has
a good right to a little repose, particularly as he has been Superceded in the
command of the Mediterranean squadron. The fatal accident that has befallen
the Queeza Charlofſe at Leghorn, must have given a great shock in England : poor
Lord Keith is certainly not fortunate.
“My taking leave at Court yesterday was certainly a moving scene, and does
me honour. Mr Paget has shown great impatience to present his credential letters.
I have certainly been friendly and open to him, but his behaviour to me has been
cold & reserved from the moment of his arrival, nor has he asked me any questions
relative to this Court or country, and of which I must certainly know more of than
he can, having been Minister at Naples before he was born. In short, entre mous,
if he does not endeavour to make himself more amiable than he is at present, he
cannot be much liked here, but this is only to yourself, and I may be mistaken, as
I have seen very little of him. I still hope that Genoa & Malta may fall before
we leave the Mediterranean, & then I shall think Italy tolerably secure. Adieu,
my dear Charles, your,’ &c.
[“Emma's kind compº ; she is in despair at the thought of parting with the
Queen of N.’]* -
485. A. L. S. from Captain Ball to Lady Hamilton. Dated May 19th,
(1800). Ił pages 4to. [P.] -
“I congratulate you, my dear sister, on escaping all the miseries of sea-sickness
by remaining at anchor to-day. Our dear and inestimable Lord has been harassed
and fatigued with anxiety. I am most thoroughly convinced that his Lordship's
spasm is brought on by anxiety of mind, I therefore rejoice at your being on
board, as I am sure you will exert your powers to keep up his spirits, and the
worthy Sir William will contribute much to it.
‘I have sent his Lordship intelligence of 5000 troops being expected here
hourly ; it may induce him to stay a few days longer. Whether or not, you have
my ardent wish for prosperous gales and every blessing in this life. My very best
respects to Sir William and the ladies, and believe me with every grateful
sentiment, my dear sister, your affectionate and obliged,’ &c.
486. A. L.S. from the same to the same. Dated Malta, May 26th, 1800.
2 pages 4to, [P.]
‘I desired Tyson to assure you that I should have written a note to you to
accompany the letter to my wife, but I had not time. She will be much gratified
in having an occasion of personally expressing to you and Sir William how often
I have spoken of your goodness and friendship to me. I must give you a little
description of her: she has a strong mind, great discernment, and good judgment,
with an excellent disposition. She is neither young nor handsome, but well made,
and what flatters me much is, the idea that she is now more attached to me than
the day of her marriage, fifteen years ago. She has likewise presented me with
an uncommonly fine boy, affectionate and good. Next to my [heart] comes our
dear Bronté Nelson ; you and worthy Sir William will, I hope, keep up his spirits,
and not let him fatigue himself on deck. I sincerely hope your journey will be
attended with every possible advantage and satisfaction to you. God bless and
protect you both. My very best respects to Sir William, M* Cadogan, M*
Graeffer, and Miss Knight, and believe me ever, my dear Lady,’ &c.
487. Letter, stamped with signet seal (in Italian), from Hamuda Bassi
Bei to Lord Nelson. Dated ‘ from the Bardo of Tunis, the well
guarded, the abode of Felicity, the first of the month Moharrem,
* The two portions in square brackets have been obliterated, but not sufficiently so to prevent
their being deciphered.
1800.] AVE/CSOAV PAA’AºA'.S. IOI
year of the Hegira 1215, or May 26th, 18OO. 4 pages folio with
Superscription. [P.]
Never having been favoured with a reply to the letter which I had the honour
of writing to your Excellency on the 27th of June last year, respecting the
illegal confiscation of a vessel's cargo belonging to my subjects, which was
ordered by the commander of the Portuguese squadron under your Excel-
lency's command, I now beg to confirm it with the enclosed copy, and to enter
into some explanations on the transaction, it being one of considerable import-
an Ce to me.
The treaty of peace and commerce between the European powers and the
Ottoman Empire, and also the Regency of Barbary, guaranteed mutually the
safety of property and persons of enemies whilst under friendly flags, and that
even were such vessels taken, both the individuals and the merchandize should
always be reciprocally respected and restored. In consequence, I urge upon your
Excellency's notice, the fact that this treaty has never been infringed by me,
but on the contrary, has been always faithfully and scrupulously observed, having
severely punished such of my subjects as have violated it, a recent instance of
which occurred, not to mention many others which have taken place during past
years. Various Neapolitan and Genoese prizes having been brought in by my
corsaires, one of which laden on account of an English subject, after proof was
produced to that effect by the consul residing here, was released by me. Last year
several neutral and friendly vessels being brought in here by my corsaires,
because some were found to be freighted on account of Genoese, others on
account of Sardinians and Neapolitans and Portuguese, were immediately released
by my orders, having indemnified the respective captains for the losses they
sustained, and punished my Rais for having stopt them. In like manner the
vessels freighted by individuals of Barbary, and trading between the Levant and
Italy were never stopt, but on the contrary, were respected by the ships of war,
and were even in cases of necessity admitted into the ports of our enemies and
protected, whether Neapolitan, Sicilian, Maltese, Sardinian, Tuscan, Papal, or
Genoese. They were not then the outragers of all laws or treaties from whom the
Portuguese admiral ought to have taken an example. Besides, his conduct in
this instance was arbitrary and contradictory, for at the same time that his frigate
took the Ragusan in question, other vessels similarly freighted by and for Barbary
merchants were met and visited by other ships of his squadron and allowed to
pursue their voyage, and why should he, whilst releasing and forwarding from
Malta the Tunisian passengers who were on board of her, detain and confiscate
their effects and merchandise 2 In my view of the laws of war, such a
determination should at least have been preceded by a declaration or manifesto
for the information and regulation of everybody concerned, because such an act,
abolishing ancient customs and nullifying treaties hitherto generally binding, is
calculated to produce infinite mischief to the powers at peace with us, besides
continual annoyance to the court of Portugal, as in this case from the republic of
Ragusa, and exposing the trade of Portugal to reprisals from us. Firm in this
principle, and more confirmed by the contents of the friendly letter which I
received from your Excellency on the 17th of March 1799, I assured my subjects
(who were fearful), that they might securely and freely trade, and I also told my
corsaires that they had nothing to fear from the Portuguese squadron, because it
was under your orders.
If then our confidence was so implicitly given to the word of so eminent and
just a chief, why should we not receive his assistance in this just demand 2
Why will he permit the confiscation of the property of persons who were
respected and sent on their destination freely, or will he not exercise his authority
in conformity with his promises spontaneously made, and not permit so many
poor individuals to be plundered, and so many innocent orphans to suffer, who
continually appeal to me with their just complaints and demands 2 I repeat, that
if it were not for the entire reliance I reposed and ever shall repose in your
Excellency’s rectitude and wisdom, I should have issued orders to my corsaires to
stop all the vessels they met with, either going to or from Portugal, until myself and
my subjects were indemnified for this severe loss, but I have not done so, and
I O2 TA/A2 A/AM/Z 7 OAV AAV/) [1800.
shall refrain until I have received your Excellency's reply, which, I flatter myself
cannot be other than satisfactory. -
I am informed that your Excellency's departure for England for a short
period is approaching. I anticipate, therefore, from your kindness and well-
known exactness precise information as to your intentions before you leave these
seas. I earnestly wish you a happy voyage, and as soon as you return, I hope
to hear where I may again offer you the assurance of my high esteem, &c.
488. A. L. (in Mr. Compton's writing), from Mr. and Mrs. Compton to
Sir W. and Lady Hamilton. Dated Florence, June 3rd, 18OO.
2 pages 4to., with envelope. [P.]
‘Mr. & Mrs. Compton present their most respectful compliments and kind
regards to Sir Win & Lady Hamilton, perhaps unfashionable in sincere attentions
now they are not public personages, but they are incapable of ever forgetting
civilities or little acts of kindness & attention, nor do their sentiments or conduct
change with times, therefore tho’ not honoured with even a line from Lady
Hamilton, they cºl not hear of St Wim’s and her approaching departure for England,
without a few friendly lines to convey their most hearty best wishes for their safe
and pleasant arrival, and that they may enjoy there all health and felicity. They
will find a most prodigious change in everything in England. Probably, they find
already some in many respects, tho’ probably not in the Queen of Naples, who is
also attended with Mr. & Mrs. C.’s good wishes. They long lived happily at
Naples, & shall rejoice to pay their homage to their Majesties there again. They
beg to be kindly remembered to good Mrs. Cadogan; if not too presumptuous this
duty also to their Majesties, to whom none wish better than they do.
“If not too great a favour, they shall be much obliged to Sir W*, and Lady
Hamilton if they do not quite forget Mr. and Mrs. C. as real friends to honor
them with an account of their safe arrival, and how they like England as a guide
to themselves after so long an absence, and whether they purpose to return to
Naples, since that would be a great inducement to Mr. & Mrs. C. to go and inhabit
it again.
‘They trouble their respected friend Lord Bronté Nelson to deliver this to
Lady Hamilton as a testimony of lasting & kind remembrance.
‘Please to direct Wim Compton, Esq., LL.D., Florence. I believe we shall
return hither from Leghorn,’ &c.
489. A. L. S. from Eliza Perconte, born Ashburner, to Lady Elizabeth
Foster. Dated Palermo, June 9th, 18OO. 2 pages 4to., with
Superscription and Seal. [P.]
“My own dear Mamma, my kind, my generous benefactress, for such you have
been to me, since your favor of the 17th August, '99, I have not been honored with
hearing from you, tho’ I have wrote three times. But now the departure of my
kind friends, Sir Wºº, Lady H., Lord Nelson, &c., procures me a sure conveyance,
I take my pen, first, to enquire concerning your health, & next, to acquaint you
that after so many years of trouble & vicissitudes of various kinds, providence
has at last given a more favourable turn to things, nor do I owe Small obligations
to the above-mentioned friends for the lively interest and active part they have
taken in my concerns, to which I owe in a great measure the conclusion of them ;
they promised you to assist me, & have most effectually kept their word. The
employ confer'd by their Majesties on my friend about five or six months ago is,
tho' not a very lucrative, yet an honourable one. He is chosen for one of the eight
secretaries of these provinces. But I will give it you in his native terms : Secre-
tario refferendario del Regno, vacant by the death of the Marquis Airoldi; the
consequence of all this is that he immediately presented a petition to the Queen
for the conclusion of our marriage, which was granted on Wednesday last, the
fourth of this month, our good King's birthday. It was performed in the Queen's
private chapel, her Majesty and the Royal Family all present, as was Sir Wº and
Lady H., Lord Nelson, &c., who came to the palace after dining on board his
1800.] AVA. ZSO/V AAA’Aº AºS. IO3
Lordship's ship, so that, from them also you will receive the same account. Happy
indeed, should I have been to have been honoured by your presence also, but you
were so, tho’ not personally, since my thoughts are constantly with you. Do me,
I beg of you, the honour to let me hear from you. I should have had unspeakable
Satisfaction if my reverend Lord Bristol had also come to Palermo, but he has
remained at Naples. I wait, my dear Mamma, the return of the Court & my dear
Princess. Many things may yet be accomplished which as yet, from circumstances,
could not continue. I intreat your interest for me at the return of my kind friends
from England. Perhaps, what I so much wish may take place—but more of that
in future. In the meantime, I beg you to believe me with liveliest gratitude for
all your goodness,’ &c.
“My friend desires his respects, and would write, but fears to be indiscreet.’
490. A. L. S. from Alexander Davison * to Lady Nelson. No date
(June I Ith, 1800). 2 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘It is with much, very much pleasure, I communicate the good account I have
received from your dear Lord, under date the 9th May, off Malta, and what is
better that he is coming home. His words are : “I shall very soon see you in
England.” These words comprehend everything I wished to know. He writes
me fully respecting his claim to prize money as Commander-in-Chief, and that he
will not relinquish it. His letters have set me to work, and will keep me fully
employed for seven days. Towards the 20th instant I fancy your anxious mind
will be relieved by receiving to you all that you hold sacred and valuable. The
lctters I have had caine vić Vienna, and are the latest date. This account cannot
fail making M* Nelson happy. Give my best regards to him, accept the same
yourself, and believe me yours most sincerely,’ &c.
‘Lord Nelson had received all the parcels, &c. &c., sent out by the Cormoranſ.
“The Alexander Horatio Nelson I saw on Sunday in the country, in high health,
beauty & spirits.”
491. Facsimile of letter S. from the Queen of Naples, signed also by
the rest of the Royal Family, to Lord Nelson. Dated off
Leghorn, June 14th, 18OO. I page 4to. [P.]
‘My dear and respectable Lord Nelson, To the numerous obligations wich
all Europa, and we particularly, have to you, is to be added our gratitude for the
Care that you have taken to transport me and my dear children from Palermo to
Leghorn. We return you our most sincere thanks, and pray you may be quite
sure that all you have done for us will be truly ingraved in our heart. Nothing I
desire more than to have frequent occasions to prouve you our feelings, our ever-
lasting gratitude, and the great regard with wich we are, and will be till the
last moment of our life, my respectable Lord Nelson,’ &c.
492. A. L. S. from Eliza Perconte to Lady Hamilton. Dated Palermo,
July 22nd, 18OO. 2 pages 4to. [P.]
“By the arrival of D. Gockino Diesis who has brought me news of my dear &
amiable Princess, I learn that you are pursuing the same rout with the Royal
Family, and tho' I have not had the pleasure of hearing from you nor any of my
friends in your company, I cannot let slip this occasion in answering Madam
Christina to send you also a few lines, as a proof that with me the old English
proverb, out of sight out of mind, will never find a place ; on the contrary, I feel
more anxious for my friends than ever, & wish earnestly to hear how yourself, Sir
W*, Lord Nelson, Mºs Cadughan, Miss Knight, &c., all are, hoping I shall not be
deprived of that consolation. The kind & affectionate manner in which my beloved
Princess does me the honour to interest herself for me, is a matter of the greatest
* Alexander Davison, 1750–1829, a government contractor, Nelson's prize agent and
confidential friend.
IO4 7THAE HAM/Z 7 OAV AAV/O [18oo.
consolation, but she is always herself, and every favour she confers participates of
that delicacy that forms her character. She has provided for my walking parties
by sending me a provision of pretty hats, &c. &c., and as you know how dear she
is to me, you may easily imagine how precious everything that comes from
her is.
“I shall wait with impatience the moment of receiving account of your health.
In the meantime I beg you to present my best compliments to all your party, and as
I am sure you kindly interest yourself for me, notwithstanding your silence, I will
anticipate your enquiries, and tell you that I have, from the delicate and affection-
ate conduct of my husband, every motive to be content, while his worthy estimable
character entitles him to my sincerest regard. He seems to have no pleasure but
in endeavouring to render me happy and anticipating all my wishes. But you
know his delicate manner of thinking, and will not (I am sure) say I am too
partial. I should be ungrateful if I did not justice to such a character as his. I
have wrote, since you left us, to Lord Bristol, and sent my letter to M* Noble, but
unfortunately my Lord had left Naples before it arrived. Not to tire you, I end
this, joining my husband’s best respects by assuring you I ever am, my dear Lady
Hamilton,’ &c.”
493. A. L. S. from Captain Ball to Lord Nelson. No date
(September 5th, 1800). Ił pages 4to. Incomplete of the
beginning. [P.]
‘Colonel Fardillo, who commands the Neapolitan troops here, applied to sign
the capitulation, but was refused. General Vaubois told Martin that his garrison
have only consumed seven months' whole allowance of rations in two years. Your
Lordship will read Captain Martin’s account of the capture of La Džamme ; we
have great hopes La Justice will share the same fate.
‘P.S.. I have just received a letter from General Graham, who conducted the
business of the capitulation, saying that General Vaubois objected to my signing
as chief of the Maltese. Major-General Pigot and I conduct business with great
harmony. I have not had the slightest reason to be dissatisfied with him, he is
very reserved, but I think he is a very friendly man.”
494. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Malta, September 27th,
I8OO. 5% pages 4to., with Superscription and Seal. [P.]
‘I had the pleasure of writing to your Lordship the 5th instant on the surrender
of La Valetta, and sent copies of my correspondence with Major-General Pigot on
the subject of my right to sign the capitulation, and my orders to hoist the
colours of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem, both of which he would not allow,
as his order from Sir R. Abercrombie directed the contrary. General Pigot has
conducted himself towards me in a manner highly indelicate and unbecoming. I
have been treated and considered as Chief or Governor of this island by your
Lordship, Lord Keith, and Sir R. Abercrombie, but General Pigot in the first
standing orders has placed me in rank below the Town-Major, who is a
Captain in the army. I send you the printed articles respecting me. All the
officers of the army have spoken with indignation of the treatment, and pay me
the utmost respect and attention ; I have not remonstrated with the General, but
I believe he has been spoken to by Martin,t since which he has directed a guard
to be turned out for me. I continue giving the General every aid, and do not
allow his insult to affect the public operation, and I am sure that he is now
* At this point a few lines in Italian are interpolated, written by the lady's husband, to the
effect that he joins his thanks and best wishes to those of his amiable wife.
t Captain, afterwards Admiral Sir George Martin, G.C.B., 1764–1847, who entered the
navy in 1776, and after serving in the West Indies took post rank in 1783; distinguished himself
off Cape St. Vincent, and off Spain and Portugal, and in 1800 succeeded Troubridge in the
command of the blockading squadron before Malta. He was made a Rear-Admiral in 1805,
and was employed off the coast of Italy under Sir John Stuart. He was knighted in 1814, made
G.C.B. and Admiral of the Blue in 1821, and Vice-Admiral of the United Kingdom in 1834.
1800.] AVAE/LSO/W PA PAEA’.S. IOS
satisfied that my assistance is absolutely necessary to him. We dine together,
and keep up an apparent cordiality. I tell your Lordship in confidence, what in
a short time will be publicly known, that the General is the most unpopular man
that ever commanded a garrison. I have the satisfaction to acquaint your Lord-
ship that the Maltese give me daily additional proofs of their confidence and
obedience to my orders. A large party had shewn a disposition to punish the
Jacobins in the manner they were treated at Naples, but there has not been the
smallest irregularity committed. The people are happy and contented, and the
English in general observe that La Valetta and its port are among the very few
places which have exceeded their expectations, it is certainly a very interesting spot.
“Honest Tyson is here, who will write to your Lordship. I hear Lord Keith
is going to England, he is displeased with the Admiralty and has desired to be
recalled, we all pray that your Lordship may succeed him. I long to hear of your
arrival in England in good health, as I have been apprehensive that you would
suffer from the land journey. I hope the welcome and grateful acclamations of
the ministers and people of England, with the sight of your family, will restore
your spirits and cheerfulness. I request your Lordship to indulge me with a line,
telling me how your health is, I will not trouble you to say more, knowing how
very much your time will be taken up.
‘Martin is here ; Blackwood is going to Alexandria ; Peard* is waiting for
orders. We have heard unfavourable reports of Sir William Hamilton's health,
which I hope you will be able to contradict; we hear that Lady Hamilton remains
with the Queen at Vienna. I have not yet received orders from General Acton
on the subject of the English colours hoisted here; but I hear he is highly offended
at it. It has been insinuated that I stickle too much for the Sicilian interest
because the Sicilian flag was hoisted at St Antoine, and because I have officially
represented the orders I had from your Lordship on the subject of the colours; I
am so truly disgusted, and am so sensible of the little recompense which I shall
get for my anxious labours and loss of prize money, that I would have retired to
my ship, were I not assured that there would have been a convulsion among the
Maltese. Adieu, my dear Lord, may God cver bless and protect you, prays
your,’ &c. -
495. A. L. S. (in English) from the Marquis Belmonte to (Sir W. and
Lady Hamilton). Dated St. Petersburg, October 13th, 18OO.
I page 4to, [P.] -
‘It is impossible to me to express how deeply my heart has been touched by
your kind and affecting letter from Vienna. I am so indebted to you, and you
deserve so much to be loved, that my gratitude and true and sincere friendship
will last till to my tomb. God bless you in your long travel ! My health and my
wishes for your so well deserved happiness shall accompany you allways. I hope
to hear, as soon as it is possible, that you are well, happy, and Constantly ºria
juncta in uno. -
‘My health is pretty well, notwithstanding the rigour of this climate. I long
and hope to rejoin, in a couple of months, our great Queen.
‘Farewell, my dearest friends. I am for ever and heartily your,’ &c.
496. A. L. S. from M. de Pollion to Lord Nelson. Dated Altona,
October 30th, 18OO. 3 pages 4to. [P.]
‘Enhardi par la connoissance de Mr le Ch' de Boothby,t qui devoit me recom-
mander a votre Excellence, attiré dans cette démarche parvos vertus bienfaisantes
et généreuses, n'ayant a vous faire part que de malheur dás a mon attachement
inviolable pour mon Souverain, j'avois eu l'honneur de vous adresser, il y a
quelque jours, et du fond de ma prison, un mêmoire ou je prenois la liberté de
* Captain Shuldham Peard was made a Rear-Admiral in 1814, and died in 1832.
† Sir Brooke Boothby, 1743–1824, seventh Baronet. When young he mixed a good deal in
the literary Society of the day, and was the author of some works, both in prose and poetry. -
IO6 THAE A/A /l/ / / TO/V A/V/O [1800.
dépeindre ma situation a Votre Excellence; j'avois espéré dès lors que mes
maux, et des maux que je n'avois point mérités, ne seroient pas sans remède.
‘Sorti mardi passé de cet état d'arrestation que m'avoient valu des écrits en
faveur de S. M. T. C. mon Souverain, je me trouve maintenanta Altona, perdant a
Hamburg une place de plus de IOO Louis par an qui j’avois chez M* De Capadose.
‘Qu'il m'eut €té agréable d'y €tre aujourd’hui, et de partager avec cette respec-
table famille l’enthousiasme qu'y inspirera votre présence. Je Sens pour la première
fois l'horreur du décret qui m'a forcé de quitter Hambourg.
“Le Gouvernement Anglois, a qui l’on a fait parvenir la cause de mon
arrestation et mon expulsion de Hamburg, m'a envoyé un passeport accompagné
de la lettre la plus flatteuse et qui me promet, peut-être, un dédommagement
des pertes que je fais ici.
*Mais je n'y perds plus rien, si votre Excellence me permet de compter sur
sa protection, elle seule peut calmer toutes mes Craintes pour l'avenir.
‘J’ignore, malheureusement, quand mes moyens me permettront de quitter
Altona pour aller en Angleterre, on n'est pas riche quand on Sort de prison.
‘Puisse Votre Excellence, touchée de ma situation et des foibles services
que j’ai rendus a mon Roi, me notifier ses sentiments par M. le Chº de Boothby ou
par Mr De Capadose, a l’Hotel de Dannemark a Altona, ou je loge actuellement.
J’ai l'honneur d'être,’ &c.
497. A. L. S. from Charles Greville to Sir W. Hamilton. No date
(November 9th, 1800). 24 pages 4to., with Superscription and
Seal. [H.]
‘It gives me great pleasure to hear that you are safely arrived.* I went to
town yesterday & this day on purpose to see you, and left my name at Nerot's,
and I must have been hardly at home before you arrived. As it is near 9 o'clock
& I have no carriage nearer than London, I do not think you would thank me for
breaking in on you this evening. I will be with you at #-past IO to-morrow, when
you will have breakfasted, and it will give me a good and seasonable time to
converse with you. I think you do well to see Lº Grenville, and you may send
to his house in Cleveland Row to know if he is in town, and at any rate I think
it would be right to endeavour to see him before the Levee, & you will have an
audience.
‘As to the house, I do not wish to bias your decision. If the offer is kind, &
you are to be accommodated with the house as your own during your occupation,
it is one thing, if you are a visitor it will be very different ; and to you, who know
the world so well, it is not necessary to suggest anything on this point. After
your Mayor's Feast I shall hope to see you quiet, for you must take care of
yourself. I have been very unwell, & last week was almost a prisoner in 111y
house; but I am much better, & shall have nothing more on my mind than to
prove my sincere gratitude & affection to you, & I trust you will be able to steer
well at the beginning & lay the foundation of the future comfort of yourself &
Lady H. I am sorry that my picture of the country will not prejudice you in
favour of the change you will find in every respect. As, I think, you & I have
much congenial in disposition, I hope we may easily concur in what suits the
present moment, & I have not had you out of my thoughts for many months, &
have waited the whole summer in town that I might not be out of the way when
you arrived. My love to Lady Hamilton, and believe me,’ &c.
498. A. L. S. from F. A. Fitz-Murray to Lady Hamilton. Dated Kent
Road, November 17th, 18OO. 2 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘My heart bleeds at every pore at the time I write this. It was my intention
to have solicited an interview, as I did with the Caesar of ye age (Lord Nelson),
* Sir William and Lady Hamilton, Lord Nelson, and the Queen of Naples, left Palermo on
the 9th of June, and arrived at Vienna early in August. Lord Nelson and the Hamiltons left
Vienna, September 27th, and arrived at Yarmouth, ziá Prague, Dresden, and Hamburg, on
November 6th, London being reached on the 9th. - -
1800.] AVAE/CSOAV PAPERS. Io'7
but, Madam, my heart failed me in the attempt, and I hope your humanity will
lead you to hear the bearer hereof in my behalf. He will explain to your
Ladyship my sad situation—a situation indescribable, but which I would attempt
to pourtray, were I not apprehensive it would take up too much of your time and
hurt your fine sensibility. I will only, therefore, observe I am a son of ye late
Prince of Wales. I have had enemies about His Majesty for 13 years, who have
most shamefully misrepresented me, indeed, most wickedly so, but for that they
will have to answer at Some period. My distress at present is so great as to
prevent my even resenting an insult unless personally offered in the street, when
I might cane an injurer. I have, my Lady, been 30 years an officer ; I have been
5 times wounded in this course of service, and as a reward for my services I am
allowed a halfpay of £36 per annum to support ten in family.
“Had not Lord Nelson given me 2 guineas on Thursday last I must now have
been a corpse, in fact, I must with my children have been starved to death. Prince
Augustus Frederick gave me 12 guineas, eight at one time and 5 at another, and
I doubt not your Ladyship will in your great goodness assist a gentleman who
most assuredly has deserved a better fate.
“I beg your Ladyship to speak to Sir Wm for me, and am,’ &c.
499. A. L. S. from Rev. Father Patrick Mulligan to Lord Nelson. Dated
December 4th, 18OO. 4 pages 4to. [P.]
‘Since I had the honour and fortune of your Lordship taking me under your
paternal-like consideration, a tolerable share of the prosperity of this world has
fallen to my lot. First, I have compleately justified my character and honour at
the Court of Rome, then held at Padua, not without great respect and esteem has
the Court considered me as having the happiness and honour of fighting under
your most celebrated and renowned command. Many of the most venerable
Cardinals and Archbishops of the Court have declared as thus, would to the Lord
º &: had your happiness, that is to fight under the invincible Lord Nelson, &c.
C. CCCs
‘The Court, moreover, has given this decision so far as to write to Dr O'Reilly,
Bishop of Armagh and Primate of all Ireland, that is to say titular in our Church
of these parts, and informed said Primate that I have appealed to them and that
the Court must pay attention to my reports as a man faithful and sincere to the
higher powers, and moreover they have declared your Lordship's testimony in
favour of this assertion, as thus we say: non sine gaudio et latitia ejus amorem
Erga stablimzores Zotestatis inspearimus symgraphum invictissimi classi fraſecti
AWelson in ejus favorem widimus, &c. &c.
‘My journey from Palermo was favourable. The English Ambassadors were
most friendly to me, especially Hugh Elliot at the Court of Dresden; the English
Consuls at Venice and Hamburge proved most kind and friendly. Many a curious
Scene I should give you a detail of, only I wrote to Lady Hamilton from Prague,
to whom I had related different passages of mine in Tuscany in time of the French.
On the morning of the day I came into Florence the French have entered it. I
knew nothing of it until M* Wyndham, the English Embassador, told me of it;
they have detained me two months at Florence. I daresay my Lady Hamilton
might have shown you my letter to her from Prague in which I have related the
entlte.
“When I came to London I applyed for payment. I went first to your brother,
he referred me to another officer, and sent a man with me. None would be made
as not due at the time. I afterwards applyed to Even Nepean, Esq., with a letter
of introduction from the Bishop of Waterford.* M* Nepean received me, but as
payments could not be made me he gave me some money of his own to enable me
to return to Ireland, &c.
‘Thanks and praise be to Almighty God, my connexions, friends, and acquaint-
ances among the first class of this nation, are greater and more numerous than
* Richard Maalay, 1727–1802, ‘an amiable, benevolent, and ingenious man,’ according to
Malone. He was made Dean of Ferns in 1769, Bishop of Clonfert in 1787, whence he was
translated to Waterford in 1795. -
IO8 TH AE A/AM//. TO AV A/VD [1800–1.
ever, principally on account of your Lordship, and being under your com-
mand, &c. -
“In my Church I am in all priestly jurisdiction and power, which I attribute to
your Lordship. May God bless and prosper you and your most noble family. If
your Lordship should write to my Lady Hamilton tell her I am always thankful
to her, mindfull of her, and never shall forget her. I wrote lately to the Queen of
Naples’ confessor, but got no answer as yet.
‘I had a letter lately from Sir Antony O’Hara, who was Ambassador for the
Court of Russia at Malta; he is well. He enquired of me if I had any account
from your Lordship, but I had none except the account in our papers. I hope
your Lordship may be kind and generous to me at present as usual, by honouring
me so far as to vouchsafe or deign to send me a few lines to inform me of your
state of health and prosperity, which are the most ardent wishes of your former
marine soldier and am with due respect, esteem, and veneration,’ &c. -
500. A. L. S. (in English) from the Marquis de Niza to Lord Nelson.
Dated Lisbon, December I Ith, 18OO. I page 4to. [P.]
“I beg your pardon if I disturb you for a moment, but my sincere attachment
to you does not permit me to be silent for longer time.
‘I had, my dear friend, the greatest pleasure seeing in the public papers the
brilliant manner in which you have been received in England. You deserve all
that, and I am sure that your name, virtues, and quality, will be for ever respected
in all parts of the globe. Believe me, my Lord, it is my heart which speaks and
not the flattery, you do know me well to believe me, and I hope you will be
persuaded of my sincere attachment with which I will be always,’ &c.
501. A. L. S. (marked ‘private ’) from Lord Spencer” to Lord Nelson.
Dated January 21st, I80I.. I page 4to. [P.]
‘I only at present can acknowledge your letter of the 17th, express my satis-
faction at your being again afloat. -
“I shall be able soon to write on the subject of ships; but I can say thus far
to-day upon it, that it is by no means in contemplation for you to be put into the
Windsor Castle, which was only mentioned cursorily one day in conversation
with Sir Hyde as being one of the three-deckers which draws the least water.
The Formidable is not of that description. As to troops, you know the objections
in the way, and they certainly appear to be insurmountable. Yours,’ &c. -
502. A.L.S. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated January 25th,
18OI. 2 pages 4to., with Superscription and Seal. [P]
“If you’ll believe me, nothing can give me so much pleasure as your truly kind
and friendly letters, and where friendship is of so strong a cast as ours, it is no
easy matter to shake it—mine is as fixed as Mount Etna, and as warm in the
inside as that mountain. The Audacious, Gould, will be paid off to-morrow,
and he bears the talking of Miss Knight with good humour. He has inquired
where she lives. He is not grown much wiser since we left him, or he never
would have wished to leave such a ship and ship's company. I am quite vexed
not to have orders for completing the San Josef’s complement of men, or to
proceed to sea, therefore I shall certainly not be at Torbay on Wednesday. I
shall write to Troubridge this day to send me your letter, which I look for as
Constantly and with more anxiety than my dinner. [Let her go to Briton or where
she pleases, I care not ; she is a great fool, and, thank God! you are not the least
bit like her. I delivered poor Mrs Thomson’s + note; her friend is truly thankful
for her kindness and your goodness. Who does not admire your benevolent
heart. Poor man he is very anxious, and begs you will, if she is not able, write
a line just to comfort him. He appears to me to feel very much her situation ;
* Lord Spencer was at that time First Lord of the Admiralty.
f This is the first mention of Lady Hamilton under this name.
1801.] A/EZSON PAPERS. fog
he is so agitated, and will be so for 2 or 3 days, that he says he cannot write, and
that I must send his kind love and affectionate regards.] What dreadful weather
we have got : a deep snow. I wish I was just setting off for Bronté. I should
then be happy. As I cannot now sail before Thursday, you may direct your
letter on Tuesday to me at Plymouth, and if ever so ready will not sail till the
post is arrived. On Wednesday direct to Brixham as I mentioned before, and
believe me as ever, your obliged, attached, & most affectionate friend,’ &c.
‘My brother is as vexed as I am, and fears he shall lose his trip to Torbay.
I should have lived on board before, but; as the ship will be paid to-morrow,
I hope to get on board on Tuesday. I hate Plymouth. I shall write
every day.”
503. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated January 26th, 18OI.
3 pages 4to., with SuperScription and Seal. [P.] -
“When I consider that this day nine months was your birthday, and that
although we had a gale of wind, yet I was happy, and sung Come Cheer uſ Fair
Emma, t &c. Even the thoughts compared with this day makes me melancholy,
my heart somehow is sunk within me. I long to hear you are well [keep up your
spirits, all will end well], the dearest of friends must part, and we only part, I trust,
to meet again. [I own I wonder that Sir Wm should have a wish for the Prince
of Wales to come under your roof; no good can come from it, but every harm.
You are too beautiful not to have enemies, and even one visit will stamp you as
his chére amie, and we know he is dotingly fond of such women as yourself, and
is without one (spark 2) of honour in those respects, and would leave you to bewail
your folly. But, my dear friend, I know you too well not to be convinced you
cannot be seduced by any prince in Europe. You are, in my opinion, the pattern
of perfection.] -
‘I have no orders, and can have none before Wednesday, therefore Sooner
than Thursday or Friday the ship cannot move. I have told my brother of your
intentions of giving him a paste. [He would have had a hard matter to get one
of mine.] He proposes, if no orders arrive very soon, to leave me, when I shall
instantly return on board. I feel no loss in not going to these balls and assemblies.
My thoughts are very differently engaged. I know nothing of my destination
more than I did when in London, but the papers and reports of my being put in
* Many of Nelson's letters to Lady Hamilton from this period until his death are partially
published in Pettigrew's Life of AWelson. The portions not published by Pettigrew are enclosed
in square brackets. It will be noted that they are generally the most interesting.
+ He refers to the following verses composed by Miss Knight during the journey from Italy
to England :—
‘Come, cheer up, fair Emma, forget all thy grief,
For thy shipmates are brave, and a hero's their chief;
Look round on these trophies, the pride of the Main,
They were snatched by their valour from Gallia and Spain.
Chorus—Hearts of oak, &c.
‘Behold yonder fragment, 'tis sacred to fame,
*Mid the waves of old Nile it was saved from the flame :
The flame that destroyed all the glories of France,
When Providence vanquished the friends of blind chance.
Hearts of oak, &c.
‘These arms the San Joseph once claimed as her own,
Ere Nelson and Britons her pride had o'erthrown ;
That plume too evinces that still they excel,
It was torn from the cap of the famed William Zell.
- Hearts of oak, &c.
‘Then, cheer up, fair Emma I remember thou’rt free,
And ploughing Britannia’s old empire—the sea :
How many in Albion each sorrow would check,
Could they kiss but one plank of this conquering deck.
Hearts of oak, &c.’
Í IO 7"Aſ E A/AM// TO AV AAWD - [1801.
a bad ship which, although I can hardly credit, fills me with sorrow, which, joined
to my private feelings, makes me this day ready to burst every moment into tears.
I will try and write to the Duke” to-morrow ; this day I could not if millions lay
in my way. Mrs Thomson's friend is this moment come into my room. He
desires me to thank you for your goodness to his friend. He appears almost as
miserable as myself. He says you have always been kind to his dear M*
Thomson, and he hopes you will continue your goodness to her on this trying
occasion. I have assured him of your innate worth and affectionate disposition,
and believe, as ever and for ever, your,’ &c.
‘My best respects to Sir William, M* Denis, &c. &c.’
504. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated San Josef, Torbay,
February 1st, 1801. 3 pages 4to., with Superscription and
Seal. [P]. -
“I believe poor dear Mrs Thomson's friend will go mad with joy. He cries,
prays, and performs all tricks, yet dare not show all or any of his feelings, but he
has only me to consult with. He swears he will drink your health this day in a
bumper, and damn me if I don’t join him in spite of all the doctors in Europe, for
none regard you with truer affection than myself. You are a dear, good creature,
and your kindness and attention to poor M* T. stamps you higher than ever in
my mind. I cannot write, I am so agitated by this young man at my elbow. I
believe he is foolish ; he does nothing but rave about you & her. I own I partici-
pate of his joy and cannot write anything.f -
‘The San Josef left Plymouth yesterday at 1 o'clock, and anchored here at 8
this morning, where I found an order to hoist my flag in the St. George, as Lord
Spencer says I must go forth as the Champion of England in the North, and my
San Josef is to be held by Captain Wolseley,i of the St. George, till my return,
when I hope to have a knock at the Republicans. In this instance they have
behaved handsomely—could not be better. I trust I shall soon be at Portsmouth,
and every endeavour of mine shall be used to come to town for three days, and
perhaps you and Sir William may like to see Portsmouth. Captain Darby is just
come in ; he desires me to say everything which is kind, and that he wishes he
could see you instead of your picture, which I have handsomely framed and
glazed. The post is waiting, and I have been two hours pulling from Lord Sº
Vincent's house. It is blowing fresh. May the heavens bless you and yours, is
the fervent prayer of your unalterable and faithful,’ &c.
“Best regards to Sir William. Instead of under cover, direct as follows:–
Lord Nelson, &c. &c., to the care of Sir Thomas Troubridge, Bart., Brixham,
Devon, which will give them to me four hours sooner.’
505. A. L. S. from the same to the same. No date (February 3rd,
1801). 2 pages 8vo., with Superscription to ‘Mrs. Thomson.' [P.]
‘Your good and dear friend, does not think it proper at present to write with
his own hand [but he hopes the time may not be far distant when he may be
united for ever to the object of his wishes, his only, only love. He swears before
heaven that he will marry you as soon as it is possible, which he fervently prays
* The Duke of Queensberry.
† The part of the letter ending here refers without doubt to the birth of Horatia, which must
have taken place between January 29th and 31st. So much has been written on the vexed
question of Horatia's parentage, that the letters of this date will prove to be of the greatest
interest and importance; for no one can read them without being overwhelmingly convinced
that she was the child of Lady Hamilton and Lord Nelson. She lived with Lady Hamilton
until the death of the latter, married, in 1823, the Rev. Philip Ward, afterwards Vicar of
Tenterden, and died in 1881.
# William Wolseley obtained post-rank in 1782, served under Lord Hood in the Mediter-
ranean, went with Commodore Tinzell's squadron to co-operate with Paoli in the reduction of
Corsica, and accompanied Sir Borlase Warren in the expedition against the French coast. He
afterwards commanded the St. George, and then the San Josef. He became a Rear-Admiral in
1804, Vice-Admiral in 1809, and a full Admiral in 1819. He died in 1842.
1801.] AVAE/SOAV PAPAEA’.S. j ñ I
may be soon]. He charges me to say how dear you are to him, and that you
must, every opportunity, kiss and bless for him his dear little girl, which he
wishes to be called Emma, out of gratitude to our dear, good Lady Hamilton ;
but in either its from Lord N. he says, or Lady H., he leaves to your
judgment and choice. I have given Lord N. a hundred pounds this morning, for
which he will give Lady Hamilton an order on his agents; and I beg that you
will distribute it amongst those who have been useful to you on the late occasion;
and your friend, my dear Mrs Thomson, may be sure of my care of him and his
interest, which I consider as dearly as my own, and do you believe me ever,’ &c.
‘Lady Hamilton must desire at the back for it to be paid to the person who
carries it.’
506. Document, dated February 4th (1801). 3 pages. [H.]
A deed of assignment by Sir W. Hamilton to Mr. Alexander Davison, in trust for
Lady Hamilton, of the furniture and other contents of the house, No. 23 Piccadilly.
507. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated San Josef,
February 4th, 18OI. 24 pages 4to., with SuperScription and Seal.
‘It blows so very hard that I doubt if it will be possible to get a boat on shore,
either to receive or send letters, but if it moderates in time for the post of course
mine shall go, and I hope from my heart to hear you are better, and it has made
my head ache stooping so much, as I have been making memorandums for my
will, and, having regularly signed it, if was to die this moment I believe it would
hold good. If I am not able to send it, as far as relates to you, this day, I will
to-morrow. I have been obliged to be more particular than I would, as a wife
can have nothing, and it might be taken from you by will or the heirs of your
husband. If you disapprove of any part say so and I will alter it, but I think
you must approve; I have done my best that you should. I shall now go to work
and save a fortune. Say, shall I bequeath the £2OOO owing me from Sir William
for the same purpose. You must keep this letter till you receive a copy of my
memº. What a pretty piece of history letting out the French squadron. I was
laughed (at) by some wiseacres in power when I said, if I was a French Admiral I
would come out in spite of all the English fleet, as they kept close into Brest, and
I would be outside of them before morning.
‘Your dear, kind letters of Monday are just come on board in a shore boat,
and I shall try and get mine ashore, but it is barely possible. [Sir William should
say to the Prince that, situated as you are, it would be highly improper for you
to admit H. R. H. That the Prince should wish it I am not surprized at, and
that he will attempt every means to get into your house and into any place where
you may dine. Sir Wº should speak out, and if the Prince is a man of honour he
will quit the pursuit of you. I know his aim is to have you for a mistress. The
thought so agitates me that I cannot write. I had wrote a few lines last night,
but I am in tears, I cannot bear it. Tell M* T. her friend is grateful for her
goodness, and with my kindest regards to M* Jenkins and Horatia,” and ever
believe me your sincere, faithful, and affectionate,’ &c.
“We drink your health every day. Believe me, your letter cannot be too long
or too minute of all particulars. My mind is a little easier having perfect con-
fidence. Make my respects to Sir Wºº, the Duke, & LORD Wº GORDON,+
508. A. L. S. from the same to the same. No date (February 5th, 1801).
I# pages 8vo., with Superscription to ‘Mrs. Thompson.' [P.]
‘Your dear and excellent friend has desired me to say that it is not usual to
christen children till they are a month or six weeks old ; and as Lord Nelson will
probably be in town, as well as myself, before we go to the Baltic, he proposes
* * Kindest regards' to a baby of a week old strikes one as a little curious.
f Lord William Gordon was the second son of Cosmo, 3rd Duke of Huntly, and was
Deputy-Ranger of St. James's Park. He died in 1823. -
f I 2 THE HAMILTON A WY) (18ol.
then, if you approve, to christen the child, and that myself and Lady Hamilton
should be two of the sponsors. It can be christened at St George's, Hanover
Square; and, I believe, the parents being at the time out of the kingdom, if it is
necessary, it can be stated born at Portsmouth or at sea. Its name will be
Horatia, daughter of Johem and Morata Etnorb. If you read the surname
backwards, and take the letters of the other names, it will make, very extra-
ordinary, the names of your real and affectionate friends, Lady Hamilton and
myself; but, my dear friend, consult Lady Hamilton. Your friend consults me,
and I would not lead him wrong for the world ; he has not been very well ; I
believe he has fretted, but his spirit is too high to own it. But, my dear
Madam, both him, you, and your little one, must always believe me your affec-
tionate,’ &c.
‘The child, if you like it, can be named by any clergyman without its going
to church.” -
509. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated San Josef, February
6th, 18OI. 3 pages 4to., with Superscription and Seal.
“It blows a gale of wind, but which only affects me as it may deprive me of
my dearest, most honored friend’s letters. Your letters are to me gazettes, for as
yet I have not fixed upon any, nor can they be half so interesting to my feelings,
although you know I am not a little fond of a newspaper, and we have almost
quarrelled for a first reading, and I trust the time will soon arrive when we shall
have those amicable squabbles again. I am now of course very much by myself,
for none ever come to me except at meals, or I send for either Hardy or Parker,”
and they are both so modest and well behaved that it is really a pleasure to have
them on board. Parker boasts whenever he drinks your health, which is at least
once a day, that he had the honour of being your aid de camp, and that he has
given many messages by your orders. Ah ! those were happy times. Would to
God we were at this moment in the Bay of Naples, and all matters for those good
monarchs going on as well as it did at that time.
* Noon. This moment has brought me your two kind letters. You may rely
I shall not open my mouth on poor dear M* Thomson's business to any creature
on this earth. You and I should be very unworthy if we did any such thing, as
all the secret of those two people rests solely in our bosoms. He desires me to
say that he approves very much of the sum of money, and submits it to your
discretion if a smal/ ſension should not be promised if the secret is well kept, but
desires that nothing should be given under handwriting. He also desires you
will now and then give the nurse an additional guinea. He thinks it might be
better to omit xtening the child for the present, and even privately baptising it.
The clergyman would naturally ask its parents' name which would put poor M*
T. in trouble or cause suspicion, but in all these matters he submits himself to
your prudence and friendship. He will send you more money as M* T. wants it,
only let him know everything. He says, poor fellow, he would have given any-
thing to have seen the child, especially in your charming company. To say the
truth, this lad seems to love you not a little ; but who does not ; I am sure I do.
Capt William's nephew conducts himself very well, and I shall take him into the
St. George with me, for which ship Cap" Hardy has got his commission, but she
is still at Portsmouth.
“Saturday noon. M* Davison came while I was at dinner yesterday and gave
me your letters. He says you are grown thinner, but he thinks you look hand-
somever than ever. I know he is a very great admirer of yours. He says you
told him to tell me not to send you any more advice about seeing comp", for that
you are determined not to allow the world to say a word ag" you, therefore I will
not say a word ; I rest confident in your conduct. [I was sure you would not go
to Mrs Walpole's, it is no better than a bawdy house.] This morning brought me
your letter of Thursday. I am sorry for all your trouble, but poor Mº Thompson's
friend will never forget the obligation. Ever, my dear Lady, your's,’ &c.
* Captain Edward Thornborough Parker was shot in the thigh in the engagement off
Boulogne, August 16th, and died September 27th, 1801.
1801.] AVAZZSOAV AAA’A2A’.S. II 3
510. A. L. S. ‘N. & B.’ from the same to the same (“Mrs. Thomson').
No date (February 6th, 1801). I page 8vo. [P.]
‘Your good friend is very much obliged by your kind present of this morning;
it is very like what I remember his. He has put it in a case with his dear mother's
—for I almost love you as much as he does. He is sorry for the trouble you have
had about the nurse, but he says children bring their cares and pleasures with
them ; but, however, you will rely on Lady Hamilton, her goodness and good
advice cannot be too closely followed ; she is the pattern I wish you to imitate.
Respecting the naming and christening of the child, he wrote to Lady Hamilton
yesterday. He hopes to get leave for three days to come to town when the ship
gets to Portsmouth. Ever your,’ &c.
511. A. L. S. from the same to the same. No date (February 8th, 1801).
I page 4to., with SuperScription and Seal. [P.]
‘Mr Davison will deliver this letter and its enclosure. He is very good and kind
to me, and perhaps I can never repay the great and heavy obligation I owe him ;
but if it pleases God that I should retire into the country, I should not want a
carriage, for I can walk, and my affairs would soon arrange themselves. I do not
think I ever was so miserable as this moment. I own I sometimes fear that you
will not be so true to me as I am to you, yet I cannot, will not believe you can be
false. No, I judge you by myself; I hope to be dead before that should happen,
but it will not. Forgive me, Emma, oh, forgive your own dear, disinterested Nelson.
Tell Davison how sensible I am of his goodness; he knows my attachment to
you, and I suspect he admires you himself. I cannot express my feelings. May
God send me happiness. I have a letter from Sir William ; he speaks of the
Regency as certain, and then probably he thinks you will sell better–horrid
thought. Only believe me for ever your,’ &c.
512. A. L. from the same to the same. No date (18OI). I page 4to. [P.]
‘I may not be able to write to you to-morrow, but thou art present ever to my eyes.
I see, hear, no one else. Parker sits next me to cut my meat when I want it done.
May God send us a happy meeting. I am writing in a room full of interruption,
therefore give me credit for my thoughts. You can guess them ; they are, I trust,
like your own.”
513. A. L. S. from the same to the same. No date (1801). I page 8vo.,
with Superscription to ‘Mrs. Thomson.' [P.]
‘Your dear friend, my dear and truly beloved M* T., is almost distracted ; he
wishes there was peace, or that if your uncle would die, he would instantly then
come and marry you, for he doats on nothing but you and his child ; and, as it
is my godchild, I desire you will take great care of it. He has implicit faith in
your fidelity, even in conversation with those he dislikes, and that you will be
faithful in greater things he has no doubt. May God bless you both & send you
a happy meeting is the wish of yours,’ &c.
514. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated “February II*,
3 o'clock’ (1801). 2 pages 4to., with Superscription and Seal.
[P.]
“Well, my dear friend, I only wish you could read my heart, then, I am sure,
you would not write, or even think a hard thing of me. Suppose I did say that
the West-country women wore black stockings, what is it more than if you was to
say what puppies all the present young men are You cannot help your eyes,
and God knows I cannot see much. Only don't admire, you may detest as much
as you please. I am glad you have found out M* Kelly is so handsome ; in that
case you will give me credit for never going to make her a visit, but, to say the
WOL. II. I
:
º
I I4.
7TAZAZ AIA M/Z 7 O/W AAVD [1801.
*
:
truth, I think her quite the contrary : red hair, short, very fair, I believe, but her
face beplaistered with red. -
“Respecting Kingsmill's friend, I declare solemnly that I know not if is man
or woman, and could never bear the smallest idea of taking her out to the West
Indies. It is now 17 years since I have seen her. I have no secrets, and never
had but one, only one, love in my life, and damn me, if I lose her, if ever I will
have another, for, let me be ever so much on my guard, she never can be content
with me. Few women, my dear Lady, have your sense to make a good Selection,
and to be sure of your choice, to have implicit confidence in him, and that he is
more particular in your absence than in your presence. I am sorry Mº Pitt is out.
I think him the greatest minister this country ever had, and the honestest
man. With every affectionate wish, believe me for ever your attached and
affectionate,’ &c.
‘It blows a gale of wind and very heavy sea.
“If you see M* Thomson, say her friend has been a little fretted at her
nonsense, but is better, as he is sure it can only proceed from her affection for
him, but he desires me to beg of you to tell her never to harbour a doubt of his
fidelity, for that will make him doubt her, and to spit in the face of any one who
speaks disrespect of him. Give my godchild a kiss and blessing for me.’
515. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated ‘Friday night,
9 o'clock’ (February 14th, 1801). 3.} pages 4to., with Super-
scription and Seal. [P.]
[“I remember your story of that Mr Hodges at Naples, how he used to get
Suppers at this place and the other and pay for them on purpose for your company,
but I feel confident you will never admit him to any of your parties. As for the
P. of W., I know his character, and my confidence is firm as a rock till you try to
irritate me to say hard things, that you may have the pleasure of scolding me ;
but recollect it must remain 4 days before it can be made up, not, as before, in
happy times, 4 minutes. Consider, my dear friend, what you ought to say if I
did not fire at your scolding letters, and suppose me, if it is possible for a mom",
answering your scolds with a joke. I know I should fire if I thought that of you,
that you was indifferent ; but firing like the devil with vexation, anger, and retorting,
can only proceed from conscious innocence. I defy the malice of any one, and
my mind is as pure as my actions.] I never intend, if I can help it, to set my foot
out of the ship, but she is so compleatly uncomfortable you can have no concep-
tion how miserable she is. By Hardy's account he has been on board two days
endeavouring to make my place a little decent, but it is neither wind or water
tight, but I shall religiously stay on board, as you like me to do so, and I have no
other pleasure. I cannot get on board, it blows so very hard and a heavy sea ;
all our topmasts struck, and everything as close as possible. The boat which
went to Brixham cannot get off, therefore, if your letters had not been directed to
Sir T. T. I should not have had them. [I had a letter from Mr Davison to tell
me he had delivered my letter—can you ever scold me again? Recollect the
answer to this letter is to be marked No. 1, therefore turn over a new leaf. Only
rest quiet, you know that everything is arrainged in my head for all circumstances.
You ought to know that I have a head to plan and an heart to execute when-
ever it is right and the time arrives. That person* has her separate maintenance.
Let us be happy, that is in our power. Do you know how I am amusing myself
this evening Troubridge is gone to bed, and I am alone with all your letters
except the Cruel one, that is burnt, and I have scratched out all the scolding
words, and have read them 40 times over, and if you were to see how much better
& prettier they read I am sure you would never write another scolding word to
me. You would laugh to see my truly innocent amusement, therefore, again I
entreat you never to scold me, for I have NEVER deserved it from you, you know.]
Troubridge is my guest during the absence of the Ville de Paris. He always
says, “now comes the fourth & old toast, all our friends—the King—success to the
* Lady Nelson.
1801.] AVAE/LSO/V PA PAEA’.S. II 5
fleet, and, though last not least, Lady Hamilton.” Then they all do as they please.
I am certainly much better for leaving off wine; I drink nothing but water at
dinner, and a little wine and water after dinner. I believe it has saved me from
illness. The Smell of the paint is gone.
[“Pray tell me if M* Nepean sent you directly my letter & Troubridge's ; they
were both under the same cover, and directed by Troubridge. Good night, and
good night. I could say it till to-morrow. I wish I were with you; that time shall
come. May the Heavens bless you, good night ! Guess what my feelings and
thoughts are. Ever for ever your attached,’ &c.
‘Sir Isaac Heard” has behaved very ill to me, for half a farthing I would
advertize him.] -
516. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated ‘Monday night,
9 o'clock’ (February 17", 1801). 3.} pages 4to., with Super-
Scription and Seal.
‘My dearest friend, I have read all your letters over and over. My brother
has a bluntness and a want of fine feelings which we are not used to ; but he
means nothing. I dare say somebody had told him in the street a squadron
of seven sail had gone after the enemy, and they naturally concluded I was sent.
To say the truth, had I been Lord Spencer, I should have detatched one Nelson
as a much more likely man to come up with the enemy, and to beat them, than
the man they have sent—Sir Robert Calder ; # but I am destined for the North,
unless the Mediterranean command should become vacant, in that case I should
realize a fortune, gain honour, and if you came out, not return to England for
Some years; but Lord Keith, I believe, loves the good things on that station too
well. Supposing that was to happen, which is not likely, I would take an oath
never to sleep out of the ship, unless absolutely forced by the impossibility of
getting on board, but at present there is no prospect of my getting money. To
the W. Indies I would not go, or to the East, was it offered me to-morrow, altho’
it is a sure fortune, for I never would be far from you in case my presence should
be necessary.] Our friend Troubridge is to be a Lord of the Admiralty, and I
have a sharp eye, and almost think I see it. No, poor fellow, I hope I do him
injustice ; he cannot surely forget my kindness to him. When I am at Sea I
shall send my packets through him. Whenever I get to Portsmouth, I shall
ask for three days’ leave of absence ; but time must be allowed for the answer ;
and if another Admiral is arrived to take the charge of the ships, which may be
assembled. [But at the worst my dear friend can find a very good excuse to come
and see me, altho' it would not be half so satisfactory as my going to see you in
London. You cannot think how I long for our little innocent plan to be put in
execution. I cannot account for your receiving 5 letters in one day, it is beyond
my comprehension. It may be some irregularity in the post-office here, or the
carelessness of the midshipman sent to put them in the office. Yours always come
perfectly regular to the time they are wrote. One is lost clearly, but I can hardly
think by any body near you. It has been in some post-office out of curioszły,
this is my opinion, but God only knows. It is now got very moderate, but
recollect if a gale of wind comes from the East to South no boat can live in Torbay.
Ah my dear friend, I did remember well the 12th February, and also the two
months afterwards. I shall never forget them, and never be sorry for the Conse-
* Sir Isaac Heard, 1730–1822, Garter King of Arms. After serving in the navy he entered
into mercantile pursuits, was introduced to the Earl of Effingham, who, noticing his liking for
antiquarian research, appointed him Blue-Mantle in 1759. He became in succession Lancaster
Herald, Norroy King of Arms, Brunswick Herald, Clarenceux King of Arms, and finally, in
1784, Garter King of Arms. Nelson is referring to his differences with Sir Isaac on the subject
of the fees due from him for the honours which had been bestowed upon him, and which Nelson
objected to pay.
+ Sir Robert Calder, 1745–1818, entered the navy in 1759, became a Post-captain in 1780,
fought under Sir John Jervis in 1797, and conveying home dispatches was knighted. He attained
the rank of Rear-Admiral of the Blue in 1799, in 181o succeeded Admiral Young as Commander-
in-Chief at Plymouth, and died Admiral of the White.
I IG 7//E A/AM/Z 7 O/W AAVD [1801.
quences. Say whatever you please to M* Denis for me, for I fear saying too
much. I admire what you say of my godchild. If it is like its mother it will be
very handsome, for I think her one, aye the most beautiful, woman of the age.
Now do not be angry at my praising this dear child’s mother, for I have heard
people say she is very like you. My dear friend, you will, I hope, never receive
any more cross letters, but always ought to be wrote by, my dear lady, your
obliged, unaltered, attached, and faithful,’ &c.
‘I would steal white bread sooner than my godchild should want.’]
517. A. L. S. from Louis Dutens to (Alexander Davison). Dated I 19
Mount Street, Berkeley Square, February 17th, 18OI. I page 4to.
[H.]
“I did myself the honour to wait on you to deliver to you a deed signed by
Sir William Hamilton, declaring that all the furniture now in his house belongs
to Lady Hamilton.
“As it was not convenient for Sir William to buy the furniture, plate, &c.,
necessary to them, Lady Hamilton sold her diamonds for that purpose, & Sir
William thought it a justice due to her to execute the deed which accompanies
this, & desired me to have it drawn up, and I suppose he told you he had
appointed you as trustee for Lady Hamilton in this particular case.
“Under the uncertainty of finding you at home, I write this to inform you, sir,
of the purport of my visit, and I leave the deed with your servant, asking it as a
favour to acknowledge the receipt of it.
‘I have the honour to be,’ &c.
518. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated San Josef,
February (17th), 1801. 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription and
Seal. [P.]
‘I am so agitated that I can write nothing. I knew it would be so, and you
can’t help it. Why did you not tell Sir William? Your character will be gone. Do
not have him en ſame?//e, the more the better. Do not sit long at table. Good
God he will be next you, and telling you soft things. If he does, tell it out at
table, and turn him out of the house. Do not sit long. If you sing a song, I
know you cannot help it, do not let him sit next you, but at dinner he will hob
glasses with you. I cannot write to Sir Wim, but he ought to go to the Prince
and not suffer your character to be ruined by him. Oh, God, that I was dead
But I do not, my dearest Emma, blame you, nor do I fear your inconstancy. I
tremble, and God knows how I write. Can nothing be thought off I am gone
almost mad, but you cannot help it. It will be in all the newspapers with hints.
Recollect what the villain said to Mr Nisbet, how you hit his fancy. I am
mad, almost dead, but ever for ever yours to the last moment, your, only
your,’ &c. - .
“I could not write another line if I was to be made king. If I was in town,
nothing should make me dine with you that damned day, but, my dear Emma, I
do not blame you, only remember your poor miserable friend, that you must be
singing & appear gay. I shall that day have no one to dinner ; it shall be a fast
day to me. He will put his foot near you. I pity you from my soul, as I feel
confident you wish him in hell. Have plenty of people, and do not [say] a word
you can help to him. He wishes, I dare say, to have you alone. Don’t let him
touch, nor yet sitt next you ; if he comes, get up. God strike him blind if he
looks at you—this is high treason, and you may get me hanged by revealing it.
Oh, God that I were. I have read your letter, your resolution never to go where
the fellow is, but you must have him at home. Oh, God but you cannot, I
suppose, help it, and you cannot turn him out of your own house. He will stay &
sup and sitt up till 4 in the morning, & the fewer that stay the better. Oh, God
why do I live P But I do not blame you ; it is my misfortune. I feel nobody
uses me ill. I am only fit to be second, or third, or 4, or to black shoes. I want
no better part than I have. I see your determination to be on your guard, and
1801.] AVAE/LSO/W AAAAA’.S. II?
am as fixed as fate. If you’ll believe me, don’t scold me ; I am more dead than
alive, to the last breath yours. If you cannot get rid of this I hope you will tell
Sir William never to bring the fellow again.
* I send a note for Mrs T.’
519. A. L. S. to (the same). No date. I page 4to., with Superscription
“M” Thomson, to the care of Lady Hamilton.' [P.]
‘Your most dear friend desires me to say that he sincerely feels for you, and
that if your uncle is so hard hearted as to oblige you to quit his house, that he will
instantly quit all the world and its greatness to live with you a domestic, quiet life.
Lady Hamilton will always give you good advice, and you will always find an
affectionate friend in your,’ &c.
‘Love to my godchild.’
520. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated ‘Wednesday night'
(February 18th, 1801). 3 pages 4to. [P.]
‘'Tis not that I believe you will do anything that injures me that I cannot help
Saying a few words on that fellow's dining with you, for you do not believe it is
out of love for Sir William. No, you know the contrary, that his design is upon
you. No 1 that I will never believe, but you have been taken in. You that are
Such a woman of good Sence, put so often on your guard by myself, M** Udney,
M’s Spilsbury, Mºs Dent, & Mr Nisbet. You that have declared only that very
morning that you where upon your guard. What shall we say if a poor foolish
woman had been so cajoled P I knew that he would visit you, and you could not
help coming downstairs when the P. was there, and notwithstanding all your
declarations never to meet him, to receive him, and by his own invitation, en
fam://e. But his words are so charming that, I am told, no person can withstand
them. If I had been worth Io millions I would have betted every farthing that
you would not have gone into the house knowing he was there, and if you did,
which I would not have believed, that you would have sent him a proper message
by Sir William and sent him to hell. And, knowing your determined courage
when you had got down, I would have laid my head upon the block with the axe
uplifted and said strike, if Emma does not say to Sir William before the fellow,
“My character cannot, shall not suffer by permitting him to visit.” Oh I wish
I had been so placed then and there, then my head, my distracted head must
have been off. Hush, hush, my poor heart, keep in my breast, be calm.
Emma is true ! But no one, not even Emma, could resist the serpent’s flattering
tongue, & knowing that Emma suits him, that even a stranger would not invite
her to meet the fellow, what will they all SAY and think, that Emma is like other
women, when I would have killed anybody who had said so, must now hang down
my head and admit it. Forgive me. I know I am almost distracted, but I have
still sense enough left to burn every word of yours. Therefore, if I should be
worse, which is likely, I have not a paper. All your pictures are before me. What
will M* Denis say, and what will she sing—Be Calm, Öe Genzle, the Wºnd has
Changed 3 Do you go to the Opera to-night P. They tell me he sings well. I
have eat nothing but a little rice and drank water ; but forgive me, I know my
Emma, and don’t forget that you had once a Nelson, a friend, a dear friend, but,
alas ! he has his misfortunes. He has lost the best, his only friend, his only
love. Don’t forget him, poor fellow ! he is honest. Oh I could thunder and
Strike dead with my lightning. I dreamt it last night, my Emma. I am calmer;
reason, I hope, will resume her place, please God. Tears have relieved me; you
never will again receive the villain to rob me. But I will be calm & trust to
Providence; but what will all the world say ? Do modest women receive him P You
nor I think so. May the heavens bless you ! I am better. Only tell me you
forgive me ; don’t scold me, indeed, I am not worth it, and am to my last breath
yours, and, if not yours, no one’s in this world. Ever yours,’ &c.
‘You cannot now help the villain's dining with you. . Get rid of it as well as
you can. Do not let him come downstairs with you or hand you up.
“If you do, tell me, & then.’
118 7THE A/AM/Z 7 O/V AAVZ) [1801.
521. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated St. George, February
19th, 1801. 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription and Seal. [P.]
[“Forgive my letter wrote and sent last night, perhaps my head was a little
affected. No wonder, it was such an unexpected, such a knock-down blow, such a
death. But I will not go on, for I shall get out of my senses again. Will you sing for
the fellow, The Prince, unable to Conceal His Pain, &c. P. No, you will not. I will
say no more for fear of my head. It was so good of you to send to thank M*
Nisbet for his not asking you to meet the fellow, as he knew his vile intent, and
yet, the same morning to let him come and dine with you en famille/—but I know
it was not my Emma ; Sir William always asks all partys to dinner. I forgive
you. Forgive, I beseech, your old and dear friend Tell me all, every word,
that passes. He will propose if you—no, you will not try ; he is Sir Win's guest.
‘Thursday.—I have just got your letter, and I live again. DO NOT let the
lyar come. I never saw him but once, the 4th day after I came to London, and
he never mentioned your name. May God blast him Be firm Go and dine
with Mºs Denis on Sunday. Do not, I beseech you, risk being at home. Does
Sir William want you to be a whore to the rascal ? Forgive all my letter; you will
see what I feel, and have felt. I have eat not a morsel, except a little rice, since
yesterday morning, and till I know how this matter is gone off. But I feel
confident of your resolution, and thank you I,000,COO of times. I write you a
letter, which may be said as coming from me if you like, I will endeavour to word
it properly. Did you sit alone with the villain for a moment P AVo, I will not
believe it / Oh, God 1 oh, God keep my sences. Do not let the rascal in. Tell
the Duke that you will never go to his house. Mr G. must be a scoundrel; he
treated you once ill enough, & cannot love you, or he would sooner die. Ever
for ever, aye for ever, your,’ &c.] -
‘I have this moment got my orders to put myself under Sir Hyde Parker's
orders, and suppose I shall be ordered to Portsmouth to-morrow or next day, &
then I will try & get to London for 3 days. [May Heaven bless us ! but do not
let that fellow dine with you. Don’t write here after you receive this, I shall be
be gone. You can, in Sir Wº's name, write a note to Sir H. Parker, asking if
the Sº George is ordered to Spithead. If so, write to Portsmouth desiring my
letters to be left at the Post Office till the ship's arrival.’
“Forgive every cross word, / now live.]
522. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated ‘St. George, Thursday
night' (February 19th, 18OI). 3 pages 4to., with Superscription
and Seal. [P.]
‘Here I am, fixed in my new habitation, which it is my firm intention never to
sleep out of, except from dire necessity, till the campaign is over, except when I
may get three days’ leave to go to London to settle many of my private affairs,
and I hardly think it will be refused me. [Your good sense, judgment, and proper
firmness, must endear you to all your friends, and to none more than your old &
firm friend, Nelson. You have shown that you are above all temptation, and not
to be drawn into the paths of dishonour for to gratify any pride or to gain
any riches. How Sir William can associate with a person of a character so
diametrically opposite to his own, but I do not choose, as this letter goes through
many hands, to enter more at large on this subject... I glory in your conduct and
in your inestimable friendship, and good Sir William, when he reflects, must
admire your virtuous & proper conduct. I wish you were my sister, that I might
instantly give you half my fortune for your glorious conduct. Be firm Your
cause is that of honor against infamy. May the Heavens bless you, and let no
consideration Suffer you to alter your virtuous and sensible resolution. Pardon
all this from an old and interested friend. You know I would not in Sir
William's case have gone to Court without my wife, and such a wife, never to be
matched. It is true you would grace a Court better as a Queen than a visitor.
II o'clock, Friday.] I have this moment my orders to go to Portsmouth, and
expect to be there to-morrow noon. [I again, my dear friend, entreat both you and
1801.] - AVE/SOAV PAPAEA’.S. I 19
Sir William not to suffer the Prince to dine, or even visit. 'Tis what no real
modest person would suffer, and Sir William ought to know that his views are
dishonourable. May God bless you and make you firm in resisting this vile
attempt on your character, and with best regards to Sir William, believe me ever
your most sincere and affectionate friend,’ &c.
‘You can, my dear friend, write a line on Sunday evening. It can be made
up as a small parcel, and then I shall get it on Monday morning, although there
is no regular post. It will make me so happy to be assured that the fellow did
not even see you on Sunday. The Portsmouth mail coach setts out either from
the Golden Cross, Charing Cross, or Gloucester Coffee House, Piccadilly, anybody
can tell you the direction as underneath. Heavens bless you, my own, only dear
friend I write on this side that you may tear off the half sheet in case you
Choose to read any part of it.* Pray give the enclosed to our dear friend. Your
letters are just come. Heavens bless you ! Do not let the villain into your
house. Dine out on Sunday. Sir William will find out the Prince does not
come to dine with him.’]
523. A. L. S. ‘N. & B.’ from the same to the same. No date. I page
4to., with Superscription ‘Mrs Thomson, to the care of Lady
Hamilton.' [P.]
‘Your friend is at my elbow, and enjoins me to assure you that his love for
you and your child is, if possible, greater than ever, and that he calls God to
witness that he will marry you as soon as possible, and that it will be his delight
to call you his own. He desires you will adhere to Lady H’s good advice and,
like her, keep those impertinent men at a proper distance. He behaves, I can
assure you, incomparably well, and loves you as much as man ever loved woman,
and do you, my dear, believe me ever your dear friend.”
524. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated St. George, Torbay,
February 19th, 18OI. 24 pages 4to., with Superscription and
Seal. [P.]
‘I have received your most affectionate letter, and I feel very much for the
unpleasant situation the Prince, or rather Sir William, has unknowingly placed
you, for if he knew as much of the P's character as the world does, he would
rather let the lowest wretch that walks the streets dine at his table than that
unprincipled lyar. I have heard it reported that he has said he would make you
his mistress. Sir William never can admit him into his house, nor can any friend
advise him to it unless they are determined on your hitherto unimpeached
character being ruined. No modest woman would suffer it. He is permitted to visit
only houses of moſorious il/fame. For heaven's sake let Sir William pause before
he damns your good name. M* Greville I take to be a man of strict honour, and
he knows what I say of the Prince to be true. If I have not mistaken my man,
which I shall be truly sorry to have done, I will answer with my head that Mr
Greville would go down on his knees and beg Sir William to save your unspotted
honour, for although I know you would send him to the Devil were he to propose
Such a thing to you, yet all the world have their eyes upon you, and your character,
my amiable friend, is as much lost as if you was guilty. Let Sir William consult
any man of honor, and with readiness they will join me in opinion. Let Sir
William write the Prince and say that you ought not to receive him, and beg him
never to come to the house—it is what I would do, I give you my word of
honour. I am sure the Duke of Queensberry would agree with me. I have, my
dear friend, perhaps, given too full an opinion, but you know, when I do give an
opinion, it is generally to be understood, and, hitherto, seldom wrong. Make my
affectionate regards to Sir William, and entreat him not to suffer such bad
company into his house, and do you and him ever believe me your most attached
and affectionate friend,’ &c.
* The half-sheet has not been torn off.
I2O 7THE A/AM/Z 7"O/V AAVZ) [1801.
525. A. L. S. from the same to the same. No date. I page 4to, with
Superscription ‘Mrs Thomson, to the care of Lady Hamilton.’
[P.] -
‘I gave your letter to your friend, who is much pleased with your resolution.
He says he feels confident of your conduct, and begs you will follow the admirable
conduct of our dear Lady Hamilton, who will send the Prince to the devil. He
again begs me to be his bondsman, and that he will marry you the moment your
uncle dies or it comes a peace, and he desires his blessing to his child, and you
will forgive my desiring you to kiss it for me. Your friend has not been very well,
but hopes to be better very soon. Ever believe me, your & his sincere friend.”
526. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated “Off Portland,
IO o'clock, Friday, February 20th (18OI). 2% pages 4to., with
Superscription “Mrs. Thomson, to the care of Lady Hamilton.’
[P.]
‘Your friend, my dear M* Thomson, has been very unhappy at the shocking
conduct of your uncle, but your firmness and virtue has made his mind at ease,
and he desires me to tell you that if you are forced to quit his house by his shame-
ful conduct, that then nothing should make him go to sea, even under my flag ;
nor, if he could be made a Lord or a Duke with £40,000 a year, and give you up,
he would reject them with disdain, and would be happy to live on A, IOO a year.
I admire his spirit and he is close by me. I hope Lady Hamilton, our dear and
amiable friend, sends you my letters immediately as she received them, but I
know her worth, and that she would scorn a mean or dirty action, but if you think
there is any reason to suspect her of opening your letters I will, if you desire it,
direct them to another house. Perhaps you know some female friend they might
be directed under cover to. I hope to get him to London in a very few days, and
you & he can settle everything. Don't tell Lady H. that I suspect her of doing
either you or your friend any injury. I declare to God I believe her conduct to
be purity itself. By the bye, Sir Win must be mad to attempt giving his wife the
reputation of w—e to the P. I could not have believed it, if I had not been told
it from most undoubted authority. I can assure you & your friend that you are
both sure of the fortune as far as is possible—enough to content you & him, and
the unalterable regard of your firm friend.
“I beg you will be easy under all circumstances. My old messmate, Troubridge,
carries this to Lady Hº. You do not know him, but Lady H. does. You will
receive a letter, wrote this day under cover to Mr Nepean, directed to Lady H.
‘8 o'clock, Saturday morning, in a gale of wind, S.W. off the Isle of Wight.
‘I have been very unwell all night, and horrid dreams. If your uncle persists
in having such bad company to dinner your friend begs, & I agree perfectly with
him in opinion, that you should dine out of the house and take especial care not
to go home till you know the wretches are gone, but I daresay they will stay on
purpose to torment you. You can dine with Lady Hamilton or some other friend,
and after all, if the beast turns you out of his house because you will not submit
to be thought a w e, you know then what shall happen. But follow my advice,
and I will support your friend & yourself.
“If you think that Lady Hamilton or any one else open your letters, tell
me where to direct them, & then your friend may write himself. Ever your
affectionate N. B. Kiss my godchild for me ; her father sends his blessing
to you and it. - -
527. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated St. George, Spithead,
February 22nd, 1801. 24 pages 4to., with Superscription and
Seal. [P.]
[“I hope you will have seen Troubridge last night, and he will probably tell
you that he did not leave me perfectly at ease. In short, when I gave a letter for
you it rushed into my mind that in Io hours he would see you. A flood of tears
18or.] º AVEZSOAV AAAAA’.S. I2 I
followed—it was too much for me to bear. I could not help telling him what
would I not have given to have been in his pocket. I am sure, my amiable friend,
that you will on no consideration be in company with that —, neither this
day or any other. He is a false, lying scoundrel, what I wrote you. You know
enough to my honour and resolution that I will fulfil even much more than I
promised.]
‘8 o’clock.--I am just going on shore to call on the Admiral and Commissioner,
and shall be on board as soon as possible.
‘AVoon.—On board again ; have received your truly comforting letters. In
doing what I wish, you win my heart for ever. I am all soul and sensibility; a
fine thread will lead me, but with my life I would resist a cable from dragging me.
I hope very soon to get a few days' leave of absence, but Sir Hyde [Parker] does
not come down till next Monday or Tuesday, but Troubridge can tell you. [But
perhaps that would be telling him or making him guess my business in Town.
But whenever I am absent he will receive and send all my packets. After the
letter I wrote her the other day I do not think she will attempt to either come
here or go to London. I will do as you please; but I do not believe she will
venture without my orders; but all as you please.] I have been pressed to
dine ashore by the Admiral, an old man, eighty, with an old wife dressed
old ewe lamb fashion. Admiral Holloway, * an acquaintance of twenty-
five years, wanted me to dine with him as to-day, or Wednesday. He has a wife
and four children, with not a farthing to give them. Sir Charles Sexton, the
Commissioner, an acquaintance of near thirty years, was also very pressing ; [his
wife, I am told, likes a drop, & looks like a cook-maid.] But I will dine nowhere
[without your consent], allthough, with my present feelings, I might be trusted
with 50 virgins 11aked in a dark room. My thoughts are so fixed that not even
the greatest strokes of fortune could change them, but I am, my dear friend, for
ever, for ever, your faithful,’ &c. [I have answered Sir Wº's letter, but as he had
not mentioned the Prince's name I could not bring it in, but if ever he does my
heart, head, tongue and pen is ready to let out. I shall send to the mail-coach
office in the morning. Heavens bless you. I have been obliged to bring in the
whole Royal family, but not that eldest blackguard in particular. You will approve
I am sure, and I Say God bless the King.’
528. A. L. from the same to the same. No date (February 23rd, 1801).
I# pages 4to., with SuperScription ‘To the Care of Lady Hamil-
ton.' [P.] -
‘My dear M* T., poor Thompson seems to have forgot all his ill health, and
all his mortifications and Sorrows, in the thought that he will soon bury them all
in your dear, dear bosom ; he seems almost beside himself. I hope you have
always minded what Lady H* has said to you, for she is a pattern of attacht to her
love. I daresay twins will again be the fruit of your & his meeting. The thought is
too much to bear. Have the dear thatched cottage ready to receive him, & I will
answer that he would not give it up for a queen and a palace. Kiss dear H.
for me,’ &c.
529. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Portsmouth, February
27th, 18OI. I page 4to., with Superscription and Seal. [P.]
‘Parting from Such a friend is literally tearing one's own flesh ; but the
remembrance will keep up our spirits till we meet. [My affection is, if possible,
stronger than ever for you, and I trust it will keep increasing as long as we both
live. I have seen M* Thomson's friend, who is delighted at my having seen his
dear child. I am sure he will be very fond of it..] I arrived here before noon,
* Admiral John Holloway, 1747–1826, entered the navy at 13, served in North America,
was at the relief of Gibraltar under Lord Howe, served under Admiral Hotham, was raised to
the rank of Rear-Admiral in 1799, Vice-Admiral in 1804, was made Governor of Newfoundland
in 1809, and died Admiral of the Red. -
† Lord Nelson received from Lord St. Vincent on the 23rd leave of absence and went to London.
I22 7A/E A/AM/Z 7 ON A WZO [1801.
and have had my hands full of business. To-morrow we embark troops. I will
write you a long letter to-night, and send it under cover to Troubridge ; therefore
you will have it on Sunday. [For ever, aye for ever, believe me,’ &c. “Hardy,
Parker, and Fremantle, desire their remembrances.’
530. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated ‘March 1st, 1801.
8 o'clock mornº. 3 pages 4to., with Superscription and Seal.
[P.]
“Fearing that it may not be possible to get a boat on shore in the afternoon, as it
has the appearance of blowing hard, I send this line to apprize you of it, that no
little ruffle might take place in your dear, good, and exalted mind ; only, always
rely that I will never omit an opportunity of writing ; therefore, if at any time
vessels should come from the fleet without letters, you may be sure that it is un-
known to me, which may happen from my being detached; but I hope not from
the same cause as Lord Keith’s—not telling me. [I have read over twenty times
your dear kind letters, and, although I must naturally be happy that your affection
is such as you describe, and so exactly a counterpart of my own feelings, yet] I must
beg that my friend will not be sick, or grieve too much for a temporary, but un-
avoidable, absence of a few weeks, [and if we were both differently circumstanced,
that should not be—no, not for an hour]. But recollect, all my exertions are to
bring about a peace. [No, I am sure you will not go anywhere but where it is
right, and never to suffer that fellow to enter your house. I assure you my very
short trip to London has, if possible, given me an additional confidence, and I
believe I never shall have cause to think otherwise than I do of you]. You read,
of course, my brother's letter ; and if you like to have Mrs. Nelson up, say that I
will pay their lodgings, and then you can have as much of her company as you
please ; but Reverend Sir you will find a great bore at times, therefore he ought
to amuse himself all the mornings, and not always to dine with you, as Sir William
may not like it. They can twice or thrice a week have a beef steak at home, for
some people may say bye and bye that Sir William maintains the family of the
Nelson's, which would vex me. I am brushing these folks up, and I do not find
that activity which my mind carries with it. It would not be possible, I fear, for
you and Sir William to give me a visit at Yarmouth ; it should be no expense to
him. To-morrow, if we can get our ship's company paid to-day, we are off for the
Downs. [Tell Mrs. Thomson that her friend is more in love with her than ever,
and, I believe, dreams of her. He was sorry that she was a little unwell when he
was in London, as it deprived him of much pleasure, but he is determined to have
full scope when he next sees her]. Ever yours for ever.
‘Kiss my godchild for me and bless it.’
531. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated ‘Sunday noon ’
(March Ist, 18OI). 2; pages 4to., with Superscription and Seal.
[P.]
“After my letter of 8 o'clock this morning went on shore, on board came Oliver,
and when he was announced by Hardy, so much anxiety for your safety rushed
into my mind that a pain immediately seized my heart, which kept increasing for
half an hour, that, turning cold, hot, cold, &c., I was obliged to send for the
Surgeon, who gave me something to warm me, for it was a deadly chill. This
morning has brought me your three dear letters by the post, and as many from
Troubridge. Parker being appointed to a fine ship, I have charged him to deliver
into your own hands, if possible, this letter. Oliver I shall keep till to-morrow.
Why, my dear friend, do you alarm yourself? Your own Nelson will return safe,
and, under the hand of Providence, is as safe as if walking London Streets. The
troops are only 800, and are intended for the better manning our ships. Recollect
the more force we have the less risk. You may rely we shall return in May—per-
haps long before ; the sooner we are off, the quicker we return, and the enemy
much less prepared to receive us. I wish it was in my power to get leave of
absence for James Dugdale, but not even an ad. or captain could get an hour's
1801.] AVE/CSO/V AA PAEA’S. I23
leave, and Sir Thomas Pasley* at Plymouth has no power to grant it. Amongst
many cards, I think I Saw Somebody's rout, but as I cared for no rout, or the
writers, I did not trouble my head about it. I am sure neither of us should have
gone to Lady D's rout; we could amuse ourselves better at home. Mr. Levington
served that fellow right, damn him. That Lady Aber: t is a damned bitch ; she
would pimp for her husband that she might get at her lovers, for I dare say not
one satisfies her, but no proper lover but two that I know of. Would to God I had
dined alone with you. What a desert we would have had. The time will come, and
believe me, that I am, for ever, for ever, your own.
‘Thanks for the account of my godchild. Heavens bless it ! Our activity will
make a peace, and then I would not call the King my uncle.
‘Sir Charles Sexton, the Commissioner, who you & Sir William would have
known had you come to Portsmouth, is on board seeing the ship ; he is charmed
with your picture, and says he did not believe such a handsome woman existed.
I told him your equal did not, and that your goodness, abilities, and virtues
exceeded far away your beauty. He is a rough sailor, 70, and a very old friend
of mine. He quite regrets you and Sir William did not come to Portsmouth with
//ze.” .
532. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated ‘March Ist, 18OI,
9 O'clock.” 4 pages 4to. [P.]
‘Now, my own dear wife, for such you are in my eyes and in the face of heaven,
I can give full scope to my feelings, for I daresay Oliver will faithfully deliver this
letter. You know, my dearest Emma, that there is nothing in this world that I
would not do for us to live together, and to have our dear little child with us. [I
firmly believe that this campaign will give us peace, and then we will sett off for
Bronte. In twelve hours we shall be across the water and freed from all the non-
sence of his friends, or rather pretended ones. Nothing but an event happening
to him could prevent my going, and I am Sure you will think so, for unless all
matters accord it would bring IOO of tongues and slanderous reports if I separated
from her (which I would do with pleasure the moment we can be united ; I want
to see her no more), therefore we must manage till we can quit this country or
your uncle dies]. I love, I never did love any one else. I never had a dear pledge
of love till you gave me one, and you, thank my God, never gave one to any body
else. I think before March is out you will either see us back, or so victorious that
we shall insure a glorious issue to our toils. Think what my Emma will feel at
seeing return safe, perhaps with a little more fame, her own dear loving Nelson.
Never, if I can help it, will I dine out of my ship, or go on shore, except duty calls
me. Let Sir Hyde have any glory he can catch—I envy him not. You, my be-
loved Emma, and my country, are the two dearest objects of my fond heart—a
/tearf susceptióle and true. Only place confidence in me and you never shall be
disappointed. I burn all your dear letters, because it is right for your sake, and I
wish you would burn all mine—they can do no good, and will do us both harm if
any seizure of them, or the dropping even one of them, would fill the mouths of
the world sooner than we intend. [My longing for you, both person and conver-
sation, you may readily imagine. What must be my sensations at the idea of sleep-
ing with you ! it setts me on fire, even the thoughts, much more would the reality.
I am sure my love & desires are all to you, and if any woman naked were to come
to me, even as I am this moment from thinking of you, I hope it might rot off if I
would touch her even with my hand. No, my heart, person, and mind is in per-
fect union of love towards my own dear, beloved Emma—thc real Óosome friend of
her, all hers, all Emma's,’ &c.
‘Oliver is gone to sleep, he is grown half foolish. I shall give him £10
* Sir Thomas Pasley, 1734–1808, did not enter the navy until he was 18, and first dis-
tinguished himself in the battle with Thurot, off the coast of Ireland, received post rank in 1771,
and in 1782 went to the West Indies with Admiral Pigot. In 1794 he became Rear-Admiral,
and was created a Baronet for his conduct in the battle of the Ist of June. In 1799 he was
appointed Port-Admiral at Portsmouth.
f Lady Abercorn.—See Vol. I., p. 168.
I24 - 7TAZAZ AIA/M/Z 7'O/V AAVZ) [1801.
in the morning, and I have wrote a letter recommending a friend of his to
the Chairman of the East India Company, which he said you would be glad
I should do for him. I have nothing to send my Emma, it makes me Sorry
you & Sir Wm could not come to Yarmouth, that would be pleasant, but we
shall not be there more than a week at farthest.] I had a letter this day from
the Rev. Mr. Holden, who we met on the Continent ; he desired his kind com-
pliments to you and Sir William : he sent me the letters of my name, and recom-
mended it as my motto—Honor esſ a Miſo—HORATIO NELSON. May the Heavens
bless you. [My love, my darling angel, my heaven-given wife, the dearest only
true wife of her own till death,’ &c. “I know you will never let that fellow or any
one come near you.]
‘Monday morning.—Oliver is just going on shore ; the time will ere long arrive
when Nelson will land to fly to his Emma, to be for ever with her. Let that hope
keep us up under our present difficulties. Kiss and bless our dear Horatia—think
of that.”
533. A. L. S. to the same. Dated St. George, March 2nd, I80I.. I page
4to., with Superscription and Seal. [P.]
‘This moment received your letter from Troubridge, my heart bleeds for you,
but I shall soon, very soon return. Damn all those that would make you false,
but I know you will be true & faithful. Send for Mrs. Nelson,” what signifys a few
hundred pounds to make your dear mind a little at ease. Troubridge will forward
your letters if you are at a loss to know where I am. I shall hate Mrs. Denis if she
does not take care. My mind is fixed that if ever the damned fellow is admitted
into your company, then your Nelson is rejected, and I would sooner believe the
world to be at an end this week. Just sailing, therefore do not say much. Fancy
what I would say, but this I would say to the last moment of my existence that I
am all, all, your,’ &c. -
‘Sir Wm wrote me in his letter that if he could get over that Sunday the
should never come into his house ; remind him of that. Oliver went at 9 o'clock
this morning. Love to my god-child.’
584. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated St. George, March 4th,
18OI. page 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“Do try and persuade Sir Will” to come with you & make me a visit, the change
of air will do you good and I will try and make it pleasant to you both. We will
have none but Sailors near us. Tyler'st ship has been foolishly ashore all night,
but she is afloat again. Do, pray, for charity’s sake, come and see your old and
attached friend.
‘P. S. Just getting under sail, shall be at Yarmouth, I hope, to-morrow night.”
535. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated St. George, Downs
(March), 4 o’clock (18OI). # page 4to., with SuperScription
and Seal. [P.]
‘Your dear letter is just received this day. I wrote to my Brother abº Mrs.
Nelson, therefore, send and ask her without more ceremony. She will come.
Pamaze that fellow / But you will be firm ; / am. It might grieve me to see Sir
W* without you, but if you approve, I will ask. Davison will come down with
the maid and with my Brother, but Sir Wim will not come without you. Thanks
* Sarah Yonge, Mrs. (afterwards Lady) Nelson, daughter of the Rev. Henry Yonge, and
st wife of the Rev. William Nelson, aſterwards 2nd Earl Nelson, 1757–1835, Nelson's elder
ther, Prebendary of Canterbury. . -
+ Sir Charles Tyler, attained post rank in 1790, was employed on the Italian coast under
|son, in the Baltic under Sir IIyde Parker, was made an Admiral of the Blue in 1808, and in
! 2 was constituted Commander-in-Chief at the Cape of Good Hope. In 1815 he was made
is ...B.; and died in 1838.
1801.] AVAE/LSO/V PAPE/PS. - I2 5
for the Lock. I will write Sir Win this evening, but even now am fearful I shall
save post. Ever your own. -
“Cannot find the numbers.”
536. A. L. S. to Lady Nelson. Dated St. George, March 4th, 18O1.
I} pages folio. -
‘Josiah is to have another ship, and to go abroad, if the 7%a/ia cannot soon be
got ready. I have done all for him, and he may again, as he has often done
before, wish me to break my neck, and be abetted in it by his friends, who are
likewise my enemies; but I have done my duty as an honest, generous man, and
I neither want or wish for any body to care what becomes of me, whether I return,
or am left in the Baltic. Living, I have done all in my power for you, and if dead,
you will find I have done the same ; therefore my only wish is, to be left to
myself; and wishing you every happiness, believe that I am, your affectionate,’ &c.f
537. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated ‘St. George
at Sea, March 6th, 18OI.’ 23 pages 4to, with Superscription and
Seal. [H.]
‘How tiresome and alone I feel at not having the pleasure of receiving your
dear, kind, friendly, and intelligent letters. I literally feel as a fish out of
water. Calms and foul winds have already prolonged our passage from what
is often done in fourteen hours to three days, and yet no appearance of our
arrival this day. It now Snows and rains, and nearly calin. All day yesterday
I was employed about a very necessary thing ; and I assure you it gave me
pleasure, instead of pain, the reflection that I was providing for a dear friend. I
have given you, by will, £3OOO, and three diamond boxes, & the King of Naples's
picture in trust, to be at your disposal, so that it is absolutely your own. . By the
Codicil I have given you the IIIoney owing me by Sir William, likewise in trust.
The trustees are, Mr. Ryder, a very eminent law man, and Mr. Davison ; they will
be my executors. If you like any body else, say so, and it shall be done. The
Star I have given you to wear for my sake. You must not think, my dearest
friend, that this necessary act hastens our departure, but it is a right and
proper measure. [Why should my friends be neglected, and those who I care
nothing for have my little fortune, which I have worked so hard and I think so
honorably for Pl * -
‘Aſa/f/ast eight.—-Just anchored in the sea, thick as mud. [I am really miser-
able ; I look at all your pictures, at your dear hair, I am ready to cry, my heart is
so full. Then I think you may see that fellow. I should never forgive it. It
would go near to kill me; but I never will believe it till I know it for certain.]
‘AVoon.—Under sail, steering for Yarmouth, but cannot arrive before 5 o'clock.
[How I regret not being in time to save post, for I judge as of my own fleet.]
* 7%ree o'clock.--In sight of Yarmouth. [With what different sensations to what
I saw it before | Then I was with all I hold dear in the world ; now, unless the
pleasure I shall have in reading your dear, dear letters, how indifferent to the
approach. Although we are too late for the post, yet Hardy will take this letter on
shore. I shall put it under cover to Troubridge as I shall those of tomorrow. . .
May the Heavens bless my own dear friend and let me read happy & good news
from her. Kiss my dear, dear godchild for me, and be assured I am for ever, ever,
ever, your, your, your, more than ever yours yours, your own, only your,’ &c.]
“I am wet through & cold.’ . . . . ---
538. A. Doc. S. Dated March 6th, 1801. I page folio.
‘Whereas the Rt Honºlº Sir William Hamilton, K.B., is in my debt the
* Meaning the numbers of some lottery tickets of which Nelson and Lady Hamilton were the
possessors. See letter 555, p. I35.
† This letter, which is supposed to be the last letter ever written by Nelson to his wiſe, is
printed in Mr. Morrison's Catalogue, First Series, vol. v., under entry NELSON, as are also
nos. 536, and 540. . . . -
I 26 7TA/A2 A/A A///, 7'O/V AAV/O [1801.
following sums, viz., nine hundred & twenty-seven pounds lent him at Palermo,
in January, 1799; also the sum of two hundred and fifty-five pounds lent him
between July and November, 1800; also one thousand and ninety-four pounds,
being one-half of our expenses from Leghorn to London in 1800, making in the
whole the sum of two thousand two hundred and seventy-six pounds. I give this
debt afore-mentioned in trust to Thomas Ryder, Esq., of Lincoln's Inn, and to
Alexander Davison, Esq., of St. James's Square, for the use & benefit of Emma
Hamilton, to be disposed of as she may direct, and I likewise request that my
friends, Thomas Ryder, Esq., & Alexander Davison, Esq., will execute the office
of executors, to my will made fifth March, 1801, and that they will each accept of
one hundred pounds to buy a ring ; and it is my directions that the sum necessary
to pay Lady Nelson the sum of one thousand pounds a year (which I calculate
will be twenty thousand pounds) be at her death equally divided as directed by
will. Given on board his Majesty's ship Saint George at Sea March sixth one
thousand eight hundred and one ‘NELSON & BRONTE.
‘I declare this a codicil to my last will and testament, March 6th, 1801.
‘NELSON & BRONTE,
“Witness : T. M. HARDy, Captain of H. M. ship St. George.
FREDERICK THESIGER, Captain in the Royal Navy.”
* Delivered by Lord Nelson this 16th March, 1801, as a duplicate to his codicil
of March 6th, 1801.’ - -
539. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated ‘IO o'clock,
March 6th, at night' (1801). 3.} pages 4to., with SuperScription
and Seal. [P.]
‘I have received, I dare say, all your kind letters and newspapers. No one
else sends me anything. I am sorry you are not well, nor can my mind be at rest,
although I am obliged to keep up an appearance of alacrity. Nothing shall make
me go on shore to any amusement or dinner. In the morning, if very fine, I
shall go to make my bow to the Commander-in-Chief, but have asked some Sailor
folks to dinner. Our expedition must be very short. I don’t think at most more
than six weeks, probably not half so long, and if necessity should call me to
England I will come directly. [What a rascal that fellow must be. It shows,
however, he has no real love—not like a person you & I know—and what bitches
and pimps those folks must be. I have always been taught that a pimp was the
most despicable of all wretches, and that chap who once treated Emma So
infamously ill ought to have, even before Sir William, one of your rebukes in your
best & most legible hand. He would never forget it. God forbid that I should
deprive you of innocent amusements, but never meet or stay if any damned whore
or pimp bring that fellow to you. Let no temptation make you deviate from your
oath.] I hope M* Nelson will soon be with you ; write to her, she will come. I
have just received a letter from my brother to say he will be at Yarmouth on
Monday, then I will make a point of it. Lord St. Vincent, I see, has carried his
false suit against his own Secretary, and I suppose I shall be cast, but try it I will.
How infamous against poor Nelson I every body, except you, tears him to pieces,
nor has he but only you, as a disinterested friend, that he can unbosom to. [Aye
would to God our fates had been different. I worship—nay, adore you, and if
you was single and I found you under a hedge, I would instantly marry you. Sir
W* has a treasure, and does he want to throw it away P That other chap did
throw away the most precious jewel that God Almighty ever sent on this earth.
You must be aware, my dear friend, that the letters cannot be answered by the
same day's post, for the letters are delivered at 3 o'clock, and the post goes out for
London at 2 o'clock, it arrives at one..] Just going to bed with much rheumatism.
[May God bless you for ever, says your truly affectionate,’ &c.
‘March 7. I am just going on shore with Hardy to pay my formal visit, therefore
* Captain Sir Frederick Thesiger, uncle of Sir Frederick Thesiger, the Attorney-General.
He served with great distinction in the Russian Navy against the Swedes. He was promoted
to Post-captain in 1801, and died in 1805, being then Agent for Prisoners of War at Portsmouth.
1801.] AVAE ZSO/W PAPERS. 127
I carry these letters. I hope Sir Hyde will be pushed on to sail. The sooner we
go the less resistance, and, oh heavens grant it, the sooner I, your Nelson, will
return [to his own dear, good, only friend. Heavens bless you ! I wrote to keep
Sir Wm from the Downs, & sent you a letter inside of his, but how different to
these. It kills me to write cold letters to you, ever for ever your.’]
540. A. L.S. from ‘Thomas Tugbear’ to Lord Nelson. Dated March 7th,
I8OI. I page 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘As I am informed you are going to destroy or öring away all the Swedes,
Danes, and Russians, I take the opportunity to beg your Honour's goodness to
bring over the Emperor Paul and bestow him upon me, as I am a poor fellow and
wants an outlandish wild beast to carry about as a show, which I think will enable
me to maintain a wife and six small children.”
541. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. No date (March
9th, 18OI). I? pages 4to., with Superscription and Seal. [P.]
‘I have wrote you fully by Mr Davison, who will be with you on Wednesday
morning. Your letters to-day have made me miserable ; there is a turn in them
that I have noticed, it almost appeared that you liked to dwell on the theme that
that fellow wished, and what he would give, to enjoy your person ; but never, no
never, will I credit that you will ever admit him into your presence, much less the
other. The first drives me for ever from you, and probably out of the world. My
senses are almost gone to-night ; I feel as I never felt before. My head my
head but I will lay down and try to compose my spirits, miserable wretch that I
am. Good night; all are burnt. Surely you would not go to meet M* Hodges
after his messages to you. No, I will never believe anything against my friend's
honor & faith to me. Good night, I am more dead than alive, but all your’s till
death no, the thought of IIoratia cheers me up. We will be yet happy. My
God my God look down and bless us; we will pray to thee for help & comfort,
and to make our situation more happy. Good night, my own.
“Monday morning.—If I have said anything too strong, my only friend, forgive
me. I am Sorry my brother is coming, I like to be alone and reflect ; now I shall
scarce have a moment to write to thee, my own dearest friend. I shall soon
return, and then we will take our fill of love. No, we never can be satiated till
death divides us. I wish you could have come down with M* Nelson, but that
is not possible. May the great God comfort you, and believe me for ever your,
your own,’ &c.
542. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated St. George, March IOth,
I8OI. 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription and Seal.
‘Your letter, my dearest friend, of yesterday, that is of Sunday, gave me infinite
satisfaction, [and, believe me, my feelings and affections keep pace with yours. I
shall, please God, soon return to enjoy happiness, that is if with her who I hold most
dear.] The Commander-in-Chief has his orders, but I dare say it will be two or
three days before he is off. I long to go that I may the sooner return. Troubridge
will, I am sure, take care of all our packets, only every day or two make news-
papers, letters, &c., in one packet, for the more packages the more liable to be
lost, and I would not have a line of yours lost [for the riches of Peru. I devour, I
feed upon them.] What can Sir William mean by wanting you to launch out into
expense and extravagance P He that used to think that a little Candle-light and
iced water would ruin him, to want to set off at £10,000 a year, for a less sum
would not afford concerts and the style of living equal to it. Suppose you had set
off in this way, what would he not have said P [But you are at auction, or rather
to be sold by private contract. Good God my blood boils; to you that every-
thing used to be refused. I cannot bear it. Aye, how different I feel ! A cottage,
* Nelson has written underneath the above : ‘Lord Nelson will do his best to comply
with Mº Tugbear’s request.—St. George, March 11th, 1801.”
I 28 THAE A/A A}//Z 7'O/V A/V/O [1801.
a plain joint of meat, and happiness, doing good to the poor, and setting an
example of virtue and godliness, worthy of imitation even to kings and princes.]
My brother and Mr Rolfe, a cousin of mine, are on board—the former is prying,
and a little of a bore. [I long to be alone or with you. I hate company, it ill
accords with my feelings. Damn Lord A.”, do not let him take libertys.] I
suppose I shall lose my causet against Lord St. Vincent, I have only justice,
honour, and the custom of the service on my side; he has farāality, Žozver, money,
and rasca/iſſy on his, but we are good friends, and I have the highest opinion of
his naval ability. You know, my dear Emma, that I would not detract from the
merit of my greatest enemies. No, I am above that. You will have M* Nelson
with you. She will be company, and the little woman’s tongue never lays still—
she is a cheerful companion. You cannot write me too much or too particularly,
[tell me everything, even your thoughts and feelings. When did you see Lord A. P
You did not tell me. May the heavens bless and preserve you for your, your,
yours, and only yours, and for you alone, your own dear, affectionate, sincere
friend,’ &c.
“Best regards to the Duke and Lord Wm. I wrote to Mrs Nelson on Saturday,
but my brother says she cannot go before Monday next. Davison said you had
said something about Madeira, & that he had said jokingly that he had no orders.
Now he has sent for it all ; everything I have is at your command, and may
heaven bless you.’]
543. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated ‘St. George, 9 o'clock,
March I Ith ' (1801). I; pages 4to., with Superscription and Seal.
[P.]
[“You had said nothing that ought to have offended me, but you know my
disposition, what I must suffer in parting from all my soul holds dear. If you do
not tell me all of that fellow I shall be more miserable. Our trip cannot be long,
and if you are forced to extremities I must very soon arrive ; nothing stops me,
you understand. This goes by Troubridge. I shall endeavour to get it on board
a ship in the Roads in the morning.] I am glad M* Nelson is with you; say how
much I am obliged. I have directed this night Davison to pay her A, IOO to pay
expenses. Pray, what has Christie done about your picture. I have no letter
from him ; how can any man sell your resemblance, to buy it many would fly. As
for the original, no price is adequate to her merits. Those of her dear mind &
heart, if possible, exceed your beauty. All this world’s greatness I would give up
with pleasure. So be zł, Amezz.
“Emma, let me be the friend of your bosom. I deserve it, for my confidence
is reciprocated. I see clearly, my dearest friend, you are on SALE. I am almost
mad to think of the iniquity of wanting you to associate with a set of whores,
bawds, & unprincipled lyars. Can this be the great Sir William Hamilton P I
blush for him. Be comforted, you are sure of my friendship, and M* Thompson's
friend desires me to beg of you to tell her that he swears eternal fidelity, and if
he does not say true, he hopes the first shot from Cronenburgh Castle will knock
his head off. My brother is gone on shore, and if the weather is moderate we are
* No doubt Lord Abercorn.
+ This “cause’ of Nelson against Lord St. Vincent, which he frequently mentions in his
correspondence of this period, related to a law-suit, nominally Nelson v. Tucker, but really
Nelson z. St. Vincent. It related to a sum of Prize-money which had occasioned much discus-
sion. Tucker was the Agent for Prizes taken by the Mediterranean fleet under Earl St. Vincent,
in 1799. The action was to recover £13,000, one-eighth share of the prizes taken by Captain
Digby, belonging to the Earl's squadron, after the Commander-in-Chief had quitted his station
and returned to England, leaving Lord Nelson in command. In the first instance judgment was
given for Earl St. Vincent, but upon a writ of error the Lord Chief Justice of the Common Pleas,
Lord Ellenborough, reversed the decision by delivering the opinion of the Court that ‘ the moment
a superior officer left his station the right of the next flag officer commenced and, consequently,
that Lord St. Vincent having returned to England the enterprise and conduct of the fleet devolved
on Lord Nelson.’ Judgment was accordingly given in favour of Lord Nelson, who thereby became
entitled to the whole of the Admiral’s share of the Prize-money.
1801.] AVAE/CSOAV PAA/EA’.S. I 29
off at daylight, unless vessels are left by Sir H. Parker. I have directed all my
letters to be returned to No. 23 Piccadilly, so take care they get into your
possession. Ever for ever, your own dear loving friend till death.’
544. A. L. S. from Sir W. Hamilton to Lord Nelson. Dated Piccadilly,
March I 2th, I80ſ. 4 pages 4to. [H.]
“A thousand thanks for your kind letter, which I received yesterday and which
I immediately committed to the flames, for altho’ I agree perfectly with your
Lordship in opinion as to the character of the person who was the chief
subject of your letter, I would not have it fall into other hands by any
accident. Monsº Gleichen,” the Danish Minister, was at Paris, & a chattering
lady was imprudent enough to say to him in company at table, “Mons"
Gleichen, on dit que Votre Roi est une téte :” a head, but a wrong one according
to the French expression. She was answered very properly in two words,
“Couronnée, Madame.”
“After having assured you that Emma is growing better in health every day,
I shall refer you as to the small talk of the town to her letter. According to the
best of my information the King is really better, but in a very weak state, & going
to-day or to-morrow to Kew or Windsor for the air. M* Swinburn has just left
me, & told me that his friend Mº Pelhami had seen the King—found him quite
composed, but very pale and feeble. The opposite party, that would set us all in
Confusion, still insist that he is out of his senses & incapable as a child of any
business. To be sure, the physicians will take care not to let him be loaded with
too Inuch at present, but I have not a doubt of his being able, & that he will sign
what is necessary, and before competent witnesses, to Carry on the affairs of State,
& probably appoint a sort of Commission to pass bills, &c., untill he recovers
strength to do it himself. I rejoice with you that things have taken this turn.
The King has not yet seen the Prince, may refused to see him yet, altho' he has
seen some of his brothers, the Dukes of York and Kent, who are said to be quite
in opposition to the Prince. I believe y” LP may depend upon all I have written
On this most interesting subject.
‘It is quite beyond all expectations that I have found so many of my fine vases;
fortunately some cases of the worst were taken on board the Colossus by mistake,
when I thought the eight best cases were gone. I flatter myself my ministerial
business was finished by the late ministers, and altho' I have been advised to
apply to Lº Hawkesbury, I certainly will not untill I am certain that Lº Grenville
had not finished my business as he promised. Adieu, my very dear Lord, we
rejoiced to hear from Davison that your health was so good when he left you.
May God Send you a continuance of it & of every success, and bring you back
safe to your friends who know your value.’
545. A. L. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. No date (March,
1801). I page 4to., with Superscription ‘To be delivered by
Lady Hamilton.' [P.]
‘You may readily believe, my dearly beloved Mrs. T., how dear you are to me—
as much as life, and that every thought and affection is devoted to you alone ; and
although I am much worn out since we parted, yet, I am sure that the sight of my
* Karl Heinrich, Baron Gleichen, 1733–1807, a Danish diplomatist of German origin. His
first diplomatic service was representing the Margrave of Baireuth at Paris in 1758. He then
offered his services to the King of Denmark who sent him to Madrid in 1759 and to Paris in
1763, where he remained until 1770, when he was sent to Naples. That post having been sup-
pressed in 1771, he retired into private life and died at Ratisbon.
ºf Thomas Pelham, 2nd Earl of Chichester, 1756–1826, summoned to Parliament as Baron
Pelham in June, 1801, Secretary of State for the Home Department from 1801 to 18O3. He suc-
ceeded his father as 2nd Earl of Chichester in 1805, and was Postmaster-General in 1822.
VOT.. II, K
I 30
THE HAM// TO/V A/VD [1801.
heaven-given wife will make me again a happy father, and you a mother. Be
assured that I love nothing but you in this world, and our dear child. Fancy
what would happen, and will happen, when we meet. I can say no more; flattering
fancy wafts me to your dear, dear arms. When you see our dear mutual friend,
Ly Ham”, say every kind thing for your husband to her, and hug our dear child.
God bless you.’
546, A. L. S. ‘T.’ from the same to the same. No date (March, 18OI).
I page 8vo. [P.]
‘My dearest Mrs T., Poor T. is very well in health, and only feels the
separation from his dear wife and child, but he bears it, as he is sensible that it is
all for the best to make an independence for his family. He desires that you will
love Lady Hamilton, and do everything which that most excellent woman desires
you. Kiss his child for him ; he gives you Io,000, and is for ever your faithful
husband.’
547. A. Doc. S. Dated March 16th, 1801. 4 pages folio.
‘Whereas I, Horatio Nelson, of the Nile, and of Burnham Thorpe, in the
county of Norfolk, Duke of Bronté, in Sicily, &c. &c., a Vice-Ad" in his Majesty's
fleet, being in sound health both in body and mind, do declare (first revoking all
former wills made by me) this to be my last will and testament:—First, I commend
my soul unto God, that through the merits of His Son Jesus Christ it may be
saved ; my body, if my country choose not to pay the carcass of him who, when
alive, devoted it to its service, any honours, I desire, if it’s in England, that it
may be buried at Burnham Thorpe, near where my mother is and my father is to
be buried, without any funeral pomp, and that what the custom of the world would
allow to a person of my rank, I desire it may be given to the poor of those parishes
where my father is rector, viz., Burnham Thorpe, Sutton Sherton ; as to my
worldly effects, I dispose of them as hereafter mentioned, and I desire that my
words may be interpreted in their plain common sence. When, as I believe, I
am worth upwards of twenty thousand pounds, placed in the public funds, in prize-
money due, pensions, &c., from the interest of this money I desire that one
thousand pounds a-year may be regularly paid to my wife, Frances Herbert
Nelson, till her death; that is, I mean that if I am worth twenty thousand pounds
and prize-money due (but not to include any of my boxes, pictures, swords, &c.),
then the interest of that twenty thousand pounds to be paid to Lady Nelson
during her natural life, and I having in my lifetime made her a present of four
thousand pounds, I think I have done very handsomely towards her ; and I
dispose of all money which I may die worth above the sum of twenty thousand
pounds (never calculating my estate in Sicily, diamonds, &c., which will be
disposed of as hereafter mentioned). I give the first three thousand pounds above
the aforementioned twenty thousand pounds to Thomas Ryder, Esq., of Lincoln's
Inn, and Alexander Davison, Esq., of St. James's Square, London, in trust for the
use and benefit of Emma Hamilton, wife of the Rt Hon'ble Sir William Hamilton,
K.B", now residing at number 23 Piccadilly, the interest and principal to be at
her disposal either in her lifetime or at her death, as she shall direct. I also give
in trust to the gentlemen aforesaid, in trust for Emma Hamilton, &c., as afore-
mentioned, three boxes sett with diamonds, viz., one of his Imperial Majesty the
Emperor Paul of Russia, one of the King of Sardinia, and one other, said to be
sent to me by the mother of the Grand Signor, also a picture sett in diamonds of
his Sicilian Majesty, and on the other side the cypher of her Sicilian Majesty, set
in diamonds, all of which said boxes she may direct to be sold and the interest
applied to her use and according to her directions either in her lifetime or at her
death ; and I likewise give to the said Emma Hamilton, but not in trust, my
diamond star, which I request she will wear either in its present form or in any
other she may like best, in remembrance of an old and sincere friend.
‘And whereas his Sicilian Majesty has granted unto me the estate of Bronté,
in the Island of Sicily, it is my intention and will to dispose of it as follows :--
I8OI.] AVA. ZSO/V AEAAAA’.S. I 3 I
First to my father, the Rev. Edmund Nelson, and at his death to my eldest
brother, Maurice, and if he leaves male children then to his children, but in failure
of issue shall then to my brother William, and in like manner to his male children,
and to their legitimate male children, to my sister, Susannah Bolton, and her
male children, in like manner, then to my sister, Catherine Matcham, and to her
male children, as before directed ; and I further direct that whoever is the
possessor of the estate shall pay to the next successor the one quarter part of the
net rental of the estate, if it is under 1200 pounds a-year, if above 2000 pounds
a-year, then never more than 500 pounds a-year ; and I further direct that the
diamond-hilted sword given to me by his Sicilian Majesty shall be delivered to my
executors to my father, if he be alive, or to such heir to the estate of Bronté as is
directed by my will, and the sword is to be left in succession to the possessor of
the dukedom and estate of Bronté, provided they are those mentioned by my will,
or by any codicil or deed of mine. I give unto my elder brother the gold box
presented to me by the captains who fought with me at the Battle of the Nile. I
give unto my sister Bolton the silver cup presented to me by the Turkey Company,
I give unto my sister Matcham the sword presented to me by the City of London.
The diamond aigrette, the Collar of the Bath, and the medals and Order of St.
Ferdinand, I leave to the care of my hereditary heirs, in order that it may be
recollected that there was once such a person as myself living. It is my direction
that all the money which I may die worth, beyond the A2O,OOO appropriated to
pay the interest of Lady Nelson's jointure, and of the three thousand pounds given
to Lady Hamilton, be equally divided between my father, brothers, and sisters,
and in case of any of their deaths, then their children to stand in their place ; all
my other effects to be equally divided between my brothers and sistcrs, except
Such as I may dispose of by the codicil to my will, or codicils, which I may here-
after execute.
* Dated on board His Majesty's ship St. George at sea, March fifth, one
thousand eight hundred and one.
‘T. M. HARDy, Captain H. M. St. George.
* FREDERICK THESIGER, Captain the Royal Navy.
“Delivered by Lord Nelson as a duplicate of his will, wrote on four half sheets
of paper on board the St. George at sea, 1801, March 16". Witness our hands.’
548. A. Doc. S. Dated March 16th, 1801. I page 4to.
“I give unto Emma Hamilton my Turkish pelesse ; and also all pictures of
herself, which now do or may belong to me, also a full length picture of the Queen
of Naples painted by Zeque at Vienna. To Captain Hardy, my worthy captain,
I give, except my plate and table linen, all my furniture at present aboard the
St. George, with spying-glasses, wine, china & glass ware. My silver cup marked
“E.H.” to be returned to Lady Hamilton. To Thomas Allen, my servant, fifty
pounds and all my cloaths.
* Dated on board the St. George at sea, March sixteenth, one thousand eight
hundred and one.
‘NFLSON & BRONTÉ.
‘I declare this as a codicil to my will, March 5*, 1801,–NELSON & BRONTÉ.
‘Delivered by Lord Nelson as a duplicate. —FREDERICK THESIGER.”
549. A. L. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated ‘March 21st
(18OI), I O'clock.’ A page 4to.f. [P.]
‘May the great good God of heaven and earth preserve you and your friend.
He has no fear of death but parting from you. May God grant you a happy
meeting and soon, and believe me ever yours,’ &c.
* This and the preceding document have been published in Mr. Morrison’s Catalogue, First
Series, vol. v., under entry NELSON.
t Only a fragment apparently.
I32 7THAE A/AA)//Z 7 OAV A/V/O [1801.
550. A. L. S. from Sir W. Hamilton to Charles Greville. Dated Picca-
dilly, March 31st (18OI). 3 pages 4to, with SuperScription. [H.]
“I was yesterday with Christie; he gave me in writing the produce of the sale,
with my ballance much greater than I thought, altho' many mistakes have been
made, and pictures bought in for me that went beyond the limits I had set in the
Catalogues. -
‘Bought in to the value of ... ... ... ... ... A636
‘Total of the Sale produced ... ... ... ... ... A 576O I4s.
‘Actually sold to the value of ... ... ... ... ... A 5025 13s.
‘Mr Christie's room will be ready for my next sale the 21st of April, & he
proposed the 2d & 3" of May for the 2 days’ sale, so that we may have Io days of
private and public views. He wishes to meet us in Compton Street to determine
how many, & what pictures are to go in the second sale. If agreeable to you, I
will fix Thursday, 12 o'clock, for that purpose. He wishes to have as soon as
possible the heads of the advertisement for the second sale, & I am already
employed in framing a short catalogue raisonnée of the vases & their subjects. I
was yesterday in George St. ; the mending will be completed certainly by the end
of the week, & then we will get a better hand to retouch the cracks with black
and yellow as occasion may require, & try to give them by oil or otherwise their
pristine brilliancy. It will be a most extraordinary exhibition, but I know not
well how to manage about the Priapi, of which there are many. Tho' the wise
ones think the sale ought to be postponed till next year, I am convinced that
unless any speculator would give a round sum for the remains of the most extra-
ordinary collection of vases ever made, it is best for me to strike whilst the iron
is hot & profit of the good opinion of the public. I dine at the club, Thatched
House, but shall be at home by 9 o'clock. Ever,’ &c.
‘P. S. I was with Lº W. yesterday. He was most friendly ; cleared up the
business of his old debt to me for money paid by his order to Wallis—it is to be
paid directly, and is about £400.’
551. A. L. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated ‘Elephant,
March 3O", off Copenhagen, 9 o'clock at night’ (1801). I page
4to, with Superscription and Seal. [P.]
‘We this morning passed the fancied tremendous fortress of Cronenburg,
mounted with 270 pieces of cannon. More powder and shot, I believe, never
were thrown away, for not one shot struck a single ship of the British fleet. Some
of our ships fired ; but the Elephant did not return a single shot. I hope to
reserve them for a better occasion. I have just been reconoitring the Danish
line of defence. It looks formidable to those who are children at war, but to my
judgment, with ten sail of the line I think I can annihilate them ; at all events, I
hope to be allowed to try. I am not very well and tired, but Foley is very good
to me. I have much to do here, exactly what you said in London. May God,
whom I worship, protect and send me victorious. Amen, if it be His good
pleasure. May the heavens bless you. My best regards to Sir William. I hope
his pictures have sold well. Recommend to Lord William not to make songs
about 2/5, for fear we should not deserve his good opinion. Once more, adieu,
and may God bless you shall be my last word.”
552. A. L. S. from Sir W. Hamilton to Charles Greville. Dated
‘Piccadilly, Friday, 3” April ' (1801). 2 pages 4to., with
Superscription. [H]
‘This morning M* Thos Hope came to me, and having offered the round sum
of four thousand pound down for my whole collection of vases for which I had
asked A5000, finding that I could get no more, & considering trouble, risk,
& then a little vanity in the collection being kept entire, which I made with such
pains, I struck with him, & then went with him to George St. and gave him the
keys of all the padlocks, & now he is to manage as well as he can with fractures,
1801.] AVAZZ,SO/V AZA PAEA’.S. I 33
&C., and I have been with Christie to inform him, but the advertisement was gone.
He will publish another to inform the publick that the collection has been disposed
of by private contract, by which means they will not be dispersed, but remain
together for the inspection of the learned antiquaries and artists. I saw Christie
was much disappointed, but upon the whole I have, I believe, done prudently. At
least, my mind is made easy at once & much trouble avoided, which counts much
with me. Risk of breakings, selling ill, & auction expenses would, I believe, have
run my ballance below what it now is. Christie will appoint the 17th & 18" of
this month for the sale of the remainder of my pictures. Yours,’ &c.
553. Document, ‘Minute of a conversation with His Royal Highness
Prince Royal of Denmark, with Lord Nelson's A. corrections.
Dated April 3rd, 18OI. 4; pages folio. [P.]
“His Royal Highness” began the conversation by saying how happy he was to
See me, and thanked me for my humanity to the wounded Danes. I then said,
that it was to me, and would be the greatest affliction to every man in England,
from the King to the lowest person, to think that Denmark had fired on the
British flag, and become leagued with her enemies. His Royal Highness stopped
me by saying that Admiral Parker had declared war against Denmark. This I
denied, and requested his Royal Highness to send for the papers, and he would
find the direct contrary, and that it was the farthest from the thoughts of the
British Admiral. I then asked if his Royal Highness would permit me to speak
my mind freely on the present situation of Denmark P to which he having acqui-
esced, I stated to him the sensation which was caused in England by such an
unnatural alliance with, at the present moment, the furious enemy of England.
His answer was, that when he made the alliance, it was for the protection of
their trade, and that Denmark would never be the enemy of England, and that
the Emperor of Russia was not the enemy of England when this treaty was
formed—that he never would join Russia against England, and his declaration
to that effect was the cause of the Emperor's (I think he said) sending away
his Minister—that Denmark was a trading nation, and had only to look to the
protection of its lawful commerce. His Royal Highness then enlarged on the
impossibility of Danish ships under convoy having on board any contraband
trade ; but to be subjected to be stopped, even a Danish fleet, by a pitiful
privateer, and that she should search all the ships and take out of the fleet
any vessels she might please, was what Denmark could not permit. To this
my answer was simply, What occasion for convoy to fair trade P To which he
answered, Did you find any thing in the convoy of the Freja 2 and that no
Commander could tell what contraband goods might be in the convoy, &c. &c.,
and as to merchants, they would always sell what was most saleable ; and as
to Swearing to property, I could get any thing sworn to which I pleased. I
then said, Suppose that England, which she never will, was to consent to this
freedom and nonsense of navigation, I will tell your Royal Highness what the
result would be—ruination to Denmark; for the present commerce of Denmark
with the warring powers was half the neutral carrying trade, and any merchant
in Copenhagen would tell you the same. If all this freedom was allowed,
Denmark would not have more than the sixth part, for the State of Passenburgh
was as good as the State of Denmark in that case ; and it would soon be
said, we will not be stopped in the Sound, our flag is our protection, and
Denmark would lose a great source of her present revenue ; and that the
Baltic would soon change its name to the Russian Sea. He said, this was a
delicate subject, to which I replied, That his Royal Highness had permitted me
to speak out. He then said, Pray answer me a question. For what is the
British fleet come into the Baltic P My answer, To crush a most formidable
and unprovoked coalition against Great Britain. He then went on to say, that
his uncle had been deceived, that it was a misunderstanding, and that
* Frederick, Crown Prince of Denmark, afterwards Frederick XII., I768-1839. Eldest
son of Christian VII. and Mathilda Caroline, sister of George III. He was Regent for the
kingdom in 1784, and succeeded his father as King in 1808.
T34 7 HE HAM/Z7 ON AND [1801.
nothing should ever make him take a part against Great Britain, for that it
could not be his interest to see us crushed, Ilor, he trusted, ours to see him ;
to which I acquiesced. I then said, there could be no doubt of the hostility of
Denmark, for if her fleet had been joined with Russia and Sweden, they would
assuredly have gone into the North Sea, menaced the Court of England, and
probably have joined the French if they had been able. His Royal Highness
said his ships never should join any power against England, but it required not
much argument to satisfy him lie could not help it, by his treaty. In speaking
of the pretended union of the Northern Powers, I could not help saying that
his Royal Highness must be sensible that it was nonsense to talk of a mutual
protection of trade with a power who had none, and that he must be sensible
that the Emperor of Russia would never have thought of offering to protect the
trade of Denmark, if he had not had hostility against Great Britain. He said
repeatedly, I have offered to-day and do offer, my mediation between Great
Britain and Russia. My answer was, A mediator must be at peace with both
parties. You must settle your matter with Great Britain. At present you are
leagued with our enemies, and are considered naturally as a part of the effective
force to fight us. Talking much on this subject, his Royal Highness said, What
must I do to make myself equal f Answer, Sign an alliance with Great Britain,
and join your fleet to ours. His Royal Highness then said, Russia will go to war
with us, and my desire as a commercial nation is to be at peace with all the world.
I told him, he knew the offer of Great Britain, either to join us or disarm. And
pray, Lord Nelson, what do you call disarming 2 My answer was, that I was not
authorized to give an opinion on the subject ; but I considered it as not having
on foot any force beyond the customary establishment. Question : And do you
Consider the guard ships in the Sound as beyond that common establishment P
Answer : I do not, Question : We have always had five sail of the line in the
Cattegat and coast of Norway P Answer: I am not authorized to define what is
exactly disarming, but I do not think such a force will be allowed. His Royal
Highness: When all Europe is in such a dreadful state of confusion, it is absolutely
necessary that States should be on their guard. Answer : Your Royal Highness
knows the offers of England to keep 20 sail of the line in the Baltic. He then
Said, I am Sure my intentions are very much misunderstood. To which I replied,
that Sir Hyde Parker had authorized me to say that upon certain conditions his
Royal Highness might have an opportunity of explaining his sentiments at the
Court of London. I am not authorized to say on what conditions exactly.
Question : But what do you think? Answer : First, a free entry of the British
fleet into Copenhagen, and the free use of everything we may want from it.
Before I could get on, he replied quick, That you shall have with pleasure. The
next is, whilst this explanation is going on, a total suspension of your treaties with
Russia. These, I believe, are the foundation on which Sir Hyde Parker only
can build other articles for his justification in suspending his orders, which are
plain and positive. His Royal Highness then desired me to repeat what I had
said, which having done, he thanked me for my open conversation ; and I having
made an apology if I had said any thing which he might think too strong, his
Royal Highness very handsomely did the same, and we parted, he saying that he
hoped we would cease from hostilities to-morrow, as on such an important
occasion he must call a Council.’
554, A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Adjutant-General Lindholm. Dated
St. George, April 4th, 1801. page 4to., with Superscription and
Seal.
‘I feel infinitely obliged by your attention in sending me the newspapers, which
I have sent to Sir Hyde Parker. As I only told His Royal Highness plain truths,
I hope it will make a right understanding between the two countries, and that
Denmark will no longer be the ally of the enemy of Great Britain, and must be
in his heart more so that of Denmark. Sir Hyde Parker is, I know, very anxious
for His Royal Highness's propositions, as the Commander-in-Chief thinks it very
long for the fleet to lay idle. Believe me,’ &c.
1801.] AVAE ZSO/W PAA’AºA'.S. I35
555. A. L. S. from the same to Lady Hamilton. Dated April 6th
(1801). I page 4to., with Superscription and Seal. [P.]
‘I have just got hold of the verses” wrote by Miss Knight; they belong to
you ; the latter part is a little applicable to my present situation. It is dreadfully
cold. I am Sure, from our communication with the shore yesterday, that it is
only fear of Russia that prevents all our disputes being settled. These people
must sooner or later submit, and I long to get to Revel before the Russian fleet
can join that of Cronstadt; but my dear friend, we are very lazy. We Mediter-
ranean people are not used to it. Some farther propositions are to come off this
day, but I fear it blows too hard. May the great God of heaven and earth bless
& protect you is the constant prayer of your old and attached friend,’ &c.
“April 6th. 7 in the morning. I am obliged to stop, as I know not exactly the
moment of the vessel's sailing. - -
‘No. of our lottery tickets :—2951, 93O8, 43,002, 50,416. You can send and
inquire our luck.’
556. A. L. S. from Mr. Vansittart-F to Lord Nelson. Dated London,
April 8th, 18OI. 5% pages 4to. [P.]
‘The solicitude you expressed that I should undertake the explanation of the
reasons which induced you to propose a deviation from the original plan of
operation designed for the fleet, would have been a motive with me of the
Strongest kind to enter into as early and complete a vindication of them as
possible, if I had been in no respect personally interested in the question. But
as your wish at parting with me, that I should meet with a foul wind, was
Completely gratified, it was not till last Wednesday that we were able to get
ashore at Leith. I got to town on Saturday, and went immediately to the
Admiralty, but not finding Lord St. Vincent in town I called on Mr Addington,f
to whom I gave a full account of what had passed in Sir Hyde Parker's cabin on
the 23rd ulto. I have the pleasure to assure you that he was fully satisfied with
the propriety of your advice, and of Sir Hyde Parker's ultimate resolution, and
that he considers your readiness to take on yourself the responsibility attaching
on a deviation from your instructions, as not the least eminent among the services
which you have rendered your country in so many years of glory. M*Addington
has since communicated the whole affair to Lord St. Vincent, who equally
acquiesces in the propriety of the determination, so that whatever may be the
event of the plan (which Providence must decide) you will have the satisfaction
* With this letter is the following poem, in Lady Hamilton's writing:—
L’INFELICE EMMA, AI VENTI
“Blow, blow, thou northern wind, “Blest, blest, the compass be
To LOVE and EMMA kind | Which steers my love to me !
Ah come ! more grateful far And blest, the happy gale
Than perfum’d zephyrs are Which fills his homeward sail.
Blow, blow, and on thy welcome wing, And blest the boat, and blest each oar
My Life my Love my Hero bling ! Which rows my True Love back to shore.
‘And doubly blest the hour
When love resumes his power,
And when the northern wind,
To long-lorn Emma kind;
“Cease, cease, thou western breeze,
To wanton, 'midst the trees
Ah cease, awhile, to woo
The rose, or violet blue;
And bid the north wind, on its wing,
Back to my arms my Henry bring !
Shall change to joy her soul's alarms
And give back Henry to her arms.'
+ Nicholas Vansittart, 1st Baron Bexley, 1766–1851, a well-known statesman, for many
years a Member of Administration, and Chancellor of the Exchequer from 1812 to 1823, in
which year he was created a Baron.
f Henry Addington, 1st Viscount Sidmouth, 1757–1844, a well-known statesman, Speaker
of the House of Commons from 1789 to 1801, when he became Chancellor of the Exchequer,
First Lord of the Treasury in 1804, created a Viscount in 1805, and Lord-President of the
Council.
136 THAE A/AAZZZ 7 OAV AAV/D [1801.
of meeting with the approbation of those who have the best right to judge of it ;
and I need not say, may depend on the confidence of the public.
“Had not our attention been necessarily turned to a subject of more im-
mediate importance, I should have been happy in the opportunity of Suggesting
to your Lordship some ideas more directly connected with the business on which
I was sent abroad : I mean the measures which it might be proper to adopt in
case Denmark or either of the other Northern Courts should apply to the
Commander-in-Chief for an armistice, or make any other overtures towards
accommodation, either in consequence of those successes which such a fleet under
such leaders may be expected to obtain, or of any change of political sentiment.
In case the Admiral has received no special instructions on this subject, it appears
to me, that he could do no more than receive any proposition which may be made,
and transmit them to England ; granting at the same time, if he shall think it
advisable, a cessation of arms on such conditions as may enforce the observance
of good faith, and secure the conclusion of a treaty conformable to the interests
of Great Britain. What pledge it might be proper in each instance to require,
you will be best able to judge if the case should occur, but it seems to be essential
that the fleet of the Power applying should either be directed to take its orders
from the British Admiral, or disarmed and laid up in such a situation as to be
nearly at your discretion. It might, for instance, be required that the Danish
fleet should retire into the harbour at Copenhagen, that the floating batteries and
fortified islands at the entrance should be given up, and the battery on Amack
Point, and that under the citadel on the beach, together with the guns of the
Citadel commanding the harbour, should be dismounted. Similar measures with
respect to Carlscroon or Cronstadt might be pursued, but as the Surrender of
those fortresses would not be attended with the disgrace and irritation necessarily
Consequent on the capitulation of the capital of a kingdom, there would be less
objection to insisting on this being absolutely put into your hands. I am the
more induced to submit these ideas to your Lordship's consideration, as I think
it very probable that some overture may come, either from Denmark or Sweden
in case you should be able to give such a blow to the Russian navy, and may
deliver them from the fear of their powerful ally, and at the same time add to the
terror of the British arms. With respect to an attempt on Cronstadt (judging
from such plans as I have), I cannot think the difficulties insuperable, especially
if the means taken to choke up the Northern Channel are ineffectual, which, from
its breadth, I think they must be. It is true that very shallow water is marked
at the eastern end, but from the pains taken by the Russians to destroy the
passage, I apprehend they must in reality know it to be practicable for large
ships. I was more confirmed in this opinion from finding that Etches, who seems
the most active and intelligent adventurer I ever met with, and who served some
time in the Russian fleet, thinks an attack there by no means difficult. Of that,
however, you will before this time have better means of judging.
“Of domestic affairs I have little to say. The King is getting well ; we hope
securely, but too slowly for the wishes of the nation. Mº Addington, who has
been very ill, is nearly recovered. Believe me, my Lord, with the sincerest wishes
for your success and happy return, faithfully yours,’ &c.
557. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated St. George,
April 9th (18OI), 9 o'clock at night. 3 pages 4to., with Super-
scription, “M” Thomson, care of Lady Hamilton.' [P.]
‘I have received, my dear M* Thompson, all your truly kind and affectionate
letters, which I have read over to your ever-dear friend. Really, between your
goodness and our dear amiable Lady Hamilton, my mind is kept easy. Your friend
was on shore with me to-day to receive the ratification of the treaty of armistice.
I received as a warrior all the praises which could gratify the ambition of the
vainest man, and the thanks of the nation, from the King downwards, for my
humanity in Saving the town from destruction. Nelson is a warrior, but will not
be a butcher. I am sure, could you have seen the adoration and respect, you
would have cried for joy; there are no honours can be conferred equal to this.
1801.] AVE/LSOAV PAPAEA’.S. I 37
Having done my duty, not all the world should get me out of the ship. No 1
I owe it to my promise, and not all the world shall ever make me in the Smallest
article break it. You are, my dearest Mrs Thomson, so good, so right in all
that you do, that I will take care your dear friend shall do no wrong. He has
cried on account of his child ; he begs, for heaven's sake, you will take care
that the nurse had no bad disorder, for he has been told that Captain Howard,
before he was 6 weeks old, had the bad disorder which has ruined his constitution
to this day. He desires me to say he has never wrote his aunt” since he sailed,
and all the parade about a house is nonsense. He has wrote to his father,
but not a word or message to her. He does not, nor cannot, care about her ;
he believes she has a most unſeeling heart. I only recommend the example
of dear, good Lady Hamilton ; she is a pattern, & do not let your uncle
persuade you to receive bad company. When you do, your friend hopes to be
killed. I have received all your and Lady H’s letters to April I*. I have such
short notice, & so many letters to write, that is to Lord Minto & Lord Carysfort, f
M” Addº & Lord St Vincent, with a line to Troubridge. Believe me, my
dearest excellent Mº Tho", that I am for ever, because I know your worth,
most affectionate & devoted till death.’
558. A. L. S. from the same to Adjutant-General Lindholm. Dated
St. George, April 12th, 18OI. I page 4to.
‘I have to request that His Royal [Highness] will do me the kindness to forward
the letter sent herewith to His Sicilian Majesty. As a Neapolitan Minister is at
Vienna, if it can be sent to the Danish Minister at that Court he can deliver
it either to the Queen or Minister. I congratulate Europe on the death of Paul,
and I hope it will stop the war. Will you do me the honour to accept a medal
of the action of the Nile. I have one ready for the Academy with a short
account of my life, which may not be amiss for youths to study. With
every humble duty to His Royal Highness and Prince Christian. Believe
me for ever your obliged and affectionate friend,’ &c.
559. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated St. George, April 14th,
I8OI. I page 4to., with SuperScription and Seal.
‘Will you have the goodness to request His Royal Highness to give me a
general order for a passage through any place which may be occupied by
Danish troops, as it is my intention, from my state of health, to return to
England in a very short time, and probably by Lubec and Hamburgh. If
H. R. H. will do me this favor, it will be conferring a great kindness on, my dear
Sir, your faithful friend,’ &c.
560. A. L. S. (in English) from General Lindholm to Lord Nelson.
Dated Copenhagen, April I 5th, 18OI. I page 4to., with Super-
Scription and Seal. [P.]
‘I have the honour to send your Lordship a German passport for your intended
journey; but I hope to see your Lordship on board the St. George before you set
out. His Royal Highness has ordered me to present his compliments to your
Lordship.
‘We hear to-day the interesting news from Hamburgh, that the Emperor of
Russia has offered to give up the English vessels and the English goods detained
in Russia, when England will give up the Russian, Danish, and Swedish vessels
in her ports. I hope that the northern business will soon be settled. I am,’ &c.
* This is the only occasion on which Nelson called his wiſe his aunt, but he frequently calls
Sir W. Hamilton Emma's zenacle.
+ John Joshua, 2nd Baron and Ist Earl Carysfort, 1751–1828, succeeded his ſather in 1772.
IIe went as Ambassador to Prussia in 1800, and was joint Postmaster-General with the Earl of
Buckinghamshire in 1806. -
138 7A/E HAM/Z 7 OAM AAV/D [1801.
561. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to his brother Maurice. Dated
Copenhagen Roads, April 15th” (18OI). I page 4to., with Super-
Scription and Seal. [P.]
‘I am glad to find you are in possession of M* Hartwell’s place ; but the
neglect shewn me in not having placed you at the Navy Board, is what I cannot
forget. We shall see whether the new Administration treats me as ill as the old.
I think very likely. Lord St. Vincent will either take this late business up with a
very high hand, or he will depress it ; but how they will manage about Sir Hyde
I cannot guess. I am afraid much will be said about him in the public papers;
but not a word shall be drawn from me, for God knows they may make him Lord
Copenhagen if they please, it will not offend me. I only want justice for myself,
which I have never yet had, and leave to go home for the re-establishment of my
health. What has been done with Peyton P+ His son is a fine lad, and behaves
well ; say so if you see him. With my best regards to M* Nelson, believe me
ever,’ &c.
562. A. L. S. from the same to General Lindholm. Dated April 15th,
I8OI. Ił pages 4to., with Superscription and Seal.
“I beg you will return to His Royal Highness my humble thanks for his
goodness in granting me the passport, in case I should find my health requires
my going to England, and I feel infinitely your kindness on the occasion. I shall
rejoice that the Northern Powers come to their senses, and no longer try to ruin
England. Whenever that is effected, which I pray God may be many centuries,
Denmark no longer remains an independent nation. As to the regulation of the
neutral commerce of Denmark and of England, you and myself, I am sure, could
settle it in half an hour, to the mutual honour and advantage of both kingdoms.
The true interests of Denmark and England are so interwoven together, that I say,
“May God damn the Minister who strives to separate us, &unite Denmark to Sweden
and France, her natural enemies, against her sincere and natural friend, England.”
I shall rejoice to see you before we sail, but if the wind comes southerly I expect
we shall be ordered to England. Ever, my dear sir,’ &c.
563. A. L. S. from Mrs. Cadogan to Lady Hamilton. Dated Chester,
April 16th, 1801. I page folio, with Superscription. [P.]
‘I have to inform you that I arrived in Chester yesterday, and am happy to
say that I left all friends in Hawarden very well. I mean to stop in Chester 2
days, and then to go to Liverpool and to stop there two or three days, and then I
mean to proceed on my journey to Manchester. I beg you will send me Mrs
Blackburn's directions, and send me every particular how I am to proceed about
the little girl. The next letter you send you must direct for me at Jno. Moore,
Moore Street, Liverpool. My sister Kidd and all her family sends their kind love
to you, and they are all very well. Give my kind love to Sir William, and accept
the same yourself from your loving and affº mother,’ &c.
‘Sarah sends her love to her mother, and sisters, and brothers, and to you,
which, I am happy to say, we are both well.’
564. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to the same. Dated Elephant, Baltic,
April 17th, 18OI. page 4to., with SuperScription and Seal. [P.]
‘ Once more I am shifted to the Elephant, and Captain Foley is so good as to
be plagued with me. St. George cannot yet be got over the shallows ; and as the
Swedish fleet was at sea the 14th, Sir Hyde desired me to shift my flag. For my
part, I do not expect to fire another gun ; the Swedes cannot be such fools as to
* Maurice Nelson died April 24th. With the above letter is his will, dated July 16th, 1794,
in which he leaves all his property to “Susannah Ford (alias Nelson), with reversion to his
brother and nieces.
f Captain John Peyton was created a Rear-Admiral in 1805, and died in 1809.
1801.] AVAEZSOAV PAPAEA’.S. I39
wait for us. My mind is fixed to be in England the latter end of May ; I hope
much sooner. Nothing shall keep me here. I cannot write politicks, therefore
can only assure you that I am ever,’ &c.
565. A. L. from the same to the same. Dated ‘A/eſ/hanſ, April 20th,
18OI, Off Carlscrona.' I } pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘Yesterday, my dearest friend, we saw the Swedish Squadron, not at Sea, but
shut up very Snug in their harbour, inside of their batteries ; and what is worse
for us, their numerous rocks. Thus all our hopes of getting alongside them is at
an end ; they will not trust themselves out again this summer. We are, at least
I am, anxiously waiting for news from England, and expect that we shall be
ordered to abstain from hostilities against Russia. In that case, if a ship cannot
be given me to go to England, I shall land at Lubeck, only one day's journey to
Hamburgh, and take a packet to convey me over. Should the worst happen, and
that we have no cessation with Russia, all must be finished by the middle of May,
and then I will not stay half an hour. Why should I? No real friend would
advise me to it, and for what others say I care not a farthing. My health, and
other circumstances, imperiously demand it. I have given up in reason every
thing to my country, but the late Ministers have done less for me than any other
‘man in my situation. The Commanders-in-Chief made fortunes by their victories,
for which Ministers gave them A, IOOO a year more than poor Nelson, higher title
in the Peerage, and promoted their followers, whilst mine were all neglected, and
now, what even the custom of the service and common justice gives me, is
attempted to be withheld from me by force of money and influence. The 25th of
May is fixed for the day of trial, and it is seriously my interest to be in England
on that day. [I hope you will not be gone into Wales, for that would afflict me
very much. What signifies the dirty acres to you ? and Sir William & Mr.
Greville will not consult you on the granting new leases. I want a real friend
to comfort me, and I know none so sincere and affectionate as yourself.] I have
this day wrote more pressingly if possible, to Troubridge, about my leave of
absence for home. I will go, that is certain. May the God of heaven bless and
protect you from all harm is the fervent prayer of,’ &c.
‘Kindest regards and affections administered to those of our friends and
acquaintances as the Case requires.’
566. L. S. from the same to General Lindholm. Dated St. George, at sea,
April 22nd, 18OI. 4 pages folio, with SuperScription and Seal.
‘Commodore Fischer having, in a Public letter, given an account to the
world of the battle of the 2nd, called upon His Royal Highness as a witness
to the truth of it, I therefore think it right to address myself to you, for the
information of His Royal Highness, as, I assure you, had this officer confined
himself to his own veracity, I should have treated his official letter with the
contempt it deserved, and allowed the world to appreciate the merits of the two
contending officers. I shall make a few, and a very few, observations on his
letter. He asserts the Superiority of numbers on the part of the British ; it will
turn out, if that is of any consequence, that the Danish line of defence, to the
southward of the Crown islands, was much stronger, and more numerous, than
the British. We had only five sail of seventy-fours, two sixty-fours, two fifties,
and one frigate engaged ; a bomb-vessel towards the latter end threw some shells
into the arsenal. Two seventy-fours, and one sixty-four, by an accident grounded
on the Crown islands, and the Elephant and Mars would have had full employment,
and, by the assistance of the frigates, who went to try alone what I had directed
the three sail of the line that grounded to assist them in, I have reason to hope
they would have been equally successful, as that part of the British line engaged.
‘I am ready to admit that many of the Danish officers and men behaved as
well as men could do, and deserved not to be abandoned by their Commander.
I am justified in saying this, from Commodore Fischer's own declaration. In his
letter he states that, after he quitted the Dazızleózog, she long contested the battle.
I4O 7A/A2. Aſ A M/Z 7TO AV AAV/O [1801.
If so, more shame for him to quit so many brave fellows. Here was no manoeuvr.
ing ; it was downright fighting, and it was his duty to have shown an example of
firmness becoming the high trust reposed in him. He went in such a hurry, if he
went before she struck, which but for his own declaration I can hardly believe,
that he forgot to take his broad pendant with him ; for both pendant and
ensign were struck together, and it is from this circumstance that I claimed the
Commodore as a prisoner of war. He then went, as he said, on board the
A/o/stein, the brave captain of which did not want him, where he did not hoist his
pendant. From this ship he went on shore, either before or after she struck, or
he would have been again a prisoner. As to his nonsense about victory, His
Royal Highness will not much credit him. I sunk, burnt, captured, or drove into
the harbour the whole line of defence to the southward of the Crown islands.’
‘He says he is told that two British ships struck. Why did he not take
possession of them P I took possession of his, as fast as they struck. The reason
is clear—that he did not believe it. He must have known the falsity of the
report, and that no fresh British ships did come near the ships engaged. He
states that the ship in which I had the honour to hoist my flag fired latterly
only single guns. It is true ; for steady and cool were my brave fellows, and did
not wish to throw away a single shot. He seems to exult that I sent on shore
a flag of truce. Men of his description, if they ever are victorious, know not
the feelings of humanity. You know, and His Royal Highness knows, that the
guns fired from the shore could only fire through the Danish ships, which had
surrendered. and that if I fired at the shore it could only be in the same manner.
God forbid that I should destroy a non-resisting Dane ! When they became my
prisoners, I became their protector. Humanity alone could have been my
object, but Mr. Fischer’s carcase was safe, and he regarded not the sacred call
of humanity. His Royal Highness thought as I did. It has brought about an
Armistice, which I pray the Almighty may bring about a happy reconciliation
between the two kingdoms. As I have not the names of all the ships correct,
only of the thirteen, including the seven sail of the line which struck, remained at
anchor, and fell into my possession after the battle, I shall therefore be very much
obliged to you for a correct list of their names, and the number of men, if possible
to be obtained, on board each, and the numbers sent from the shore during the
action ; my earnest wish is to be correct. And believe me, dear sir, with great
esteem,’ &c.
567. A. L. S. (marked ‘ Private’) from Alexander Davison to Lord
Nelson. Dated St. James's Square, April 22nd, I 801. 3 pages
4to., with Superscription and Seal. [H]
“Colonel Stewart's return to the Baltic affords me the happy opportunity of
writing to you, and with the general voice of this nation to repeat again and
again our joy on the most important victory at this particular period ever this
country could have obtained. I will refer you to Colonel Stewart for our political
news, who will communicate more in ten minutes than I would in hours’ writing.
I am grieved to find, though, however gratifying the cause, that you are not likely to
obtain leave of absence so soon as you expected, or your friends here wished. It
is said, the Service absolutely requires your aidin the Baltic, and without you nothing
would have been done, and that nothing will be effected without you. Taking all this
for granted, as I believe it to be true, yet I own I should have been much pleased to
hear of your return immediately, as I see nothing now to be done, in which you as
second can possibly claim that distinct pointed approbation you, in every act of your
life, So justly merit. Fighting for the honour of another ought not to be your station,
and as Sir Hyde is battling for a peerage, in God’s name let him have it and
return quietly home, leaving you in the command, if it be determined that you
are to remain. I hope it is not true, what I have heard, that it is the
intention of the Government to offer you the dignity of Viscount. That you
ought to have had long ago, and any additional distinction short of an Earldom,
in my humble opinion, would be degrading. Your last act of service deserves
every acknowledgment which a grateful country (whatever ministers may think)
1801.] AVAE/CSO/V AZA PAEA’.S. - I4 I
can bestow. The nation would be gratified to see the highest mark of honour
confer'd upon you.’
‘I am truly sorry, my dear friend, to tell you poor Maurice is extremely ill,
though within these twenty-four hours appearances have taken a favourable
turn. Nine days ago he was seized with violent pains in his head, which ter-
minated in an inflammation of the brain. The instant I was informed of it, I
despatched my own physician, Sir John Hayes,” to attend him, in whom I have
the most perfect confidence as a professional character. Sir John this morning
informs me he is out of danger, but that it will require time and great care to
bring him about. I am vexed my own miserable situation deprives me the
satisfaction of being with Maurice. I have Sir John Hayes's regular report
twice a day,and it gives me pleasure to know your brother highly approved my
sending my own physician. My own health is as good as I Could wish it, but
my limbs and ancles so extremely weakened that I am unable to walk. A very
few days will put me to rights, and the fit be productive of benefit to me.
- “Whilst fighting for your country's honour, I must not let you forget yourself,
and as the trial in all probability will come before the court about the end of
May, I must entreat you to give the different opinions annexed to the case some
serious consideration, making such observations and remarks as you think will
weigh in the minds of a jury; for though however confident we may, in our own
judgments, be respecting the probable issue, yet too great precautions cannot
possibly be taken, when we reflect with whom we are to take the field against. Your
private observations cannot ſail operating most forcibly on the minds of men
of common sense, such as I hope will be on the jury.
“If you are certain of being in England at the period, the less necessity for
this precaution, but it would wound my feelings were we to fall short of every
possible means in our power to strengthen and arm one's Councel on this im-
portant occasion. It hurts me to write a word on business when your mind is so
occupied with public duty, yet your own individual interest must not be neglected,
and I trust you will excuse me.
‘Your plate at Rundell’s is finished, and a complete case making to contain the
whole. I conclude you now would like that it remains until your return. The
inclosed letter will, I presume, tell you how matters stand in Piccadilly. Several
epistles pass daily between us. I conclude Stewartt will call there, and will be the
bearer of other packets, as she wrote to me last night, telling me a note had been
sent to him to give her a visit. .
‘May every blessing attend you, and that you may soon return to us, is, and
always will be the sincere prayer of my dear friend’s affectionate,’ &c.
568. A. L. S. from Colonel Stewart to Lady Hamilton. Dated ‘Nelson
Arms, Yarmouth, April 23rd, 18OI. 3 pages 4to. [P.]
“After your having expressed your intentions yesterday of forwarding under
my care the picture to Lord Nelson, I feel quite distressed that it was out of my
power to wait longer for it than four o'clock yesterday afternoon, having been
dismissed by Lord St. Vincent two hours even previous to that time. I feel
alarmed at your Ladyship's not thinking me to be a very civil sort of gentleman,
to have thus left town without again calling on you for poor St. Cecilia, but the
close manner in which I was kept occupied at the Admiralty, Downing Street,
and War Office, after I had the honour of taking leave of Sir William and your
Ladyship, really prevented me from So doing. The Favorite sloop of war is,
however, now here, expecting to be despatched with the duplicate of my
* Sir John Macnamara Hayes, 1750–1809, had served as surgeon in the army, was one of
the Physicians to the Forces, and Tluysician Extraordinary to the Prince of Wales. He was
created a Baronet in I797.
† Lieutenant-Colonel the Hon. William Stewart, G.C.B., 1772–1827, second son of John,
7th Earl of Galloway, who distinguished himself in the Peninsula War. He wrote an excellent
account of the proceedings relating to the Battle of Copenhagen, which was printed in Nelson's
A.eſ/ers and /Jesſiałches.
f Romney's picture of Lady Hamilton.
I 42 7THE A/A ///Z 7'OM A ZV/O [1801.
despatches to the fleet, and if your Ladyship will send the picture in question
to the care of Mr Stewart, agent for the Baltic fleet in this town, with directions
for its being forwarded by the Favorite, or first safe conveyance, that gentleman
will do so with care and with pleasure, for I have been speaking to him on the
subject. I am anxious that Lord Nelson should have in his cabin so pretty a
cadeau, as I shall thereby frequently have it in my power also to admire this
interesting fair one. I shall therefore give our noble friend to expect the receipt
of poor Cecilia, and must beg that your Ladyship will forward it, for it will, I
am confident, give our hero great pleasure, and if you do not, I shall feel con-
vinced that you are angry with me for not having waited for it. You must excuse
this scrawl, written during the hasty moment of embarkation, from an inn, and
believe me with much truth,’ &c.
569. A. L.S. from Lord Nelson to the same. Dated St. George, April
23rd, 1801. 24 pages 4to, with Superscription. [P.]
‘My dearest amiable friend, this day twelve months we sailed from Palermo
on our tour to Malta. Ah! those were happy times: days of ease and nights
of pleasure. How different, how forlorn 1 Alas, no wonder I so severely feel
the difference, but as we are returning to the anchorage near Copenhagen, I
hope a very short time will place me in London. Yesterday Sir Hyde Parker
wrote me word that the Russian minister at Copenhagen had sent him a letter,
saying the Emperor had ordered his fleet to abstain from all hostilities, therefore
Sir H. P. was determined to return to the anchorage near Copenhagen. I am
truly anxiously looking out for my leave of absence, or that the whole fleet may be
ordered home ; stay I will not, if the Ady would make me Lord High Admiral of the
Baltic. Don't you think I am perfectly right P If you were to think the contrary
it would break my heart, for I have the very highest opinion of your judgment.
[“I hope you have had no more pleasures, and that you have lived quiet as
you like, if not I hope you have had spirit enough to act properly and decidedly.
I will tell you a curious thing. I received a few days ago a present of some ale
and dried fish from a person who is naval officer at Leith. He spells his name
differently from all Thompsons I have seen except one, he spells his Thomson.
However, his ale is excellent, and all the Thomsons who spell their name this
way that I know are all excellent people. May God bless you, my dearest friend.
God knows how this letter goes, or one which is aboard the Zondon, under cover
to Troubridge, wrote 3 days ago. I daresay they are all read. Who cares P I
glory in your regard and affection, and your friendship has been and ever will be,
I hope, the greatest comfort of my life.]
“Read the enclosed, and send it if you approve. Who should I consult but
my friends 2 Remember me in the most affectionate manner were proper, and
respects and compºs as the person deserves to whom you give them.”
570. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated St. George, April 27th,
18OI. 3 pages 4to, with SuperScription and Seal. [P.]
“All your letters, my dearest, best friend, to the 17th, came safe on the eve of
your natal day. You will readily conceive the pleasure they must have given me
to know you, my dear amiable, still take an interest in my glory. I transfer it all
to my guardian angel Santa Emma. Yesterday, I had twenty-four at dinner and
drank at dinner in a bumper of champaine, “Santa Emma.’ The fourth toast
after dinner came as usual, your mortal part, without a compliment, for I scorn to
Say what I do not believe, it is that you are an angel upon earth. I am serious.
Sir Hyde Said that he had seen you at the Opera, and so said his parson secre-
tary, who was at Hamburgh when we were there. I told them I was sure they were
mistaken, for I did not believe you had been there ! But they were positive, so you
See how little fame is to be depended upon. Poor T. is also very angry that his
wife should suspect him of infidelity. Damm me, if I do not believe he would
die IO,OOO deaths sooner, or have even the idea; but my dear friend, there are
those who love to do mischief, as they are incapable of doing good. I hope if the
fleet is not ordered home to go in the Blanche, for both my mind and body are
18OI.] AVAZZLSO/V AA PAA’.S. I43
required in England; therefore, unless you are sure that we are ordered to attack
the Russian forts, it is of no use writing any more letters. I hope to be in London
as soon as this letter, and I should like a good Zodging in an airy situation. I
have directed Hardy to take care of all my letters and return them to England. I
have so much to tell you that I cannot tell you were to begin. I trust we shall
have a general peace, and then nothing shall stop my going to Bronte. May the
God of Heaven bless and preserve you, for the sake of your affectionate and
attached friend till death,’ &c.
“If you are got acquainted again with that b ! you may say what you
please but I never shall answer her or any other woman’s letters except yours, my
best & only true friend. But you are above mortal, nothing ever did or ever can
equal your excellent head, heart, person, and beauty. Bless you for ever ! Curse
them that treat you unkindly. Poor T. is gone to Petersburg with Capt. Fremantle,
but I can answer that his wife may have the child inoculated, and for his sake I
hope it will do well, for his life is wrapt up in the mother and child.”
571. A. L. S. from the same to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated St. George,
April 27th, 18OI. Ił pages 4to., with Superscription. [H.]
“Ten thousand thanks for your kind letter of congratulation, and I intend to
take your hint and go home; for, as you justly observe, I may be beat, but I can
always have one consolation, that it shall be hard work, and whilst I am backed
with a just cause and the prayers of all good people, I flatter myself it would
be no very easy task. I know mankind well enough to be sure that there are
those in England who wish me at the Devil. If they only wish me out of
England they will soon be gratified, for go to Bronte I am determined, so I have
wrote the King of the Two Sicilies, whose situation I most sincerely pity.
I grieve to hear so bad an account of the King, and hope he will yet recover,
for all men are fearful of the consequences of those which will follow him. May
he live during our lives I sincerely pray ; not that I have any expectation of
favours from any of them, having never received anything like one ; but my
wish is to have our Country remain quiet, and I fear if we lose the King we may
experience great misery. Believe me, as ever, my dear Sir William, your,’ &c.
572. A. Verses S. ‘Emma,’ from Lady Hamilton to Lord Nelson.
No date (April, 18OI). 24 pages 4to. [P.]
‘Silent grief and sad forebodings ‘For when duty calls my hero
(I.est I ne'er should see him more,) To ſar seas, where cannons roar,
Fill my heart when gallant Nelson, Nelson (love and Emma leaving),
Hoists BLIJE PETER at the fore. Hoists Blue Peter at the fore.
‘On his Pendant anxious gazing, “Oft he kiss'd my lips at parting,
Fill, with tears mine eyes run o'er, And at every kiss he swore,
At each change of wind I tremble Nought could force him from my bosom,
While Blue Peter’s at the fore. Save Blue Peter at the fore.
“All the live-long day I wander, ‘Oh, that I might with my Nelson,
Sighing on the sea-beat shore ; Sail the wide world o'er and o'er,
But my sighs are all unheeded, Never should I then with sorrow,
When Blue Peter's at the fore. See Blue Peter at the fore.
“But (ah me !) his ship’s unmooring ;
Nelson's last boat rows from shore,
Every sail is set and swelling,
And Blue Peter’s seen no more.”
573. A. L. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated St. George,
May 2nd, 1801. I page 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘I am waiting for the sailing of the Blanche frigate, which is destined to carry
the answers of the next vessel to England, and the vessel, we have been
expecting every day for this week. I have been so very indifferent, and
I44 7TAZAZ AIAAZZZZTO/W AAV/O [1801.
am still so weak, that I cannot take the journey to Hamburgh by land, or
I should have been off long ago. I shall get on shore the first land we make in
England, but as it is likely to be Yarmouth, I should rejoice to find a line of
your friendly hand at the “Wrestler's.' I dare not say much, as most probably
all my letters are read. May the God of Heaven bless you, my dearest friend,
ever your,’ &c. - -
574. A. L. S. from the same to General Lindholm. Dated St. George,
May 3rd, 1801. I} pages 4to, with Superscription and Seal.
“I was yesterday evening favour'd with your reply to my letter of the 22nd
of April, and I have no scruple in assuring you, that if Commodore Fischer's
letter had been couched in the same manly and honourable manner, that I
should have been the last man to have noticed any little inaccuracies which
might get into a Commander-in-Chief's public letter; and if the Commodore had
not called upon His Royal Highness for the truth of his assertions, I never
should have noticed his letter. You have stated truly the force which would
have been brought into action, but for the accidents of their getting aground,
and, except the Desirée frigate, no other frigate or sloop fired a gun to the
southward of Crown Islands. I have done ample justice to the bravery of
nearly all your officers and men ; and as it is not my intention to hurt your
feelings or those of His Royal Highness, but on the contrary, to try and merit
your esteem, I will only say that I am confident you would not have wrote such
a letter. Nothing, I flatter myself, in my conduct ought to have drawn ridicule
on my character, from the Commodore's pen ; and you have borne the hand-
somest testimony of it, in contradiction to his. I thought then, as I did before the
action and do now, that it is not the interest of our countries to injure each
other. I am sorry that I was forced to write you so unpleasant a letter ; but ſo
the future I trust that none but pleasant ones will pass between us, for I assure
you that I hope to merit the continuation of your esteem, and of having frequent
opportunities of assuring you how I feel interested in being your sincere and
faithful friend,’ &c.
575. A. L. from the same to Lady Hamilton. Dated ‘2 o'clock ’
(May 5th, 18OI). I page 4to., with Superscription.
“From all I now see it is not possible that this fleet can be much longer kept
here, and I find that, although from others there may be much self, yet Mr.
Addington wishes me to have the sweets of seeing this business finish’d. It must
Soon happen, & I will live to see you once more, and that once will last, I hope, till
time, as far as relates to us, shall be no more. We must cheer up for the moment.
At present we are in the hands of others; we shall be masters one day or other.
‘Alazache just going.
“Damn that fellow and Lord —. Never see them; may God’s vengeance
light upon them. I am like the rock of Gibraltar.”
576. A. L. S. (marked “Private’) from the same to General Lindholm.
Dated St. George, May 6th, 18OI. 2 pages 4to., with Superscrip-
tion and Seal. [H]
‘Yesterday I was going to England for my health, but alas ! Colonel Stewart
is arrived and reversed the business. Sir H. Parker is gone, and I am here
very unwell, so much so, that I am going to sea for the benefit of change of
air. I have wrote two letters to Count Bernstoffe,” which I shall thank you to
* Christian, Count Bernstorff, 1769-1835, a Danish diplomatist and statesman, Minister for
Foreign Affairs ſrom 1797 to 1810. He went as Ambassador to Paris, in 1811, and to Vienna
in 1814, and in 1818 passed into the service of the King of Prussia, who made him Minister
for Foreign Affairs, which post he continued to hold until 1831.
1801.] AVAE LSOAV AAA’A. R.S. 145
send ; they relate to some mistake in Norway, about seizing vessels bound to
England with corn, for it can never be intended that while Sir H. P. was so good as
to allow any quantity to be sent to Norway, that they should seize corn going to
England, and by orders they say from Copenhagen, received April I Ith. Pray
assure His Royal Highness of the readiness I shall have at all times to obey his
orders, so far as they are compatible with those of my own Superiors, but I have
great pleasure that the King and Ministry highly approve of the saving Copenhagen
from being laid waste, and for giving time by the armistice for the renewal of our
ancient connections and friendship, without which neither of our Countries can be
at rest. We are natural allies, and it is very unnatural when we quarrel. I
would cut off that Minister's head that would make a Treaty contrary to the interest
of either Kingdom, for in the end it must revert on his own Country. I hope I
shall mend, but I doubt it ; but ever your obliged friend,’ &c. .
577. A. L. S. from General Lindholm to Lord Nelson. Dated “Copen-
hagen, May 6*, 18OI, 7 o'clock in the afternoon.’ I? pages 4to. [P.]
* I have had the honour to receive your Lordship's letter of this date. I have
delivered the letter to Count Bernstorff, who will inform himself about the corn
affair in Norway, and he will have the honour to send your Lordship his answer
as soon as possible. Count Bernstorff presents his respects to your Lordship.
“I remember that some Swedish ships laden with corn, and bound to England,
were seized in Norway, but they were not seized because they were bound to
England, but the reason was, that the people in that part of Norway were in such
a want of bread, that the King’s officers were obliged to buy it, and paid the cargo
to the master of the vessels. -
‘The Prince Regent presents his compliments to your Lordship, and His
Royal Highness is very sensible of the attention and kindness which your
Lordship has expressed in the letter which I have had the honour to receive this
day. I beg you to receive the assurance of the great esteem with which I have
the honour to subscribe myself, my Lord,’ &c.
578. Doc. S.* Dated Copenhagen, May 7th, 1801. 3 page folio. [P.]
‘These are to certify the principal officers and Commissioners of His Britannic
Majesty's Navy, that there were on board of his Danish Majesty's ships, hulks, and
prams, which were taken in the action of the 2* April with the British Squadron,
3500 men.’ -
579. L. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated May 8th, 1801.
I} pages folio, with Superscription. [P.]
“As both my friends and enemies seem not to know why I sent on shore a
flag of truce, the former, many of them, thought it was a ruse de guerre, and not
quite justifiable ; the latter, I believe, attributed it to a desire to have no more
fighting, and few, very few, to the cause that I felt, and which, I trust in God, I
shall retain to the last moment, humanity. I know it must to the world be proved,
and therefore I will suppose you all the world to me.
‘First, no ship was on shore near the Crown batteries, or anywhere else within
reach of any shore when my flag of truce went on shore; the Crown batteries, and
the batteries on Amack, and in the dockyard, were firing at us, one half their shot
necessarily striking the ships who had surrendered, and our fire did the same, and
worse, for the surrendered ships had four of them got close together, and it was a
massacre, this caused my note. It was a sight which no real man could have enjoyed.
I felt when the Danes became my prisoners, I became their protector, and if that
had not heen a siifficient reason, the moment of a complete victory was surely
the proper time to make an opening with the nation we have been fighting with.
When the truce was settled and full possession taken of our prizes, the ships were
ordered, except two, to proceed and join Sir Hyde Parker, and in performing this
* The Document is signed, “J. Arenfeldt, H. Lemming, N. W. Andresen, Captains in the
service of His Danish Majesty.’
VOL. II. L
I46 7THAE A/AM/Z 7"O/V A/VD [1801.
service, the Elephant and Defiance grounded on the middle ground. I give you
verbatim an answer to a part of a letter from a person high in rank about the
Prince Royal, which will bear testimony to the truth of my assertions, viz., “As to
your Lordship's motives for sending a flag of truce to our Government it never
can be misconstrued, and your subsequent conduct has sufficiently shown that
humanity is always the companion of true valour. You have done more, you
have shown yourself a friend of the re-establishment of peace and good harmony
between this country and Great Britain.”
580. A. L. from the same to the same. No date (May 8th, 1801).
24 pages 4to, [P.]
“Much having been said relative to the bad terms of the Armistice made with
Denmark, I wish to observe, first, that the Armistice was only intended a military
one, and that all political subjects were left for the discussion of the Ministers of
the two Powers. Peace Denmark cou’d not in the moment make with you, as the
moment she made it with you she would lose all her possessions except the Island
of Zeeland, and that, also, the moment the frost sett in ; therefore there was no
damage we could do her equal to the loss of everything ; our destruction would
have been Copenhagen and her fleet, then we had done our worst, and not much
nearer being friends. By the Armistice we tied the arms of Denmark for four
months from assisting our enemies and her allies, whilst we had every part of
Denmark & its provinces open to give us everything we wanted. Gt. Bt. was left
the power of taking Danish possessions and ships in all parts of the world, whilst
we had lock’d up the Danish navy and put the key in our pocket ; time was
afforded the two countries to arrange matters on an amicable footing ; besides, to
say the truth, I look upon the Northern League to be like a tree, of which Pau/
was the trumã & Sweden & Denmark the branches. If I can get at the trunk and
hew it down the branches fall of course, but I may lop the branches and yet not
be able to fell the tree, & my power must be weaker when its greatest strength is
required. If we could have cut up the Russian fleet, that was my object.
Denmark and Sweden deserved whipping, but Paul deserved punishment. I
own I consider it a wise measure, & I wish my reputation to stand upon its merits.
“Best regards to Sir William and all our friends, to my brother, Mrs. Nelson,
&c. Hardy and Colonel Stewart desire their remembrances.’
581. A. L. S. (in French) from A. Balascheff" to Lord Nelson.
Dated Revel, May 12th, 1801. 2 pages 4to. [P.] º
‘En réponse à la lettre dont votre Excellence vient de m'honorer, j’ai Phonneur
de vous informer qu'une chaloupe non armée pour acheter de la viande peut
venir à Revel quand vous le jugerez à propos ; mais quand a l'escadre de Sa
Majesté Britannique que vous commandez, elle ne peut encore aprocher de nos
rivages à la distance d'un coup de canon jusqu’à ce que le général de division,
Baron d’Osten Sacken, reqois les ordres là-dessus.
“Les dépêches de votre Excellence ont étaient dans le moment envoyés à
St. Pétersbourg.
‘J’ai l'honneur d'être,’ &c.
582. A. L. S. (in English) from General Lindholm to the same. Dated
Copenhagen, May 12th, 1801. 2 pages 4to. [P.]
‘I have the honour to congratulate your Lordship as Commander-in-Chief of the
Baltic fleet, and I wish very sincerely that your Lordship may enjoy a perfect health.
‘I hear with great satisfaction that Lord St. Helenst is appointed Ambassador
* Military Governor of Revel.
+ Alleyne Fitzherbert, Ist Baron Saint Helens, 1753–1839, an eminent diplomatist. He
was sent to Brussels in 1777, to St. Petersburg in 1783, was sworn of the Privy Council, and
made Chief Secretary for Ireland in 1787, went as Ambassador to the Hague, Madrid, and St.
Petersburg, in succession, and was created a Baron in 1791.
1801.] - AWE/...SOAV PAPERS. 147
to the Court of Petersbourg, and that we can soon expect him in our Road,
passing on his way to that capital. I hope that the differences between Great
Britain and the Northern Powers will be settled in a short period, and that peace
and friendship will be established on a firm basis. The English Ministers have
shown their inclination to settle things in a satisfactory manner to all trading
nations, by making a change with the Courts of Vice-Admiralty in the West
Indies, whose conduct in many instances has been highly iniquitous. - -
‘I have the honour to send your Lordship a letter from Count Bernstorff, and I am
assured that he has given a satisfactory information about the Corn ships in Norway.
‘The certificate signed by three officers, of the number of men who were on
board the ships on the 2nd of April, is here inclosed, and some letters found on
the coast near Kioge.
‘I have the honour to remain with the greatest esteem, my Lord, your,’ &c.
583. A. L. S. (in French) from Admiral Spiridow to Lord Nelson.
Dated Revel, May 12th, 18OI. 3 page 4to, [P.]
‘Conformément au souhait de votre Excellence j'envoy deux pilotes qui
montreront une bonne place pour rester a l’encre dans la baye de cheval. J'ai
l'honneur d'être,’ &c.
584. A. L. S. from J. Wollstonecraft to Lord Nelson. Dated London,
May 12th, 18OI. 3 pages 4to. [P.]
“As your illness, when Sir Hyde Parker sailed, prevented my having the
honour of seeing you, and being now fearful of intruding on your Lordship's
time, I take the liberty of informing you that I passed a winter at Revel some
years ago, and also of sending you what local knowledge of that place I was
thereby enabled to acquire.
‘The breadth of the bay and the situation of the mole will admit of bomb
vessels being placed sufficiently near to bombard the ships in the mole, and yet
be themselves out of the reach of Żoint à/an/é shot from all the batteries, viz.;
those to the westward of the mole, those on the two small islands to the north-
north-west of it, and from any that may lately have been made (there were none
some years ago) on the opposite side of the Bay and at the head of it. -
‘The mole is near a mile from the town, and is formed by a single wharf,
which runs straight out towards the opposite side of the bay ; this wharf is
mounted with guns, and there is deep water on both sides close to it. The rest
of the mole is perfectly open, and presents no obstacles or difficulties to prevent
fire-ships sailing right in among the ships, which are ranged abreast of each other
with their bowspits over the wharf. Fireships attempting this service would be
but little exposed, as the width of the bay will allow their keeping well to the
eastward of the wharf until they are above it ; the batteries, supposing any to
exist, at the head of the bay and on the eastern side of it, the only ones which
would then be able to fire at them, being at a great distance could not prevent
them, and the guns on the ramparts of the town could not be pointed at them
when in the mole, and previous to their getting there they were too far off, without
firing into their own ships, which, from the manner they are placed in order to be
in the deepest water, could only fire stern chases at fire-ships approaching them
from the head of the bay. - -
“Supposing your Lordship might wish to cut the ships out of the mole, permit
me to say, it appears to me that if the guns on the wharf were silenced, which
might be facilitated by ships flanking them from the eastward and southward, in
which situation they would only be exposed to the distant fire of the batteries at
the head of the bay, and on the eastern side of 1t men might be landed on the
wharf, and from thence board the ships and burn them, or get them out if the wind
was favourable ; for the guns which could be brought to bear on them from the
town are but few, and at a considerable distance, and the batteries in the different
parts of the bay are still farther off, and a ship placed close to Zhał Żart of Zhe
wharf which joins the shore might prevent any fresh troops from coming on the
wharf to oppose the landing or to assist the enemy's ships.
I48 THE A/AM/Z, TOM AAVD [1801.
“Should your Lordship be already acquainted with the above particulars, I beg
you will have the goodness to excuse my troubling you with them, which I have
only done because I have heard different opinions given to Sir Hyde Parker
respecting the practicability of attacking, with success, ships at Revel. I have
the honour to be your Lordship's,’ &c.
585. A. L. S. from Rear-Admiral Totty” to the same. Dated Zealous,
off Bornholm, May 15th, 18OI. 3% pages folio. [P.]
‘I have the honour to acquaint your Lordship, that I passed over the Grounds
with the squadron under my orders, on the evening of the 13th instant, and I
joined Captain Murray f upon his rendezvous off the north-east end of Bornholm
last night ; and agreeably to your Lordship's directions I have given orders to
Captain Murray to take the ships and vessels named in the margin under his
orders, and proceed with all possible despatch towards the Gulf of Finland, and
endeavour to join your Lordship, agreeable to the best information he can obtain
respecting your situation.
‘I have sent some of the small fast sailing vessels with Captain Murray as I
think they may be useful to your Lordship. I have received a copy of the orders
which your Lordship gave to Captain Murray for the government of the squadron
stationed off Bornholm, and your Lordship may rest assured that I shall strictly
regulate my conduct thereby.
“So soon as the Dart returns from Dantzick, and I receive any information
of the terms upon which fresh beef can be supplied for the use of the squadron,
if the price does not exceed the sum your Lordship has stipulated, I shall send
the A/kmaar thither for a cargo of bullocks ; and as I find many of the squadron
are short of bread, I shall therefore give directions to the ships which came with
me to go to two-thirds allowance of that article, as I find Captain Murray gave
similar directions to the squadron left under his orders. As it was necessary to
keep the ships as light as possible, in order to pass over the Grounds, they could
not take any supply of water in Copenhagen Road, but I understand they may
readily be watered at Bornholm.
“The Zealous and Powerful have each of them eight guns in their holds, with a
proportion of ammunition for the use of the gun-vessels under your Lordship's com-
mand. Fourteen of the guns are eighteen pounders, the other two twenty-four's.
“Having so lately transmitted to your Lordship the state and condition of the
ships and vessels under my orders, and as Captain Murray will deliver those of
the ships and vessels that were stationed off Bornholm, I do not trouble your
Lordship at present upon that head. I have the honour to be,’ &c. :
‘P.S.—Since writing the above, the Alecto fire-ship, Captain O'Brien i has
joined me from Leith. He brings no intelligence. Captain Inman has also just
been with me, and he gives a sad account of the wants of the gun vessels, &c.,
under his orders; many of them are in want of fuel and cannot purchase any, as
their bills are not negotiable.” -
586. A. L. S. (in French) from Admiral Spiridow to Lord Nelson. Dated
Revel, May 16th, 18OI. I page 4to. [P.]
‘La lettre de votre Excellence pour Monsieur le Comte de Pahlen $ sera
expédiée dans le moment, et le lougre Z'Alouette tant qu'il aura besoin de rester
* Thomas Totty was created an Admiral in 1801, and died of yellow fever in the West
Indies in 1802.
+ George Murray, 1759-1819, entered the Navy at eleven years of age and took post rank
in 1782. He served with Sir John Jervis in the Mediterranean and off Cape St. Vincent, and
was in command of the Colossus when she was lost on her voyage to England. Under Nelson
he lead the van of the fleet into action at Copenhagen. Was created a Rear-Admiral of the
Blue in 1804 and Vice-Admiral of the Red in 1815.
+ Captain Edward O’Brien attained the rank of Rear-Admiral in 1805, and died in 1809.
§ Peter Ludwig, Count von Pahlen, 1744–1826, a famous Russian diplomatist, at the date
of the letter Governor-General of St. Petersburg, of which office, however, he was deprived a
few months later, and retired to his estate in Courland, where he lived until his death.
1801.] AVAZZSOAV AAA’ EA’.S. I49
au port de Reval y recevra de ma part toute l'assistance et politesse qui sera en
mon pouvoir.
‘Agréés, milord, nos voeux pour l'accomplissement de vos Souhaits, qui
n’étant pas contraires aux Russes, ne nous empêchent pas de rendre justice
au vray mérite. Vous emportés avec vous nos regrets de ce que les circonstances
nous privent de Cultiver plus longtems votre connoissance. C'est au noms des
Messieurs les gouverneurs civil et militaires et les miens que j’écrire. Je voudrois
º ºptime: les Sentiments d’estime que vous m'avés inspiré. J’ai l'honneur
'être,’ &c.
587. A. L. S. from Sir James Crauford * to Lord Nelson. Dated Ham-
burg, May 19th, I80I, 2 pages 4to. [P.]
‘I had the honour to receive, by the last post from Copenhagen, your
Lordship's letter of the 8th instant, accompanying your despatches to Mr. Nepean,
and various private letters which I forwarded to England by the first post.
Though it is perhaps rather out of time, I cannot but seize this opportunity, the
first which I have had, of congratulating your Lordship on the great and glorious
event of the second of April. It is my most sincere prayer that you may long
Continue to adorn that country whose name, already the first in the world, you
have so greatly exalted. I desire nothing so much as to have an opportunity of
paying you my court in person, an honour I hope you will allow me whenever
an opportunity may present itself. In the meantime I beg leave to assure your
Lordship of the great respect with which I am, my Lord, your most obedient and
very humble servant,’ &c.
588. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to General Lindholm. Dated St. George,
May 24th, I80I. 2 pages 4to., with Superscription and Seal.
‘I cannot again come near you without inquiring after your health, and to
request that you will present my humble duty to His Royal Highness, and as I
have received wine from the Royal cellar and fruit from the Royal hot-houses, I
take for granted they must have been sent by the Prince's order, if so, I beg
you will express my grateful thanks. I have had a very long conversation with
Lord St. Helens, and being just come from Russia, and the Russian Rear-
Admiral Ichitchagoff, being sent by the Emperor to hold a confidential communica-
tion with me as low down as the middle of Gothland, where we exchanged, in
the name of our united Sovereigns, a friendly declaration, from all these appear-
ances I have a well-grounded hope that Peace will speedily be restored between
the Powers of the North and my dear Country. I have had the pleasure of
obtaining a shade of His Royal Highness, done some years ago, at Pyrmont,
it is a very strong likeness. I beg to present my respects to Count Bernstoff,
I am happy His Excellency and Lord St. Helens have had a meeting. With
every sentiment of respect and esteem,’ &c. -
589. A. L. S. from the same to Lady Hamilton. Dated St. George, Bay
of Rostock, no date (May 26th, 18OI). 2% pages 4to., with Super-
Scription. [H.]
‘Although I wrote you late last night by the Speedwell all my proceedings to
that time, I yet should think myself a great beast if I was to omit an opportunity
of writing to you a line by way of Hamburgh, where I am sending off an express
to Sir James Crauford. I wrote to the Admiralty yesterday that I did not think
I should be able to write any more letters to them, for the stooping so many hours
hurts me very much. I trust yet to be in London before June 12th. If the new
Admiral would arrive, I should certainly sail in two hours. I have directed the
Zondon to be the show ship, for I will have no visitors here that I can help. It
* Sir James Crauford, 1761-1839, succeeded his father as 2nd Baronet in 1798. He was
at the date of the letter English President to the Hanse Towns, and in 1803 went as Envoy
Extraordinary to Denmark. -
J 50 THAE HAM/LTON AWD [1801.
is said that the Duke or Prince of Mecklenburg intends to come here to see the
fleet, but nothing, you may rely, shall force me to go on shore. [There is but one
person, and to that person the Devil himself should not keep me afloat. May God
bless and protect you, my dearest, best, most amiable, virtuous friend..] The hock
I ordered to be sent by the waggon. The Hazžy will arrive, I hope, to-morrow.
The Sãeedweſ/ will have a good passage. I have ten millions of things to say to
you, and I long so to let all out. If Ministers had really thought highly of me
they should have given me the command in February, not in May, when I can do
no good. I am sure you will comfort poor blind M* Nelson. Whatever you do
I will confirm ; and there is an old black servant, James Price, as good a man as
ever lived, he shall be taken care of, and have a corner in my house as long as he
lives. My uncle left him £20 a-year. Ever yours,’ &c. .
‘This day comes on my great cause against the Earl. May the just gain it.
[Thomson will be very well when he gets home, and is nursed by his wife, and so
you may tell her from me..] I am so glad to hear of your determination not to
leave London ’till my arrival. [If Mrs. Denis' young man comes out we will take
care of him.’]
590. A. L. S. from the Duke of Hamilton and Brandon" to Lady
Hamilton. Dated Grosvenor Place, Saturday, May 30th, 18OI.
I page 4to, [P.]
“As you mentioned the other morning Sir Wº's appetite not being quite so
good, I am to request you will be kind enough to tell me if there is anything that
you think that he preffers, and how he likes it dress'd. All commands of yours
will be duly attended to by your,’ &c. -
591. L. S. (markcd “Duplicate’) from Mr. Nepean to Lord Nelson.
Dated Admiralty Office, May 31st, 1801. 3 pages folio. [P.]
“I received by the Hamburgh mail, through Sir James Crauford, your Lord-
ship's letter of the 7th instant, acquainting me, for the information of my Lords
Commissioners of the Admiralty, of the communication you had had with the
Swedish Admiral, and with the determination you had formed of showing
yourself with a part of the fleet under your command in the Gulf of Finland,
leaving Captain Murray with the remainder off the island of Bornholm. I also
received on the 29th instant by the Azarby your Lordship's three letters of the
I7th, one inclosing a copy of the correspondence which had passed with His
Excellency Count Pahlen and the Russian Governor and Admiral at Revel, the
other giving information of your having left the bay of Revel, in order to rejoin
the squadron off Bornholm, and of the quantity of bread remaining on board the
fleet ; I lost no time in laying those letters before their Lordships, and I have
received their commands to acquaint you that they cannot but feel some regret
that your endeavours to mark your respect for his Imperial Majesty should not
have been attended with success, and to desire you will transmit to me a copy of
your letter to the Swedish Admiral, to which you have referred in your first-
mentioned letter. I have their Lordships’ further commands to acquaint your
Lordship that vessels are now loaded, and will proceed into the Baltic immedi-
ately with a supply of ten weeks’ provisions for the fleet, in order that your
Lordship may send such instructions to the officer who may be entrusted with
the protection of these vessels as may be necessary for his guidance in respect
to his junction with you. I have the honour to be, my Lord, your,’ &c.
592. A. L. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated ‘St. George,
June I*, 1801, 8 a.m.' I page 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘My dearest, best, amiable friend,--I have been annoyed to death for an hour
this day. The Duke of Mecklenburgh, with his whole Court, men, women, and
* Archibald, 9th Duke of Hamilton and 6th Duke of Brandon, 1740–1819, uncle of the
8th Duke, whom he succeeded in 1799.
18OI.] AVAEZSOAV PAPERS. - I 5 I
children, to the amount of Ioo, I am told, came on board at 2 o'clock, but I
got rid of them before three. He is a respectable, venerable man, made Io,000
apologies for the liberty he had taken in bringing so many persons, for he knew
that I had forbid it ; to which I could only reply that he commanded; and having
given him two salutes of the whole fleet of 21 guns each, he went off quite happy.
He admired your picture most exceedingly, but who does not ? [for where can your
resemblance be P. Not in the world, and may heavens keep you a non-pareil..] At
daylight I sail for Kioge to wait the arrival of the new Admiral. [May the God
of heaven and earth soon give us a happy meeting, being for ever, and more than]
ever your,’ &c. -
593. A. L. S. from the same to Adjutant-General Lindholm. Dated
St. George, Kioge Bay, June 5th, 18OI. Ił pages 4to., with
Superscription and Seal.
‘Lieut. English of the artillery is going to Copenhagen on a visit to his brother
who is on his way to St. Petersburgh, I therefore beg leave to introduce him to
your notice. -
‘To-morrow, I hope, Colonel Stewart will be able to go to Copenhagen to talk
with the Minister or yourself on the fourth article of the armistice, which does not
seem in all parts of His Majesty's territory perfectly understood. I should be
very happy in the pleasure of seeing you at Kioge, for I am too much indisposed
to do myself the pleasure of bringing my humble duties to His Royal Highness,
whose kindness I shall never forget, nor how much I feel myself your truly
obliged,’ &c.
594. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated St. George, June 7th,
I8OI. I page 4to., with Superscription and Seal.
‘As the fourth article of the armistice does not seem clearly understood in
many parts of His Danish Majesty's dominions, I have requested Colonel Stewart
to go to Copenhagen and talk on the subject, with either the Minister or yourself,
as may be necessary. I shall pay a visit to Copenhagen myself, if my health will
permit, in order to pay my humble duty to His Royal Highness. In 8 or IO days
I expect to receive letters from Lord St. Helens announcing the peace of the
North, and I hope that Denmark will then fix a close alliance with her natural
friend. If you come to Kioge nothing will give me greater pleasure than to assure
you in person how I feel myself your obliged,’ &c.
595. A. L. S. from Colonel Stewart to Lord Nelson. Dated Copenhagen,
June 8th (1801). 4 pages 4to. [P.]
‘I came here yesterday by water from Kioge through the Amack Channel,
which is of an infinitely more intricate description than I had formed to myself an
idea of. The greater part of the Strait, which begins across from Draco to the
main; is so very shallow as to admit of no vessels of any burden or draft of water
above six feet in general, and the shallowest reef begins and seems to go right
across at least four miles from this town. Yesterday being Sunday, no Ministers
were in town, nor have I yet been able to find either Mr Lizakowitz or Mº Walter-
storff" at home, being not returned from the country. I had, however, occasion
to have much explanation with the Governor, the Prince of Wurtemberg, relative to
a very cavilier manner in which they sent on board the schooner again one or two of
the sailors who had only landed with the St. George's officers' clothes, and to the
circumstance of every officer being obliged to be attended by a Danish Serjeant, if
walking the streets. The Prince put everything on the best intentioned footing
which 1 believe he could, but I could not bring matters to much understanding
about the unpleasant mode in which our officers were followed by what they call
“military attention,” until Lindholm went to the Prince about it this morning,
* Chamberlain to the King of Denmark.
152 THE HAM/Z, TOW AAWD [1801.
who has, I find, given directions that every such symptom of jealousy should cease
in future.
‘I have had fifty reports and informations about the hostility of the
Danes towards us, the preparations for future offence, as well as defence,
their breach of the armistice by repair and refit of their ships, &c., and have
reason to think, from what could be gathered from a good deal of conver-
sation with Lindholm this morning, that the sum total is, the whole nation
is enraged at the loss of their colonies, and are certainly carrying on every
preparation in their power, as far as relates to land operations, which
Lindholm will, I think, explain to your Lordship as a measure of general
preparation against the worst which may come on all sides. As he intends to be
on board the St. George to-morrow, I need scarcely trouble you, my Lord, with
the substance of our conversation this day, and will only observe, that he seems
to feel equally confident of a peace as we do, but cannot help expressing the ill-
humoured grace with which it will now be received, since the loss (which they
pretend to call unexpected) of their colonies. To that event, rather than to new
instructions supposed to have been conveyed from Petersburgh in the Russian
brig, is, I believe, to be attributed the hostile feature which every thing has borne
within these last ten days. I taxed M* L. pretty roundly with the circumstance
of the refit of their ships, which you will find he will positively deny: I think,
however, I shall ascertain before I leave this. As to appearances, they are the
same to my eye as when here before ; but I have scarcely had a view. I have
been contending hard with the old lady of the hotel here, to let me send by this
conveyance the last three English papers, but she will not let them leave the
club room. I, however, perceive no news in them, and no confirmation of the
Guadaloupe surrender. Mr Lindholm has informed me that by the Hamburg
mail, which is just arrived, the French are retaking possession of Ehrenbreitstein,
and marching 50,000 men into Germany—that the King of Prussia is receding
from Hanover—that IO,OOO French have been shipped from Ancona into Turkey
—and that we are in possession of Rosetta, the Grand Vizir's advance being
within three days march of that place.
“M” Balfour promises to send this safe off, and also his newspapers the
moment he receives them. I shall proceed to join you, my dear Lord, to-morrow
night if the B/anchisseuse be expeditious, if not, at least on Wednesday morning,
and shall do so with even more pleasure than I always must feel to join you, on
this occasion, as the ill-natured and jealous eye, with which we English are now
viewed here, is not very tempting to a longer residence among the Danes than is
necessary. I have the honor to be, with the greatest respect and gratitude,
yours,’ &c. -
‘My head is so annoying with the continuation of my cold, that I fear I have
been penning sadly confused stuff.”
596. L. S. ſtom Spiridion Foresti to Lady Hamilton. Dated Corfu,
June IOth, 18OI. 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
“In a letter which My Lord Nelson did me the honor to write to me on the
29th December, and which was an extraordinary length of time on its way, His
Lordship desired of me to send to him a remedy for the gout, which he understood
was to be obtained here. As His Lordship is at present abroad rendering the
most important and glorious services of his country, I beg leave to address your
Ladyship upon the subject of the medicine in question, for the information of
the Admiral on his return home.
‘M. Zerlatti, who discovered the medicine, is here. Upon applying for it, he
has informed me that though he is certain of its virtue, it requires many and
various trials to be brought to perfection, and he laments that he has, hitherto,
been prevented by the circumstances of the times from making such trials. He
is, therefore, obliged to decline sending it abroad for the present. I know a
person to whom the medicine was administered and recollect to have heard him
speak of its efficacy, though he assures me that it was so powerful as to require a
strong constitution to support it. M. Zerlatti is certainly a physician of merit, and
I am conscious that if he were settled as he wishes, his specific for the gout might
1801.] AWAE/LSO/W PAA’Aº AºS. > , - I 53
be rendered of general use. I beg leave to enclose a letter which he has written
to me in answer to my application ſor the medicine.
‘I cannot let this opportunity escape without expressing how very much I feel
obliged to my Lord Nelson, and to Sir William Hamilton for the representation
which they had the goodness to make of my services to Government, though the
change of Ministry that has since taken place rendered a second representation
extremely necessary, yet I should not take the liberty to say anything upon the
subject were I in a situation to continue my efforts in the Public Service without
assistance from home. I can assure you, Madam, that, in consequence of the
misfortunes brought upon me as Consul, during the War, I am involved in
great difficulties, and my situation is daily becoming more embarrassed by my
stay here, at the desire of II is Majesty's Ambassador at Constantinople, in order
to render those services which I could not render at Zante. Such is the goodness
of My Lord Nelson and of Sir William, that I look forward with confidence to the
return of the former to England, when I hope that an opportunity may offer of
renewing their application to Government in my behalf; upon the success of this
measure rests my only hope. I have the honour to be, with the greatest
respect,’ &c.
597. A. L. S. (in English) from General Lindholm to Lord Nelson.
Dated ‘His Britannic Majesty's brig 7%e Kite, June IOth, 1801, at
noon.’ 4 pages 4to. [P.] .
‘I have this moment received a letter from His Royal Highness the Crown
Prince, who has given me orders to communicate to your Lordship that on the
evening of the 8th, some English officers were on shore at Copenhagen, from His
Majesty's schooner, the Eling, and that some dispute had arisen between them
and the populace of that city, but fortunately being near the guard, the officers
thereof interfered immediately, and prevented any injury being done. The
irritation of the people must be occasioned by the capture of our West Indian
possessions, and from their idea that the capitulation is severer than they could
have expected, considering the nature of the dispute between the two countries,
for until that news arrived Sir Thomas Williams, Captain Devonshire, and other
officers were on shore, did me the honour to call on me, and walked about the
city entirely unmolested, and as a proof that His Royal Highness has endeavoured
to prevent any disrespect being paid to the British officers since that time he had
ordered that a non-commissioned officer should attend them to interfere in case
of need. It gives His Royal Highness pain that this circumstance should have
happened, and he certainly will prevent any repetition thereof as much as lays in
his power; but His Royal Highness thinks the surest and most effectual manner
of preventing it, in the present moment of the displeasure of the people, is, that
the British officers should not go on shore at that city until the so much wished
for happy reconciliation is settled between the two Courts. I beg your Lordship
will excuse my not stating to you personally what I have the honour of writing,
for in attempting to land last night at Kioge, it was so dark we could not find
the harbour, and after being three hours in the boat we returned very wet to the
Azte. I am awaiting the abatement of the wind to go on shore to shift myself,
and if the weather is moderate I will certainly wait on your Lordship to-morrow ;
but if on the contrary it should be stormy, I pray your Lordship will have the
kindness to send a small vessel as near the harbour of Kioge as is safe, in order
to facilitate my wish of waiting on your Lordship as early as possible.
‘Your Lordship's kind reception of me yesterday, and the great attention
and civility I experienced while on board the St. George, made that day one of
the pleasantest of my life; but all the joy that arose in consequence thereof is
damped by this very disagreeable and unpleasant communication which falls to
my lot to be the conveyer of to your Lordship, as I assure your Lordship it is
my private hope and I am sure it is also that of His Royal Highness, that this
unpleasant accident may not be the cause of any coolness or alteration in the
harmony that has subsisted since the conclusion of the armistice. With
Sentiments of the most unfeigned regard, I have the honour to subscribe myself,
my Lord,’ &c.
I 54 THE HAMILTON AND [1801.
598. A.L.S. from Lord Nelson to General Lindholm. Dated St. George,
Kioge Bay, June I Ith, 1801. I page 4to, with Superscription and
Seal.
“As you say that you intend me the favour of coming on board the St. George,
I will not put my feelings on paper on the subject of your letter. I trust that, if
any serious insult has been offered by any persons to British officers, they will be
brought to punishment. I expect the Æalºng schooner here this day. I shall
always feel pleasure in complying with the wishes of His Royal Highness, as far
as is consistent with my duty as a British Admiral, who is bound to suffer no
insult to be offered to the flag of His Royal Master, or one of his subjects to be
ill-treated with impunity.
“With every sentiment of respect and esteem, believe me, dear sir, your
obedient servant,’ &c.
599. A. L. S. (in English) from General Lindholm to Lord Nelson.
June I Ith, 1801. I page 4to. [P.]
“I beg your Lordship will excuse me for not having the honour to wait on you
to-day, as I am very unwell, and wish to go to Copenhagen as soon as possible.
I hear that a midshipman from the Elżng is the cause of a little trouble which
was of no consequence. I was almost sure that our populace has not been the
agressor, but I will not accuse any man. I hope and I wish that no animosity
will exist between two nations who have been friends in many centuries.
“Permit me, my Lord, to ask if one of our frigates who is arrived in Norway
from the Mediterranean can return to Copenhagen P I have the honour to remain,
with highest esteem,’ &c.
600. A. L. S. (in English) from the same to the same. Dated Kioge,
Dated Kioge, June I Ith, 1801. I page 4to. [P.]
‘I have this moment had the honour to receive your Lordship's letter, brought
me by an officer of the Kife. I am very sorry that I cannot, so much I desired,
wait on your Lordship, as I am sick, and am going to Copenhagen this evening.
‘Your Lordship may be assured that our Government certainly will punish
any man who dared give the least insult to any British subject, and certainly that
will never be the case ; but I am afraid that perhaps some young men will not
always be so cautious as they should.
“I beg once more that your Lordship will excuse me for not coming. I hope
I shall soon have the honour to wait on your Lordship. I am, with sentiments of
high esteem and respect,’ &c.
601. A. L.S. from Lord Nelson to General Lindholm. Dated St. George,
June 12th, 1801. 3% pages 4to., with SuperScription and Seal.
‘I am very sorry to hear you complain of indisposition, but I sincerely hope
that a day's rest will perfectly recover you. As you promise me the favour of
coming on board the St. George very soon, I will not enter into the subject of
what has happened at Copenhagen till that time ; I have very much to say on
many things which are passing in that city.
“Respecting my permitting a Danish frigate to pass from Norway to Copen-
hagen, I beg leave to inform. His Royal Highness that I have no power whatever
to grant such permission. On the contrary, the Government of Denmark having
refused to allow of Norway being included in the armistice, I believe that there
would be no impropriety in any English man-of-war attacking them in the ports
of Norway, much less if they put to sea, as Denmark has refused the temporary
neutrality for that kingdom ; but I have no doubt the British Government will do
everything of that nature, which His Royal Highness may think proper to ask.
“Being on the subject of Norway, I think it my duty to ask that it may be
given in the name, and by the authority, of the Prince, an assurance that during
1801.] AVAEZSOAV PAPERS. I 55
the time which Sir Hyde Parker, and since the British Government, have given
permission for provisions to be sent to Norway, that no warlike Stores have been,
or will be, sent into Norway, and that no gun-vessels have, or will be, sent from
Norway to Copenhagen, during the time the kindness of the British Government
is continued to be received by the Danish Government.
‘Sincerely hoping that each country may see its true interests in uniting closer
than ever together, I have the pleasure to subscribe myself, your most obliged
and faithful servant,’ &c. .
“Should His Royal Highness wish to send a brig of war to England with
dispatches, the Commander had better receive a letter from me, in order to
prevent the possibility of any misunderstanding with the British cruizers in the
North Sea.” -
602. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated St. George, Kioge Bay,
June 13th, 18OI. I page 4to., with SuperScription and Seal.
‘I am sorry that I do not feel authorised to grant protection from detention the
ship you did me the favour to write about. Norway, being so entirely rejected
by the Danish Government, has been only fed by the kindness of the British
Government, and I have likewise the pleasure to tell you that I have received
directions to allow to pass the vessels which have passport from Sir James
Crauford to sail from the Elbe to the Greenland whale-fishing. I am going to
England in about two days, and if His Royal Highness has any despatches or
messages for Count Bernstoff, I will take charge of them with pleasure. I hope
I shall have the pleasure of seeing you before my departure, and of again assuring
you how much I feel myself, dear sir, your faithful servant.’
603. A.L.S. from Captain Louis” to Lady Hamilton. Dated “Minoſaur,
Off Alexandria, June 15th, 18OI.’ 4 pages 4to, [P.]
“Altho' a considerable time has passed since I had the honour of taking
my leave at Leghorn, believe me, I have not been backward in my inquiries after
your health and Sir William's, and I have very often thought of writing; but this
Country has been so dull since you left it that nothing but misfortunes and scenes
of misery have taken place, and the many comforts we used to enjoy at the
different places are now vanished, and, I am sorry to say, the French, with all
their villainy, have taken possession.
“I shall ever acknowledge the many kind attentions shewn me by you and Sir
William, and I offen, very often, regret the change that has taken place, and most
sincerely hope the new appointment of Sir William Hamilton will answer his
expectation, and which I most sincerely congratulate you both upon. The
Governorship of Malta, which we are informed for certain is given to Sir William,
may he live many years to enjoy it, and you to partake of every comfort. No
doubt by the time he comes out, we shall have peace, and with a little of your
good management, things may be brought round in this country, to make it
pleasant once more. -
‘Our valuable friend, Lord Nelson, has been adding new laurels; may he live
long to enjoy them. I have to lament my not going home, when I might have
stood a chance to have been one of his party : I like no better Company, I assure
you, I hope if this country is to fall, that it will be soon, then no doubt it will
be Minoſaur's turn to go to old England, when I shall have the pleasure and
satisfaction of paying my respects to you and all my friends. I beg my kind
remembrance to Sir William and Lord Nelson, when you see him. Miss Knight
I had a line from some time since. My best wishes to her and M* Cadogan. If
I can be of any service to you or Sir William in this part of the world, you have
* Captain (afterwards Sir Thomas) Louis, 1758–1807, entered the navy at eleven years of age,
served in America, and at the conclusion of the war in 1783, received post rank. He distinguished
himself under Nelson at the Battle of the Nile, was made a Rear-Admiral of the White in 1804,
again distinguished himself under Admiral Duckworth in the West Indies, and in 1806 was
created a Baronet.
156 7A/AE HA MVZ TO/V A/VD - [1801.
only to command me, and believe me with great truth, and every sincere wish
your much obliged and obedient humble servant,’ &c.
*P.S. Part of our army with Turks, &c., are near Cairo. I wish they were in it.’
604. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to General Lindholm. Dated St. George,
June 16th, 18OI. 2 pages 4to.
‘I have been favoured with your letter, and shall always feel the most perfect
esteem for you, as I am sure you must be the friend of the two countries—England
and Denmark—formed to love and to assist each other. The best friends may
quarrel ; but I trust we never can be real enemies. You forgot to answer my
serious question about Norway; for I trust both our nations have been upon
honour respecting the armistice ; and reports so injurious to Denmark have been
brought me—but which I never could give credit to, or I should, of course, have
asked some questions——such as, that instead of your fleet remaining precisely in
the same state they were at the signing of the armistice, they have been caulked
and fitted for service ; that even ships have been preparing as floating-batteries ;
that masts have been put in some of your ships, and many such stories—not one
of which I believe, for His Royal Highness has too just a sense of honour to
break his word and a sacred armistice, and I am sure neither yourself or General
Waltersdorff would have suffered it. The report arose from some Republican
rascal, I am sure, that wished to see all Monarchies overturned. May our
Monarchs send all Republicans to the devil is my sincere prayer. I beg, with
all humility, my humble duty to His Royal Highness ; assure him how strongly
I have ever expressed myself of his attachment to England, and of his declaration,
“that no power on earth should ever make him the enemy of England.” I rejoice
with you on the near approach of peace between our countries; and it must be
all our duties to turn all French Republicans out of our Monarchial Governments.
Ever, my dear sir, your most obliged,’ &c.
‘I hope yet to see you, according to your kind promise, as my successor is
not arrived.”
605. A. L.S. from the same to Mrs. Maurice Nelson. Dated July 2nd,
18OI. I; pages folio, with Superscription. [P.]
“I beg that you will stay at Laleham, with horse, wiskey, and keep every
convenience there to make your stay comfortable, and by Michaelmas you can
determine as to the mode and manner of your future residence. Nothing, be
assured, shall be wanting on my part to make your life as comfortable and cheer-
ful as possible, for believe me, with every respect and regard, your affectionate
friend,’ &c.
“I send hundred pounds, which you will accept from me.’
606. Copy of Letter” from the same to Sir John Orde. No date
(July I Ith, 18OI). 2 pages 4to. [P.]
“I return your pamphlet with many thanks for the perusal. I cannot but See
clearly the cause of Lord St Vincent's differences latterly with you—they evidently
took their rise from my being sent up the Mediterranean. The order you gave
out at Gibraltar in contradiction to the Commander-in-Chief, from the slow
approach of the Princess Royal, which hurt your feelings, and from the certainly
very wrong conduct of Captain Draper and Colonel Desborough relative to the
* The first few lines of this letter are in Dr. Nelson's handwriting, the remainder in Lady
Hamilton’s. It is published in Pettigrew.
f Sir John Orde, 1751–1824, entered the navy in 1766, served in America, and was promoted
to post rank in 1778. In 1783 he was appointed Governor of Dominica, in 1790 was created a
Baronet, in 1795 was made a Rear-Admiral, and in 1798 commanded at the blockade of Cadiz.
Some differences with Lord St. Vincent led to his publishing the pamphlet referred to. He
was made Vice-Admiral of the Red in 1804, and in 1814 was appointed Admiral of the White.
He was one of the pall-bearers at Nelson's funeral.
1801.] AVE/SO/V PAPERS. 157
marine. I can now assure you on my word of honour, that neither Earl St.
Vincent nor Lord Spencer were the original cause of my being sent into the
Mediterranean. The arrangement was made in April, '97, a year before I was
sent. It is plain that neither the First Lord of the Admiralty, nor the Commander-
in-Chief, thought it right to tell you the causes which naturally sent me in
particular into the Mediterranean ; and I verily believe that if Admirals with
flags of the main had been in the same situation as yourself, that I shou’d have
been equally employ'd in the Mediterranean. I own myself sorry that the
pamphlet was ever printed, and am glad that you saw the propriety of calling
them in ; for if answers had appeared by anonymous writers, you wou’d have had
to contend with a shadow. Excuse my observations on your book, and believe
me,’ &c.
607. A. L. S. (in English) from Count Walterstorff to Lord Nelson.
Dated Copenhagen, July 13th, 1801. 24 pages 4to, [P.]
“I learn by the newspapers with great pleasure your Lordship's safe arrival in
England, and that your health is so far re-established as to have permitted your
Lordship to take again your seat in the House of Lords. We were in hopes that
your Lordship would have favoured Copenhagen with a visit, previous to your
sailing for England, and I anticipated the satisfaction of finding an opportunity
to return my best and respectful thanks to your Lordship for your very kind letter
to me of the 16th June, and for the distinguished favour you have conferred on
my son, by sending him your picture in a very good print, a sketch of your life,
and the medal struck in memory of your Lordship's victory of the Nile. The
advice to my son, which accompanied that present from your Lordship's hand, is
what my son will, I hope, when six or eight years older, put a still greater value
on, and what will make a deep impression on his mind.
“It must give every friend of England and Denmark equally pleasure to see
peace and harmony restored between the former Power and those of the North,
though, as a Dane, I confess I could wish that my country had been led back to
its former connexion with Great Britain in a more gentle manner, and less by the
sudden impulsion (if I may be permitted that expression) of another Power. It
is, however, always a great consolation to know that we shall enjoy peace, and
that short and unfortunate as the war has been for Denmark, it has not shewn
the character of the Danes in an unfavourable light.
‘I wish very much I could make a trip to England for the sake of my health,
and spend next wintcr at Bath. It would naturally make me still more happy to
go there in a diplomatic character, and I flatter myself my conduct would be such
as to entitle me to the esteem and confidence of his Britannic Majesty's Ministers;
but I suppose that Count Wedel, who before the late unfortunate quarrel between
our two Governments, was Envoy-Extraordinary from our Court, will do his
utmost endeavours to get re-appointed. I cannot, however, give up the hopes
of paying my respects to your Lordship in England, and of renewing to your
Lordship the assurance of the high regard I feel for your personal, as well as for
your public, character, and of the sincere and respectful attachment with which I
have the honour to be, yours,’ &c. -
608. Doc. S.* from the Lords of the Admiralty to the same. Dated
July 26th, 18OI. 9 pages folio. [P.]
‘Whereas intelligence has been received that considerable preparations are
making by the enemy on different parts of the coast between Dieppe and Ostend,
and that a great number of boats and other craft, calculated for the reception of
troops, have been collected, particularly at Boulogne and Calais, for the purpose
of making a descent on some part of this country; and whereas by Our Commission
bearing date the 24th instant, we have appointed your Lordship Commander-in-
Chief of a squadron of his Majesty's ships to be employed on a particular service,
* The signatures appended are those of Lord St. Vincent, Admiral Troubridge, Admiral
Markham, and the Secretary, Mr. Evan Nepean.
I 58
TA/E HAM/1. TON AND [1801.
intending to place under your orders the ships of war and craft described in the
inclosed list, and such others as may hereafter be sent to you, to be employed in
the defence of the mouths of the Thames and Medway, and all that part of the
coasts of Sussex, Kent and Essex, comprised between Beachy Head and Orford
Ness ; your Lordship is hereby required and directed to proceed without delay to
the Nore, and hoisting your flag on board either of the said ships or vessels that
you may find there, carry these our orders, and such farther orders and instructions
as we may judge it necessary to give you, into execution.
‘On your arrival at the Nore, you will communicate with Vice-Admiral Graeme,
and inform yourself from him of the arrangements he has already made, and the
various orders and instructions which have been given by him to the several
Captains and Commanders of the ships and vessels appointed for this particular
service, and having gained such information as you may be able, you are to lose
no time in satisfying yourself how far the officers so employed are conducting
themselves in obedience to those instructions, and whether the ships and vessels
are in all respects fitted, stored, and manned, for the performance of the Service
for which they are designed.
‘And whereas the Corporation of Trinity House has placed a proper number
of vessels at the buoys and beacons in the channels leading to the Thames and
Medway for the purpose of sinking or destroying them, in the event of the
approach of the enemy, and one of its officers to superintend and direct the
proceedings of the persons employed on that service; your Lordship is to arrange
such a plan with the officer so employed as may in your opinion be most effectual
for that purpose, and in the event of his finding it necessary to cut away and sink
the beacons and buoys, to place such craft on the shoals as may be requisite for
Securing to us the advantage of the navigation.
‘And whereas it is judged expedient that some of the ships and vessels under
your Lordship's command should be placed in the different channels, for the
purpose of more effectually obstructing the passage of the enemy into the Thames
or Medway, your Lordship is to consider of the stations the best adapted to that
purpose, and so station any of the ships and vessels under your command that
may be best calculated for that purpose in such channels, giving their Commander
the necessary instructions for the regulation of their conduct under the different
circumstances that may arise ; and in order the more fully to explain our ideas
to your Lordship on this head, we annex a chart, shewing the disposition made
of the force employed for the same purpose in the year 1798, with copies of
instructions given to the Commanders of some of the ships and vessels so
employed, and though we conceive the plan then settled generally to be well
deserving your attentive consideration, we do not confine your Lordship to a
similar disposition, intending, that you shall, after you have made yourself
completely master of the subject at the spot, and taken the opinion of such
persons as you may think it necessary to consult, adopt such a plan as, upon a
full consideration of all the circumstances, you may judge to be most advan-
tageous for the public service. -
“When your Lordship shall have made your arrangements for defending the
passages of the Thames and Medway, and also made a disposition as may appear
necessary for the protection of those parts of the coast of Essex and Suffolk within
the limits of your command, you will proceed to the Downs, and make such a
disposition of the force intended to be actively employed as you may judge most
advisable for blocking up or destroying, if practicable, the enemy's vessels and craft
in the ports wherein they may be assembled, or if they should be able to put to Sea,
for destroying them : in the former case your Lordship will have the advantage of
no less than seven bomb vessels, which will be prepared in all respects for service
with all possible expedition, but which ought not to be brought into action until,
after visiting the coast of France, your Lordship shall be satisfied that they can
be employed with effect : in the latter case it must be obvious to your Lordship
that by attempting to capture the numerous vessels and craft of the enemy, the
object will be totally defeated, and therefore some expedient must be found if
they cannot be destroyed, of effectually disabling them, and rendering them
incapable, by depriving them of the means of pursuing any direction they would
be likely to take even for the purposes of reaching the nearest shore.
1801.] NELSOAV PAPERS. 159
‘We have ordered the Amazon to be prepared for the reception of your Lord-
ship's flag the moment she shall arrive at the Nore, but before she can be ready
for that purpose, or indeed at any time hereafter, your Lordship will feel yourself
at full liberty to hoist it on board any other ship or vessel of your Squadron, and
proceed from time to time to those parts either of the coast or of this country
within the limits of your station as you may judge most convenient to enable your
Lordship to execute the important service entrusted to your care.
‘And whereas Admiral Dickson has ordered His Majesty's ship Ruby to be
placed in Hosely Bay for the purpose of defending that part of the coast, your
Lordship is at liberty to send any orders or instructions to her Commander that
you may judge necessary, until we shall be able to make such an addition to your
force as to enable you to station a proper ship in that bay in her stead.
“When your Lordship shall have arranged the whole of your plan, you are to
transmit a copy thereof to our Secretary for our information, and acquaint us,
through him, from time to time of your proceedings, and of all occurrences which
may take place that may be worthy of our knowledge.
‘Given under our hands the 26th July, 1801.”
609. A. L. S. from Mr. Angerstein” to the same. Dated Lloyd's,
July 30th, 18OI. Ił pages 4to. [P.]
‘Fortunately I have had an opportunity of getting acquainted with the manner
that your Lordship acquired your last very severe illess, the consequences of
which might have been so fatal to the country in the loss of so very valuable a
life as that of your Lordship. I informed the committee for the sufferers of the
glorious action at Copenhagen the particulars, and they have directed me to
inform you that they have voted five hundred pounds to be laid out in plate, in
such a manner as you will please to direct, as a small token of their gratitude for
the extraordinary exertions of your Lordship in that ever-memorable victory. I
am, my Lord, your,’ &c.
‘P. S. The Committee have voted £60 per annum long annuities to M*
Mosset and her children, and £500 to Sir T. B. Thompson.’ſ
610. A. L. S. from Alexander Comelate to the same. Dated Trieste,
August Ist, 1801. 2% pages folio. [P.]
‘I had the pleasure in addressing your Lordship, since the month of March
past, my humble respects, which I hope safe with your Lordship, and being this
a memorial day for me—being this twelve months that we landed here with your
Lordship from Ancona, from which place I have been driven away, and all my
property hath been confiscated by order of General Muratt, and the famous thief
of General Paulett has robbed my house and broke all the best pictures, particu-
larly the Flage/ſation (that was in your Lordship's bedroom in my house) and the
Mativity, saying, “I leave the frames for your English Lords,” &c., tho’ very lucky
I was to make the escape in company with Honblº Mr Wyndham, and very near
lost on board the Fortune Neapolitan frigate, for to work out of the harbour of
Ancona with N. wind. Mrs Comelate, & two of my eldest daughters here with me ;
my eldest son, Edm", Mitchman on board His Majesty's ship EZ Corso, three
more in the college, and four more girls in the nunnery in the country, far
* John Julius Angerstein, 1735–1823, a merchant and philanthropist of Russian extraction
who settled in England at the age of I5. He entered as an underwriter at Lloyd's, and it was
by his exertions and personal influence that old Lloyd’s Coffee House was evacuated and the
modern Lloyd's established. His collection of pictures formed the nucleus of the National
Gallery. The above letter is written in his capacity as a Member of the Committee of Lloyd's.
† The widow of Captain Mosse, who fell in action on the 2nd April.
# Captain, afterwards Sir, Thomas Boulden Thompson, 1766–1828, attained post rank in
1790, distinguished himself at the Battle of the Nile, after which he was knighted and had a
pension of 4,300 a year conſerred on him. He commanded the Belloma in the Baltic, and lost
a leg in action shortly before the date of the letter, after which his pension was increased to 4,500
per annum, he received the thanks of Parliament, and was created a Baronet and G.C. B.
160 7A/E A/A MA / TO AV A/VD [1801.
from Ancona. I am here employ'd by His Majesty's ships' commanders in the
Adriatic as their agent, and I have been likewise employ'd for the transports for
Malta, which are all safe arrived. The present situation of Ancona is in a state
of misery in account of the greatest contributions and stop of commerce. The
affair of the Bu// Dog when captured hath been a great mortification to my family
when there. The Mercury boats were very near to compleat their gallant manoevre,
but the wind quite against 'em and the vessel near to the shore, made the French-
men retaken the same with their gunboats, and the Mercury could not do any
assistance whatever to his boats & brave seamen. Two hours after the Bu// ZXag
carried into the Port, the French made pay the inhabitants two thousand dollars
for damages for cables, &c. 175 my house paid, and they have made a solemn
protest, if they shall lose the same, & the three Neapolitan frigates with national
colour, the inhabitants, they shall pay for the whole ! Is any bestiality in this
world more than such bruts upon the hearts 2
‘The British forces in the Adriatic are the following :-
The Mercury ... Thos. Rogers, Esq.", Comº & Senior Officer.
The Champion ... Lº Wim Stewart, ditto
The Greyhound ... Chas. Ogle, ditto
The Resource ... Thos. Crispe, ditto
The EZ Corso ... Wm. Ricketts, ditto
The Muzzzze ... Wm. Hoste, ditto with his best compli-
ments and respects
to yr Lordship.
The Renommée ... W. Kealy, ditto ) at present at Fiume for
The 7%eſz's ... W. Baker, ditto to protect a convoy to
The Strombolo ... Anw Thomson, ditto Malta with stores.
“By said Andrew Thompson, your Lordship will receive the enclose letter,
left with me the other day before his departure.
‘I take the liberty in recommending myself to your Lordship's protection and
assistance, & I don’t doubt your Lordship will forsee when any place vacant for
a Consulship, & will remember me amongst your Lordship's humble servants. I
have the honour to be your,’ &c.
611. A. L. S. ſron Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated Medusa,
August 4th (1801), off Boulogne. I page 4to., with Superscription
and Seal. [P.]
‘Buy the house at Turnham Green, I can pay for it. How can you be angry
with me 2 I do not deserve it. Conscious of that, I think no more of your
reproaches. Respecting the seal, it is your pleasure that I have it; you said,
“She has no right to it,” none has a right to me but yourself. I took it as you
desired, & now to be abused. But I forgive you, though my heart is almost
broken. Damn that Christie, how negligent he has been, for ever your,’ &c.
‘I have not a moment.
‘IO,OOO kisses were due.”
612. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Medusa, Margate
Roads, August 7th, 1801. 24 pages 4to., with Superscription
and Seal. [P.] -
‘Pray send the enclosed for me. I arrived here yesterday evening, and
received your kind letters from the Downs of the 5th. I am vexed that such
a racket should be made of these triffling things—consider, that when I do
my utmost they are boats of fifty or sixty tons; but I ever have done my
best... I grieve, my dear Emma, to hear you are unwell. Would I could do
anything to comfort you ; try and get well. We shall all meet at Naples
or Sicily one of these days. I thank Castelcicala for his affle note, and
send him an answer. To-morrow morning I go over to Hosely Bay or Har-
1801.] AVELSOAV PAPERS. I61
wich, to see what is to be done with the Sea fencibles on that coast. I have
given directions to Captain Gore” (or rather requested) not to let anybody come
into the ship but who had business with me, for the Medusa would be full from
morning till [night]. Fifty boats, I am told, are rowing about her this moment, to
have a look at the one-armed man. I hope Rev" Sir will be satisfied with
the new patent, as it is taken from Hilborough on purpose to please him, and if I
leave none, he must breed stock from his own place. A letter tomorrow will find
me at either Hosely or Harwich ; perhaps Troubridge will send it for you. With
my best regards to Mrs. Nelson, and the Duke, and Lord William, believe
me,’ &c.
‘Captain Gore is very good to me, for I must be a great plague to him. Parker
is very well, and much to do. I delivered your message to Allen. He says he
has no fear for his wife whilst she is with you.’
613. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Medusa, Harwich,
August IOth, 18OI. I? pages 4to., with SuperScription and
Seal. [P.]
‘Your letter from Margate I received last night, and those from the Downs
yesterday morning. [I have them all, admire them all, and when you do not
scold me I am the happiest man alive, and only rely that I never deserve it.
You know my quick temper, and cannot bear false accusations.] Although I
cannot get to London yet, I hope that the business of the house will go
on. I should think the purchase would be the best, then I should collect all
my little matters together. Having arranged all my business here, at noon I
am going to the Nore. I may be there two days, but it is impossible to say. I
wish I could fix any time or place where I could have the happiness of meeting
you, but in my vagabond state I fear it is impossible. I think I could have
come to London for a day to arrange about the house, without any injury to
the King's service ; but patience, my dear Emma, and ever for ever be assured
I am,’ &c.
f “Best regards to the Duke, Lord William, Mrs. Nelson, and all our real
riends.’
614. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Medusa, at sea,
August 14th, 18OI. I pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘The fever which I had seems fallen in my head, which is much swelled, and
my poor teeth pain me very much. I fear my letter will not be in time for the
post to-day, and to-morrow likewise, the winds and tides fall out so cross that the
vessels cannot get over the same day, therefore, do not expect one ; you know I
will write and send over if it is possible, but we cannot command the winds &
the waves. Do not be uneasy about me, as I told you yesterday there is at this
moment no service for a Vice-Admiral ; but, my dear Emma, your good heart
fancies danger for your friend, and a more true-hearted one does not exist than
your faithful,’ &c.
‘I am obliged to send off the cutter, and have not a moment.
‘The cheese arrived safe and excellent. Send to some good wine merchant
for three dozen of the best champagne, and order to the Downs by waggon,
directed on board the Amazon, or I shall have nothing to give you, and that
would be shameful in me who receive all good things from you.’
* Captain, afterwards Sir John, Gore, 1772–1836, entered the navy very young, and became
a Post-captain in 1794. In 1799 he assisted in the capture of the Santa Brigida and Zheſis,
homeward bound with treasure from Vera Cruz, and of enormous value, his share alone amount-
ing to upwards of £40,000. This circumstance again occurred in 1804, when his squadron
captured three Spanish frigates carrying specie and cargo of the value of upwards of a million
sterling, Gore’s share being again at least £40,000. He was knighted in 1805, was promoted
to be Rear-Admiral in 1813, was made K.C.B. in 1815, Vice-Admiral in 1825, and in 1827 went
on a special mission to the Mediterranean after the battle of Navarino,
VOL. II. M
I62 THE HAMILTON A WD [1801.
615. A. L. S. from Captain Ball to Lord Nelson. Dated Minorca,
August 17th, 1801. 4 pages 4to, [P.]
‘Our friend Hallowell, who has had the misfortune to be captured by Gant-
eaume's squadron, is arrived here, and will proceed immediately to England,
where on his arrival he will pay his respects to your Lordship, and communicate
the many interesting naval and military operations which have been transacted
since you left us, and he will assure you of the ardent wish of the navy to see your
Lordship command once more in these seas. -
‘I enclose a copy of a letter from Lord Hobart” expressing his Majesty's
approbation of my conduct at Malta, and that he is pleased to give me a
thousand pounds for my loss of prize money. Had I not landed at Malta,
your Lordship would have given me the Sanne friendly protection and advantage
which you gave to the other Captains, who made from eight to sixteen
thousand pounds, while I was at Malta ; had I remained in the Alexander
I should have received three thousand pounds for the captures made before
Malta. With respect to precedent, Governor Phillip receives £500 a year for
his services at Botany Bay. Lord Minto has a handsome pension. I certainly
do not put my services in competition with those of Sir Sidney Smith ; but when
these gentlemen receive such handsome rewards, and I only get one thousand
pounds to make up for the loss of several thousand pounds, I must think
that his Majesty's Ministers do not know the difficulties I have had to
encounter. They have appointed a Mr. Cameron Civil Commissioner of
Malta, and the line is distinctly drawn between the civil and military
departments. This gentleman has never been in a public situation ; he is
in distressed circumstances from a mercantile house, in which either he or his
father was concerned, having failed. He married a sister of Lord Errol’s,t whose
interest procured him this situation. The Maltese are astonished at this arrange-
ment, and that so little deference is paid to their wishes, and the great injustice
done me ; particularly after Mr. Dundas’s declaration in his letter to General
Pigot, an extract of which I enclose herewith. If Government suppose that the
Commissionership is a recompence, I shall regret having applied for it. I have
written for leave to go to England, in the hope that I shall, with the assistance of
my friends, obtain at least a full indemnification for my losses. Tyson is still at
Malta. I shall join him in a few days, and then proceed to Gibraltar. I wrote
to your Lordship about him several months since. I am under great obligations
to him for the assistance he has given me, which I fear has prevented him joining
your Lordship, by which he will be a great sufferer. I believe he has never
received a line from your Lordship since your arrival in England.
‘Adieu, my dear Lord. My very best respects to my worthy and good friends
Sir William and Lady Hamilton. With the greatest respect,’ &c.
616. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Sir W. Hamilton. No date (Deal,
August 19th, 18OI). 24 pages 4to. [H]
‘I have received by Captain Hopkins of the Sãeedwell cutter your letter of
the 12th, and I shall be glad to shew him any civility in my power, but I fear,
from the nature of his vessel, I shall not have much intercourse with him, as
probably he will be stationary, and I am always on the move. I rejoice to hear
that your Welsh expedition has given you all the satisfaction you could have
expected from it, and I wish I could have met you in Piccadilly, but the Admiralty
will not give me one day’s leave of absence, although I never thought of my own
interest or comfort when they called me forth. But as they have refused me the
pleasure of coming to London, they cannot stop you from coming to Deal, which
* Robert, Lord Hobart, afterwards 3rd Earl of Buckinghamshire, brother of the 2nd Earl,
whom he succeeded in 1804, 1760–1816 (?), a statesman and diplomatist. Governor of Madras
from 1793 to 1797, Secretary of State for War and the Colonies from 18OI to 1804, joint Post-
master-General from 1806 to 1807, and President of the Board of Control from 1812 to 1816.
+ William, 15th Earl of Errol, 1772–1819, succeeded his brother, the 14th Earl, in 1798.
His third sister Margaret married Charles Cameron, Esq., and died in 1832.
1801.] AVAE/LSOAV PAPAEA’.S. I 63
I hope you and our Lady and Mrs. Nelson will do, as soon as your affairs will
allow you. It will give me great pleasure, and will delight poor dear little Parker,
therefore, for charity’s sake come down. My movements are as uncertain as the
wind, or rather are directed by the damned French. A number of their boats
got into Calais from Dunkirk yesterday morning. Hoping very soon to see you
here, and my lady may take the benefit of sea bathing, and if any place may be
called stationary for me, it is the Downs. Earnestly hoping Soon to see you,
believe me, my dear Sir William,’ &c.
“I beg my compliments to Mr. Greville.’
617. A. L. S. from Colonel Stewart to Lord Nelson, Dated Weymouth
Camp, August 21st, 18OI. 4 pages 4to. [P.]
‘The anxiety and interest with which I have entered into the spirit of your
Lordship's late gallant attempt against the Boulogne fleet must apologize for my
intruding this letter upon time more seriously occupied than even the perusal of
it can, perhaps, afford. I know not how it is, but somehow or other I do not
feel comfortable at the not having requested your Lordship more particularly to
have taken me with you on the late occasion, although out of my line immedi-
ately, and liable to have created jealousy, had I been honoured with anything like
a considerable share of friendship ; be it as it may, I cannot read your Lordship's
letter, accompanied by our dear Parker's, without tears coming in my eyes, and
wishing that I might at least have borne some share in the danger which
surrounded that gallant young friend of your Lordship's on the late occasion.
How true it is that fortune is a capricious dame, and favours our attempts in
this world only when she pleaseth. Those only who understand where to attach
glory to the attempt and to enterprize, and not fo success, can fully feel all that
they ought to feel, or enter into the grandeur of the action which last Saturday
night took place. How strongly does that admirable line in the tragedy of Cato
come to our minds, when he says, “’Tis not in man to command Success, Sem-
pronius, we'll do more, we'll deserve it.” After having been on this occasion not
so fortunate as to have been of any use under your eommand, if chance or
situation can still, my dear Lord, bring me, in any manner, with or without may
willing fellows, into play where you lead, I shall be made one of the happiest of
soldiers, for, much as I before wished to accompany your Lordship, more anxious
do I feel now than ever, since the Goddess of Fortune has seemed to shew an
inclination to be ill-natured, and to dare us to still harder trials. I am an
individual who, from my situation in life, and from my turn of feelings upon
certain subjects, feel not perhaps more desirous to preserve myself beyond this
war than many of my contemporary officers. Without being tired of the world,
I, perhaps, attach not that idea of value to it which is so much felt, and am of
that turn of mind which induces a man sometimes to look forward to a long, dull,
and lingering decline, as in the main less enviable than a more rapid exit from
this world, tinged with a moderate degree of honour.
‘I am doing my utmost to bring my young regiment here into a state worthy
of being called upon by your Lordship, wherever their Services may be useful.
My Baltic party has at length joined me, and with heartfelt sincerity, (my friend
Beckwith at their head,) submit their hopes of remembrance to you. With the
same feelings, I beg leave to subscribe myself,’ &c.
618. A. L. S. from Lieutenant Withers to Lord Nelson. Dated H.M.S.
Kent, Aboukir Bay, 4th September, 18OI. 24 pages 4to., with
Superscription. [P.]
‘Presuming on your Lordship's attention to those who formerly have had the
honour of serving with you, I am encouraged to trouble you on the present
occasion. The surrender of Alexandria, and the entire conquest of the country
by the exertions of our army and navy, will, I doubt not, afford your Lordship
very great satisfaction.
‘It has been my good fortune to tender to a detachment of our army under
I64 7THE HAM/Z TO/V AAWD - [1801.
Major-General Coote,” a piece of service that hath called forth the acknowledg-
ments of the General, and have met with the approbation of Lord Keith and Sir
Richard Bickerton ;t to the latter, and to the Honourable Captain Cochrane, i.
I am under great obligations for the very handsome manner they were pleased to
represent my service to the Commander-in-Chief, but excepting the zeal by which
I was animated, I am sensible they were over-rated. The copies of the letters
which passed on the occasion, I have the honour to enclose, for your Lordship's
perusal; they will inform you of the nature and extent of the service I have had
the good fortune to perform. It may be proper to observe that the survey and
offer to lead his Majesty's ships into a harbour very little known, was a voluntary
act of my own, the survey of the channels being at the time a service I was not
employed on, or had any connection with.
‘Our boats had been driven from the survey of the middle channel by the
enemy, and the Arab Pilot had refused to conduct the ships through any other, when
it occurred to me that, as the enemy's attention seemed to be directed against the
survey of the middle and eastern channels only, the western might be examined
without being materially annoyed by the guns of Marabou. I was resolved to
try, and was lucky enough to succeed in the attempt, and in consequence had the
satisfaction to lead the squadron, under the order of Captaine Cochrane, through
the shoals to a safe anchorage in the harbour of Alexandria. By transmitting this
account to your Lordship, I hope to obtain your approbation of my conduct, as it
was under your auspices I entered his Majesty's service, and under whose
command I have principally served. I cannot but look forward to a time when
I may again have the honour of serving with you. Wishing you the continuance
of your health, I have the honour to be,’ &c.
619. A. L. S. (marked ‘confidential ') from Mr. Evan Nepean to the
Same. Dated Admiralty, September 9th, 18OI. 2 pages
4to, [Pl.] -
“A plan has been in contemplation for attempting the destruction of the Dutch
squadron at Helvoet, and some communications have taken place with Admiral
Dicksons on the subject. The person whose opinions have been taken is Captain
Campbell|| of the Ariadne, who, I understand, is an intelligent, enterprising man,
* General Sir Eyre Coote, 1762–circa 1824, entered the army at the age of fourteen,
became Captain in 1778, served in America and the West Indies, was made Major-General in
1798, and in 1800 was appointed to command a brigade in the Mediterranean, and conducted
the blockade of Alexandria. In 1802 he was elected M. P. for Queen's County, and in 1805 was
made Governor of Jamaica. His later life was marred by ill-health and eccentricity, and he was
eventually dismissed from the army. - &
f Sir Richard Hussey Bickerton, 1759–1832, son of Rear-Admiral Sir Richard Bickerton,
entered the navy in 1771, and took post rank in 1781, was promoted to be Rear-Admiral of the Blue
in 1799, was employed in the blockades of Cadiz and Alexandria, and superintended the
embarcation of the French army on the surrender of that place. In 1804 he was made Rear-
Admiral of the Red, and second in command in the Mediterranean, from 1807 to 1812 he was
one of the Lords of the Admiralty, and was made a full Admiral in 1810.
# Admiral Sir Alexander Forrester Cochrane, 1758–1832, younger son of the 8th Earl of
Dundonald, became a Post-captain in 1782, and in 1799 was appointed to the Ajax, and served
under Lord St. Vincent in the Channel, and afterwards in the Mediterranean. He became
Rear-Admiral in 1804, and for some time commanded the squadron off Ferrol, in 1806 had a very
important share in the battle of St. Domingo, was appointed Governor of Guadaloupe in 1810,
and in 1814 to the command of the North American Station. He died suddenly in Paris, and
was buried in Père-la-Chaise.
§ At the date of the letter there were two Admiral Dicksons, William and Archibald,
brothers, both of whom died in 1803. The one referred to in the letter was probably the
younger, Archibald, who was created a Baronet in 1802.
| Admiral Sir Patrick Campbell, 1773–1841, first distinguished himself by capturing a
French frigate at Dunkirk in 1800, which won for him post rank and his appointment to the
Ariadne. He was made a Rear-Admiral in 1830, Commander-in-Chief at the Cape from 1834 to
1837, was made a K.C.B. in 1836, and became a Vice-Admiral in 1838.
I8o I.] AVE/CSOAV PA PAEA’.S. I65
and not likely to take up the subject lightly, being very well acquainted with the
port of Helvoet.
‘The inclosed paper contains Admiral Dickson, or rather Captain Campbell's
idea of the nature and extent of the force to be employed on this enterprise. It
is wished that your Lordship would consider the subject in all its points, and if
you think the plan to be practicable, there will be no difficulty in sending Captain
Campbell to you. If it should be agreed to undertake it, your Lordship must
leave it to Lord St. Vincent to make some arrangement with Admiral Dickson
for placing it under your Lordship's direction. I cannot send your Lordship the
plan of Helvoet to-day, but you shall have a very good one to-morrow.
“Believe me to be,’ &c.
620. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Messrs. Marsh, Page, & Creed. Dated
September 15th, 18OI. I page 4to, [P.]
“I believe I have wrote before sufficient for you to pay to the order Messrs.
Booth & Haslewood, six thousand pounds, in part payment of my purchase
of a little farm at Merton. I shall also want money for to purchase several
articles. When this money is paid, I will thank you to send me my account.
Pray, have you received any pay for me since I went to sea in January 2 I believe
I have drawn for none. If I continue this command much longer, ruin to my
finances must be the consequences, for I am called upon, being thought very rich,
for everything, beyond any possibility of my keeping pace with my rank and
station ; but, rich or poor, I shall always consider myself your obliged,’ &c.
621. A. L. from the same to Lady Hamilton. No date (end of
September, 18OI). Ił pages 4to., with Superscription (“Mrs.
Thomson, care of Lady Hamilton.’
‘I came on board, but no Emma. No, no, my heart will break. I am in
silent distraction. The four pictures of Lady H* are hung up, but alas ! I have
lost the original. But we part only to meet very soon again; it must be, it shall
be. (Turn over.)
‘My dearest wife, how can I bear our separation ? Good God, what a
Change I am so low that I cannot hold up my head. When I reflect
On the many happy scenes we have passed together, the being separated is
terrible, but better times will come, shall come, if it pleases God. And to
make one worse the fate of poor Parker. But God's will be done. Love my
Horatia, and prepare for me the farm. If the furniture will suit, we must get
other; there are sales every day. My head is almost turned. Continue to love
me as Lady Hamilton does ; she knows my thoughts, and although this letter
is incoherent, yet she will explain it all. May the heavens bless you. Amen,
amen, amen.’
622. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Amazon, Sep-
tember 2 Ist, 18OI, ‘A past 7.’ 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription
and Seal. [P.]
‘My letter from Dr. Baird last evening, & from the Assistant-Surgeon at
4 this morning, again revive my hopes of our dear little Parker. He is free
from fever, and his stomach got rid of the sickness. He can speak, therefore I
hope the blood is forming again, and if the ligature can hold fast he may yet do
well. Pray God he may, in which I know you and all with you most heartily
join ; but I dare not be too sanguine. We have a good deal of swell, and it
blows strong, so that I cannot go under Dungeness, indeed, I know of no use I
am, either there or here. We can do nothing in future but lay at anchor and
wait events. I have wrote Lord St. Vincent strongly on the subject this day. A
gale of wind is brewing, and I think our communication with the shore will be
cut off. The moon is also eclipsed to-morrow. Would to God I was on shore
at the farm. I have sent to Mr. Dods to carry you a list of my things at his
166 TA/AE HAM/Z 7 OAV AAVD [1801.
house, and to receive your orders what is to go to the farm. I have not yet any
answer from the Admiralty on the subject of my last letter. Make my best
regards to Sir William, Mrs. Nelson, Mrs. Cadogan, &c., &c. To the Duke, and
all friends of ours, and for ever believe me, your,’ &c.
‘Yesterday, if I could have enjoyed the sight, passed through the Downs IOO
sail of West Indiamen. If Sir William had accepted Mrs. Lutwidge's bribe of
the ginger, I suppose he would now have got it, for Captain Beresford is arrived.
I send you verbatin a postscript of Admiral Lutwidge's letter : viz. “Remember
us to your friends who have just left you, when you write, with the sincere regret
we felt in parting with them.” I shall keep my letter open to the last moment.
‘AVoon. I have this moment your kind line from Rochester. I grieve at your
accident. I am obliged to send my letters now, for I doubt if a boat can go at
3 o'clock.’ -
623. A. L. S. from Mr. John Graeffer to Lord Nelson. Dated Bronté,
September 26th, 1801. 4 pages folio. [P.]
‘The letter dated London, July the 5th, your Lordship was pleased to honour
me with, I received under cover from General Acton, accompanied by one of his
Excellency’s own hand-writing, whereof inclosed I have sent a copy, to shew your
Lordship the attachment the General has for your welfare. Your letter, my Lord,
has not only quieted my mind of the fear that none of my letters had reached
London, but it has given both myself and Mrs. Graeffer the most heartfelt
pleasure and satisfaction to hear of your Lordship's health, after not only dis-
persing the Northern cloud that hung so heavy over Great Britain, but also to
change the affairs of whole Europe a second time, to the interest and welfare of
a country which every unbiassed man must and ought to love and adore. My
Lord, I feel proud to have the honour of being thought worthy by your Lordship
to take upon me the principal management of the Duchy of Bronté. I shall
always think it a glory to sacrifice both health and life for your advantage ; I flatter
myself that in a very few years your Lordshlp will find that my time has not
been foolishly employed in the improvement of your estate. It is true, my Lord,
and I own it, I am not the man that can augment the income of your estate from
six thousand ounces to thirty thousand pounds Sterling, either through
economical or political means ; of the first I have not aerostatical knowledge
sufficient to build castles in the air, and the second I detest abominably.
“Mr. and Mrs. Leckie and sister have made a stay with us above three weeks.
Mr. Leckie took an eight days’ political excursion ; he had a great inclination to
F. a woody, mountainous estate, not many miles from Bronté ; have since
eard the owner will not sell it, better for Mr. Leckie, although he does not think
so ; I am sorry for his thoughts. The farming utensils and cask with seeds are
not as yet arrived ; Mr. Noble, who had some interest in the ship, informed me
that the ship had put in at Mahon, and discharged her cargo there, on account of
the peace between France and Naples. I have written to Mr. Noble, and begged
of him to do his utmost to get these packages forwarded : I am very anxious
about them, particularly the seeds, as the season is already far advanced for
sowing. I hope your Lordship's repose from public employments will not be
long first, and your glorious and ever-memorable actions hasten a general peace.
We are very happy to hear of your intended unexpected visit, together with good
company, and to have the honour to kiss that hand which has written the Con-
firmation of this promise ; this is as true as the Gospel.
‘I hope we shall see your Lordship and company come as gentle shepherds
and shepherdesses, and peaceable ploughmen; rural amusement alone can be the
diversion here. I am very happy of the determination to stay some time with us
at Bronté. If those gentlemen that have a desire to come out to settle here, with
an intent to acquire a fortune by farming, they are mistaken ; but if they are
desirous to cultivate and improve a small farm by way of amusement, they may
live thereon comfortably without lessening their annual income, and this they
must not altogether expect, the first two years they are to study both soil and
climate. Your Lordship will please to give me leave to say without reserve
several difficulties will arise before a small English family of a decent income can
1801.] AVAE/LSOAV AAA’ EA’.S. 167
be fixed or situated comfortably on your Lordship's estate, or, to say more, on any
other in Sicily ; there is not a house on the farms (a very few excepted), for a
decent English family to live in ; they are for the most part hovels, it is therefore
necessary to build, either by the landlord or the new settler. The farmer in Sicily
lives in the town, and so do all the ploughmen and other husbandry workmen,
although many of the farms are about six miles distant from the town. This
accursed custom, detrimental as it is to the advantage of agriculture, yet does
not meet with any reproach. The farmer (except a few industrious ones) lounges
half the day about the market-place, and the labourer, if the wind blows a little
fresh on the Monday morning, is furl’d up, and does not venture to leave the
town to go to work, but stands in the street to listen to a cock-and-bull story;
when he moves he is half tired before he arrives at his work. This is another
difficulty for a new settler, particularly for an English constitution, not easily to
digest. Nothing would give me more pleasure than to have four or five English
agricultural families about us, I foresee it would in a short time change this most
odious and ignorant system of Sicilian agriculture.
‘It is in your power at present, my Lord, to do that for Sicily as a great pro-
moter of agriculture, then what you have done for this island as a great warrior.
I shall not trouble your Lordship any longer at present, because your great
national employment giveth you little time to attend to private affairs. But I
hope your repose is not very distant, as I understand there is great hopes of a
peace with France. I shall, in my next letter, my Lord, send you my observations
and thoughts of a remedy for the husbandry of this country. Your Lordship may,
perhaps, have an opportunity to converse with Arthur Young, Esq., on this subject.
Mrs. Graeffer joins me in duty to your Lordship, and I have the honour to be,’ &c.
624. A. L. S. from Charles Greville to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated Sep-
tember 27th (18OI). 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [H.]
“I see by the papers you and Ly H. are returned to Town. I hope you left
Lº N. in good health ; I make no doubt but your visit was comfort to him. I
intended to have wrote to you at Deal, and to have sollicited some news. By
the preparations on land it is probable that the intention of ye enemy, however
desperate, is not abandoned. If Lº N. gets within reach of them, honor will
attend him, as at the Nile. I use too cold a term for his glorious achievements,
but I have in my mind an anagram which has been handed to me from a clever
man at Tenby. I do not know whether he made it out, but it appears a good
motto for L* Nelson's peerage. Horatio Nelson gives the words Honor est a
AV:/o, & it appears so singular a circumstance as to be worth mentioning to you.
‘Pray inform me as to Capt. Parker's health. I was much concerned to see
in the papers that an amputation had at last been necessary, & his life in great
danger.
‘I have been unable to move about, & I am now pretty well and think of
returning to town. I have not finished Foley's business ; I find that the name of
Clark is alarming to them. Mr. Foley does not like trouble, and he wishes to
buy at the rate the farmers compound with the present renter of tithes. He pays
less than he ought to you, and he collects less than he might from the land ; it
was your idea that the lease should be sold at its full value, not charging any
extra to Mr. Foley for accommodation. I tell him I wish to hear on those terms,
& if he could name another person, of whom we could agree as to his fitness to
value, I made no doubt you would not insist on Mr. Clark. If he does not find
such a one, I will send for Clark, and after I have obtained his opinion I will
make the tender of the lease to Mr. Foley. If he finds a proper person, & I
approve him, &c., I will take his opinion, if Mr. Foley will engage to abide by it
also. I wish to oblige him, and I am sure you are induced to sell the lease for
that reason, added to the consideration of obtaining a penny for your penny loaf
I do not find the Foleys inclined to let you have the fields at Haberston in full
payº, Richard Foley made the purchase for himself and I shall not complicate
the business, tho' I wish I could obtain this intermix’d land for you.
“I beg you will remember me to Ly H. and Mrs. C. When you write to Ld
N., give my best comp” & wishes for his health & happiness.’
168 7 H.A. HAM/Z 7'OAV AAVO [1801.
625. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated Amazon,
September 28th, 18OI. 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription and
Seal. [P.]
‘We are going this noon to pay our last sad duties to dear good Parker. I
wish it was over for all our sakes, then we must endeavour to cheer up, and
although we cannot forget our Parker, yet we shall have the comfortable reflection
how we loved him, and how deserving he was of our love. I am afraid his father
is but in very indifferent circumstances; but I doubt if the Admiralty will assist
him, however, they shall be tried. I hope the Admiralty will direct all the
expenses of the lodgings, funeral, &c. to be paid—if not, it will fall very heavy
upon me. Pray write me when I am to direct my letters to Merton ; is it a post
town, or are the letters sent from the General Post Office P I wish I could see
the place, but I fear that is impossible at present, [and if I could you would
not, perhaps, think it right for me to come now Sir William is away.] I entreat
I may never hear about the expenses again. If you live in Piccadilly or Merton
it makes no difference, and if I was to live at Merton I must keep a table,
and nothing can cost me one-sixth part what it does at present, for this I
º: stand, however honorable it may be. May God bless you and believe
me,’ &c.
“If the wind is to the westward, I shall go to Dungeness, but you must not, by
Gore’s account, which I send, be surprized at not hearing from me regularly, but
you know I always shall write and send when it is possible. I only send this that
your dear friendly mind should be easy.
* Half fast one.—Thank God the dreadful scene is past. I scarcely know how
I got over it. I could not suffer much more and be alive. God forbid I should
ever be called upon to say or see as much again. Your affectionate letters are
just come, they are a great comfort. The worst, thank God, is past. I must have
plate, &c., at Davison's, and I agree with you that nothing but what is mine
should be there, and that Sir William should always be my guest. I told you so
long ago. I will find out what spoons, &c., I have, and send you a list to-morrow,
but to-day I am done for, but ever for ever yours,’ &c.
‘I will write to my Father to-morrow, and take not the Smallest notice of how
he disposes of himself.”
626. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Amazon, September
29th, 18OI. 3 pages 4to., with Superscription and Seal.
“I send by the coach a little parcel containing the keys of the plate chest and
the case of the tea urn, and there is a case of Colebrook Dale breakfast sett, and
Some other things. Mr. Dods had better go to the house, for he is Davison's
man. Will you have your picture carried to Merton P I should wish it, and mine
of the Battle of the Nile. I think you had better not have Sir William's books, or
anything but what is my own. I have sent in the parcel by the coach this day,
two Salt-cellars, and two ladles, which will make four of each, as two are in the
chest. You will also find spoons and forks sufficient for the present. If sheets are
wanting for the beds, will you order some and let me have the bill. I also think
that not a servant of Sir William's, I mean the cook, should be in the house, but
I leave this and all other matters to your good management. Would to God I
could come and take up my abode there, and if such a thing should happen that
I go abroad, I can under my hand lend you the house that no person can molest
you, not that I have at present any idea of going anywhere but to Merton. Do
you take black James P Do as you please. I have no desire one way or the
Other. Our dear Parker's circumstances are a little out of order, but I have
undertaken to settle them if the creditors will give me time, for the poor father is
worse than nothing. I have given him money to buy mourning and to pay his
passage home again. I trust in God that he will never let me want, for I find no
man who starts up to assist me. I can with a quiet conscience when all is gone
live upon bread and cheese. Never mind, so long as I have your friendship
warm from the heart. I have got some of dear Parker's hair, which I value more
1801.] AVAE ZSO/V PAPERS. I69
than if he had left me a bulse” of diamonds. I have sent it in the little box,
keep some of it for poor Nelson. * sº e
‘AVoon. Blows strong. I have just received your kind letters, they indeed
comfort me, and I hope we shall live to see many, many happy years, & ever
your,’ &c.
*To the Duke say everything which is kind.”
627. L. S. (in English) from Commander de Witterode to Lord Nelson.
Dated Hildburghausen, September 29th, 18O I. 5 pages 4to,
with Superscription. [P.]
“His Britannic Majesty, who sways the scepter with equal mercy and glory,
has conferred quintuple honours upon your Lordship. And all Europe, even the
ennemies of Great Britain, have applauded.
“To recapitulate these honours is superfluous, my Lord ; it is a task which
more particularly and more properly appertains to the Historian than to the
writer of this official letter.
“His Sicilian Majesty in like manner signalised his royal and friendly munifi-
cence, by conferring upon your Lordship very eminent dignities, to which, great
even and distinguishing as they are, you, my Lord, add a new lustre by the
acceptation of them.
‘Your Liege Sovereign, my Lord, has confirmed them. Thus did Her Majesty
Queen Anne confirm to the Great Duke of Marlborough the title of Prince of
Mindelheim, which the Emperor, immediately after the gain of the battle of
Blenheim, bestowed upon him. -
‘The gaining this signal victory, my Lord, was to Europe in that day what
the victory of Aboukir is in the present.
“The former preserved our continent, and saved it from the ambition of
Louis XIVth. The latter has had the same effect with respect to the Ottoman
Empire, and to more than one whole quarter of the globe.
‘The Sublime Port on this occasion has most worthily imitated the munificent
examples set by the Sovereigns of the Queen of Islands, and of the one which gave
birth to Archimedes. Nay, more. An order of knighthood—a distinction, my
Lord, unknown under the Turkish government—has been created purposely to
crown your triumphs. -
‘And now, a most illustrious and honourable equestrian body of the western
or holy Roman Empire is equally disposed, my Lord, to testify its individual
sense—and indeed, that of the whole German body—on account of such bravery,
of such distinguished conduct and valour, crowned by the hand of Providence and
of prosperous fortune.
‘’Tis to that end, my Lord, that I am authorised—nay, to a certain degree,
commissioned—to inform your Lordship.
‘That, in case the Equestrian, Secular, and Chapteral Order of Saint Joachim
is well assured that your Lordship will accept the dignity of Knight Grand
Commander thereof, it will, my Lord, as an everlasting testimony of the veneration
of that illustrious order, be unanimously offered to you.
‘This order, my Lord, was instituted, in 1755, by a band of illustrious princes,
of nobles of the highest birth, and of officers of the first rank in the German
Empire, and in 1790 it was solemnly recognised, and authoritically sanctioned by
his Imperial Majesty the late Emperour Leopold the Second.
“At present it is composed of His Highness the Grand Master, of His
Excellency the Grand Prior, of twelve Grand Commanders, all persons of
the first quality, of seventeen commanders, and forty-two knights, who are all
men of distinguished birth, or high military rank, or unquestionable individual
Inerit. -
“At this juncture, my Lord, His Highness Charles Ferdinand, reigning Comte
* A ‘bulse’ is a purse or bag for diamonds, and is used in that sense by Macaulay in
his History of England.
I7o TAZAZ HAM// TO/V AAVD [1801.
of Leiningen-Westerbourg, possesses or fills the dignity of Grand Master of the
Order.
‘In fact, no one can who is not a prince or independent sovereign of the
Empire; and such His Highness is, as well as the others. He enjoys his seat and
voice in the Diet of the Empire, and, with respect to antiquity, his family, my Lord,
is to be classed with the houses of Austria and Nassau previous to their being
invested with the imperial dignity. Certain am I, my Lord, that, as far as relates
to Chapteral orders, such as that of Malta, the Teutonic, and that of Saint Joachim,
which elect their own Grand Masters, it is not necessary I should observe to your
Lordship that a gentleman chosen in Gremic is allways the Grand Master of the
former, and that the same principle prevailed until the 13th or 14th centuries,
whenever there was question of giving a chief to the second. It is my duty, how-
ever, to observe that such never has been the case with regard to the latter. I
therefore repeat again what I have already said, that, in case the Equestrian,
Secular, and Chapteral Order of Saint Joachinn is well assured that your Lordship
will accept the dignity of Knight Grand Commander thereof, it will, my Lord, as
an everlasting testimony of the veneration of that illustrious Order, be unanimously
offered to you. -
“And, my Lord, since the father of your great minister (the late Lord Chatham)
did not think it beneath him to accept the freedom of many a small borough or
corporate town in England; since the Roman Consuls, Dictators & Emperours
did not disdain to take, and to have borne in their triumphs, the civic Crown
presented to them even by the smallest cities of that once great Republic, and
finally puissant empire ; and, my Lord, to remount still higher, since the Author
of our most holy religion did not consider the mite of the widow unworthy His
especial notice; so may we, and so let us hope, my Lord, that this spontaneous,
this voluntary tribute of respect and veneration on the part of an illustrious and
honourable corps of the German Empire will be deemed worthy of the acceptance
of that hero whose valour is surpassed only by his piety, and the constant practice
of every social virtue.
‘I have the honour to remain,’ &c.
‘The colour of the ribband is dark green ; the star is something like that of
the thistle.”
628. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated Amazon,
Dungeness, October 2nd, 18OI. 3 pages 4to., with SuperScrip-
tion. [P.]
‘I am sorry the lawyers should have been the cause of keeping you one
moment from Merton, and I hope you will for ever love Merton—since nothing
shall be wanting on my part. From me you shall have every thing you want. I
trust, my dear friend, to your economy, for I have need of it. To you I may say
my soul is too big for my purse, but I do earnestly request that all may be mine
in the house, even to a pair of sheets, towels, &c. You are right, my dear Emma,
to pay your debts—to be in debt is to be in misery, and poor tradespeople cannot
afford to lay out of their money. I beg you will not go too much on the water, for
the boat may upset, or you may catch an autumnal cold which cannot be shook
off all the winter. Wrap yourself up warm when you go out of the house, and for
God’s sake wear more clothes when winter approaches, or you will have the
rheumatism. I hope you are this moment fixed—damn the lawyers. [I am
not surprized at Mrs. Greene's loving you, who does not P for your heart
shows itself in your face, and such a face who must not love?] If black James
has no particular desire to come, I can have none to have him, he must be a dead
expense. You will do what is right, and I shall be happy in leaving every thing to
your management. I don’t wonder Sir William is tired of Warwick Castle. How
could he expect to find anything equal to what he left—he might as well have
searched for the Philosopher's Stone. Poor Mrs. Nelson, I pity her. She never
was so happy in her life, but the little woman will try and be with you again very
soon, and she will succeed. Tell me how I can do anything for you at this distance.
You command me, my dear Emma, & I obey with the greatest pleasure. Your
letters for the next two or three days may be directed for me here, but after that
18ot.] AVAE /LSO/V AAAAA’.S. - I7 I
to Deal. I have had dear Hardy on board all the morning, he is a good man and
attached to me; indeed, so is Bedford,” Sutton,t Gore, and others, but these from
no interested motive. Make my best regards to Sir William when you write; and
to Mrs. Cadogan say every kind thing, [and I hope, Emma, you take care of your
relative ; when you can get her well married & settled we will try & give her
something. Chº is a good boy, & your relations are ever those of your
affectionate & faithful],’ &c.
629. A. L. S. from Alexander Davison to Lord Nelson. Dated Swar-
land House, October 3rd, 1801. 2% pages 4to. [H.]
‘It is very often and justly observed, how serious a misfortune it is to outlive
those to whom we have formed an attachment. The loss of poor dear Parker I feel
most sensibly, having seen such proofs of the rectitude of his mind—the goodness
of his heart—the high sense of honour he possessed—all combined to rivet and
cement a friendship I had fondly hoped would have been of long duration. If
there be a better world, which we are taught to believe there is, he must be gone
there to enjoy it, and possibly relieved of troubles in this, had he survived,
as to have involved him in misery. Dear fellow—a more sincerely attached
friend you never had, his whole study and delight was how best to secure your
approbation of his conduct.
‘I heartily wish you were relieved of your present command, though however
honourable it may be, must, if it be continued for any length of time, wear you
down with fatigue and incessant anxiety. It will make me very happy when the
post bears me a letter of your being superseded.
‘I have been in Scotland with my sister, trying all in my power to support her
under the most afflicting calamity, nearly proving fatal to herself.
“If you have settled for the house in Surrey you write me about, I am sure you
must be in want of money to pay for it; and, lest that should be the case, I have
written to my Bankers, Messrs. Vere, Lucadou and Co., to honour whatever bills
you may draw on them, with orders to those gentlemen to charge the same to my
account. You may draw at sight on them whenever you please. In my absence
this will be the easiest mode for you making your payments. We are all well
here, and all unite in constant prayer for your happiness. God ever bless and
protect you,' &c.
630. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated Amazon,
October 5th, 1801. 3% pages 4to., with SuperScription and
Seal. [P.]
‘The weather is getting so very bad, that I doubt whether the letters can be
got on shore. I am half sea-sick and much vexed, but still if the Admiralty would
send me leave by telegraph, it should go hard but I would get on shore at Rams-
gate, or some where, nothing should keep me. It is hard to be kept here, but I
should be sorry to quarrel the last few days. Admiral Lutwidgeſ has offer'd to
dine at three o’clock, but if I dined it would be almost impossible to get afloat,
and all my wish is to get a-shore for good, as the folks say.
[“I am vexed but not surprized, my dear Emma, at that fellow's wanting you
for his mistress, but I know your virtue too well to be the [ —l of any rank
stinking king's evil ; the meanness of the titled pimps does not surprize me in
these degenerate days. I suppose he will try to get at Merton, as it lays in the
* Captain William Bedford was made a Post-captain in 1794, was in the attack off L'Orient,
was made a Rear-Admiral in 1812, and a Vice-Admiral in 1821. He died in 1827.
# Admiral Sir John Sutton, 1758–1825. He entered the navy in 1773, first distinguished
himself at Bangalore in 1780, and was promoted to post rank in 1782. He served under Lord
Hood in the Mediterranean, under Admiral Waldegrave in the Bay of Tunis, and fought at St.
Vincent. In 1804 he was made Rear-Admiral of the Blue, and in 1825 rose to be Admiral of the
White. In 1815 he was made a K.C.B.
# Admiral Skeffington Lutwidge, 1736–1814, one of Nelson's early preceptors, created a
ºal in 1794, at one time Lieutenant-Governor of Greenwich Hospital. He died Admiral
of the Red, * -
172 THE HAMILTON AND [1801.
road, I believe, to Brighton; but I am sure you will never let them into the
premises. Your virtue deserves a throne or a peasant, as they may be the
children of honor, not of infamy and disease. Do you think we shall soon get to
Bronté? I should be very happy, but I must first settle all my affairs in this country,
and Merton may become a dead weight on our hands, but more of this hereafter.]
‘Thank God it is peace—may the heavens bless us. Say every thing kind to
Charlotte*—hers is a nice innocent letter—and to Mrs. Nelson, and my brother ;
you know what to say. As to Mr. Addington's giving him any thing, I do not
venture to believe he ever will. I never had a kind thing done for me yet. As
the Order of Malta will be restored, I suppose now you and Ball will have permis-
sion to wear the order ; however, you shall abroad. I am vexed that you are so
much troubled to get into the house—I wish we were all in it. I shall only come
to town on particular business, or to give a vote on some interesting question, and
that in order to get something for my brother. I have not yet wrote to my father,
but I shall to-day. It rains dreadfully. Pray take care and do not catch cold.
You have not told me if you have seen Troubridge. Hallowell will call of course,
or he will behave very ill. Mr. Turner desires his thanks for your kind enquiries
(for I always say those things for you, as I am sure you do for me), and he will
certainly come and see you when he comes to London, and believe me,’ &c.
‘Your kind letter just arrived—it has quite cheered me up. May the heavens
bless you. I always send your remembrances to Admiral and Mrs. L. We must
think about Charles and Banti. Charles says he should like to get into a public
office, but I shall do everything you wish me for him. Pray God I may soon see you.’
631. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Amazon, October 7th,
18OI. 3% pages 4to., with Superscription and Seal. [P.]
‘I have just got your letter of yesterday, and am very angry with Mr. Hasle-
wood for not having got you into possession of Merton, for I was in hopes you
would have arranged everything before Sir William came home. I shall write
Mr. Haslewood to-day on the subject. The Peace seems to make no impression
of joy on our seamen, rather the contrary, they appear to reflect that they will go
from plenty to poverty. We must take care not to be beset by them at Merton,
for every beggar will find out your soft heart, and get into your house. Lord
George Cavendish has just been on board to make me a visit before he leaves
Walmer to-morrow ; if the weather is moderate, I shall return his visit and call
on Billy Pitt, as they say he is expected to-day. I intend to land at Walmer
Castle. But for this visit I should not have gone ashore till all was finished.
Make my best regards to Sir William. I hope he will be able in bad weather to
catch fish in the water you so beautifully describe. You must take care what kind
of fish you put into the water, for Sir William will tell you one sort destroys the
other. Commodore Sutton has been on board all the morning, but dines with
Admiral Lutwidge. [Bedford says his wife is an ugly likeness of Mrs. Lutwidge,
so you see that ugly women do get husbands, and Sutton is certainly a very good
looking man ; I recollect S.’s wife is niece to Lord Hotham.t] You will see
amongst my things return the round table and the wardrobe—extraordinary that
they should return again into your possession. You are to be, recollect, Lady
Paramount of all the territories and waters of Merton, and we are all to be your
guests, and to obey all lawful commands. What have you done about the turnip
field, duck field, &c. P. Am I to have them 2 I wish I could get up for four or five
days. I would have roused the lawyers about. The Isis is just coming in—
Sutton's broad pendant is to be in her. Yawkins] has just been on board, and I
delivered your compliments as directed. He always enquires after you and Sir
William, and he desires me to say that he wishes Sir William was now here, for
* Charlotte Mary Nelson, Lady Bridport, Duchess of Bronté, 1787–1873, only daughter of
the Ist Earl Nelson. She married in 1810 Samuel, 2nd Baron Bridport. According to the law
of Sicily, she succeeded to the Duchy of Bronté.
t Captain Sutton married Frances, eldest daughter of the 2nd Lord Hotham and niece of the
1st. She died in 1836.
# See note at page I75.
1801.] WELSON PAPERS. I73
there were never so many fish in the Downs. The beach for two days has been
remarkably smooth—not a curl on the shore. I shall send to Mr. Turner ; you
will win his heart by your goodness. Your going away made a blank in our
squadron. Dr. Baird is very much affected at receiving the cup ; it made him
really ill, so that he could not come to dinner, but he deserved it for his humanity.
Lord St. Vincent never, I dare say, gave him a sixpence. Best regards to Sir
William, Mrs. Cadogan, and all our friends. Yours,’ &c.
632. A. L. S. from the Rev. Edmund Nelson to Lord Nelson. Dated
Burnham, October 8th, 1801. 3 pages 4to,
“Upon the happy return of peace, I may, with a little variation, address you in
the words of an Apostle, and say, You have fought a good fight. You have
finished your military career with glory and honour; henceforth there is laid up
for you much happiness, subject, indeed, in this present time to uncertainty, but
in a future state immutable and incorruptible.
‘As a publick character, I could be acquainted only with what was made public
respecting you. Now, in a private station possibly you may tell me where it is
likely your general place of residence may be, so that sometimes we may have
mutual happiness in each other, notwithstanding the severe reproaches I feel from
an anonymous letter for my conduct to you, which is such, it seems, as will totally
seperate us. This is unexpected indeed. Most likely the winter may be too cold
for me to continue here, and I mean to spend it between Bath and London. If
Lady Nelson is in a hired house and by herself, gratitude requires that I should
sometimes be with her, if it is likely to be of any comfort to her. Everywhere age,
and my many infirmities, are very troublesome, and require every mark of respect.
At present I am in the Parsonage; it is warm and comfortable. I am quite by
myself, except the gentleman who takes care of the churches. He is a worthy,
sensible, sober man, and as far as rests with him, makes me very happy. I
cannot do any publick duty, nor even walk to the next house. But, my dearest
son, here is still room enough to give you a warm, a joyful, and affectionate
reception, if you could find an inclination to look once more at me in Burnham
Parsonage. I pray God to continue his blessings in all stations, places, and
undertakings,’ &c.
633. A. L. S. from Sir W. Hamilton to Charles Greville. Dated 23
Piccadilly, October 9th, 18OI. 5 pages 4to., with Superscrip-
tion. [H.]
“I received a letter from you while I was at Warwick Castle, from whence I
came yesterday, and found another here on my arrival. I am sorry by the first to
find you have been unwell. To answer the business part of the second, I have no
objection to finish the affair of the Bishop's lease and tythes with Foley according
to his proposal, with Mr. Hassall, of Kilwin, on his side, and Davies on mine. As
to a proper valuation, Davies must be a fool indeed if he cannot prevent my
being overreached by Foley's friend ; if he does not know how to judge of land
and tythes in Pembrokeshire, he can know nothing.
‘As to making any purchase of land at present, it is far from my thoughts. I
See as fast as I get money in my banker's hands, the housekeeping draughts draw
it off. I have a bill for wine only, since we came home, of near A400. I know
not what I am to receive from the Treasury, nor when, but a few thousands at my
command will always be agreeable, and prevent the dread I have of being dunned
in my old age.
‘As to the business of the dock, & your lawsuit, & Mr. Jacob's bankruptcy, and
my giving instructions to Mr. Buck, I am in total ignorance, & therefore do not
choose to meddle ; whenever you think my name can be of use, as I have a
dependance of your knowledge and judgment, I give you leave to make use of it.
When you say it will not require less than ten or twelve thousand to compleat the
works, I am frightened. You must get out of the scrape as well as you can. Was
I rich I should certainly be happy to contribute greatly to the immediate prosperity
I74 7TAZA. AAA/V/L7'OAV AAV/O [1801.
of Milford, which, I am sure, will, in a few years of peace (which, thank God, we
have now), become a great mercantile town. When I sent Lord Milford’s letter
to Lord Pelham, I mentioned my having been witness, a few days before, of the
abandoned state of the harbour, & danger the ships which were building incurred,
shou'd even a French privateer resolve to destroy them ; that either a guardship
should be immediately sent there, or the purposed fort or battery be immediately
raised. I have been ten days at the Castle; I am delighted with the improve-
ments there. There was no visitor but my old friend Fouquier; he went a shoot-
ing, and I a fishing, and his Lordship a farming daily. The Avon is either
poached to death or spoilt. The lake is too immense for an angler to find where
the fish lie. I went to Blaken Mill ; I fished Wise’s and Greathead’s water, I had
not 6 bites in IO days, and caught only 4 jack, the largest 2; pounds. Some good
pearch and such abundance of roach & dace at the mill as cannot be described, &
which circumstances convinces me that the fish of prey are not near as plenty as
when Nussene and I attacked them 40 or 50 years ago. Your brother often spoke
of you with affection, and I told him you did so of him. However, entre mous,
altho’ I was delighted with the local & the charming family, I was bored to death
by his Lordship's eternal talk & Stories, chiefly of himself, as to strength, bravery,
knowledge of improvement, so as to be actually now one of the richest men in
England, having paid all his father's & his own debts, & then by a parenthesis
(except one to me, which by accident was yet unpaid), and then went on with
great composure in the same rhapsody of incoherent boasting. In short, I should
be ungrateful if I did not feel the affection shown me, during this visit, from all
the family, but it would drive me mad was I obliged to live a month with him ; he
does not give an echoe fair play. I gave him, however, 2 or 3 hints that he should
allow other people to say a word now and then, by which I got in a good story or
two of mine, but alas ! I fear he is on that part incorrigible, and, as he sees only
persons that are bound to listen to him, he will go on talking to all eternity. This
is really the true picture. As I believe you know, Emma sent an express with
news of peace, by which, tho’ I paid, L* W. gave the Corporation the news IO
hours before the regular arrival. Yours,’ &c.
634. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated Amazon,
October 13th, I80 I. 3% pages 4to., with SuperScription and Seal.
‘Sutton and Bedford would fain persuade me that by the post to-day the
Admiralty will give me leave to go on shore. I own I do not believe it, or
I should not begin this letter, for I should certainly be at Merton to-morrow
at breakfast: but they have no desire to gratify me. Thank God there is no
more than 9 days to the cessation of hostilities, after that they can have no
pretence. My complaint is a little better, and you cannot think how vexed I am
to be unwell at a time when I desire to come on shore, and to enjoy a good share
of health ; but in this season and in this place it is impossible that I can be free
from colds. The wind is set in very raw from the westward. Mr. Turner came
and dined, with me yesterday, and brought the trumpet with him, and he has
charged me to say how much he feels obliged by your kind remembrance of him.
This is the first time for five years that he has been on board.
‘F/even o'clock. The letters are arrived, and Troubridge tells me not to think
of leaving my station, so here I shall stay miserable, shut-up, for I will not stir
out of the ship. I told Dr. Baird yesterday that I was determined never to
mention to Troubridge's unfeeling heart whether I was sick or well. I wish to
my heart I could get to Merton ; I had rather be sick there than well here ; but,
in truth, I am so disgusted that this day I care but little what becomes of me. I
have this day received a curious letter from the Order of Joachim, in Germany,
desiring to elect me Knight Grand Commander thereof. I shall send it to Mr.
Addington, that he may give me his opinion, and obtain, if proper, the King’s
approbation ; this is very curious. Dr. Baird is just come on board. Although I
am not confined to my bed, I should be much better out of a frigate's cold cabin ;
but never mind, my dear friend, I See and feel all kindnesses and unkindnesses
towards me. Make my kindest regards to Sir William, Mrs. Cadogan and all
friends, and believe me yours,’ &c.
sa.
1801.] NELSow PAPERS. I75
‘Mr. Pitt has just been on board, and he thinks it is very hard to keep me now
all is over. He asked me to dine at Walmer, but I refused. I will dine nowhere till
I dine with you and Sir William. I am for ever, my dearest, only friend, yours,’ &c.
‘Sutton and Bedford desire their respects. If I am cross, you must forgive
me. I have reason to be so by great Troubridge.’
635. A. L. S. from the same to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated Amazon,
October 14th, 18OI. 2 pages 4to. [H.]
‘I am quite rejoiced to hear that you have got possession, and I assure you
every study of mine shall be to make you happy in it. I shall buy fish out of the
Thames to stock the water, but I bar barble. I shall never forget the one you had
cooked at Staines. Sutton, Bedford, Peard, and Hardy, are all determined to
come and see us, and I know that, as strangers, you would rather have well-
informed sea officers than any country squires, lords, &c. &c. The Admiralty
will not let me escape. I have now wrote a public letter, saying, that now the
service I was called for (to prevent invasion) is over, I beg their Lordships' per-
mission to go on shore, as I want repose. Old Yawkins* dined with me
yesterday; he always begs his duty. Your Milford cutter is returned ; I had
Mr. Hopkins, her Commander, to dinner; he has conducted himself very well
indeed ; he speaks much of what your Milford must be in a few years of peace.
If Mr. Greville is in town remember me kindly to him, and to the Duke and all
our friends. Believe me ever, my dear Sir William, your most obliged and
affectionate,’ &c.
636. A. L. from the same to the Admiralty. Dated Amazon, Downs,
October 14th, 18OI. I} pages 4to. [P.]
‘Their Lordships' appointment for my particular service being now done away
by the preliminary articles of peace, viz., to prevent the invasion of this country,
which service I have not only, by their Lordships' appointing so large a force to
serve under my command, been enabled effectually to perform, but also to be able
to acquaint you that not one boat belonging to this country has been captured by
the enemy; and as my state of health requires repose on shore, I have, therefore,
to request that their Lordships will, when they think the service will admit of it,
allow me permission to go on shore.’
637. A. L. S. from the same to Lady Hamilton. Dated Amazon, October
I 5th, 18OI. I page 4to., with Superscription and Seal. [P.]
‘I have wrote by the way of London ; but as your letter came regular, mine
may go most likely. The Admiralty will not let me move till after the 22nd, and
I have got a dreadful cold. I send you a letter for my father ; when read, send
to London, to be put in the post. I could not say less ; I hope you will approve.
Forgive my short letter, but the toothache torments me to pieces. Ever yours,’ &c.
‘Sutton and Bedford desire their best respects, and will certainly come and
eat your brown bread and butter.’
638. A. L. S. from Sir W. Hamilton to Lord Nelson. Dated Merton,
October 16th, 1801. 4 pages 4to. [P.]
‘We have now inhabited your LordP's premises some days, & I can now speak
with some certainty. I have lived with our dear Emma several years. I know
her merit, have a great opinion of the head & heart that God Almighty has been
pleased to give her ; but a Seaman alone could have given a fine woman full
power to chuse & fit up a residence for him without seeing it himself. You are
* A pencil note to this letter, written by Colonel Greville, conveys the information that Yawkins
had been once an outlawed smuggler, who volunteered as pilot to Nelson in the Boulogne
expedition when many hung back. Nelson never forgot this service, and procured him an
appointment in the Milford packet service.
176 7THAE HAM/Z 7TO AV AAV/O - [1801.
in luck, for in my conscience I verily believe that a place so suitable to your views
could not have been found, & at so cheap a rate, for if you stay away 3 days
longer I do not think you can have any wish but you will find it compleated
here, & then the bargain was fortunately struck 3 days before an idea of peace got
abroad. Now every estate in this neighbourhood has increased in value, and you
might get a thousand pounds to-morrow for your bargain. The proximity to the
capital, and the perfect retirement of this place, are, for your Lordship, two points
beyond estimation ; but the house is so comfortable, the furniture clean & good,
& I never saw so many conveniencies united in so small a compass. You have
nothing but to come and enjoy immediately; you have a good mile of pleasant
dry walk around your own farm. It would make you laugh to see Emma & her
mother fitting up pig-sties and hen-coops, & already the Canal is enlivened
with ducks, & the cock is strutting with his hens about the walks. 'Your
L”, plan as to stocking the Canal with fish is exactly mine. I will answer for
it, that in a few months you may command a good dish of fish at a moment's
warning. Every fish, if of any size, has been taken away, even after the bargain was
made, for there are many Troubridges in this world, but Nelsons are rare. I think
it quite impossible that they can keep you at Deal more than 3 or 4 days longer;
it would be ridiculous. This neighbourhood is anxiously expecting your Lap’s
arrival, and you cannot be off of some particular attention that will be shewn you,
of which all the world know that you have merited above all others. I enclose a
letter which I have received from Count Dillon O'Kelly, who supped with me at
Coblenzell's" at Prague. See how your merit is estimated on the Continent, and
shame be it that so little justice is done you at home. Be so good as to bring or
return the letter, as I must answer it. Adieu, my dear Lord & most sincere
friend I have in this world, yours,’ &c.
639. A. L. S. from Alexander Schenk to the same. Dated No. 5
Dufour Place, Carnaby Market, October 28th, 1801. 24 pages
4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“When the dread of almost inevitable ruin presses on a mind unused to the
pangs of misfortune, little appologie can be necessary for the confidence which
even a stranger may assume at a moment when his tottering character, the Sole
advantage he yet posesses, has no other support to hope but what his humble
intreaties may obtain him from the noble generosity of some unknown bene-
factor. Upon these pleas, my Lord, I dare to address you, and tho' you may for
a while condemn the boldness of a stranger, still I trust you will not refuse me
your compassion, too conscious of the very great liberty I take by thus impor-
tuning your Lordship, I should be fearful of intruding still more upon your time
were I to enter into a detailed enumeration of the different causes that have
brought on my present embarrassment which I would submit to your Lordship's
Consideration with the greatest readiness, could I but dare to flatter myself that
this first application would excite the pity of a man whose noble liberallty even
exceeds the glory of all his victories.
‘For the present it may suffice to assure your Lordship that my confusion has
arisen neither from vice or hainous debauch, but merely from imprudence, and is
more particularly owing to my invariable attachment to a woman whose former
unhappiness and her motherly affection for a child whom she values more than
her own life, have so endeared to me that I would with the greatest content
rather submit to any disgrace or sufferings than that they should know my
distress or feel its horrid consequences. Momentary but immediate relief only
can Save me from destruction, and the small sum of fifteen or twenty guineas for
a space of six months would not only provide for me & those dear objects whose
welfare rests on my own means, but moreover leave me time to use my best
endeavours for a speedy and compleat arrangement of my affairs which my
present situation in a commercial house of the first rank would enable me to do
* Louis, Count von Cobenzl or Cobentzel, 1753–1808, an Austrian diplomatist, who took a
leading part in the most important negotiations of the period.
1801.] MELSOA PAPERS. 177
ere long, while should my distress unfortunately come to light my character
would be totally undone by the exposition of my errors. Thus circumstanced,
my Lord, and without a single friend to whom I could apply for help allow an
honest hearted Stranger to beg for your kind assistance. Did I not feel just fear
to appear before your Lordship, I should most certainly have presented this in
person ; but since I dare to place my most sanguine hopes on your noble generosity
I trust my fervent request will meet with equal condescension, & if I should be
fortunate enongh to obtain relief and save my honor through your unbounded
benevolence, let me assure you before-hand, my Lord, of my most lively and ever-
lasting gratitude, having the honour to sign with great respect.’
640. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to the Rev. Mr. Hoste. Dated
November 2 Ist, 18OI. I page 4to., with SuperScription.
“I beg leave to thank you, and Sir Wim and Lady Hamilton have charged me
to do the same for your munificent gift of game. Your dear son Will” has not had
justice done him. If I was either Commander-in-Chief in the Med”, or first Lord
of the Adºy he should be post this day, for no man in the Med” has half deserved
it so much as Willm. Get Lord Cholmondely to ask Lord St. Vº for the latter, as
everybody loves Willm. If I had interest I would be truly happy to employ it on
such a good occasion. Sir Wim & Lady Hamilton join with me in every good
wish to yourself & family, and believe me, dear sir, yours much obliged.’
641. A. L. S. from Colonel Dillon” to Lord Nelson. Dated ‘Hamburg,
chez Vogelbusch, der Neue Hall, No. 32' (December 2nd, 18OI).
I} pages 4to., with Superscription and Seal. [P.]
‘I had the honour of writing to you in August last, but as politics are altered
since then, my plans are now different and we are come to this town. Your
Lordship seemed to interest yourself about me when here, & indeed it is in your
power to render me a most essential service. I shall now, at the peace, be put
upon half pay, which loss to me will be very material. Also my brother takes no
notice of us who is so affluent, which grieves me much, as I have 3 children to
maintain and only 200/. per ann. from my family. I should hope your Lordship
would interest yourself for me, & what would help me & make us happy would
be to be named a Secretary of Legation at any court on the Continent, or even
a Chargé d'Affaires. Your Lordship could not be refused it by asking Lord
Hawkesbury for such a place ; if that cannot be obtained I should be glad to be
named a consul anywhere, so that I could get through life to support, & give
Some education to my children. I can assure you, my Lord, you will not bestow
your interest on a person who will feel more grateful than myself. We shall be
proud to owe the obligation to So great a character as your Lordship.’
642. A. L. S. from Sir W. Hamilton to Charles Greville. Dated Merton
Place, December 5th, 18OI. 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription and
Seal. [H]
‘We were all disappointed at not having the pleasure of seeing you here
yesterday, and sorry for the cause. Whenever you can come, with ease to
yourself, Lord Nelson desires me to tell you that it will give him the greatest
satisfaction. He really loves you. Many thanks for the moor game. We eat
One yesterday, and it was excellent.
‘I do not see any chance of our being much in town until after Xmas. I shall
go to attend my particular business at the Museum or Royal Society occasionally.
* Henry Dillon, 1759–1837, third son of the 2nd Viscount Dillon, at one time Colonel of
the 3rd Irish Brigade. He married first Miss Francis Trant, by whom he had three children:
Charles Henry Dillon, 1808–1890; Maria, who married in 1821 His Serene Highness the Duke
of Croy Dulmen, and died his widow in 1827; and Charlotte. -
WOL. II. N
178
THE AIAMAZTOW AND [1801.
This air & early hours seems to agree with me, & to get over the winter tolerably
in this climate is a great object to me at my time of life, & accustomed to a much
better climate. When was Davis to remit the rents due at Michaelmas to Messrs.
Coutts P Nothing has yet arrived, and I am living upon one of the IOOO!. Stock
sold out, and I find nothing is to be got out of the Treasury; for this reason also
I am anxious to finish the business with Foley, that I may not be distressed in
looking out for money to pay the current expenses of our house. If we had given
up the house in Piccadilly, the living here would indeed be a great saving.; but,
as it is, we spend neither more or less than we did. My hopes are, that Addington
will find out some remedy towards cleansing the civil list, for really at my time of
life, & with the idea that Government has handsomely rewarded me for 37
years' services & made up my losses, it is cruel to find myself in the situation I
am at present, & should have been worse if I had not kept Mr. Hope's little bit
of paper; but you know well all my affairs, & have a much better head for money
affairs than I have, & I am sure you will do all in your power to prevent my being
unnecessarily distressed.
“Emma expects you here Monday or Tuesday; but come when you think
best, & do not risk your health. I have not heard yet from the castle, but
indeed the 1st week in December is not quite over. Adieu, yours with true
affection,’ &c.
‘P.S.–If any sort of Catalogue of my books is made out, I should be
glad to have it.’
643. A. L. S. from Rev. Edmund Nelson to Lord Nelson. Dated
December 13th, 1801. 2% pages 4to., with SuperScription. [H]
‘The little addition you are likely to make to your landed property will, I
hope, bring some further pleasure and domestic comfort, such as the real comfort
of a private and independent life must consist of, and every event which you are
so good as to communicate to me, which is likely to increase your happiness, adds
a prop to my declining life, and the little incidents, even of indifference, which
Lady Hamilton politely communicates to me, are at all times very acceptable.
Your sister’s daily care in watching my infirmities, and rendering them as easy as
in her power, I feel with delight. She is, as usual, chearful, often regretting not
having been able to see you, and even still she and Mr. Matcham] meditate a
visit at Merton for a day or two to wait upon Lady Hamilton and yourself, if the
weather is tolerably good, and she herself can prudently undertake such a journey
five or six weeks hence, when the bairns are all returned to their several
academies. The box came safe as did the plaid — very hansome. Lady
Hamilton, accept my thanks for her care about it, to whom, with Sir William,
present my respects, as also to the whole party. I am,’ &c.
“By enclosing a letter now and then, I would not infringe upon your privilege.”
644, A. L. S. from M. Walterstorff to the same. Dated 59 Baker
Street, December 16th, 18OI. 3 pages 4to. [P.]
“When I left your Lordship last I expected that, having passed a whole day in
the most agreeable manner and in the most amiable company, I should find the
following days very tedious and disagreable ; so indeed I found them, even more
so than I expected, owing partly to my cold and cough being very bad. Your
Lordship can easily guess—at least Lady Hamilton can—who more particularly
has made my stay here unpleasing, to say no more. I have, however, had the
satisfaction, in spite of his wishes and predictions, to get everything settled to my
satisfaction. Mr. Swinburne has been appointed Commissioner on the part of the
Pritish Government to deliver the Danish Colonies to me; he goes out with me
in the frigate from Portsmouth. Mr. Addington received me with that affability
which distinguishes him. I am, however, much mistaken if I do not owe, in a
great measure, the kind reception I met with to the favourable opinion a certain
greatman has given that Minister of me. Lord Hawkesbury treated me with all the
politeness becoming a Minister for foreign affairs, and I have found it a very
pleasant and agreable thing to have business to transact with Lord Hobart, who has
1801.] MEZSON PAPERS. 179.
entered into these arrangements which I proposed to his Lordship with great
liberality and in the most conciliating manner. I flatter myself that his Lordship
has been pleased with my frankness and simplicity. Lord Hobart and Lord
Hawkesbury have, both of them, shewn the greatest disposition to fill strictly and
honorably the stipulations of the Convention of St. Petersburg. This is all I had
to wish.
“Having nearly completed all my business here, it was my intention to have
gone this morning to Merton to pay my respects to your Lordship ; but Count
Wedel having unexpectedly determined himself to go to Court, I accepted his
proposal to present me to-day at the Levee. This has obliged me to give up a
more agreeable plan. To-morrow I shall be obliged to go to the Drawing-room.
But if no business, that is to say, no rendezvous with any of the ministers
interferes, I hope to have the pleasure of taking breakfast with your Lordship on
Friday ; but I shall be obliged to be back again for dinner, having an engagement
for that day. It is my plan to go on Saturday to Hylands and spend a day with
my sister, to return on Sunday, and to set out for Portsmouth on Monday.
Excuse, my Lord, my having filled two pages of this letter by talking of myself,
and by giving your Lordship an acct. of my proceedings. Your Lordship may be
assured that nothing but my indisposition, added to a great deal of business, has
prevented me from paying you my respects. I am therefore afraid that, having
been so long a time without renewing my visit, I shall almost have again become
a stranger, if not to your Lordship, at least to Sir William and Lady Hamilton.
I must therefore request the favor of your Lordship to remember me to her
Ladyship and to Sir William, in the same manner your Lordship used to do
before I had the honour of being introduced to them. The sincere regard and
respect which I feel for your Lordship will also, I hope, recommend me to
your friends.
“Permit me, my Lord, to renew to your Lordship the assurance of the unalter-
able attachment with which I have the honour to be,’ &c.
645. A. L. S. from the Rev. E. Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated
December 2 Ist (18OI). 2 pages 4to., with Superscription and
Seal. [P.]
‘The intelligence you have trobled yr self to communicate to me respecting
the lad Cook, vexes me more than a little, as I am concerned that any act of mine
should have given any the least anxiety, or for a moment interrupted the domestick
quiet of my good son, who is every day so affectionately showing marks of kindness
to me ; but the idleness of youth, and their easiness of receiving bad examples,
are not to be guarded against. The lad’s mother must also be very much greived,
and his brother is greatly disapointed by this rash act, who I think is too good a
youth to have given any advise so contrary to their mutual interest. But I hope
it will blow over, without much blame, on my recommendation, who would avoid
whatever should hurt or bring expence upon so good and benevolent a mind.
“Even the severity of the season, which makes many a poor creature, such as
myself, to shake, gives much pleasure to the skating parties, so that I hope all,
in their turns, have their hours of enjoyment at a season when all the Xtian
world do celebrate with songs of praise the return of Xmas. Long may you
all feel the happy influence of such an event here, and the inestimable benefit of it
hereafter.
‘My son will excuse my asking him to direct the enclosed : “Mrs. Cook,
Spread Eagle, Ipswich, Suffolk.”
646. A. L. S. from Mr. H. Ross” to Lord Nelson. Dated Rossie Castle,
N. B., December 23rd, 1801. 3% pages 4to, [P.]
“Ten thousand thanks for my dearest friend’s kind letter of the 17th. The
* Mr. Hercules Ross was a Jamaica friend of Lord Nelson's, and whose son was Nelson's
godson.
7 HE HAM/Z7 ON AAVD [1801.
intention of receiving Mr. Macdonald's visit I receive as a proof of friendship, and
highly gratifying to my feelings. At the same time, my dear Lord, do not conceive
the introduction much more than a matter I could not without rudeness refuse to
the very pressing solicitude of a father ; by this I would not be understood to
damp the son's interest, when it can be conveniently promoted, but that I would not
for any consideration, have your Lordship urged to ask any favour, and this hint
I have been anxious to convey, without loss of time, having experienced myself
the length to which Mr. Macdonald’s zeal will carry him in his son's cause ; and
having taken the liberty of introducing this gentleman, I think it proper, before
dropping the Subject, to again repeat that I have always considered him very
Communicative, intelligent, and certainly a man of honor.
‘As I trust it is unnecessary for me to be very reserved, I now proceed to
observe that some hints in your Lordship's letter have given me uneasiness. I
think I perceive all is not well, and that my noble friend is not so completely
happy as I ardently wish him.
“No interest, and only looking forward to another war to attain that to which
you are so well entitled by your glorious achievements I don’t understand this,
but I understand perfectly that there is but one voice in the nation, and that
loudly proclaims to you the first and most honourable place in its annals.
“Betwixt ourselves, I wish we were a little nearer together. I have the vanity
to think that that judgement and knowledge of mankind which you formerly
thought well of hasn’t yet suffered any decay.
‘Although an overmatch for the enemies of your country, you are not so for
the d d insidious arts in many public departments. Look into history, and
you will find this to have been eternally the case with the heroes in every age.
‘I mark your letter dated Merton—a villa, I suppose. I would it had been
from Norfolk Estate, by Norwich, which, I see, is advertised for sale ; that would
have been a fine & valuable field for employing your leisure. Most of the London
villas are pick-pocket possessions.
“Just about your Lordship's time of life I commenced farming. Happily I had
purchased a good subject to work upon ; however, in process of time it exhausted
my funds. New houses to all the farms, of a superior kind, were first constructed.
A new mansion, in the ancient castle style; new church to correspond; and public
roads and bridges came in for a share. We are now promoting the commence-
ment of a new town upon a small island of ours, where we have—or rather our
father, Mr. Parish, has—enabled, by a loan, a company of merchants to erect a
capital dry dock, and to begin a shipbuilding establishment. It is formed, the
island, by an inlet of the N° Sea of abundant depth of water.
‘I have insensibly been led into this detail, but as much as to say that into a
similar pursuit I would wish to see your attention directed, and, for a time, distant
from Courts & that busy haunt of men—London. And yet, altho' thus recom-
mending, to that same place my good wife thinks of carrying me, three or four
months hence, in compliment to our eldest daughter, now in her 15th year, who
has had the benefit of the first masters on the Continent for music and languages,
and now Mrs. Ross is desirous of having a few weeks of the most eminent London
O1162.S.
“So I here again, my Lord, you are introduced to our domestic business, and
who knows but I may have your Lordship's company in bringing the ladies back
to their quiet home ; & for your encouragement I can truly say it has ever been
to me an happy one, and I believe one more so will rarely be found. In fact,
your Lordship's handsome eulogium on the parents of darling Horatio, has
prompted me to be so very communicative. Mrs. Ross desires me to say she
regrets your Lordship's having made the smallest apology for not writing, and here
let me be clearly understood, once for all, I do not desire your Lordship to write,
altho' I may often scribble. Certainly it will be highly gratifying to me if, now
and then, on a rainy, vacant day, you shall happily be in the humor to write a few
lines—and here I relinquish to Mrs. R. your next letter, be it when it may, that
she, in replying, may have an opportunity of telling what a capital boy is her
Horatio, &, believe me, he is a charming fellow.
‘And now, my dear Lord, I shall relieve you from this tittle tattle by only
adding our united best respects.” • *
1801–2.] NELSON PAPERS. I81
647. A. L. S. from Mr. R. Bulkeley to the same. Dated Ludlow,
Friday, December 24th, 18OI. 3 pages 4to. [P.]
“When I requested Lady Hamilton to write out the songs for me, I am not
sure if her Ladyship understood me as wishing to have the music belonging to
them. I must therefore rely on your influence to procure me that additional
favour. I should prefer the music for the piano forte or the harp. I look with
much pleasure to the probability of my being called to London in the spring, as I
shall then have an opportunity of passing a few days at Merton, and thanking
Lady Hamilton personally for taking the trouble which I am giving her. As the
Songs and music will be much too large for the post, have the goodness to let
them be made up in a strong farcel, well sealed, to be forwarded by the Ludlow
mail coach, and booked in London at the Coach Office. And now, my friend, I
must ask another favour of you, tho’ I am aware it is of a nature not the most
pleasing to you ; however, you may be assured that you have not, upon any public
or private occasion, complied with a similar desire, when the complyance can
have been more gratifying than it will be to your very old and most sincere friend.
Now them, to the point. When I was in London, I was at Mr. Eldridge's, in
Mazgaret St., where I saw some admirable likenesses, well and ea/editiously
executed. You, I understand, sat once to him for my brother-in-law, Sir Henry
Englefield.* What the devil tempted you I know not, but I hope that my influence
upon the present occasion, will not be less than the devil’s or the Kº's. Two
sittings will be sufficient if you have patience to sit an hour each time, and three
if you can’t confine yourself to a chair for such a length of time in one day.
Present my respects to Sir Wºº & Lady Hamilton, and believe me,’ &c.
648. A. L. S. (in French) from the Queen of Naples to the same. No
date (1802 P). I page 4to. [P.]
‘Cette lettre vous sera présentee par un enfant qui m'est bien cher. Jelui
envie le plaisir qu'il aura de vous voir, je suis bien affligée que ma maladie
m'empêche de vous exprimer toute mon estime et ma reconoissance. Cet enfant
doit servir dans la Marine ; j'espère qu'il suivra vos traces, et qu'il pourra un jour
acquérir au moins une partie de votre gloire. Mon cher Leopold a exprimé,
selon son âge avec des pleurs, le déplaisir qu’il avoit de ne point connoitre encore
un si brave homme comme vous, que pour Satisfaire a son ardent désir, je l'ai
envoyé ici, où il vous dira que je souhaite très fort de me porter bien, pour vous
dire combien je vous suis reconoissante, car c'est un sentiment qui est bien gravé
dans mon coeur, et leguel je conserverai toujours pour un homme si illustre.
‘Croyez que ma recconoissance estime pour vous, mon valeureux et glorieux
Général, m'accompagnera au tombeau.’
649. A. L. S. from Don Gaetano Scerlini to the same. Dated Girgenti,
January 12th, 1802, 3 pages folio. [P]
He asks whether a former letter, congratulating his Lordship on the victory at
Copenhagen, has been received, and profits by the present opportunity to express
his gratitude for past benefits, at the same time reminding Nelson of his having
provided provisions for the troops and navy, and of his having sent special infor-
mation to the ministers at Malta and Palermo entirely at his own expense. For
all these and many other services he was allowed to wear the “Dragon” by
Nelson, with the promise that his Britannic Majesty would confirm it. He begs
Nelson to have this order confirmed with corresponding rank and a fitting pension.
He closes with humble expressions of devotion to Nelson and the nation.
* Sir Henry Charles Englefield, 1752–1822, an antiquary and scientific writer. He suc-
ceeded his father in the baronetcy in 1780, but never married, and the title became extinct. He
was for some time Vice-President, then President, of the Society of Antiquaries, and was a
Fellow of the Royal Society. IHe made many antiquarian, astronomical, and philosophical
communications to various journals on the subjects. Charles Fox is said to have declared that
he never left his company uninstructed, -
182 - 7A/A2 AAAZZZ 7 OAV AAV/O [1802.
650. A. L. S. from Mr. James Anderson to the same. Dated Trieste,
January 18th, 18O2. I} page 4to. [P.]
“Flattering myself that your Lordship continues to entertain the same favour-
able opinion of me as formerly, I come forward with the enclosed paper, and take
the liberty of entreating your Lordship's protection in this, my request, to
Supersede a man publicly acknowledged incapable of fulfilling the duties of
his office.
“Should any malicious insinuations have been secretly thrown out against my
character, I confide too much in your Lordship's liberality to fear their influence,
and my conscience, thank God, is so far clear, that I esteem such meanness
beneath my notice.
‘As I demand no salary, which your Lordship will be pleased to observe, it
cannot be of any privation to Mr. Stanley, more especially as he wishes himself to
retire from office. If life and health permits, I flatter myself the happy day will
Soon come again to have once more the honor and pleasure of seeing your
Lordship in England before we die, which will be probably towards the middle of
March. Could I be of the least service to your Lordship in the meantime, with
any of the products of this country, beg to be freely commanded. I remain, with
all due respect and submission,’ &c. -
651. A. L. S. from Sir W. Hamilton to Charles Greville. Dated Merton
Place, January 24th, 18O2. 3 pages 4to. [H.]
“I return you, my dear Charles, the enclosed paper, with the additions you
wished for. My partiality to you, and the thorough confidence I have in you, in
spite of any attempts that have been made to disturb them, remains, and will, I
am confident, to my last moment in full force.
‘My visit to Milford last year convinced me of the propriety of all your
operations there, & which may still operate in my favour during the short time I
can expect to live, but must be attended with immense profit to my heirs
hereafter. You are perfectly acquainted with the present state of my finances,
and are giving me your advice & friendly aid to get me as soon as possible out
of my difficulties. I saw enough when at Milford, that was I to take upon me
the management of your plans there, I should rather do hurt than good, & you
know that I gave a publick testimony at the dinner there that I should continue
to give you the full power of acting for me after your having given such proofs of
your ability. Knowing as you do the whole of the dispositions I have made after
my death, I am sure it is quite unnecessary for me to repeat to you that I expect,
in cases of necessity, every assistance from my estate in Wales that it is capable of
affording ; but you will see whether such aid will be further necessary or not. It
is but reasonable, after having fagged all my life, that my last days should pass
off comfortably & quietly. Nothing at present disturbs me but my debt, and
the nonsence I am obliged to submit to here to avoid coming to an explosion,
which wou’d be attended with many disagreeable effects, and would totally
destroy the comfort of the best man and the best friend I have in the world.
However, I am determined that my quiet shall not be disturbed, let the
nonsensicall world go on as it will. I have now fully opened my mind to you,
my dº Chs. Yours,’ &c.
652. A. Draft of Letter from Lord Nelson to Mr. Addington. Dated
Merton, January 31st, 1802. I page 4to. [P.] -
‘I have received yesterday from Lord Elgin the letters and ribbons sent
herewith, and I have to request that you will have the goodness to lay them before
the King, in order that I may know his Royal pleasure as to wearing the ribbon.
This mark of regard from the Sultan has made a strong impression on my mind,
as it appears that the Battle of Copenhagen has been the cause of this new
decoration from the Porte. If his Majesty should, from regard to the Sultan or
honour to me, intend to place the ribbon on me, I am ready to attend his
Commands, but I own, my dear Sir, that great as this honour would be, it would
1802.] AWEZSOAV PAPERS. 183
have its alloy, if I cannot wear the medal for the Battle of Copenhagen at the
same time, the greatest, and most honourable reward in the power of our
Sovereign to bestow, as it marks the personal service of,” &c.
653. L. S. (in French) from Capitan Cadir Bey” to Lord Nelson.
Dated Alexandria, February 3rd, 18O2. 24 pages folio. [P.]
‘La présente ne serve que pour donner avis a son Excellence de ma santée,
& j'esperre à Dieu, que la Santée de son Excellence, de touts ces officiers et ces
Capitaines en soit de memme.
‘Le temps il ne me permettee pas a cause demes grandes auccupations d'écrire
a son Excellence pour lui présenter mes respects, mais a présente que je suis un
peu en repos je prend l'hardiesse de lui écrire la présente, & je prie que son
Excellence me fasse la grâce de ce maître en peine de m'écrirre deux mots par
premièrre Ocasion, pour Savoir l'état de la Santée de son Excellence, de touts ses
officiers & capitaines, qu'ils me son ci cher comme la mienne.
‘N’ayent rien de nouveau pour lui annoncée, je l'embrasse,’ &c.
‘Je prie son Excellº de faire mes respects a son E° le Ministre Amelton & tout
Sa respectable famille.” -
654. Letter from Baron d’Eiker and Ekoffen to the same. Dated
Bamberg, February 6th, 1802. 7 pages folio. [P.]
'The West of Europe has not waited for the signing of the preliminaries of
peace between Great Britain and France to testify to you its sentiments of
veneration for your Lordship's person. Long, my Lord, have you been the object
of its admiration ; your bravery, your personal virtues, your heroick actions, and
above all your miraculous successes with which Heaven has vouchsafed to crown
all your enterprises and ineffable modesty (the faithful companion and constant
associate of true courage) form, my Lord, a great union that merits every sort of
eulogium. -
‘Saviour of all that remains to us, of the religion and liberties of Europe, by
having gained the celebrated and ever-memorable battle of Abouckir (as in the last
age the great Marlborough was by that of Bleinheim) your Lordship has been
alternately loaded with the blessings of all honest men, rewarded by your
Sovereign and your country, reveered by your countrymen and distinguished in
the most conspicuous manner, and even beyond all example, by the Ottoman
Port and by His Majesty the King of the Sicilies.
‘Animated by such examples and excited by duty, the General Chapter of the
Order Equestrian Secular and Chapteral of St. Joachim has decreted, as long
ago as the month of September 1801, in virtue of the statutes of its Order,
unanimously and by acclamation, to invest your Lordship with the dignity of
Knight Great Commander of that Order.
‘This nomination, my Lord, took place in conformity to the 8th Article,
Section XII. of the Statutes of the Order, of which this is a copy:-
“Notwithstanding all the rules relative to the rights of passage, it is the
special and particular intention of this Order to honour and distinguish the
eminent valour and the great qualities that signalize those who render
themselves 2//usſrzozas in the career of arms. By this reason the Chapter has
the right to invest gratuitously with the distinctive marks of the Order all
those who have rendered themselves worthy of receiving such a proof, so real
and unequivocal, of the admiration of this Equestrian Corps, . However, it is
very expressly ordained that such investitures can be granted by only S. A.
The Grand Master of the General Chapter, and only £er zoza zamanzmeia.
Then the Diploma and the Emblems of the Order are to be forwarded,
franco, to the knight that shall have been elected in this manner.”
“At its proper time the said nomination was announced to your Lordship by
the Master of the Ceremonies, who was officially directed to acquaint you thereof.
But as it appears, my Lord, that your Lordship has not yet answered his letter,
and as consequently the affair is suspended, or at least, in a state of uncertainty,
* The Turkish Admiral,
184 THE HAMILTON AND [1802.
owing to your silence, I am therefore authorized by a conclustem żarticular and
extraordinary of S. A. J. The Grand Master and the General Chapter to
announce to you again the said nomination and election of your Lordship, and to
request your cathegorical answer thereon. In a word, we await your ulterior
decision as to this object. Having made use of the expression conclustem?
Żarticular and extraordinary I must desire your Lordship to take notice that
matters of this sort have no relation to my department, but belong to that of
Master of the Ceremonies, appointed for that purpose, otherwise I should have
glories in having the honour of notifying to you your nomination on the first
moment. -
‘As I presume, my Lord, that this Order may be unknown to you, or at least
not sufficiently known, I look upon it as my duty to inform you that it was
instituted in 1755 by some princes of the Holy Roman Empire, and by several
lords of the immediate nobility and of the High Capitular Nobility of Germany.
The greatest part of these illustrious persons were Protestants. The Order with
some exceptions, having been founded and established like the Teutonic Order,
and that of Malta, chose to itself a constitution conformable to all the principles
of true chivalry. It has above all its principal object to maintain the tranquillity
of the Publick, and to excite the highest degree of fidelity for the Sovereign to
whom you are subject or in whose service you may be engaged. From its first
institution the Order has had the happiness that many Sovereigns have granted
to their noble vassals the permission of being received into it and to wear the Cross,
and it was on the 23rd of June, 1790, that it was solemnly and authentically
recognised by his late Imperial Majesty Leopold II.,” and the 24th of April,
I791, it was recognised in a manner not less authentic and solemn by his late
Majesty, Frederick William II., King of Prussia,t who granted equally the above
permission to members of the Order in their service, and assuring them of their
protection. Lastly, his Majesty the reigning King of Prussiai has just recognised
the Order, having granted a permission dated the 18th June, 1801, to the Baron
de Stein d’Altenstein, his vassal, to be received into and wear the distinctive
marks of the Order.
“As to its present composition ; the Order of St. Joachim is under the Grand-
Mastership of S. A. J. M* the reigning Count of Leiningen-Westerbourg, Swho, in
his quality of reining Count is a state of the Germanick Empire and enjoys all
the rights of Sovereignty conformable to the constitution of that empire. After
the Grand Master there is a Great Prior. The number of Grand Commanders
amounts at present to twelve, of Commanders to seventeen, and of Knights to
forty-two. Then the Ladies of the Order, that is to say, one Lady of the Great
Cross, and nine of the Little Cross, besides many in expectation. All persons
distinguished by their birth, and by their irreproachable conduct, of the first
quality, with titles, and holding honourable places; many are even decorated with
other Orders of the first rank.
“If then, my Lord, you should think proper to accept the nomination of the
Celsissime Grand Master and of the very illustrious Chapter General to the
Dignity, I beg of you to have the complaisance to send me the blazon of your
arms, with its distinctive decorations together with your Christian name, and all
your titles, that they may be inserted in the Diploma of Knight Grand Com-
* Leopold II., Emperor of Germany, 1747–1792, son of Francis I. and the Empress Maria
Thercsa, succCCdcd to the Imperial Crown on the death of his brother Joseph II. in 1790, having
previously governed Tuscany as its Grand Duke. During his short reign he managed to
strengthen his house by splendid alliances, established a peace with the Ottoman Porte, and
restored a good understanding between the Courts of Vienna and Berlin.
+ Frederick William II., King of Prussia, 1744–1797, nephew of Frederick the Great, whom
he succeeded in 1786. He introduced many wise reformations in the administration of the
affairs of his kingdom, except in matters of religion.
† Frederick William III., 1770–1840, eldest son of Frederick William II. An enlightened
sovereign whose reign was of great benefit to his country.
§ August Georg Gustav, Count von Neu-Leiningen-Westerburg, 1770–1849. He entered
the army, served both in the French and Austrian service, and distinguished himself on many
OCCaSiOInS,
1802.] AVAEZSOAV AAAEA2R.S. - 185
mander of the Order, and this according to the ordinary custom. This
necessary business once performed, the Diploma, the Cross, and all the necessary
emblems worn by the Knights of that class shall be sent to the house of Thornton
and Power at Hamburg with orders to forward them to your Lordship in the
most safe and expeditious way possible.
“As to the duties of passage and Chancellery according to the Article of the
Statutes above-mentioned, the Chancellery have no demand to make. The
honour and glory of enrolling the NAME of NELSON among those who form
the Knighthood of the Order, is a reward, a remuneration equally glorious and
Satisfactory.
“Permit me, my Lord, as an individual, to join my feeble voice to those of
the whole universe, to express and testify to you my veneration for your person,
my admiration for your qualities, talents and social virtues, patriotic and warlike,
and to implore of Heaven to grant you a long enjoyment of health, of all the
human felicities and of all the honours which you have so well merited.
“It is with these sentiments that I have the honour of subscribing myself,’ &c.
655. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to the same. Dated Clifton, February
I4th (1802). 2 pages 4to. [P.]
“By a letter from my father last night, I find that I have to return you my
thanks for the very elegant sett of china. Be assur’d, my dear brother, I need
not this proof of your affection, or any present that money can bestow, although
I shall, if possible, set a double value upon it, as I had considered it a present
from our dear father. I am Sorry to say that he is not so well as when he came
to Bath. We went home for a day or two last week to see him ; his cough was
very troublesome, & he is weak in the extreme, but the weather was very
severe, & I hope we shall find him better when we return, which it is our
intention to do in a week if we are all well enough ; for, besides myself, we have
five children & a servant afflicted with this troublesome disorder, &, I assure
you, the disappointment of not seeing you has added not a little to my unpleasant
feelings upon this occasion, but I must look forward to happier times, and be
thankful for our present comforts. With our sincere wishes that you may enjoy
many returns of this memorable day in our calender,’ &c.
“I beg you will remember us with respect and affection to our friends at
Merton.’
656. A. L. S. from Mr. Matcham to the same. No date (February
14th, 1802). Ił pages 4to. [P.]
‘The sett of china Mrs. Matcham will, I am sure, carefully preserve as a
memento of your affectionate attention to her, & having that our wishes are com-
pleat, as we ought to be thankful for the essential abundance we enjoy, we should
be sorry to see your liberality further shown to us. I am confident, my Lord,
your income is not, nor ever will be, equal to your generosity. A period may
come when your interest may be solicited for our young men, should God
preserve them. Our ambition doth not soar ; we only wish them to be merchants,
and one to be indebted to you for a seaport consulate, not unlikely among a
people who must ever respect your name, tho’ they have felt your scourge. Our
plan you may some day have leisure to hear from me, one perhaps of the idle
dreams of life, which serve, however, to amuse & cheer us in the journey. You
will never be able to say I did not apply in time,’ &c.
657. A. L. S. from Mr. Addington to the same. Dated Downing
Street, February 19th, 1802. 2 pages 4to. [P.]
‘Many considerations combine to make me particularly desirous of giving
effect to your wishes in favor of your brother ; and I can only repeat that I
shall not miss an opportunity of doing so of which I can avail myself consistently
with claims and engagements which leave me no alternative.
- ‘On Wednesday last, I communicated to his Majesty the wish entertained
I86 THE AIAM/Z 7 OAV AAVID [1802.
by the Grand Signior that you should wear the Insignia of the Order of the
Crescent, and likewise that of the Order of St. Joachim, that you would accept
the dignity of Knight Grand Commander thereof; & I have great satisfaction
in assuring your Lordship of His Majesty's most gracious and entire acquiescence,’
&c. -
658. A. L. S. from Admiral Archibald Dickson to the same. Dated
March 31st, Yarmouth, 1802, 2} pages 4to, with Superscription
and Seal. [P.
‘I have a letter from Sir Hyde Parker respecting some money which is to be
paid on account of the Baltic expedition. He tells me that Lieutenant-Colonel
Stewart, with the detachment of troops, was borne as Suppernumeraries on board the
fleet ; but, according to the regulation of prize laws, to share, they can only
share in one class officers and soldiers together, not being part of the compliment
of the ship. We will allow being on the expedition joint with the fleet they then
can only share if His Majesty should be pleased to direct a proportion agreeable
to their different rank ; in that case, it cannot effect the Admiral’s right. Sir
Hyde says they mean to memorial the King, and it is become a question
wether it would not be better to allow them to share according to their several
ranks, as he understands it has been the case, in most of similar kind,
instead of keeping back the distribution of 30,000/., he says, now in the hands of
Mr. Davison, to be payd ; there can be no objection, I should suppose ; and had
there been a Major-General sharing in the different classes, in that case, I rather
think the Major-General Commander-in-Chief of the army would have shared
with the Commanders-in-Chief, as at the Texel and other places, by the King’s
order; but Sir Hyde tells me it has been suggested that Lieutenant-Colonel
Stewart's proportion should be with the Junior Flag Officers. We cannot allow,
my dear Lord, a Lieutenant-Colonel in the army to share with us, it never has
been, and I hope we shall not be the first to make a precedent; I have no
objection to making Colonel Stewart a compliment equal to what you think is
right. Sir Thomas Young is with me, and begs me to say he is ready, as well as
myself, to do whatever you think is right,’ &c.
659. A. L. S. from John McArthur” to the same. Dated York Place,
Portman Square, April 21st, 18O2. 2 pages 4to. [P.]
‘Captain Cockburn,t having acquainted me that your lordship had appointed
to meet him at his lodgings on Tuesday morning in order to settle Some prize
concerns, & wished for my attendance with any memorandums relative to the
corn vessels, I am sorry that, being engaged to pass ten days at Catherington
with Mr. Hood's family, will deprive me of the honour of seeing your Lordship
in Conduit Street on Tuesday next, as I set off to-morrow morning accompanied
by my wife & daughter.
“Inclosed I transmit for your Lordship's information a letter I received from
the King’s Proctor's office, whereby it appears that the Madona del Rosario San
Antonio di Padua was captured on the 3rd November, 1795, & which is
confirmed by the Agamemnon's journal as appears from the annexed extract. I
could not find that the Meleager was in company on the 3rd November, 1795;
* John McArthur, 1755–1840, an author, who first entered the navy and became secretary,
first to Lord Hood, and then to Sir Hyde Parker. In 1799 he started the AWaza/
Chronicle, but his most important work was his Life of Melson, written in conjunction with
James Stanier Clarke, and published in 1809.
+ Captain, afterwards Admiral Sir George Cockburn, 1772–1853, second son of Sir James
Cockburn. He became a Post-Captain in 1794; was at the battle of Cape Saint Vincent; had
an important share in the reduction of Martinique in 1809; was promoted to be Rear-Admiral
in 1812, after which he served in America. In 1815 he took Napoleon to St. Helena, where he
stayed in the capacity of Governor until replaced by Sir Hudson Lowe. He became a Vice-
Admiral in 1819, and in 1832 was appointed Commander-in-Chief on the North American
Station. He was First Lord of the Admiralty from 1841 to 1846. He became Admiral of the
Fleet in 1851, and succeeded his brother in the Baronetcy in 1852.
1802.] AWELSON PAPERS. 187
the Flora appears to have been in company with the Agamemnon on the 29th
October, but no notice is taken of her on the day the capture was made. The
other corn vessel, called Immacolata Conceggione, was a very small one taken
- by the boats belonging to the Meleager in Borgello Road, on the coast of Genoa,
in pursuance of a signal from the Agamemnoſt, - - . . . .
‘These circumstances may probably enable your Lordship to fix on the ships
entitled to share for those two captures. I have the honour to remain,’ &c.
660. A. L. S. from Mr. Matcham to the same. Dated April 24th, 1802.
|- # page 4to, with Superscription and Seal. [P.]
‘Your good old father is very ill, and I have directions from Dr. Parry and
Mr. Spry, to say to you that he is certainly in great danger. Whatever orders
you send me shall be executed. Believe me,’ &c.
661. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated Merton,
April 28th, 18O2. I page 4to. [H.]
“I feel very much obliged by your truly kind and flattering letter. I have a
consolation in the loss I have sustain’d that my dear father was a good man,
and that I feel I never was wanting in kindness to him. With every kind wish,
my dear Sir William, ever yours,’ &c.
“Of course, I cannot go to the Royal Academy, and must request that you will
make my apologies.’ -
662. A. L. S. from Alexander Ball to Lady Hamilton. Dated Clifford
- Street, April 30th, 18O2. 4 pages 4to. [P.]
‘I most sincerely condole with our dear friend, Lord Nelson, on the death of
his father, an event which his mind has been prepared to receive by the advanced
age and gradual dissolution of the Doctor.” I therefore hope that he will soon
recover from the shock which this melancholy separation has occasioned, and I
am very glad that he did not go to Bath, as it would have added considerable
distress to his afflicted mind without answering any one good purpose. I shall
visit Merton early next week. You have, no doubt, great reason at times to feel
some of the indignity and contempt of a misanthrope, but a little reflection will
make your mind rise superior to such petty neglects and ingratitude. I have to
regret that I have never had the power to prove to you and Sir William how very
much I feel your kindness and friendship to me on many occasions.
‘I called yesterday on Sir Thomas Troubridge, and requested him to move
Mr. Rhode to a ship building, and I named the Ocean—which could not be done,
as the Admiralty have determined not to appoint Pursers to ships which are
upon the stocks. I shall call upon Mr. Rhode to know in what manner I can be
useful to him.
‘Entre mous, the Cabinet Ministers are of opinion that I am fitted for the
station of Minister at Malta. Mr. Cameron is to be provided for, and an offer has
been made to me, unsolicited, to go to Malta; but the salary is so inadequate to
maintain that appointment, so as to render the services which will be expected of
me, that I have refused to accept of it. Lord Hawkesbury has desired to talk to
me on the subject early next week, and I am likewise to have a meeting with
Lord Hobart. I am determined, however, not to accede to the terms they first
proposed. Adieu, my dear sister, be assured of my unalterable regard. My best
regards to Lord Nelson and Sir William, and believe me,’ &c. -
663. A. L. S. (in French) from Capitan Cadir Bey to Lord Nelson. Dated
Alexandria, May 3rd, 1802. I page folio. [P.]
‘Avec la présente il y a trois que je vous écrite pour vous donner avie dema
santée, espérant que la votre, celles de vos Capº” et de vos officiers en soit de
* The Rev, E. Nelson was not a Doctor of Divinity. His degree was that of Master of Arts,
.188 THE A/AMAZ7 OAW AND [1802.
même. Je vous prie par la première ocasion, ou par qu’elqu'autre voy de me donner
de vos nouvelles, que j'eu seroit très charmée de les avoir, et même de vos Capnºs
et officiers.
‘N’ayant rien de nouveaux je vous salut en faisant mes compliments a tous
vos Capnes et officiers,’ &c.
664. A. L. (marked “private’) from Rev. W. Nelson to the same. No
date (May 3rd, 1802). 7 pages 4to. [H.]
“When the next presentation to Hilborough, after the death of Mr. Rolfe, was
made over to me, on May, 1780, it was agreed that I was to pay, at my Father's
death, seven hundred founds, viz. –To Maurice, Susanna, Horatio, Ann, Edmund,
Suckling, & Catherine, IOO/, each. As Edmund, Suckling, and Catherine were
minors, Mr. Wm. Suckling made me make over to him 300!, in the 3 per cent.
Consols, as his Security for them, & which, I suppose is now standing in his name
or his Executors, in trust, & which my Father always regularly received the
interest of Maurice always took it for him after Mr. Suckling's death, & after his
own death you, as his executor, should have done, if not, perhaps either Mr. Marsh
or Mr. Davison ; but this you will inquire about. You are to pay it in the
following manner :—To Mrs. Matcham, IOO/. ; to Tom Bolton, who claims as
being left it by Edmund, IOO/. ; & Suckling's IOO/. is to be paid to me as my
Father's Executor, who was his heir, & to be reckoned now among my
Father's effects. If any dividends due to Father at L. Day are unpaid to him,
they must be paid to me. Besides this, by ye same agreement, I am to pay to you,
as Maurice's executor, IOO/. ; to Mrs. Bolton Iool. ; to my Father's Executor
5OO/., for my late sister Ann, to be reckoned among his effects, which, with your
own IOOZ, which you kindly forgave me when I purchased the Advowson last year,
makes up the whole 7ool. There is also, I have understood, in the Funds (but
in what stock I know not) the sum of 908/. odd shillings, belonging to my Mother,
& which my Father received the Interest during his Life. Mr. Ryder, of Lincoln's
Inn, can inform you of all the particulars, if you can’t find it among Maurice's
papers. When Mr. Wm. Suckling died, as this trust-money was not mentioned in
his will, Mr. Ryder decided that Maurice, as his heir-at-law, was to take charge
of it. After Maurice's death, I naturally concluded it devolved upon me, as next
eldest ; but Mr. Ryder said, AVo, it came to you, as your Brother's Executor. I
confess I could not see the reason or law for this, any more than it should not
in the first instance have devolved on Mr. Suckling’s Executors ; but, however
this may be, it matters not whether you or I. I will suppose the charge comes
to you, & am heartily glad it is off my shoulders.
‘You must, then, as soon as you can, sell and dispose of the stock, & make an
equal division of it to us who are alive at our Father's decease. But I believe
Ryder has the original trust & settlement of our Mother's (if it is not amongst
Maurice's papers), & he will give it up and explain it to you.
“I shall not pay the 300/. I mentioned in another part of this statement, viz.,
to Maurice, Susanna, or Ann, or their representatives, till I have received my share
of this 908/. & any little matter there may be coming out of our Father's effects, as I
am in hopes I shall be able to manage it without touching the little I have of
my own in the funds. -
‘I have written this merely for your own perusal and consideration, and I
don’t know that I am quite correct in all particulars about our Mother's money,
So don't show this to Matcham. As I know your great liberality, & that it some-
times oversteps itself, let me venture to give your Lordship one piece of advice
on this occasion, & that is, don't throw your share into the common stock to be
divided amongst us all; it will be but a trifle to each, and do no good ; but take
it to yourself in the first instance ; you may have occasion for it afterwards to
settle Some of our Father's affairs, or, if not, you can always do as you please
with it.” .
665. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Hilborough, May 4th,
1802. 4 pages 4to. [H]
“I shall be as short I can now. I had written the long statement which I send in
1802.] MELSON PAPERS. 189
the other cover last night for your own private perusal. There is no hurry about
it. I enclose a letter, which I received from Matcham this morning, to avoid all
mistakes when Abraham comes to you you had better tell him to make no
alteration in the Rouf as first fixed by Mr. Matcham before they left Bath, &
proceed, as first intended, from Hounslow to Epping; only exhort him to take care
to proceed slowly & properly thro’ the towns, & to keep to their time and be at
Thorpe as soon as they can on Monday morning. I have positively fixed the
funeral for Tuesday morning, May 11th. I wish you would tell Abraham what
you would have him do afterwards. I shall go to Burnham on Thursday and
prepare everything.
‘I am quite alarmed, my dear brother, at the account my Lady gives of
your indisposition. As it seems to be a surgical case, surely you had better
call in the assistance of Mr. Hawkins or Mr. Home, or some other eminent
Surgeon, & let them examine ye part. Mr. Parrot may be very clever, but
possibly, as these men have had more experience, they may be able to suggest
something he has not thought of.
‘You will see by Mr. Matcham's letter that he wrote down a memorandum
by our late Father's desire. I ought to see that, as it may make a considerable
alteration in the Will. -º-
“Tho' I do not think it quite right that one sh" take one thing & another
another—because it may puzzle the accounts—yet I certainly shall not object to
what has been done ; for the same reason I shall not make any division of the
Plate or Furniture between Bolton & myself before it is previously valued &
brought to account, otherwise I shall never know what I am about. If yº tent
beds are taken by either of us, they shall be accounted for by ye person who
takes them. Compºs to Mr. Matcham, and thank him for his letter.
‘My kind love to my Lady. Yº,' &c.
666. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to Lady Hamilton. Dated Cranswick,
May 7th, 18O2. 2 pages 4to., with Superscription and Seal. [P.]
‘Many thanks, my dear Lady Hamilton, for your obliging letter, & that you
gave such a favourable account of my dear brother's amendment. The death of
my dearest father must be great grief to all his children, for never was there a
more affectionate father than he has been to us, or one, I believe, more beloved
by children ; but thank God his life was spared to us so long, & to the last was
cheerful. Mr. Bolton is gone this day to Burnham with the D* ; when he returns,
shall have great pleasure in fixing the time for visiting Merton. I cannot close
my letter without thanking you, my dear madam, for your kindness and attention
to my little girls when at Merton. I am,’ &c. -
‘My kindest love to my brother, & beg you will make my comp” to Sir Wº.’
667. A. L. S. from the Rev. W. Nelson to Lord Nelson. Dated
Hilborough, May 14th, I802. 7# pages 4to. [H]
‘I came home yesterday from Burnham, & have arranged everything there as
well as I could ; we have nothing to do now but to sell ye few chairs & tables
that remain. Mr. Davison is quite mistaken about what Bolton wrote to him ;
my father had nothing to do with it, &, of course, his Executor cannot ; ’tis trust-
money for ye benefit of Edmund Suckling & Mrs. Matcham. Mr. Wm. Suckling
& Mr. Bolton are ye Trustees, & Mr. Bolton, as sole survivor, has y” whole
arrangement. He would not have thought of troubling Mr. Davison at all if he
had not sent a power of attorney last week to Cranwich for receiving ye dividend
on it. Davison seems very sharp and afraid he sh" lose a sixpence However,
that is no matter now ; Mr. Bolton has written to another person, & the business
will be done in a day or two with Mr. Davison. He will then divide yº money
into three equal parts—the first he claims himself as heir to Edmund, the second
he will pay to me for our late father's effects as heir to Suckling, and the third to
Mrs. Matcham ; so ends that. I suppose it will be rather more than IOOl. each. I
have no doubt if you or your agent apply at ye bank about the 908/. you may do
the same, and then you may make ye dividend among us all as yº trust directs.
Mr. Ryder will tell ye exact sum, and where yº trust is since Mr. Suckling's death.
196, THE HAMILTON AWD [1802.
I am almost certain I saw Mr. Ryder give it to Maurice, & you will find it among
his papers. Mrs. Suckling has nothing to do with it; she is not wanted. The
sooner you do it ye better, as stocks seem on the decline.
‘I will thank you to send me down Mr. Davison's account with my father, then
I shall see what money he had in the funds, &c.; I shall not be able to form
anything like a correct estimate of his effects with" it. If the parcel is too large
for ye post, send it by the coach ; you will likewise take care & let me know what
yº things come to. There is no reason why you should pay it, let it go into my
account. Be ruled by me.
‘I am sorry for ye 389/. you was forced to pay for Maurice. I don’t know who
would be executor if they were likely to be losers, the law does not require it,
therefore you must repay yourself out of his effects, & if there is not enough to
pay legacies they must lose it, share & share alike. I told Bolton you cº not ; his
girls must. He said certainly. I am afraid this is some sharp trick of Davison's
to secure himself. I don’t half like his cunning. I have by me the Probate of
our late sister Ann's will. She gives 2007 to you, 2007, to Mrs. Bolton, & 200l. to
Mrs. Matcham. There is a legacy to Edmund Suckling if living at the time of
her father's death : if not, to be equally divided among ye survivors—nothing
either to Maurice or myself. It is 2000l. 3 per cent. Consols, so that if it sells at
about 74 per cent. you will each of you receive near 2007., in addition to your
legacies. You are ye sole trustee; shall I send it to you ? You may then do yº
business directly & pay yº money to ye respective claimants, & take your own
share ; I have nothing to do with it. If any dividends were due to my father at
his death, they must be carried to his account; but I suppose Mr. Davison has
already done that. I shall know when I see his accounts. I wish Mr. Matcham
would say where I can get the 250Z. my father had at Bath, that I may give the
Bath undertaker an order to receive it on account. I will thank him to order the
carriage to be sold directly. The coachman told me there was a new set of
harness made, but not delivered. He thinks ye man will take them again -on
being allowed two or three guineas. As Mr. Matcham knows all about ye Bath
concerns, I wish he would look to that. Tally has orders to send ye accounts to
me as soon as he can. *
“It will not be in my power, I am afraid, to come to Merton yet, as I expect to
be wanted at Colton the beginning of June about the enclosure, & the Bishop”
will hold a Confirmation some time that month, & I shall be expected to make
my appearance. Love to my Lady. Yº,' &c.
‘I am glad to think you will get a few hundreds by Nanny's legacy & my
father. Let me beg of you again to take it, and not give it up to y” rest.’
668. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Hilborough, near
Brandon, May 16th, 1802, 3} pages 4to. [H]
‘As I find little or nothing among my father's papers but old receipts and old
memorandums, I conclude all his late agreements for tithes must be in his writing-
box, without which I am not able to estimate the demands I have for tithes due
to him at ye time of his death, or to settle with his successors. I will be obliged
to you, therefore, to get your carpenter to make an outside case to yº writing-box,
& send it to me as soon as you can by the Admiral Melson coach from Charing
Cross, or, if that can’t be conveniently done, let all the papers be taken out and
made into a parcel & sent to me that way. -
“I shall send ye probate of our late sister Ann's will by Mº Bolton ;
you will then proceed in that business as soon as you please. Let M* Davison's
accounts with my father be sent in the box. Nobody will tell me what
stock my father had standing in his own name. I have mentioned it two or
three times. If I am wrong about Mr Davison, I am glad of it, but I am not
convinced.
* Charles Manners-Sutton, Archbishop of Canterbury, 1755-1828, was the 4th son of Lord
George Manners-Sutton. He was consecrated Bishop of Norwich in 1792, and was translated
to the Archbishopric of Canterbury in 1805. -
1802.] MEAESON PAPERS. iQf
‘I hear Sir Wim Scot” is heartily sick of his abominable bill about the clergy,
so many objections are made to it, & wishes he was rid of it... Depend upon it, it
can never pass in its present form ; never was anything so arbitrary. Yº,' &c.
669. A. Draft S. ‘N. & B.’ of Letter from Lord Nelson to Count
Leiningen. Dated Merton, June 9th, 1802. I} pages 4to.
[P.]
‘I have deferred replying to the polite letter of April 3rd, which your Highness
did me the honour of writing, until I received the Insignia of the Order, which I
did on the 5th of June, and which I have now the honour of wearing. I can only
Say, that I will endeavour by my future conduct to merit the esteem of your
Highness, and to do no discredit to the illustrious Order, which I have now the
honour of belonging to. The fortitude with which your Highness bears the
injustice done your venerable parent, and the loss of territory, establish you as
the most proper character to fill your present illustrious station as head of the
Order of St. Joachim, and a pattern for all classes of the Order. Wishing from
my heart your Highness health, and every blessing that this world and the next
can afford, I have the honour of subscribing myself with the highest respect,’ &c.
670. A. L. S. from Sir Alexander Ball to Lord Nelson. Dated Ports-
mouth, June 14th, 18O2. 2 pages 4to. [P.]
“I regret extremely that I had it not in my power to pay your Lordship
another visit before I left town. I had the pleasure of seeing Sir William
Hamilton, who informed me of your having discovered the cause of your stomach
and bowel complaint, which being removed, I hope to hear of your Lordship soon
enjoying the most perfect health. When I was at Malta I was often much
indisposed, and could not find the cause until I met with a medical book of D*
Townsend, and found out my case so minutely described, that I immediately
proved it to be a worm case, and soon recovered better health. I had before this
read Buchan and many other medical books, without fancying any of the
numerous complaints so fully detailed. The Penelope is having her people paid
to-day, and we are to sail this evening. I shall write to your Lordship from
Malta, and give every information I can collect of Bronté. I write this in great
haste, and have only time to offer my sincere wishes to your Lordship and kind
compliments to Sir William Hamilton, with my love to my dear sister Emma.'
671. A. L. S. from Sir W. Hamilton to Charles Greville. Dated Merton,
Monday, June 14th, 1802. # page 4to., with Superscription. [H]
‘Here is Mr McKenna's answer,t & just as we conjectured. I think, as you
do, that a few substantial settlers at Milford will, in the end, turn out much better
than by encouraging needy adventurers.’
672. A. L. S. from E. W. Walterstorff to Lord Nelson. Dated St. Croix,
June 26th, 18O2. 4 pages 4to. [P.]
‘I have had the happiness of receiving your Lordship's letter in answer to
mine from Madeira, and you do me justice in thinking that the attachment I
profess for you is as unalterable as it is sincere. I hope your Lordship has
received a small box with liqueurs, which I did myself the honour of sending you
* Sir William Scott, afterwards Lord Stowell, 1745–1836, elder brother of Lord Eldon.
He took up civil law, and in 1788 was made Judge of the Consistory Court, was appointed
Advocate-General, and was knighted. In 1790 he was made Master of the Faculties, in 1798
was Judge of the High Court of Admiralty, and at the Coronation of George IV. was created a
Peer. He was M.P. for the University of Oxford.
+ Mr. McKenna's letter, on a blank page of which Sir William's is written, is to the effect
that he is not inclined to spend his capital in building at Milford. -
192
THE HAMILTON AND [1802,
from Martinique, per the ship the Union. But where this letter shall find you I
really do not know. About three months ago, we expected your Lordship in the
West Indies, and I was thinking of going to Martinique to pay you my respects
there. The newspapers have since mentioned your having been appointed
Commander-in-Chief in the Mediterranean, I have not been able to find out if it
be true or not ; at all events I direct this letter to be left at the house of Sir
William Hamilton.
‘I have now finally settled my business with M* Swinburne, and have ſound
that gentleman exactly as Lady Hamilton described him to me. We have, upon
the whole, agreed very well, and have parted upon the most friendly terms. Only
few claims have been referred to Ministerial discussion and decision, and the
number of them should have been still less had not Mr Swinburne sometimes
suffered himself to be influenced by those whose interest it evidently was to
defend, or to draw a veil over those numerous irregularities which have been
committed here. Mr Swinburne is certainly a good and very honest man, but
sometimes rather weak. .
“I long extremely, my dear Lord, to hear how your health has been this
spring ; I hope you have followed the advice and prescriptions of your friends,
and exposed yourself as little as possible to cold and moist weather. But were
it not that the public ought sometimes to be gratified with the sight of those who
have been the saviours of their country, and that the presence of Lord Nelson
must give an additional lustre to any festivity, I should have found fault with
your Lordship's going to the Lord Mayor's feast. I am afraid that the French
West India islands are as yet far from having their tranquillity secured ; I cannot
approve of the plan adopted by the Commander-in-Chief at St. Domingo, and still
less the measures adopted at Guadaloupe, where the new Government already
finds itself too weak. The negroes at Martinico are ripe for an insurrection.
General Rochambeau” is the man who ought to have been sent to that island.
“It will hardly be in my power to leave the West Indies before the month of
April next, but I anticipate already the agreeable moment when I shall again
take your Lordship by the hand, and when I shall have the happiness of spending
some days at Merton, where I hope to renew my respects to Sir William and
Lady Hamilton. I am,’ &c.
673. A. Copy of L.S. from Sir W. Hamilton to the Marquis of Douglas."
Dated Merton, July 2nd, 18O2. 3.} pages folio. [H.]
“I was very glad to hear from the Duke, who did us the honour to partake of
our family dinner here on Tuesday last, & who was in good spirits & Seemed to
be much pleased in having made the acquaintance of Lº Nelson, that your
business at Lancaster was going on according to your wishes. We, however, can
comprehend well how contrary to your nature your present mode of life must be,
tho' necessary for the interest of your family.
‘Now, my dº Marquis, to you I can open my mind freely, as I believe that
between you and me there exists a very remarkable sympathy. Lord Nelson and
Lady H. have taken up warmly an old plan of Beckford's, which he had mentioned
at the moment of our return to England, but I did not then see sufficient
probability of success to encourage me to embark in the business hastily, altho'
Beckford's offer was of a nature very advantageous to me and Emma. In short,
it was that if by any interest I could induce Government to make me a Peer with
the reversion to him at my decease, that he would, in order to keep up the dignity
of the Peerage, add during my life A 2000 in add” to the pension the King has
* Donatien Marie Joseph de Vimeur, Viscount de Rochambeau, 1750–1813, son of Marshal
de Rochambeau. He defended Martinique against the English, succeeded Leclerc at San
Domingo, but was forced to capitulate in 1803, and was taken prisoner to England, where he
remained until 181 I. He was killed at the battle of Leipsic.
t Alexander, Marquis of Douglas, afterwards Ioth Duke of Hamilton and 7th Duke of
Brandon, 1767-1852, eldest son of the 9th Duke, whom he succeeded in 1819. He married in
1810 Beckford's second daughter, Susan Euphemia. -
: Probably the Duke of Hamilton.
1802.] WEZSOW-PAPERS. I93
given me, and settle an annuity of £500 on Emma after my death, and that his two
sure seats in Parliament should be at the absolute disposal of the Minister, besides
the great influence he posesses in two more seats in the H. of C. You know me
& can well imagine that a Peerage would not flatter my vanity, but the offered
increase of income would certainly put me more at my ease than I am at present,
and the £500 a year to Emma, in addition to the £800 I have left her by my
will, is also a consideration. Beckford sent here yesterday Mº Pebles, his
principal West Indian agent & one of his intended Members of Parliament, to
hold a conversation with Lº Nelson & me, renewing the old offer & wishing
Lº Nelson to mention it to his friend Mr Addington. His LordP will certainly
do anything in his power to serve Lady H. & me, but sees, as I do, that unless I
was supported by a stronger family interest than that of my cozen Beckford, it
might not succeed, but that if the Duke of Hamilton & the M. of D. were to come
forward in my behalf that the business might succeed to my immediate advantage
and satisfaction, and that of Beckford at my decease.
‘Now, certainly, Beckford has great & strong claims on Government for the
handsome support he has ever given it on all occasions of difficulty & distress, and
as no direct accusation lies against him, and it is now 20 years since an unfortunate
suspicion arose & was maliciously encouraged, the plan he proposes would be a
gentle means of his getting into the world again, and that without €c/at, as I shall
be the immediate ostensible person favor’d. Now, if (not that I mean to ask of you
any explanation on the subject) there shou’d be the most distant thought of your
being one day more intimately connected with the Beckford family than you are at
present (and of which some symptoms have appeared in the female part of your
LP's family), the present plan brought into execution wou’d certainly remove many
difficulties. In short, I believe I have said enough to make you see clearly into the
whole affair, & that I, who shall have lived 73 if I go on to next Xmas & have my
senses about me, cannot be very anxious as to myself. Lº Nelson wished me to
acquaint [you] yesterday with the message from Fonthill, & so I do but beg of
you only to turn it in your mind, and I assure you that I shall not be offended if
I get no answer to this letter. I am sensible of its being a delicate point, and yet
I cannot help flattering myself that the good D. of H. and you, my friend, would
readily undertake anything for Emma's and my advantage, provided it could be
done sans vous com/rometre frož. Adieu, my Lº M. Your,’ &c.
674. A. L. S. from William Beckford to Sir W. Hamilton. Dated
Fonthill Abbey, July 4th, 18O2. 3 pages 4to. [H.]
* I thank you cordially, my dear Sir Wim, for your kind communication this
instant received. It states the matter in the clearest, simplest point of view, and
I should think it strange indeed if our relations were in the least shy of lending
their assistance. -
“ Pedley, whom I sent to you tºother day, is a trimmer, and will fight his way
shortly in the H. of C. if I am not mistaken.
“His brother, too, has both knowledge & abilities. Their joint support would
give the Marqº & his friends, great consequence. I need say no more ; you have
written all I could wish or could have dictated had I been at your elbow.
‘We have woeful weather, wind and rain from morn to night, & all night long,
driving and blinding.
‘The tower sings a fine tune, and all the little turrets, flying buttresses,
pinnacles, & gothic loopholes join in the chorus.
‘The place, however, looks heavenly thro’ the showers, every gleam of sun
lights up such beauties of verdure and vegetation, such immense sweeps of foliage,
and stretches of lawn as astonish me, tho' fresh from Switzerland. -
“I long to show you these effects; indeed, you will see them in perfection from
your nest in the great tower, for I have “only a sort of perch to offer you as a
roosting place, but upon a hearty welcome you may depend. Tolerable àozzzle
chère & the best of fishing at least, if I may judge from the profusion of fine
trout & perch brought in every day. We have excellent tench & bouncing carp ;
my French cook, Monsieur Buffetot, knows how to manage them most admirably
d /a ſºrovençale. I think you will join with me in reckoning him a Cordon &/etc.
WOL. II. O
194 7 HE HAM/Z7 ON A WD [1802.
‘My young are just arrived at their new chateau, a very snug, convenient
habitation, extremely well done up & feathered by Mr Williams.
‘Pray tell Lº Nelson how eagerly I anticipate the moment of receiving him
into the peace of this secure retirement.
“Remember me most affectly to Lady Hamilton, & believe me ever yours,
dear Sir William,' &c.
“Has D. H. taken his departure yet for Scot"? If he has not, it might not be
amiss cº you catch him in good humour again to inspire him personally upon our
business.’
675. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to Lady Hamilton. No date (July 8th,
I805). 3% pages 4to., with Superscription.
‘How shocked I was, my dear Lady Hamilton, on receiving yº letter, to hear
such a dreadful account of poor Mr Copindale. Poor man, perhaps we ought
not to wish for his life, as after so severe a blow on the head, I doubt he never will
be fit for business again. What a loss to all his connexions.
‘Thank you for the paper, this day gave us an account of Charlotte's
appearance at M** Hamilton's, but not a word of Lady Barrymore” did we see, as
the papers did not come at that time. Tom is now at Brancaster, I hope in about
a fortnight you will see him at Merton, & all I can say is, tho’ he has not most
shining talents, you will find him of an even good disposition. The fault is not
in his heart, I assure you. However, I hope Mr. Laventon will give a good
account of him. He requires not severity, but mildness, and attention, I hope,
will get him forward on the line of life he is intended for. His father & myself
shall always think ourselves under obligations thro' you to my brother for taking
him. I assure you it has relieved my mind of a great burden. Mr. Bolton,
M* Pierson, and myself join in love to you.
“Write me again on account of poor Mr C.
[*M** Bolton has been telling me how much Mrs Wilson is attached to this
poor Mº Copindale, and I open her letter just to beg you will let me know how
she bears the terrible shock. I suppose M* B. tells you she goes with me
to Brancaster in about a fortnight. We take Emma with us. How I wish you
could be of the party. If you do not visit Norfolk this summer, I shall think not
half so good as you used to be, but I trust you will.’]t
676. A. L. S. from Mr. Marsh to Lord Nelson. Dated Norfolk Street,
July 17th, 18O2. I page 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“I find D* Nelson has been at the bank this morning, and made the transfers
agreeable to my letter, and therefore took out the enclosed power of atty, by which
we can at any time follow your Lordship's directions for the sale of all or any
part of the stock. Your Lordship will please to observe, that, besides the 2000l.
from your sister's name, D* Nelson has added 152/. Ios., which of course the bank
has put all into one account. I forgot to look whether the Doctor has taken the
dividend due on the 5th of this month upon this stock, if not they will pay it him
at any time—not an holliday. The Probate of the Will we will either keep till
we have the honour of seeing your Lordship or Dr Nelson, or leave it under
cover at Nº. 23. Piccadilly, as you will please to direct. I regret I had not the
pleasure of Seeing your Lordship this morning, & more, that I cannot have that
honour on Monday, being always with the sincerest respect and regard,’ &c.
677. A. L. S. from William Haslewood: to the same. Dated Craven
Street, July 20th, 18O2. 2 pages 4to. [P.]
“Almost immediately after your Lordship left St. James's Square, I called to
* Henry Barry, 8th Earl of Barrymore, married in 1795 Annie, eldest daughter of Mr.
Jeremiah Coghlan of Ardo, Co. Waterford.
† The portion in square brackets is in the handwriting of Mrs. Pierson.
; Mr. Haslewood was Nelson's lawyer and confidential adviser.
1802.] AVE/SOAV PAPERS. I95
say that I found it impossible (on account of the alteration made in the original
bonds by Mr Tucker), to have all the instruments ready for signature before you
left town, but Mr Davison told me I need not proceed to Piccadilly, as you did
not intend to wait any longer for me, & wished the instrument to be sent to Merton.
‘I hope I need not add the short delay has not been owing to any want of
exertion. I remain,’ &c.
678. A. L. S. from the Marquis of Douglas to Sir William Hamilton.
Dated Grosvenor Place, July 26th, 18O2. 2; pages 4to., with
Superscription and Seal. [H]
‘Your very kind and confidential letter from Merton, of the 2d of this month,
should not have remained unanswered untill this...moment had it fallen into my
hands sooner ; but all letters directed for me during my stay at Lancaster were
kept in town until my return ; it is, therefore, only three or four days that I have
received it. - -
“The plan you state to me, my dear Sir William, I should fear never could
possibly succeed, for, however unreasonable may be the objections to it, they are
such as weigh very much with the individuals of this country. Were it in my
power to second any wish of yours, I am sure I should feel happy beyond
measure to do it, but my political interest can be of no avail, & the asking would
only subject us both to a refusal, which would certainly come, from the final
clause in the object in question being of so peculiar a nature, & so little consonant
with the feelings and tempers of people. If you can point out any method in
which I can appear without manifest disadvantage to myself, & without a manifest
incompetency to assist, I shall be happy to subscribe to your inclination. Nothing
would make me so happy as to be able to evince you and Lady Hamilton of the
interest I feel for ye, & of the wish I have to show my remembrance of past
favours and kindnesses. -
‘I must add one thing, my dº Sir William, from a principle of delicacy, which
I think I owe to two young persons that I'esteem, and to my own character. If
any symptoms of any sort of wish may have affeared in any part of my family,
they are unknown to me and unencouraged. What may be my future lot at
present is undecided. I am entirely at my own disposal, & if I ever should
incline towards the connexion you allude to, or any other, I have that sort of
extreme delicacy about me that would lead me immediately to make an avowal
of my wishes to those who ought to be apprised of it. Thus much I say because
I should be sorry to lose any part of your good opinion ; & upon subjects of such
delicacy too much attention cannot be paid.
“I must now beg you will let me know something about you and all the
travellers; if you are not detained a considerable time in Wales, perhaps I shall
see you in town on your return. As all my election fatigues are at length happily
terminated, before I get into the bustle of Scotland I am determined to repose
myself where I am. Town is very empty, but I have found a few of my friends,
& a very few people satisfy me provided I can have my papers & pictures and
things about me. Do Say everything kind and affectionate for me to Lady
Hamilton & Lord Nelson, & assure them of my regard and esteem. I hope to
you, my dear Sir W*, nothing is requisite to subjoin, I am and ever shall
be,’ &c. -
*P.S.–Pray write to me and send your letters direct to London. Adieu.’
679. A. L. S. ‘E. H.’ from Lady Hamilton to Sir W. Hamilton. No date
(August). I page 4to. [H]
‘As I see it is a pain to you to remain here, let me beg of you to fix your time
for going. Weather I dye in Picadilly or any other spot in England, 'tis the same
to me; but I remember the time when you wish’d for tranquility, but now all
visiting and bustle is your liking. However, I will do what you please, being
ever your affectionate & obedient,’ &c. .
196 7"HE HAM/Z 7 ON A WD [1802.
680. A. L. S.* from Sir W. Hamilton to Lady Hamilton. No date
(August, 1802). I page 4to. [H.]
‘I neither love bustle nor great company, but I like Some employment and
diversion. I have but a very short time to live, and every moment is precious to
me. I am in no hurry, and am exceedingly glad to give every satisfaction to our
best friend, our dear Lord Nelson. The question, then, is what we can best do
that all may be perfectly satisfied. Sea bathing is usefull to your health ; I see
it is, and wish you to continue it a little longer; but I must Confess that I regret,
whilst the season is favourable, that I cannot enjoy my favourite amusement of
quiet fishing. I care not a pin for the great world, and am attached to no one so
much as to you.’
681. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to the Rev. Dixon Hoste. Dated
Milford, August 3rd, 18O2. # page 4to.
‘I had a letter from William dated Malta, June 24th : he was perfectly well,
but very anxious to return to England, and I hope the Greyhound's turn will soon
arrive, when you will receive one of the best young men and sea-officers in
Europe. I am,’ &c.
682. A. L. S. from Mr. R. Payne Knight to Lady Hamilton. Dated
Downton, Sunday, August 15th (1802). I} pages 4to., with
Superscription and Seal. [P.]
‘I do assure you, my dear Lady Hamilton, that nothing will give me more
real concern than that you and my friend Sir William should come in to this
country and not take up your abode at Downton ; &, tho' I have not the honour
of being personally acquainted with Lord Nelson, I beg to assure him that I shall
be equally flattered and gratified in his company; indeed, I should think myself
a very unnatural and ungrateful Englishman if I felt otherwise.
‘As, however, your laconic epistle does not tell me when you go to Lord
Cawdor's, or when you leave it, or when you are to be at Monmouth or Ludlow, I
cannot guess the time when I may hope to see you. I will therefore give you a
statement of my own engagements, trusting to you to arrange matters so as to
come between them. During the whole of the ensuing week my house will be
filled with W. Spencer, Lord Cowper,t and a large party, and towards the end of
the month I expect the whole Abercorn family, who will fill it again for about a
fortnight; but from about ye 22nd to the 28th I shall probably be alone, or nearly
So, and, at all events, happy to see you.
“As you do not tell me where Mr. Morris's or Clarmont is, I shall enclose
this to Lord Nelson at Monmouth, taking it for granted that it cannot fail to find
so distinguished a person wherever he may happen to be. Your letter having,
however, been a week in coming here, I doubt whether it will come to you in time.
I shall therefore send another to Mr. Buckley's at Ludlow to waylay you there.”
683. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to the same. Dated Bath, September
9th, 1802. 2 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“As you gave us some hopes of seeing you, my dear Lady Hamilton, at Bath,
on your return, we feel ourselves a little disappointed that you £assed us but we
are gratified by seeing in the papers your party is received as it ought to be in
* Written at the back of the preceding letter. On the fly-leaf Lady Hamilton has added, ‘I
go when you tell me the coach is ready,’ to which Sir William retorted, “This is not a fair
• answer to a fair confession of mine.’ This exchange of conjugal amenities took place, apparently,
during the journey to Wales.
+ Peter Leopold Louis Francis Nassau, 5th Earl Cowper, 1778–1837, brother of the 4th
Earl, whom he succeeded in 1799. His second wife was afterwards Lady Palmerston,
1802.] AVE/CSOAV PAPERS. 197
every place you pass through. You know we are of the same opinion that too
many honours cannot be paid to our dear Friend. I long to have a full account
of your trip, which I am sure must have been delightfull, as the weather has been
very favourable for travelling. I shall be glad to hear that your Ladyship and
Mrs. Nelson have escaped all the perils of bad roads. We have had an account of
two or three houses since yº' absence, but the enormous price that is asked in the
neighbourhood of London has determined us to remain here the winter at least,
though it would have been a great happiness to me to have been near Merton.
Will you be so good as to tell the Doctor that I have got a bill from the Taylor's
for the mourning Cloathes that were made for Abraham & the Coachman; the
bill is £IO 6s. Od, which we will discharge if he thinks proper, & he can settle it
it with us. With our best wishes to all the party,’
684. A. L. from Sir William Hamilton to Lady Hamilton. No date
(1802). 4 pages 4to. [H]
‘I have passed the last 40 years of my life in the hurry & bustle that must
necessarily be attendant on a publick character. I am arrived at the age when
Some repose is really necessary, & I promised myself a quiet home, & altho' I was
sensible, & Said so when I married, that I shou’d be superannuated when my wife
wou’d be in her full beauty and vigour of youth. That time is arrived, and we must
make the best of it for the comfort of both parties. Unfortunately our tastes as to the
manner of living are very different. I by no means wish to live in solitary retreat,
but to have seldom less than 12 or 14 at table, & those varying continually, is
coming back to what was become so irksome to me in Italy during the latter
years of my residence in that country. I have no connections out of my own
family. I have no complaint to make, but I feel that the whole attention of my
wife is given to Lº N. and his interest at Merton. I well know the purity of
L*.N.'s friendship for Emma and me, and I know how very uncomfortable it
wou'd make his LP, our best friend, if a separation shou'd take place, & am
therefore determined to do all in my power to prevent such an extremity, which
wou’d be essentially detrimental to all parties, but wou’d be more sensibly felt by
our dear friend than by us. Provided that our expences in housekeeping do not
encrease beyond measure (of which I must own I see some danger), I am willing
to go on upon our present footing ; but as I cannot expect to live many years, every
moment to me is precious, & I hope I may be allow’d sometimes to be my own master,
& pass my time according to my own inclination, either by going my fishing parties
on the Thames or by going to London to attend the Museum, R. Society, the Tuesday
Club, & Auctions of pictures. I mean to have a light chariot or post chaise by the
month, that I may make use of it in London and run backwards and forwards to
Merton or to Shepperton, &c. This is my plan, & we might go on very well, but I
am fully determined not to have more of the very silly altercations that happen but
too often between us and embitter the present moments exceedingly. If realy one
cannot live comfortably together, a wise and well concerted separation is prefer-
able ; but I think, considering the probability of my not troubling any party long
in this world, the best for us all wou’d be to bear those ills we have rather than
flie to those we know not of. I have fairly stated what I have on my mind.
There is no time for nonsense or trifling. I know and admire your talents & many
excellent qualities, but I am not blind to your defects, & confess having many
myself; therefore let us bear and forbear for God’s sake.’
685. A. L. S. from Sir Joseph Banks to Charles Greville. Dated
Revesby Abbey, September 30th, 18O2. 3 pages 4to. [H]
“I rejoice exceedingly that you have returned safe from your expedition, which
I conclude could not in any part of it be an agreeable one to you, & I think you
have done very wisely in preferring a route through Cornwall, where nature would
arouse you at every step, to the artificial satisfaction of feasts, Mayors, & Aldermen,
freedom of Rotten Boroughs, &c. I am sorry you see a prospect of increasing
infirmities, but I fear mine increase upon me in a much more rapid way, as I
198 7 HE HAM/Z 7'ON' AAWD [1802.
have been confined by the gout in Derbyshire at a season which I thought myself
quite safe from it, & have arrived here only a fortnight ago.
“I thank you much for giving me an opportunity of clearing my Bank account,
which, for two reasons, I wish not to remain a moment in arrear. I have no
stamp by me, and have not therefore the power of drawing my Bill to order, but
I am quite easy, for if you are so good as to pay the money to Mr. Darton your
witness will be sufficient for me, so you may or you may not take a receipt,
just as you see fitting, for the Bill, which I have enclosed made payable to Mr.
Darton or bearer for A. I.32 IOs.
‘I am here crippled & obliged to go to bed before the rest of the family, & to
lye late in the morning. I hope, however, for better times, & hope, in which I
am much inclined to indulge, is certainly one of our best comforts in this life. I
rejoice sincerely to hear of H. M.'s goodness to Robert; he well deserves at H. M.
hand all that can be done for him, & all that he deserves will be done for him,
such an opinion I have of both personages.
‘For God’s sake make your Albanian bull into bull beef, and let Lady W. turn
her Egyptian sheep into mutton. I am always shocked to hear of crosses with
animals inferior in all parts to our native Stock.
‘I hope to see your Nelumburgs before they are quite gone ; if you get seed
you will be magnificent, & why you should not, when your plants are as vigorous
as those I have seen wild, I do not know. I want much to know if yours were
double or single.
‘Pray give me a line by return of post acknowledging the recº of the Bill.’
686. A. L. S. from the Hon. Colonel Stewart to Lord Nelson. Dated
Shornecliff Barracks, Sandgate, October IOth, 1802. 4 pages
4to, [P.]
‘I have the honour of having now at my elbow your Lordship's two letters of
the 27th and 28th of last month, and should apologize for not having earlier *
answered the application in favour of Mr. Porter, did I not conceive that the last
ten days’ mode of occupation, marching, preparing my regiment for a march, and
arranging it in very uncomfortable cantonments, will in some measure plead my
excuse. Having earnestly solicited a removal of my young regiment from the
iniquity of Chatham, we have been ordered into these barracks, and into the three
forts which are in front of Hythe, and shall probably be stationed here for the
ensuing winter, the country is excellent for the movement of Chasseurs, and the
neighbourhood seems tranquil and good; very ill equipped barracks, and much
dispersion of my corps is my only complaint, but as a soldier and a man I, as
as well as my neighbours, find the world much composed of contrarieties, “et
724'27 nºw a Zozná de roses sans Zeurs éðines.”
‘Your Lordship's letter of the 28th September contains many sentiments of
kindness towards me, and my private concerns of a political nature, which I must
ever feel grateful for ; on the subject of my late unsuccessful canvas in Scotland,
you are pleased to express yourself with a degree of interest which no merits of
mine have called for, and the whole history of Parliamentary representation (as it
is carried on at least in that part of our island) has moreover blunted all my
feelings so much, that I am not worthy to have an interest felt for me, whilst I
am totally careless of the matter myself. For the six years that I represented the
County of Wigton, I did my best to deserve well of it; it was apparently thought
otherwise, and feeling tranquil in my own conscience upon the occasion, the
present choice of that shire meets with my quiet acquiescence. I shall not be apt
to try the seat again, feeling as I now do ; but enough, my dear.Lord, of personal
concerns. Mr. Porter shall, upon the strength of your Lordship's recommendation,
have my support and voice at the Magdalen. I have written with this purport to
the clergyman of the Institution, Mr. Prince, who will inform me if any forms but
that of my epistolary promise be necessary. I should like, if a leisure half hour
bring the recollection of what I might like into your Lordship's memory, I should
like, I was observing, to have your opinion upon the probable chance of long
tranquillity to us all in this country, from the other side of the Channel,
1802,] AVE/SOW PAPERS. I99
“Some things which were in yesterday's newspapers, and the view of the
Boulogne shore from my barrack window have together united, to make me think
more than usual of this possibility, and when I have before me the spot where,
little more than one twelvemonth ago, nearly the last gallant effort of our country was
made under your guidance, and poor Parker fell, the thoughts of renewed hostilities
run much in my mind. Heaven grant that there may be no necessity for such an
event; but may Heaven also grant that we may not be so wanting in spirit as to
await provocations and encroachments too long !
‘Adieu, my dear Lord. May I request that my respects may be made to Sir
William and Lady Hamilton, and that I may ever sign myself, with the greatest
truth, yours,’ &c.
‘I hear nothing from our Agent about the Baltic prize-money being arranged.
687. A. L. S. (in French) from Capitan Cadir Bey to the same. Dated
Alexandria, October 10th, 1802. 2 pages folio. [P.]
‘Comme j'ay eu la libertée de vous écrire 8 lettres sans jamais avoir
l'honneur de recevoir une de votre Excellence, pour savoir l'état de votre Santée,
qu'il m'et cy cher comme la mienne, je profite de l'ocasion de notre cher amie
le Général Lord Cavanº pour vous écrire aussy la présente, espérant qu'il vous
parviendrat sans autres, ainsy je prie votre Excellence de se donner la peine de
me donner de vos chères nouvelles, et même de vos officiers et de vos officiers.
‘Je vous prie, Excellence, de donner la lettre cy-enclus a notre ami Lord
Amelton, et de lui faire mes respects.”
688. A. L. S. from Rev. W. Nelson to the same. Dated Hilborough,
October 19th, 18O2. 3.} pages 4to, with Superscription. [H]
‘Mr. Ryder, of Lincoln's Inn, has informed me that he has made the Transfer
of the 908ſ. 6s. 8d. Old South Sea Annuities, which became divisible into eight
parts at our Father's death, and that your Lordship's share is as follows, viz.:-
To Lord Nelson tº e e tº e C © tº ſº ... 227/. Is. 8d.
I I37. Ios. Iod, as executor of Mr. Maurice Nelson, & II 3/. IOS. Iod, in his own
right. Therefore you have now standing in your own name 227/. Is. 8d. O. S. S.,
which you may sell & dispose of, & convert to your own use whenever you think
proper; the dividends on the whole have been rec" up to Michaelmas last. Mr.
Ryder has paid himself and sent ye remainder to me, which is to be accounted
for among my Father's personal property; of the other six shares, Mr. Bolton has
rec'd I I 3/. Ios. Iod, as Edmund's executor.
“The same myself & Mr. Matcham. One share is transferred to your & my
joint names as trustees for Mrs. Bolton & Ann & Suckling, deceased, are paid to me
as executor to my Father, to be carried to his account. I shall write Mr.
Matcham an account of his II32. Ios. Iod, for him to do as he pleases with it.
“Mr. Hotham was instituted to Bº Sutton last Friday, and if he is not very
hard upon us for dilapidations, I hope, when my Father's accounts are closed, we
shall divide an hundred pounds each.
‘I am happy to hear you are quite recovered, & am, yours,’ &c.
689. A. L. S. from Thomas Bowen to Lady Hamilton. Dated ‘Friday
night, October 22nd, 1802, Portman Square, No. 4.' 2 pages 4to.
[P.]
‘I have this moment received your Ladyship's kind and affectionate letter ;
but this is not the first by many civilities I have received from the same kind
hand, whose goodness of heart is but to little known in this country. You say
you had little or no education until you were I7—this must be meant as an
* Richard, 7th Earl Cavan, 1763–1837, only son of the 6th Earl, whom he succeeded in 1778
He was a general officer, Colonel of the 45th Foot, and commanded a division in Egypt in 1800
2OO THE HAM/Z7 OAV AAWD [1802.
encouragement to me; but if I was to begin the world again, I have not the
presumption to think I could ever equal your Ladyship. I speak truth when I
say there is not in England—nay, scarcely in the world—a woman who is half so
well educated as your Ladyship, and, I will add, possessed of a better heart.
Therefore the merit rests with you, and you only. Miss Nelson is truly fortunate;
she is a good girl, and have not a doubt but what she is sensible, and will be more
so every day of her good fortune, in having so good an instructerest. -
‘As to my being laughed out of my plan, I am determined to give it a fair
trial, altho' I am sensible everything is against me, as I never had any education
at all, being turned...out into the world at the age of II ; but the more difficulty
there is attaining a thing, the more pleasure there is in it after being attained ;
besides, I am in possession of your opinion on the subject, therefore nothing
can, or shall, bias me to the contrary. I am obliged, also, for the kind hint
you gave me with respect to the people I am to live with, and you may be sure
I. shall be very careful of what I say, as I consider every Frenchman a spye and a
scoundrel.
“Mr. Brent informed me the other day that the oculist gave but a very
indifferent opinion with respect to my Lord's eye; but I trust in God it's without
foundation, as it is the brightest jewel in the Crown. I declare solemnly to God
that, if it were possible to replace his eye with one of mine, I would undergo the
operation. I love, respect, and esteem him for his private virtues, but I adore
him as an officer and saviour of his country; and I should do more for my King
and country in that one act than I shall ever do, if I was to live to the years of
Methusala ; and the man who would not do as much is a traitor to his country.
God bless him, and God bless you all is the sincere wish of your Ladyship's most
grateful,’ &c.
‘P.S.—After I am settled with my new acquaintance, I will give your Lady-
ship my opinion of them freely, &c., &c. Terms, £88s. Od, per month ; I find
wines, breakfast, and coals, &c., &c. Fair enough so far.”
690. A. L. S. from Mr. Matcham to Lord Nelson. Dated Hartham
Park, October 28th, 18O2. 3 pages 4to. [P]
‘I cannot think we ought to have more for our 3 per cents. than the current
price. What we are anxious for is, that you may find a convenience in having
the whole of the settlement money to purchase Axe's estate, without which
Merton may become an objectionable residence. It would be a pleasant reflec-
tion for me, if we should go abroad, to have my wife's jointure out of the Funds,
for should any untoward appearances arise, your brother might be unwilling to
sell out in my absence. In respect to the want of papers, Axe can give ample
Security, & his long possession of the property would go far to establish a valid
claim. I am heartily glad that Linton, at length, feels as he ought to do—-great
things may be done at a comparatively trifling expence; it will give me plea-
sure to see the plan of improvements—the future stream, & the flourishing
plantations on its banks; I hope some landscape gardner of acknowledged taste
will plan it.
“God grant we may have no war. I am convinc'd our interference will never
do any good ; we are only swindled and laught at. Besides, these Emperors &
Kings do not consider that their quarrels impede my family arrangements.
‘I am at a friend's house near Corsham, which will account for my not
answering your Lordship's letter by return of post. The day before yesterday
we paid our respects to the Marquis of Lansdowne, who is perfectly well, & hopes to
See you when you come into Wiltshire, of which there is a report. Should you
go again to Fonthill Abbey, can I meet you there—-Paddy would say as one of
your suite P, . It would delight me to see that singular and magnificent pile; &
when finish’d & open to the publick, I may be at too great a distance.
‘It is my intention to accompany Sir Chas. Malet” soon to London. I have
*Sir Charles Warre Malet, F.S.A., F.R.S., 1750–1815, having filled several high official
and diplomatic appointments under the East India Company, was created a Baronet in 1791.
1802.] AVE/SOAV PAPAERS. 2OI
some business to settle at Hackney, which may keep me there a couple of days,
after which I shall go to Merton, & if there is a spare bed, stay a couple of days
and nights.
‘Our best respects attend Sr Wim & Lady Hamilton—the Doctor and Mrs. N.,
we believe, are in the country—but remember us to a lively girl there, whose hand
we hope to kiss, and salute her as Dutchess of we forget the title.
‘That you may ever enjoy the comforts and happiness you deserve, is the
sincere wish of your,’ &c. t
691. A. L. S. from Governor Ball to Lady Hamilton. Dated Malta,
November 8th, 1802. 4 pages 4to. [T.]
“I participated in the gratifying scene you and your good Sir William
witnessed in the national testimonies of gratitude which our brave and good
Nelson received in his journey to Wales. I desired all the paragraphs in the
newspapers which mentioned it, to be marked for my perusal. I think his
Lordship and Sir William must have been almost overpowered by such a load of
caresses and kindness, and would feel relieved at the sight of Merton and the
prospect of repose ; as for your Ladyship, I believe you could /º/, /.2%, hiſ, your
Nelson when every other power was exhausted. I have introduced your relation
to my son, who has carried him about the country, and delighted him much.
Captain Capel is very kind to all his young gentlemen, and attends particularly to
their improvement. I am glad to hear the Tysons are well ; have the goodness to
tell honest John that I have written to the Treasury, and represented his losses
by undertaking the commission of purchasing corn for the Island of Malta. I
shall write to him soon. Miss Charlotte Nelson, I dare say, is fully sensible of
the great and very rare advantages she has in the tuition of so accomplished
a patroness. Pray give me all the traits you know of the Prince of Pantelaria,
who is the Neapolitan Minister here ; he has a difficult task; he is afraid
of offending the French Minister, and it is to be apprehended that this
passion will operate more powerfully than love for the English—time will prove
this.
‘The Deputies often talk of the kind attention and hospitality with which they
were honoured by your Ladyship, Sir William, and Lord Nelson. Our business
here is a jumble, and it is difficult to say what will be finally arranged.
‘Adieu, my dear sister, present my best respects to good Sir William, and
believe me ever,’ &c. -
692. A. L. S. from William Haslewood to Lord Nelson. Dated Craven
Street, November 18th, 1802. 3 pages 4to. [P.]
‘I was prevented attending my office yesterday by the sudden illness of my
brother. I find your Lordship looked over the correspondence between Messrs.
Stride and Franks & myself, and I was much concerned not to have had an
opportunity of hearing your sentiments upon it. Mr. Axe, your Lordship
observed, is obstinately bent on doing wrong. He will neither comply with
what Mr. Romilly, Mr. Butler, & Mr. Preston think he ought, nor refer the
matter to the determination of a third (indifferent) person. What is to be done
with him 2 There are two courses for your Lordship to pursue ;-one, to institute
a suit in Chancery immediately, when an order might be obtained in a short time,
& pending other enquiries, for you to be let into possession (or, rather, receipt of
the rents) of the estate, on payment of the purchase-money into Court ; the
other, which perhaps may be preferable, to invest your money again in the Funds,
which are not likely to be lower, and to let the matter rest in statu quo till Mr.
Axe shall be better advised, or till the expiration of the lease, whichever may first
happen.
Pº should wish to talk the matter over with your Lordship, either in town
or country, as you might find most convenient ; and, expecting your commands,
I have the honour to be,’ &c, - -
2O2 7"HE A/AM/Z7'ON A WD [1802,
693. Memoranda on Malta from Lord Nelson to Mr. Addington (in
Lady Hamilton's handwriting). No date” (Merton, December
4th, 1802). 5 pages 4to. [P.]
‘It must never belong to France. AEngland does not want it. If Russia will
not guarantee Malta, then a new negotiation must be sett on foot, and we must
hold fast until it is settled ; but if Russia will guarantee Malta, then it will become
a serious consideration in the new state of the Order whether it can be carried
into effect. Malta is materially changed since the Treaty of Amiens, by Spain
having (in breach of that Treaty) taken away a great part of that revenue which
was to support the expences of the Order, and if one power can do it, another can
do the same, and the Order of Malta, unable to maintain itself, falls of course.
N.B.--It is easy to see from whose advice Spain has acted. Other countries
may follow the same advice.
“The Order of Malta cannot, in keeping the fortification in repair, ships,
gallies, &c., &c., be kept up for less than the former revenue, and by the intro-
duction of the new “langue” the pride of Spaniards will not allow them nor even
the Italians to enter into the Order, and they brought a vast accession of flowing
wealth to the Order which now will fail. Under these circumstances it becomes
the consideration what can be done with it to accord to the spirit of the Treaty
of Amiens—that neither France nor England shall possess it.
‘The King of the Two Sicilies is the acknowledged Lord of the island. Even
the Maltese, after the destruction of the Order, in their addresses, stile them-
selves his subjects, therefore, on the face of the Act there could be no objection
to giving it to him. But the consideration is how a weak State can keep it out
of the power of so powerful a one as France—only by guarantees that the King of
the Two Sicilies shall hold Malta on the same terms as the Order (if it is possible
that it shall always be neutral) and tied up by the guarantee that on no consider-
ation of exchange of territory shall it be given up. The Emperor of Russia
having guaranteed all the King of Naples's dominions last year, will not probably
object to do the same for Malta. It is so much the interest of the Two Sicilies
to keep Malta from France (for he would lose Sicily if he gave it up), that
I think him, under guarantees, the most proper person to have it. France
could not object by the spirit of the Treaty of Amiens to its being placed
(the Order not being possible to be restored) in the King of Naples's hands
under the same restrictions, and this country would save 3OO,OOO!, a year, and
by [it], as far as human faith and foresight go, keep Malta out of the hands of
France.
‘The King of Naples can wish for neither France or England to possess
Malta. By the first he must lose Sicily, by the latter he may be involved in a war
about Malta, should France and England go to war; and this, in my opinion,
could be the only rational inducement for the King of Naples to pay the great
expences of holding Malta. a-
M | If neither of these plans can be accomplished, we have no choice but to keep
alta. - -
694. A. L. S. from Sir W. Hamilton to Charles Greville. No date
(December 23rd, 1802). Ił pages 4to., with Superscription.
[H.]
‘My Lady having left this letteri on her toilet I supposed necessities were
* The paper bears no date, but, according to Sir H. Nicholas's Dispatches and Zetters, it was
written from Merton to Mr. Addington on the date given above, and exists in Nelson's
autograph in the Sidmouth papers.
+ The letter, on the blank part of which Sir William’s is written, is from Messrs. Coutts, the
bankers, to Lady Hamilton, and is dated Strand, December 21st, 1802. “Agreeable to your
Ladyship's desire we have the honour to acquaint you that the present balance of your money in
our hands is twelve shillings and eleven pence. We have the honour to be,’ &c.
1802.] AVAE/...SOAV PAA’EA’.S. 2O3
pressing, and I have given her an additional credit on Coutts for £130, so that
of the A700 wanting to clear all, having had AI2O before, I am to pay £450. If
I am not soon paid by the Treasury, I am determined to apply to Mr. Addington
myself; it is most shamefull. I am returning to-day to dinner at Merton. I
attended the Council yesterday at R S. Sir Joseph [Banks] came, but was too
ill to come upstairs. I went down to him, & was glad that I had it in my power
to assist him, so I took the Chair at Council and in the evening. I think of going
on Sunday to stay a day or two at Windsor, to have an opportunity of wishing
their Majesties a merry Xmas. Every*,’ &c.
‘P. S.–Do see what you can do with Vansitart, but surely I will not tamely
submit to be robbed by the Treasury much longer.’
695. A. T. S. from Richard Bulkeley to Lord Nelson. Datcd Ludlow,
December 26th, 18O2. 4 pages 4to. [P.]
‘May you, my dear Nelson, enjoy with increased honours and happiness very
many returns of the season, that is, may you be as happy as I wish you and as
you deserve; your cup of joy will then overflow, and my own would be much
added to could I be a frequent eye-witness of your being in possession of
affluence, health and spirits, all which are necessary to the complete enjoyment
of your hard-earn’d honors.
‘Many thanks to you for your obliging letter of the 23d, and for the trouble
you have been so good to take about an ass for me. I have no doubts as to
the animal being one that possesses great merits in his way, but let him turn out
as he may, and his price exceed ever So much my expectation, I shall always be
thankful to you for your endeavours to procure him. When he arrives, and when
you are acquainted with all the expences attending the gentleman, so as to
let me know, I will send you an Order for the amount, or pay it into any
hands you shall direct to receive it. I fear that the sudden transition will nip
the poor devil, and that his braced cod's will be such a surprize upon him, that,
unless he is a reasoner, he may fret himself to death, for fear of their never
more being an ornament to his heels; and should he come during the very cold
weather, I shall apprehend some difficulty and much trouble in getting him down
So far.
“As to the wine, I fear that I must take my chance of your merchants
ever reaching Tuscany. I know there are warehouses in London at which
Florence wine is now and then to be had, but it is so delicate a wine that it
very seldom can be procured from those places in prime order, at least so I have
found it.
‘I heard the other day from Dick, who has been, as you know I suppose, to Lisbon.
The ship is ordered into dock, and he says the repairs, paying off, and remanning
will keep her in port three months. He repeats your kindness to him at Merton,
and speaks of Lady Hamilton's great civility to him; at the same time he requests
me to present his best respects when I write. -
‘Mrs. Bulkeley desires me to offer her best compliments to you, Lady and Sir
Wm. Hamilton, to which pray add mine. And if the Doctor is with you,
remember me to him also. By the bye, I am Sorry and surpris’d at not having
seen him announced in the papers for Church preferment ; I wish that ministers
would act like other men, and as they would feel themselves obliged to do if out
of office, that is—keep their words within a reasonable time. Adieu, my dear
friend,’ &c.
696. A. L. S. from Mrs. Tyson to Lady Hamilton. Dated Monday
noon, December 28th, 1802. 2% pages 4to., with Superscription.
[P.]
‘May I ask you this favor, and obtain your consent for Miss Hartly to go
with us to a grand ball given by the Rector of the parish, Mr. Horsely, son to the
2O4
7 HE HAM/Z7 OAV AAVZ) [1802–3.
Bishop of St. Asaph.” On Friday, on passing, wee call'd on Mrs. Horsely. In
Chatting I said I meant to ask a young maid to stay with us, and to bring her, for
had Miss H. been at home, it is our intentions to request your ladyship to let
her return with us. Mr. and Mrs. H. have politely said in the note wee shall be
glad to see your young friend, and pray, my dear Lady H., let me beg the favour
of Miss Hartly company. I am told last ball they had eighty people, all the
genteel part of about Woolwich, all us in the dock-yard, the Capts and wives,
and a greater part of the officers in the Marine and Artillery. I will dress
Miss Hartly and we will go comfortable—Capt. and Mrs. Page and us 3 in a
glass coach. On Thursday we shall be in London (Mr. Tyson has Capt. Peard
to meet); if Miss H. comes to London in the morning she can return to Wool-
wich with us at 4, and take the trunk with her things. Do, pray, pray, my Lady.
* Compts to Mrs. Nelson, and beg her to ask it off Mrs. Cadogan, and on
Saturday we bring Miss H. home. I really spent a most happy time at Merton,
and a heartfelt joy, being happy with my dear Tyson a whole year, and taking
the Sacrament with a composed mind, which God knows I never thought to have
had again last Christmas day. I bless you, Lady Hamilton, and may God send
you health to enjoy your long life, I hope, and many, many thanks to good Lord
Nelson for all this comfort he has given us. Hoping to hear your assent and
Soon, my dear Lady, believe me,’ &c.
‘P.S.—Mr. T. has a little sore throat, but it will go off to-night after he has
taken Something warm, and go to bed early, which he dearly loves : at 9 often
we go.”
697. A. L. S. from Mr. R. Bulkeley to Lord Nelson. Dated Ludlow,
January 8th, 18O3. 3 pages 4to. [P.]
‘I am very sincerely obliged to you for your letter of the 6th, giving me
information of the arrival of the Maltese, for which I shall dispatch a messenger
to-morrow, and I have by this day's post written a letter of thanks to Captain
Maxwell, and have directed a person at Portsmouth to give a guinea to the man
who took care of the ass on the passage, and to pay other charges. I look with
impatience to the time when I shall get the animal into my stable. Sir A. Ball's
accounts of him raises my hopes, and I expect a nonsuch.
“In your last letter you told me that he cost thirty pounds, which I now send
you an order for, and to which I have added five pounds, as I recollect my son's
writing to me from on board the St. George in the Baltic, to tell me that you had
given him five pounds, and when I mentioned it to you at Merton, you said,
“Hardy will settle it,” but when I paid him his advance to Dick, he took no
notice of the money that you advanced ; it therefore remained unpaid, and for
that reason I have included it in the present draft. I have heard from one or
two quarters that the Am/hion is intended for the East Indies ; it therefore
occurs to me to suggest what appears to me of some moment to Dick. Next
month he will have served three years, and I hope and believe that, when he shall
have served his time, he will be found perfectly qualified to be made [lieutenant?];
Supposing him then to be in the East Indies at that period, and that the then
Commander-in-chief should be a person of whom you may not like to ask a
favour, and that the Captain of Dick's ship should not have weight with the
Admiral, may he not miss his promotion ? This reasoning you can easily enter
into, and judge of its propriety better than I can. I am, therefore, particularly
desirous of knowing your opinion, by which I shall be entirely guided. If you
Say let him go, I shall be satisfied ; but should you prefer his being on the Home
or Mediterranean station, I shall be equally pleased. Do, therefore, my dear
friend, let me hear from you on the subject.
‘Mrs. Bulkeley desires her best remembrance to you, and joins me in com-
pliments to Sir William and Lady Hamilton. I am,’ &c.
+
Samuel Horsley, 1733–1806, a learned prelate, and a man of science, elected a Fellow of
the Royal Society in 1767. He became Prebend of Gloucester in 1787, Bishop of St. David’s in
1788, of Rochester in 1793 and of St. Asaph in 1802. . The son, Heneage Horsley, 1776–1847,
was first Rector of Woolwich, then of Gresford, and ultimately Dean of Brechin, .
1803.] AVEZSOAV PAPERS. 205
698. A. L. S. from Admiral Duckworth to the same. Dated Leviatham,
Jamaica, January 16th, 1803. 4 pages 4to, [P.]
‘The November and December packets having trod so close upon each other
as to be here together, I have by the former to express my warmest thanks for
your friendly letters of October 9th and November 28th, which drew forth my
admiration at the glorious uncertainty of the law, even when all the combina-
tions of it, turn them in common sense which way you will, must be operative in
our favour ; but if influence or power can cause the palladium of our liberty to
be thus perverted, I shudder for our posterity. Yet, as I am convinced you will
take every just care of our interest, let it turn as it will, I shall be satisfied in
having endeavoured to protect the rights of our profession against what appears
to me a most unjust and unprecedented claim ; and from the arguments which
appear in the paper, they dwell much upon the cause of the Sá. Aziz, with
Admiral Murray, which, in my opinion, is quite irrelevant, as he was a Flag
Officer, serving alone, and consequently, when not relieved, is like other Flag
Officers coming from abroad, entitled to share till under other orders or his
flag struck. With respect to the Marquis de Niza, the law of reciprocity, must
prevent him from sharing for the capture of vessels of a nation with which he
was in amity, and I shall think even for French, if the Portuguese colours were
not in sight; but should common sense lose its force in these, we must have a
claim upon the captures made by his squadron from the Tunisians, &c.
‘I cannot but feel sensible of your Lordship's friendly sentiments of the
public benefit by my continuance in this command, but I consider, whilst a £eace
lasts, an officer that has been above forty out of forty-four years' servitude on
board ship, and for these last ten years never had a moment to attend to his
private affairs, or see a favourite daughter for six years, has a full claim to relief,
and I trust we have a thousand as good as he to occupy the place ; besides, if I
was to stay till Buonaparte's ambition was satiated, or St. Domingo in a perfect
state of tranquillity, I must have a longer tenure in this world than I expect.
I therefore, my good Lord, cannot but be anxious to return, on which event I
anticipate much pleasure in paying my respects at Merton, and personally
assuring your Lordship that I have the honour to feel, with real regard,' &c.
‘P.S.—I will beg your Lordship to say all that is kind and respectful to Sir
William and Lady Hamilton, believing me ever yours,’ &c.
699. Copy of Letter (in Lady Hamilton's handwriting) from Lord
Nelson to Lord St. Vincent. Dated 23 Piccadilly, January 28th,
I8O3. 3 pages 4to. [P.]
“As your indifferent state of health will, I fear, prevent your coming to town
for some time, I write to your Lordship on a subject which we once entered
upon, but which you desired to defer till the Dutch ships were paid for, when you
would settle our Copenhagen business with Lord Hawkesbury.
‘I am now, by desire of several captains, asking your Lordship if any decision
has taken place on this business. If you refer me to Lord Hawkesbury as the
proper minister for this business, or any other Minister, I shall address myself to
him (or them); or if you think that a public letter to the Secretary of the
Admiralty is the proper channel, I will write one to him. It is now two years
since that battle was fought.
“I own myself exactly of the same opinion as when I wrote to you from the
Baltic, that under all the peculiar circumstances of the case, no war with
Denmark, therefore no condemnation could take place, that it wou'd be better
to give a gratuity for our services ; I said (I believe) A, IOO,OOO was as little as
could be offer'd. You differed from me, but wrote me that you would recom-
mend a large price to be given for the Holstein. You will, my dear Lord, see
the situation I am placed in, and excuse my resorting to you to advise me in
what channel I shall proceed to bring our Copenhagen prize business to a close.
With every kind wish for the re-establishment of your health, believe me
yours,’ &c.
2O6 THE HAM// 7'OAV AAV7) [1803.
700. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to Lady Hamilton. Dated ‘Cranwich,
Friday, noon, February or March, 1803. 3 pages 4to., with
Superscription. [P.]
* I shall, my dear Lady, be happy to visit you & my brother at Merton ; to be
sure Mrs. Matcham will be an agreeable addition to the party. Poor thing, she
is not very able to cope with a cough. I should be alarmed, but that I know it in
some degree belongs to her situation, which I am sorry enough to hear, as I am
afraid she will breed herself to death, which was the case with our poor mother.
Some time the beginning of April I hope to see you, with your permission I shall
bring Kitty with me. I am sorry to hear you have all been ill; hope Sir Win is
daily getting strength. The weather is not very favourable for invalids; with
us the ground is now covered with snow. What is the rumour of war that our
papers are full off? I hope the storm will blow over. God forbid my Lord should
be called for again, it may be a good thing for his country, but a very uncom-
fortable one for his friends. He has gained glory enough for any one man, I
wish he would think so. I have seen the Dº looking very well, & in what we call
a diamond humour (that is, in the very best). Susanna went down with her
father to see M* Nelson ; the weather was too cold for me. Mr Bolton thanks
your Ladyship kindly for your invitation & the pipe, but this is a busy time
with farmers. I am pleased to hear such a good account of Charlotte : she is a
good girl, & I always loved her. All our family, including Capt. Bolton, desire
to be kindly remembered to you & my Lord. I shall be glad to see M*
Cadogan again ; I have a great respect for her, she is so good. Believe me,’ &c.
701. A. L. S. from Alexander Davison to Lord Nelson. Dated Calais,
February 3rd, 18O3. 2 pages 4to. [H]
‘Long ere this I had settled my return to St. James's Square, after having
reached Paris, spending a fortnight there, and setting off from thence in great
good health for Bruxelles and Antwerp, my dear boy William was taken ex-
tremely ill at Lisle, and it was with difficulty I could get him with safety on to
this place. He has now been confined to his bed a fortnight, in a delirium, and
only within these two days the fever has taken a favourable turn, and the physician
considers him out of danger. You may well believe the vexation and concern
this unfortunate circumstance occasions me. I shall hope the best, though the
doctor tells me I must not expect to move from hence sooner than the IBth.
What a prison—state of misery. If my absence occasions to you any pecuniary
inconvenience, apply to my bankers, and show to them this side of my letter,
and I authorise them to pay to your order five thousand pounds sterling. This
possibly may supply your present wants. If an extension be necessary, Com-
mand the purse of your ever,’ &c.
702. Draft of Letter (in Lady Hamilton's handwriting) from Lord
Nelson to Mr. Alexander Stephens.” Dated 23 Piccadilly,
February IOth, 18O3. 3 pages 4to. [P.]
‘By your letter, I believe that you wish to be correct in your History, and
therefore desire to be informed of a transaction relative to Naples. I cannot, at
this moment, enter at large into the subject to which you allude; but I shall
briefly say that neither Cardinal Ruffo, Captain Foote, or any other person, had
any power vested in them to enter into any treaty with the rebels—that even the
paper which they so improperly signed was not acted upon, as I very happily
arrived at Naples, and prevented such an infamous transaction from taking place.
I put aside the dishonourable treaty, and sent the rebels notice of it ; therefore,
when the rebels surrendered, they came out of the castle as they ought, without
any honours of war, and trusting to the judgment of their Sovereign.
* Alexander Stephens, 1757–1821, a miscellaneous writer, author of A History of the Wars
of the Arench A'evolution, published in 1803.
1803.] AVELSO/W PAPERS. 2O7
“If you allude to Mrs. Williams’% book, I can assure you that nearly all she
writes relative to Naples is either entirely destitute of foundation or falsely
represented. If you wish to have any conversation with me on this subject, I am
at home every morning at IO o'clock, and am,’ &c.
703. A. L. S. from Mr. R. Bulkeley to Lord Nelson. Dated Ludlow,
February 17th, I803. 3 pages 4to, [P.]
‘I am aware that I ought not to call upon your eyes to read my letter, after
the restrictions of Moseley,t and the account that you give of yourself, which I can
with strict truth say grieves me very much, and though I don't desire you to
answer me, but, on the contrary, request you not to write, still I cannot impose
silence on myself, and do so much injustice to my heart as not to express my
deep concern at what gives you any serious cause for alarm, and which seems to
threaten a severe misfortune to our country. My consolation in the present
instance arises from my confidence in Moseley's skill, and my conviction that he
will not trifle, or practise experiments, where so much is at stake, and I ann sure
that your resolution to withstand every temptation to deviate from his rules is
sufficient to ensure him success. I shall be impatient to hear how you go on,
and therefore beg that if any material change takes place, you will employ the pen
of some one about you to communicate the intelligence to me, which I most
ardently hope will be of the most pleasing kind.
“From every thing that the papers related as appearing upon the trials, I had
no idea that the detestable conspiracy had gone the lengths which you seem to
imagine, or involved in it any (poor Despardi excepted) but of the lowest orders.
I am sorry that you think it so extensive, and of so serious a nature ; however, I
still think and hope that the country at large is staunch to the constitution : in
that case, the disaffection of a great majority of the Guards would not, I trust,
when joined only to the rabble, without their officers, be able to effect more than
partial evils, though certainly thousands on all sides might fall, and many families
be reduced to penury.
“I rejoice that you have given your attention to the subject of our seamen ; if
we don't keep them in good humour, and firm from principle, our decline must be
very rapid indeed. I can have no doubts of the Ministry paying every attention,
and giving the greatest weight to your recommendations upon this subject. In
all your systems you have shewn your preference for decision and vigour, and the
good effects have been proved in all your actions. Even in matters of less
moment I am an enemy to half and timid measures, and in the unfortunate
executions which are to take place, I would have Government make all the parade
which the case will admit of, and shew that it is undaunted. Despard ought not
to be spared. The King owes to the country that the execution should take place.
“The Maltese is perfectly well, and recovered from the effects of his voyage.
He is beautiful, and as fond of biting and kicking as any of his fraternity. Those
of this country are all heavy and stupid looking, but this, on the contrary, is most
playful, with a very animated eye.
“Offer Mrs. Bulkeley’s and my kind respects to Sir William and Lady Hamilton,
Dr. and Mrs. Nelson, and believe me,’ &c.
* Helen Maria Williams, 1762–1827, an English woman of letters, principally known as a
warm supporter of the French Revolution. She was the author of a number of works now
mostly forgotten.
+ Dr. Benjamin Moseley, a well-known medical practitioner, who succeeded Dr. Monsey as
Physician to Chelsea Hospital. He died in 1819.
† Edward Marcus Despard, 1751–1803, a Colonel in the army, who had served in the
expedition to San Juan with Nelson, and afterwards superintended the military defences of
Jamaica. In 1784 he was made superintendent of the logwood cutters of Yucatan, but was
eventually charged with cruel and illegal actions, was sent to England to be tried in 1790, but in
1792 was informed there was no real accusation against him. Becoming soured and embittered
by the persistent refusals he met with in claiming compensation, he began to plot against the
Government, but was betrayed, arrested, tried, and comdemned to death for high treason. He
was hanged and then his head cut off, his remains, which were handed to his widow, who was
present at the execution, being buried in St. Paul’s churchyard.
208 TAIAE HAM/Z 7 OAV AAVD [1803.
704. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Ludlow, March 9th,
I8O3. 3 pages 4to, [P.]
‘Your last letter gave me great concern, because it speaks of your suffering
eye, but is perfectly silent as to any probability of speedy relief. Do, my good
friend, tell me who you have consulted besides Moseley, who, though an excellent
//ysician, is not, I apprehend, a £rofessed oculist. And you have given so much
reason to the country to look with confidence for essential advantages from your
future services, that it has some right to require of you to seek for every aid, and
to do every thing in your power to preserve your health. Let that claim then
which your country has upon you, call forth your utmost exertions. - -
‘I highly approve of your withholding the money which I intended for an
object, who, as I conceived you interested yourself about, I concluded might be
deserving, and if you think her so, my donation is still at your service to appro-
priate as you think proper, but I am by no means ambitious of classing myself,
or being a contributor with her late husband's associates, or with such villains as
Citizen Hardy.”
“I find that the Board of Admiralty has established C/zzó Zaw, and that the
First Lordt has a most £owerful support in a man who has often proved his
readiness and courage in a more honourable way than that of frightening an
emaciated Secretary. Ministers would, by all accounts, gladly get rid of the
Earl, but he loves power and patronage too well to indulge them by taking
1722/7. Have we any chance, in case of a vacancy, of seeing the place filled
by a man who would most ably and honourably execute the duties of the office,
and who I wish to see gratified in every desire of his heart? You can’t be at a
loss to guess who I mean, you know my sentiments too well, and that I am at all
times your,’ &c.
‘P. S.—I just understood that the Amphion is ordered to Ireland to receive
seamen. Give my compliments to Sir William and Lady Hamilton.’
705. A. L. S. from R. Nelson to the same. Dated [Plymouth] Dock,
March 12th, 18O3. I page 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘This sudden alteration in politics has induc’d many young men to stand
forth in and for the defence of our country, and should not the alarm blow over, I
think there is no doubt but your Lordship's good services will again be call’d
forth. Under that idea I take the liberty of introducing to you my relation,
Captain George Cocks, whose wish it is to serve under your command in any
way or in any shape you may think proper. He has been six years with my good
friend, Sir William Parker (four years of which his first Lieu"), and, had Sir
William liv'd to have been employed, would doubtless had him his Captain. His
abilitys are well known as an able, good officer, and will do credit to my
recomendation, on which accº I take this liberty, and should you hoist your flag,
I hope sincerely you’l take him under your command, which will much oblige
yours,’ &c.
‘P.S.—Your namesakeſ grows a fine boy.’
706. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to Lady Hamilton. Dated Cranwich,
March 21st, 18O3. 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘Thanks, my dear Lady, for your letter, I am afraid all hopes of keeping my
dear brother with us, is now over (Bonaparte must be severely punished for his
2nsolence). God preserve & restore him again to us in safety, then what a
* Antoine François Hardy, 1756–1823, a French politician and medical practitioner, who,
in 1793, was elected representative of the Seine-Anſºrieur to the National Convention, where he
made himself remarkable for the violence of his diatribes against the party which happened to be
down. On the restoration of the Bourbons, he returned to the practice of medicine. The
money mentioned in the letter was, of course, intended for Mrs. Despard. *
+ Earl St. Vincent.
# The writer's grandchild, born in 1801, and called after Nelson.
1803.] WELSow PAPERS. - 209
happy party we shall all meet at Merton, may it be soon is my prayer. I find
by a letter from Capt. Bolton Sir Wm has taken a medicine which has made him
better ; this mild weather must be greatly in his favour. I sincerely hope he
will be restored to you. Will your Ladyship permit me the privilege of friend-
Ship, to request your interest with my Lord in favour of Capt. Bolton, the nearer
he is placed to him the better I shall like it, granting his request will confer an
additional obligation on me 2 The young man himself is anxious to serve with
Lord N., which makes me say the more.
‘Mrs. Pierson & her little girl are with us ; the child is the exact image of
poor Pierson ; she begs her compºs. I am sure had the Dr or Mrs Nelson known
the present situation of affairs, they never would have left you.
‘ M* Bolton is gone to Retford Assizes as one of a special jury in a cause for
Zefamation, the plaintiff, Mr Edward Ashley; Erskineº & Garrowf are to plead,
therefore a seat in the jury box will be no unpleasant thing. Whenever you
have a moment to spare give me a line just to say peace or war, & when & where
my Lord is going, for the papers are no dependence. Give my kind & affection-
ate love to my brother ; I do not write to him as I know you will express my
feelings & anxious wishes for him. I am,’ &c. ... - .
707. A. L. S. from Mr. R. Bulkeley to Lord Nelson. Dated March 23rd,
I8O3. 3 pages 4to. [P.] -
‘This infernal threat of war, and consequent bustle, I am sure, has entirely
engaged all your time and thoughts ; therefore, from the moment that the subject
was announced officially, I knew that I was not to expect to know anything
about you but through the newspapers. Satisfied as I am as to your dislike to
writing, and knowing that it is not an easy task with the left hand, and
that you have at such a time no leisure for letter writing, still, my anxious friend-
ship and desire to be acquainted with everything that concerns you, has made
me look with impatient hope for the arrival of every post for the last fortnight.
‘You have proved yourself too true a prophet, for you have said ever since
the peace that it could not be of long duration ; and though I hoped you might
be mistaken, still I had my fears, and now confess that if war was inevitable, in the
course of a very few years from the peace, I am better satisfied that we should
embrace the first justifiable cause for war, while our brilliamſ achievements in the
last are fresh upon our own and that of our enemies’ memories, and whilst the
breast of every effective sailor burns with desire to follow the unexampled example
Žhat yoza haze set them. Tell me, my dear Nelson, when you can, all you can
(consistently with State secrecy) as to your own probable destination. Poor
Varden is gone to town to offer ; I wish that he had his flag and at quiet in
Ludlow. He is a very honorable and good old ſnazz. I offered during the late
war, repeatedly, my poor services without fee or reward, I was coolly thanked,
but not accepted, and I did not think it necessary to exert much interest to put
myself to great inconvenience by undertaking the training and Commanding a set
of fellows in a profession for which, in our country, I have the most thorough
contempt, notwithstanding Lords Moira and Hutcheson's ſigs to each other. If I
was a sailor, which I ought to have been, I would cut off both my arms rather
than be idle at such a time. Can you tell me where the Am/hion is gone P Dick
is now old enough to enter into the glory and honour of his profession. He must
earn those laurels which his father missed, and perhaps was not equal to the
attainment of.
‘My best compliments to Sir William and Lady Hamilton. I am,’ &c.
* Thomas, Lord Erskine, 1750–1823, the celebrated Lawyer and Lord Chancellor. In
1778 he was called to the bar, where he made a large fortune, and in 1806 was made Lord
Chancellor, an appointment which was generally condemned, and after which he sank into
comparative insignificance. - -
‘f Sir William Garrow, 1760–1840, a well-known lawyer and consummate advocate, made
Attorney-General in 1813, and in 1817 Baron of the Exchequer. He was admitted a Member of
the Privy Council in 1832. -
VOL. II. P
2 IO THE HAMILTON AND [1893.
708. A. L. S. from Dr. Baird to the same. Dated Portsmouth, March
24th, 1803, 3 pages 4to. [P.]
‘My unexpected and hasty departure from London on Saturday night totally
precluded me doing myself the honour of waiting on you, and since I have been
here, I have been so engaged on board the Mežtume, that I have scarcely time to
write a daily report to the Admiralty. She is now, I trust, in good health, and
the means pursued will preserve it. The newspapers of to-day announce the
Victory commissioned for your Lordship, if so, Mr. Allen, the surgeon of the
l/enerable, is the surgeon I would recommend, if Mr. Bell stays with Lord Keith,
perhaps your Lordship might ask Lord Keith that question. I am Solicitous that
your Lordship may not think me forgetful of so necessary an appointment as a
good surgeon, and your Lordship may rest assured if it be your wish to delay on
that head, that I shall not fail to accommodate you with an eligible person.
‘I take the liberty of offering most respectful compliments to Sir William and
Lady Hamilton. I have the honour to be,’ &c.
709. A. L. S. from Mr. Matcham to the same. Dated March 25th, 1803.
I page 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘I have sent a couple of drawings for Count Staremberg, but beg your inspec-
tion of them. I have conversed with different intelligent people who assure me of
the practicability of my plan—I leave it to its chance—swim or sink.
‘Pray God we may have no war, if not, we hope it will not be long before we
meet. My best respects attend Sir Wm & Lady Hamilton, not forgetting my
niece. My dear Lord, yours,’ &c.
710. A. L. S. from Lord Melville to the same. Dated Wimbledon,
April 17th, I803. 2 pages 4to. [P.]
‘I have received your Grace's letter, together with one from Lady Hamilton
herself. I had an opportunity of speaking with Mº Addington yesterday,
agreeable to your and her wishes ; but I had no occasion to press any thing with
importunity, as he seems fully possessed of the circumstances of the case, and
disposed to give a favourable attention to them.* I need not trouble Lady
Hamilton with a separate letter, as your Grace will communicate to her the
contents of this, and I remain, my dear Lord,’ &c.
‘I will take an opportunity soon of calling on Lady Hamilton.”
711. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to the same. Dated ‘Sunday’
(April 23rd, 1803). I page 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘I could not inclose an answer to Lady Hamilton's very kind letter without
telling you that I have no hope of seeing you at present, for George is now ill
with the measles, & I expect to have all the children with the same disorder.
‘I have only time to add our most affecte wishes, & I trust we may hope to
have you in England. Believe me,’ &c.
712. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated “Kingston,
# before 6’ (May 16th, 1803). I page 8vo., with Superscription.
[P.] -
‘Cheer up, my dearest Emma, and be assured that I ever have been, and am,
and ever will be, your most faithful and affectionate Nelson & Bronté.”
713. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Victory, noon, May
20th, I803. I page 4to, [P.]
‘You will believe that although I am glad to leave that horrid place,
Portsmouth, yet the being afloat makes me now feel that we do not tread the
* Sir William died April 3rd.
18O3.] AVE/SOAV PAPERS. 2 II
same element. I feel from my soul that God is good, and in His due wisdom
will unite us, only when you look upon [our dear child” call] to your remembrance
all you think that I would say was I present, and be assured that I am thinking
of you every moment. My heart is full to bursting ! May God Almighty bless
& protect you, is the fervent prayer of, my dear beloved Emma, your most
faithful, affectionate,’ &c.
714. A. L. S. from Miss Bolton to the same. Dated Bradenham,
May 20th (1803). 2 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘Knowing your anxiety about my dear mother, I would not let another day
pass without writing, though I am grieved to say I cannot give you so good an
account as I did in my last. My poor mother is weaker, &, therefore, worse than
she was. Could you but see her, I am sure you would be shocked. We do not
See the dreadful change so much as those who are not so often with her. Oh
my dear lady, she is, I fear, too good to suffer long. I say fear, for what child
would not wish to have her on any terms. You know her patience, but in this
illness she shows it more than ever. She was pleased to hear I had heard from
you, & desired me to give her love to you, & to tell you that she feared she should
never be well enough to pay you a visit, though she hoped she should be able to
See you here again. I must beg of you to write often, as it seems to give her
pleasure. I shall write on Tuesday again to you if there is not any particular
change. To give you an idea of my poor mother's weakness, she is not able to
walk from the bedside to her chair, but they are obliged to carry her. Her arms
are not near So large as Horatia's, & I am certain the upper part of her leg, or
rather her thigh, just above the knee, is not so large as the upper part of my arm.
We have now only one thing in her favour, which is that her name was once
Nelson, and she is certainly much like my grandfather.
“I suppose you have heard how ill my Aunt Rolfe has been & also my Aunt
Goulty. The former travelled from M* Rolfe's to Mr Taylor's in one day, though
the week before her daughter did not think she would be able to quit Wotton.
‘Kiss Horatia for me & for all the party, and pray write very soon to
your,’ &c.
715. A. L. S. from Charles Greville to the same. Dated May 22nd,
1803. 3 pages 4to, with Superscription. [P.]
“I promised to call on you this morning, & I came to town (tho' very unwell)
to make my visit Satisfactory, which it could not be without previously knowing
what is doing & can be expected at the Treasury, & also seeing Mr Booth. I
have, therefore, only the power of writing you the result. There is no command
of any money but from the funds, & I have expressly told M* Booth that I will
sell out, at whatever disadvantage it may be, to settle your business, but that I
will not do so by dribblets, and it gave me much satisfaction to hear that you had
told Mr Booth you would send all your bills to-morrow, & enable Mr Christie to
dispose of the lease without delay. I have thus done all in my power to enable
you to get your affairs settled, & I am so well aware of the comfort you will
derive by M* Booth’s agency, & the impossibility of bringing the whole to a
Concise & early settling without his assistance, that I hope you will unite with me
in doing what M* Booth may think necessary to expedite the business, which,
when the bills & lease are aranged & nothing but a meeting to provide the money
which may be wanted for the arangement which will be the result of M* Booth’s
agency, & this will only require one meeting of all the parties to conclude it. If
you accompany the bills you send to Mr Booth with a line to Mr Christie to
desire him to give dispatch it will make the time of that meeting as early as
possible. I realy hope you will not impute my not coming to any but the real
motive—my not being well enough to come out early, & my not having seen
M* Booth, &c., untill he return’d from you. I am,’ &c.
* These four words have been scored over, but can be deciphered.
2 I 2 7THAE A/AM/Z 7'OAV AAV/D [1803.
716. A. L. S. (imperfect) from Lord Nelson to the same. No date
(June, 1803). 2% pages 4to, [P.]
‘. . . . to Mr. Pitt, therefore in appearances at least for Mr. Bolton, if not for
bettering my income, I seem to stand well. I send you, my Emma, the copy of
the paper which Marsh & Creed has, and a copy had better be left with Mrs.
Cadogan, then Miss Reynolds can refer to it, and if you can think of anything
else for them to pay to save you trouble I will order it. Coals, I See, I forgot,
but as the bill is paid up it will not be necessary to pay it before Xtmas., when
I hope to be at home.
‘My cabbin smells of paint, but I do not think I have suffered from it. I
did not sleep much, although I was dreadfully tired, and all I hope for now is a
fair wind. Believe me, my dear Emma, although the call of honour seperates
us, yet my heart is so entirely yours and with you, that I cannot be faint-hearted,
carrying none with me. Kiss our dear god-child, and remember me to all our dear
friends with you, and for ever and ever I am your faithful and affectionate,’ &c.
‘P.S.—Hardy says the king was very inquisitive about our West India trip,
and spoke very kindly of me. Col. Desboro' sent for him to his brother's to come
to the lodge from his brother’s ; all the courtiers spoke to him, and civilly,
except Lá. Hawkesbury, who never said a word to him. You see what a jumble
I have made in my hurry with two sheets of paper.’
717. A. L. S. from Mr. John Scott’ to the same. Dated ‘Amphion,
in Gibraltar Bay, June 3rd, 1803, 8 o'clock p.m.' [P.]
‘We have this moment anchored here, and I have the pleasure of acquainting
your Ladyship that Lord Nelson is in excellent good health and spirits. We
were hopeful when we left Spithead to have fallen in with Admiral Cornwallist
off Brest, and that he would have allowed the Victory to have gone on with us ;
but we were much disappointed at not finding the Commander-in-Chief,
particularly as his Lordship considered it proper to leave the Victory to add
to the show off Brest, and proceed in this ship. This change gave a good deal
of trouble, besides the many inconveniences which must be submitted to before
the Victory may join. His Lordship left his steward with all his stock, &c., a
few trunks of linen excepted, on board that ship, so that until we get her we
shall not be able to commence regular ſtonesekeeping ; but I beg to assure your
Ladyship, the moment that is the case, the most strict regard shall be paid to
everything that concerns his Lordship's interests. We only remain here a few
hours, so that I shall not be able to give your Ladyship the news of the Æock till
my next. His Lordship has been particularly anxious to get here, but I am
happy to observe that his health has not been in any degree affected by it, nor
has it brought on any internal complaint ; I have the remedy ready in case it
should be wanted, and have directed Gaetano to watch narrowly the least
appearance of any indisposition. His Lordship's life is so valuable and dear to
his friends and country, that I trust Providence will ever guard and defend him
from all danger; if the assistance of man can contribute to his happiness or avert
any danger, I am sure his Lordship will be in the full possession of the former,
and never in any risk of the latter, for every one about him appears more anxious
than another for his welfare. I have the pleasure of seeing your Ladyship's
picture, it is hung up in the cabin ; it is an excellent likeness, and one of the
handsomest I ever saw. We have the honour every day of drinking a bumper
to the health of the original, as our Guardian Angel, and I sincerely hope our
wishes may contribute to that desirable end. I have many thanks to return your
* Mr. John Scott was the public secretary of the Commander-in-Chief. He was killed at the
battle of Trafalgar, being almost torn in two by a shot from the enemy before the action had
fairly commenced.
† Admiral Sir William Cornwallis, 1744–1819, fourth son of Charles, Ist Earl Cornwallis.
PHe entered the navy in 1755, was promoted Commander in I762, was posted in 1765, and
became Rear-Admiral in 1793. He is described as Stout and portly, with a jovially red face,
which precured for him among the Seamen the nickname of “Billygotight.”
1803.] NELSON PAPERS. 2I3
Ladyship for the kind and polite attention I had the honour to receive from you
when in London, and to assure you that I shall ever think of it with grateful
remembrance, and be particularly happy if it shall ever be in my power to shew
your Ladyship how sensibly I feel your much-respected kindness. I hope Dr.
Nelson and his good family are well; may I presume on your Ladyship's
kindness to make offer of my best compliments when you write them. With
every wish for your Ladyship's health and happiness, I have the honour to be,
with great and due regard,’ &c.
718. A. L. from Lord Nelson to the same. Dated “June Ioth (1803),
2O leagues east of Algiers.’ 3 pages 4to., with Superscription
and Seal. [P.]
‘We left Gibraltar at three o'clock, June 4th. The next day we took a French
brig from Cette, and a Dutch one from the same place. We have had foul winds,
but by exertions are got so far on our voyage, and at present our wind is
favourable, but with a nasty sea. The Admiral has had a severe cold, and a
little feverish ; I really believe from anxiety to get on his station. Mr. Elliot, if
this wind continues, leaves us to-morrow, as he passes over to Sardinia, and we
inside the island of Galeta, passing Tunis and Cape Bon. Gaetano will go in the
Maidstone, and I hope return in her, but I think that very doubtful when he once
gets with his wife and family. [I shall write to Mr. Gibbs to tell me about your
things, and if I ever get hold of them I will send them home.]
‘How this letter will get home I know not. It will be read by every post
office from Naples to London. [Be assured, my dear Emma, of my most
affectionate regard and esteem, & for all belonging to you..]
‘The Ad" does not mean to stay at Malta more than twenty-four hours,
for he is very anxious to get off Toulon. News I can tell you none, except from
vessels spoke. We find that it was the /emažfe, seventy-four, passed the Straits
a little before us; she was in a calm off Majorca the 31st of May, so that if we
had proceeded direct in the Victory we should have had her to a certainty. This
letter will probably find you returning from Hilborough, where my fancy tells me
you are thinking of setting out for, it will amuse you by change of scene. [I pray
Heaven preserve you & yours in health & happiness, & send us a happy meeting.]
I have wrote Gibbs a long letter to know something about Bronté—this is a
matter I am determined to settle as speedily as possible, for the Admiral says it
is shameful the way it has been managed. I have also wrote about your things
at Malta. You forgot, dear Emma, to give me the order, but I suppose they will
believe me. [Lº N. will send them home, but it is not for the value, which, please
God, you can never want, but for the pleasure of getting your own things. I hope
to hear that all your affairs are settled. All I beg is that for a few hundred
pounds that you will not fret yourself. Let them do what they will, whether I
live or die you will be better off than ever.]
‘Jume I Iſh. Mr. Elliot just leaving us, but this letter I send to Gibbs to send
by the post, therefore I cannot write all I wish ; but when the Admiral gets off
Toulon, he intends sending a vessel direct to England. Yours,’ &c.
719. A. L. from the same to the same. Dated June 25th, off Capri
(1803). 3 pages 4to, with Superscription and Seal. [P.]
‘Close to Capri the view of Vesuvius calls so many circumstances to my mind,
that it almost overpowers my feelings. I do not believe that I shall have any
opportunity of sending this letter to Naples, and, if I did, Lord Nelson does not
believe Mr. Elliot would have any opportunity of sending it safely to England,
therefore I can tell you little more than here we are. We arrived at Malta
June 15th, in the afternoon, and sailed Thursday, in the night, Lord Nelson being
so very anxious to join the fleet off Toulon. Sir A. Ball is very well, but I think
he looks melancholy. It was so hot, that I was glad to breathe the sea air again.
I saw the Marquis Testefatte—I think that is the name—he inquired after you.
What is going on in Italy I cannot tell you, and if I could, dare not by this
4
THE HAMILTON AND [1803.
conveyance. The Admiral tells me that very soon he shall have a good & Safe
opportunity; only therefore, [my dear Emma, believe all the kind things I would
say, and your fertile imagination cannot come up to them [for I am ever, and if
possible more than ever, your faithful].
‘Charles is very well. The Maidstone is just in sight from Naples, where she
went with Mr. Elliot. Reports say, by the Maidstone, that all at Naples have
great confidence in Lord Nelson.
720. A. L. S. from Mr. John Scott to the same. Dated Amphion, off
Toulon, July 8th, 1803. 3 pages 4to, with Superscription. [P.]
‘I had the honour of writing your Ladyship on the 3rd ultimo, and in order
that I might not be too late, sealed up my letter just as we were going into
Gibraltar Bay on that evening. His Lordship went on shore next morning at five
o'clock, after breakfast, to examine the state of the yard, and pay his respects to
the Governor. He returned about twelve, and after having finished his public
despatches, we left the Rock at four in the afternoon. I had not an opportunity
of getting on shore to see the beauties of that place, nor did I much desire it.
War was considered there as inevitable, but they had no account of it till our
arrival ; there was no news on the Rock. His Royal Highness the Duke of
Kent had been some time gone previous to our arrival ; Sir Thomas Trigge,
notwithstanding, continues to act under his Sign Manual, but is now and then
obliged to suspend some of his orders (which, however well they may answer with
Royalty to enforce them, are not perhaps so well calculated for another officer).
His Royal Highness's aides-de-camp consider his return as certain ; it is not,
however, the public opinion that such a desirable event is likely to take place,
and therefore they are endeavouring to reconcile themselves to the absence
of that illustrious military character. I forgot to mention to your Ladyship that
we captured a French merchant brig off Tangier, and carried her into Gibraltar ;
she is supposed to be worth about 8ooo/. On the 5th ultimo we captured another
French merchant brig and a Dutch ship, and sent them to Malta. On the I Ith
his Lordship' sent the Maidstone to Naples with his Excellency Mr. Elliot, who
is really a pleasant, well-informed man. Gaetano went with him to see his wife,
and was in very high spirits on the occasion. What a remarkable proof of his
Lordship's goodness of heart to part with a man, even for a short time, so
essentially necessary to his comfort as a servant. We did not get to Malta till
the 15th, about four in the afternoon. Sir Richard Bickerton had left that place
on the 18th of May, in consequence of the enemy's movements, and was informed
of the war on the 4th of June by the Niger, from Naples, the French Minister at
that Court having received the official account of it some days previous to that,
and long before it was known through any other channel. It was not known at
Malta till we went there. We left that place on the 17th ultimo, early in the
morning. It is certainly one of the best fortified towns in the world, and is worth
every sacrifice we have made to possess ourselves of it. I hope we shall never
give it up ; its local advantages to England are incalculable, although the
possessing it may cost a considerable sum. We got off Naples on the 20th
of June, and were joined by the Maidstone, who brought Gaetano back ; this is a
wonderful proof of his attachment, and really more than I expected. William did
his best in the interval, though I fear was very deficient in many instances. We
are now on our way to Toulon, where I hope we may soon arrive, and find the
Victory before us, for although Captain Hardy's kind attention cannot be
excelled, yet the comfort of a large ship in this climate is so desirable that we
are all wonderfully anxious to fall in with her and get settled. His Lordship, I
have the pleasure to tell your Ladyship, is quite well, and in excellent health ; he
has been very anxious (and no wonder, when it is is considered how necessary his
presence is off Toulon) to join Sir Richard Bickerton. I have heard much of
Lord Nelson's abilities as an officer and statesman, but the account of the latter
is infinitely short. In my travels through the service I have met with no
character in any degree equal to his Lordship ; his penetration is quick, judgment
clear, wisdom great, and his decisions correct and decided : nor does he in
company appear to bear any weight on his mind, so cheerful and pleasant, that it
18o3.] AVAEZSOAV PAPAEA’.S. 215
is a happiness to be about his hand; in fact, he is a great and wonderful character,
and very glad and happy shall I be if, in the discharge of my duty, private and
public, I have the good fortune to meet his Lordship's approbation. With every
wish for your Ladyship's health and happiness, I have the honour to remain, with
great regard,’ &c.
‘ P.S.—We arrived off here yesterday forenoon, and this morning, 8th of July,
fell in with Sir Richard Bickerton and his squadron. We hear the Victory is in
this Country. I hope in fourteen days she will be with us.”
721. A. L. S. from Captain Langford to the same. Dated ‘H. M. S.
Fury, Downes, July 17th, 1803.’ 3 pages 4to., with Super-
Scription. [Pl.]
‘Your kind mention of me to my family, believe me, is very flattering to me,
and has made me both proud and grateful. I trust you will do me the justice to
suppose I should lose no opportunity in assuring you of my respects, as well as
informing you the moment I have any intimation of following our noble Admiral
to the Mediterranean—for this, you may judge, I am extremely anxious. But I
judge Lord St. Vincent, in his great goodness, does not think the Fury's services
absolutely necessary in that quarter. After having so long followed the fortunes
of our noble friend, I confess I do not feel a relish for serving under any other.
I intend writing to Lord St. Vincent, on the subject, and any service you can be
to me on the part of Lord Nelson in this case, I shall ever acknowledge with
much gratitude. I am grieved to find Sir William Bolton is still unemployed ; I
had expected, from the Earl's fromises, he would immediately on the war
have been called on.
‘I am sure he must be happy in governing his fºresent command. I have not
been as yet very successful ; in fact, the station I am on (which is the Downes)
does not admit of it, being too far to the eastward to get prizes. I have had a brush
with our friends the Boulognese—but no mischief done. My protegée is doing
very well. I am much obliged to you for your good intentions towards him.
‘I hope you found the great County of Morfolk agreeable. I am no friend to
it. Pray assure everybody under your roof of my respects, and believe me ever,’ &c.
722. A. L. S. from Sir Alexander Ball to the same. Dated Malta,
July 23rd, 18O3. 3.} pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘I was happy to hear from our most worthy Nelson that you were in good
health, and supporting with as much fortitude as possible the greatest loss which
could happen to you, but which you must have foreseen, and, knowing it to be
unavoidable, your mind would be gradually preparing for the awful event. I hope
that you will now be many years without meeting any misfortune to interrupt your
peace of mind.
‘I have great satisfaction in acquainting you that Lord Nelson never looked in
better health than when here. He will, I trust, return soon to his favourite spot
with additional honours and wealth. If you should have any person coming here
to whom I can be of use, pray command me, and consider me among your zealous
friends. I have had a great deal of plague with the Foreign Ministers here. I
found the Prince of Pantellaria disaffected to his Sicilian Majesty's Ministers, and
very unfriendly to the English ; he seemed devoted to the French.
“My family enjoy good health here. My son is grown very much, and desires
to be respectfully remembered to you. Adieu, my dear Lady Hamilton. Believe
me, with every wish, your obliged and affectionate friend,’ &c.
723. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to Mrs. Bolton. No date (July,
1803 P). 24 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“I should have wrote you long since, but we have been so engaged in this
purchase (of which you will hear from Mr Oliver all the particulars that we at
present know) that my head has been quite full. We have done it for the best;
I hope it will succeed, & I flatter myself with the hope that we shall have it in our
216 THE HAM/ZTO/V AAWD [1803.
power to see our friends in this country as often as we do now, which God knows
is very seldom. Perhaps you can contrive to come for a week before you return
home ; at present we cannot leave home—we have a large family to leave, & the
little one is now under innoculation. I should like you to see them all ; do
contrive to come. I have sent you a ring of our dear father's hair, which I am
sure will be a valuable present. I feel his loss every day; I think more than ever
it is a blank never to be filled up. Our mother's hair also is set with it. When
you write into Norfolk, remember me kindly to M* Bolton & to yº daughters.
Poor Kate | I am so sorry for her. I wish she would come to see me. I have
this moment heard that my dear brother has gained his lawsuit against the Earl.
What a comfort it is to us that there is a providence that rewards the just. Give
my love to my lady, & tell her I cannot express my joy. God grant our dear
brother may return to enjoy all the blessings that we can wish him. With our
united best wishes to all. Yours,’ &c.
724. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to Lady Hamilton. Dated July 28th,
18O3. 2; pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘I am sorry to find by your letter you still continue so indifferent, but dispatches
& Sea breezes will surely restore you. We are all under great obligations to you
for the exertions you have made for Sir Wm. Bolton, & am happy to say it has
had the desired effect, for this morning we have had a letter from him saying he
had just got his commission for the Childers sloop, 14 guns. We have now only
to hope he will be sent out to my Lord, & all will do well. I am sorry to say we
have just received a letter from Miss Langton, saying there is to be no ball at
Swafham, or even a dinner. Mr Hoste, who was steward, is ill & cannot attend,
so there, I think, is an end of the commemoration of the first of August. Poor
spirited creatures they do not deserve to boast having such a hero being born
in their county. Eliza & Anne go this evening to Edmondton, & Tom * is off
to-morrow by six o'clock in the morning for Norwich—this is not the happiest
day of their lives. Miss Conner is well, & desires her kindest love to you, &
shall be happy to hear from you. Both she & Susanna are much obliged to you
for what you have ordered ; hope this will be in time to prevent them being sent.
God bless you is the joint prayer of this family. I am,’ &c.
725. A. L. S. from the Abbé Campbellf to the same. No date (August
Ist, 1803). 2 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“I received both your kind letters this morning with the enclosed for Miss
Young, which I delivered, but all I could do could not persuade the father to let
her go. I saw Oliver, who told me he had seen, this morning, Mr Nepean, but
no news from our dear Lord. Horace sets out for you to-morrow morning. I
regret infinitely to foresee, for reasons I’ll mention to you in my next, that I’ll be
prevented from joining you and your jovial party on Monday; it grieves me much.
The news of the day, Sº Lucie is taken without any resistance; we took there
two ships of the line ; the letters from Ireland of this day state that all is quiet.
God bless you ! With my respects to your agreeable society. I remain,’ &c.
726. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to the same. Dated ‘Tuesday
Morning' (August 16th, 1803). 2 pages 4to., with Superscription
and Seal, [P.] -
‘I cannot express how much obliged to you I am for your very friendly offer,
* Thomas Bolton, afterwards 2nd Earl Nelson, 1786–1835. He only enjoyed the title for
nine months. . - -
f Henry, the Abbé Campbell, circa 1752–1830, a well-known character in the Neapolitan
Society of his time. He was an Irishman by birth, and at an early age was attached as
chaplain, to the Neapolitan Ambassador in London. It is said that it was he who performed
the marriage ceremony between Mrs. Fitzherbert and the Prince of Wales. The Abbé was at
Naples during Sir William Hamilton’s tenure of office, and was very intimate both with the
Hamiltons and with Nelson, - -
1803.] AVAE/SOAV PAPERS. 217
of our living with you for a time at Merton, & be assured I should feel great
happiness in accepting it, if our family was not so numerous, but with eight
children I could not think of incumbering any friend's house. You being at
Merton will be a great inducement to us to persevere in our endeavours to get a
place near that country to stay. We are going to make a second attempt, & dine
at Mrs Ryley's. I must again repeat how happy it will make me if we are success/u/,
but I almost despair at present. M* Matcham still talks of going abroad for a
short time. I shall expect you in Sep", at all events, but let me hear from you
soon. We shall stay here about a week longer. Many thanks to M* Voller for
all her kind offers. We are at present rather unsettled, outcast mortals, but I
look forward to happier times. With our best love & kind remembrances to all
your party. Believe me,’ &c.
“George begs I will not forget to remember him to you & his cousins. He
is not forgetful of y” kind attentions to him.’ -
727. A. L. S. from Sir William Bolton to the same. Dated H. M. S.
Childers, Plymouth, September 2nd (1803). I; pages 4to., with
Superscription. [P.]
‘I have received your kind note, containing an enclosed letter for the most
excellent man. As there is nothing arrived at Plymouth yet for his Lordship, I
imagine you found a better conveyance by the Colossus or some other ship. I
believe I mentioned to your Ladyship in a former letter, that I had written to
Mr Davison to know if any parcels, &c., were to be sent by me. I have just
heard from my friend Frederic Langford, and he begs I would present his respects
to your Ladyship. He is very anxious, also, to get with my noble patron, & relies
entirely on your friendly aid. I feel much flattered by your Ladyship's friendly
note, it shall be a memento of your goodness to me. I will trouble you with
compts to Mrs & Miss Nelson, & the Doctor, and subscribe myself yours,’ &c.
‘I am in hourly expectation of sailing, only waiting the arrival of the
dispatches.
“The wind is fair.’
728. A. L. S. from Rev. C. Este to the same. Dated George's Row,
Hyde Park, London, September 7th, 18O3. 3 pages 4to., with
Superscription. [P.]
‘I cannot help writing to you, my dear good Lady, tho’ I am very far from fit,
for I am in the way to lose, I fear, all fitness for good humour, or, at least, for
reasonable good spirits.
“From what you kindly said in your last letter (which was soon after I was at
South End), “that something” would be going out very, very soon, and that you
would “write on the Sunday following,” I had got into a little hope. It now is
no more, for I have not heard from you since, and probably you know by this
time what has happened about the Chālders. On Saturday, August 27, I heard of
its going. I went as soon as I heard (which was in the evening) to the Admiralty,
to find the lieutenant, who was in waiting to carry the orders, &c., for Sir W. B.
at Plymouth. That evening the clerks had left the office. The next morning
(August 28) I flew there again. Meeting Sir. T. Trowbridge he took me up, very
courteously, to his room. I told him my purpose, and that I thought of going
next morning, or that night, when I was sadly shocked to hear the orders, &c.,
had been dispatched the night before, and that I was too late. This day
I am shocked yet more by the ship news from Plymouth. It is as follows:–
Plymouth, September 4. —Went down from Hamoaze, the Childers, Capt. Sir
W. Bolton. So, had I gone on the Monday morning (Aug. 29) as I purposed, I
should have been with him four whole days before he sailed. Now, what can be
worse than this P and yet, upon an other point, I could tell you of an other mishap
which, if I had so gone, I might never have known. But it need not run over,
& it is too full already for a letter like this. Adieu, dear madam. May God for
ever bless you as you so well deserve. When you write, pray remember me to
our dear Lord, & let me live in his esteem. There is not a man alive whom I
2 I 8 7A/F AZAM/Z 7'ON A WD [1803.
can hold higher in honor & in my heart. Again, most excellent, dear Lady, most
afftly adieu. Yours,’ &c.
‘By-the-bye, I should have mentioned to you that my first accidental intelli-
gence about the Childers was from the Tunis Consul, Mr Magra (is that right
spelt P), whom you may recollect at Palermo. I met him at dinner twice or thrice
& like him much. Lord Cathcart goes Commander-in-Chief to Ireland. There
is a talk of the English in France, &c., being released, and I do know one or two
men who think negociations are advancing.
“Finally, pray how long will you stay at South End, and where afterwards P’
729. A. L. S. from Mr. Tyson to the same. Dated Woolwich Yard,
September 12th, 1803. 2 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“A ship sailing from here for the Mediterranean with stores for the fleet will
no doubt proceed there immediately ; if you have any letters or any other thing
to send, and will address it to me, I will have it put on board, The Master of
her, you know (Duncan, that had the Serafis at Palermo), is a carefull man, and
will convey any thing you send to his Lordship. We spent a very pleasant day
with Mrs. Cadogan yesterday fortnight, and I then took the liberty of mentioning
to her I thought it would be highly gratifying to his Lordship to have some butter
sent to him, and proposed it to Mrs. Cadogan at that time, but she found she
could not get it ready in time. The A/indostant is also loading here for the
Mediterranean, and will sail in three weeks, which will afford your Ladyship
another opportunity of sending out any thing you please. Should you have any
thing to send, I will speak to Captain Le Grose * to take it. I hope your Ladyship
has received much benefit from your bathing and sea air, as well as Mrs. Nelson,
to whom I beg my compliments, joined by Mrs. Tyson, and if I can render your
Ladyship any service, I beg you will command me, being, with the greatest
esteem your,’ &c.
730. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to the same. Dated September 19th,
18O3. I page 8vo. [P.] -
“I write, my dearest Emma, the letter sent herewith, in order that you send
it to Mr. Vansittart. Ever yours most faithfully,’ &c.
‘As this ship goes by Malta, I do not write a line by her unless she should pick
them up at Gibº, for I have not a small vessel belonging to me.’
731. A. L. S. from the Rev. C. Este to Lord Nelson. Dated George's
Row, Hyde Park, September 28th, 1803. 3 pages 4to. [P.]
‘I am importuned, in a manner I cannot well resist, to mention to you a young
gentleman who is going to the Mediterranean. His name is Stevenson ; he has
served, I think, some 4 years with Cap" Western in the Tamer, & is now a
midshipman with Cap" Strechey in the Jalouse. I do not know him, but he is
recommended to me by two of my friends, on whose honour & discretion I must
rely. But, indeed, I do conceive favourably of him, from what I hear of his
exultation in thus going under your command, where he cannot but profit under
the best example, and, should fortune befriend him, where he may aspire to
approbation such as yours. May God Almighty for ever bless you, my most dear
& all honor'd Lord, with happiness & with renown, still increasing according as
you may wish—nay, if possible, ever according as you must be so deserving.
Again & again, Sir, most affectionately adieu,” &c.
732. A. L. S. from Alexander Davison to Lady Hamilton. No date
(October, 1803). 2 pages 4to. [P.]
‘I have (4 o'clock) this moment received from the Admiralty two letters from
our dearest friend, off Toulon, on the 17th Aug". He seems, at the time of
* Captain Le Gros commanded the store-ship Hindostan, which was burnt in the Bay of
Rosas in 1804. He was tried by court-martial, but was honourably acquitted.
18o3.] AVAE/LSOAV PAA’Aº AºS. 219
writing, to have been rather a little low, tho' otherwise very well. . He was, I
firmly believe, longing after Merton and its guests. He had not received a line
from me for a length of time. I am quite vexed about it, tho’ I cannot help it
now. The enclosed to you came under cover of his letter to me. He talks much
of coming home, yet I think, on receiving the despatches that sailed some time
ago, he will think it right to remain, at least a few months longer. I doubt not of
your having kept the 29th of last month as you could (in his absence) with
pleasure. I kept it, too, here, and got half seas over. I have not heard from you
since. I hope you received the wine Safe.
“The devil is begun to the Boulogne flotilla ; where it will end I cannot tell,
but this I am sure of, that if the business be managed with judgement, every ship
in the harbour there, as well as at Calais, will be sent to Old AVăcă. I am, in great
haste,’ &c.
733. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to the same. Dated October 6th, I803.
4 pages 4to. [P.
[“My dearest, beloved Emma, only believe that I should be far too happy to
embrace my own dear Emma, but I see so many obstacles in the way of what
would give us both such supreme felicity, that good sence is obliged to give way
to what is right, and I verily believe that I am more likely to be happy with you
at Merton than any other place, and that our meeting at Merton is more probable
to happen sooner than any wild chase into the Mediterranean. I am ever for ever,
with all my might, with all my strength, yours, only yours. My Soul is God's, let
him dispose of it as it seemeth fit to his infinite wisdom, my body is Emma's.]
‘I have had a letter from Mr. George Moyston, who is at at Naples, and a
very kind one. He has been to the Cataracts in Upper Egypt, through Syria,
Palestine, Greece, &c., but has nearly died two or three times, and is now a
prisoner on parole to the French, being in quarantine at Otranto when the
French went there.
‘I only beg, my dear Emma, that you will not give credit to any reports which
will reach England of the battle—trust to providence that it will be propitious to
your most sanguine wishes, and I hope that Captain Murray will be the bearer of
a letter from me to you. Never fear, our cause is just and honourable. From
Davison’s letter of August 15th, I expect a ship of war every moment ; it is now
three months I see by the papers that Bolton has got the Childers. Had he been
here he would have been Post. The Admiralty will send him out of course, and
if I know how, I must try and put 5000/, in his pocket. Don’t you laugh, how
I talk of thousands when I do not know how, or rather have not tried, to put
many in my own pocket, but they will come. I wish you would have the plan
made for the new entrance at the corner. Mr. Linton should give up that field this
winter, and in the spring it should be planted very thick to the eastward, and a
moderate thickness to the north. The plan for filling up the water on the south
and east sides of the house, but care must be taken that the house is not made
damp for want of drains. A covered passage from Pozvºzzngs must be made
beyond the present trees, and rails, and chains, in a line with it to keep carriages
from the house. An opening can be left with a post, that foot passengers may go
to the kitchen. This may be done even before you begin the room; it will amuse
you, and be of no great expence. [I am ever for ever, my dear Emma, yours
most faithfully & affectionately,’ &c.
“Best regards to Mrs. Cadogan.’]
734. A. L. (imperfect) from the same to the same. No date (end of
I803). 4 pages 4to. [P.]
. . . . ‘perhaps it had better remain till next year. Mr. Haslewood will do
what is right about Linton, and he must take care that I am not taxed for the
house when it is quitted more than is necessary, and I should like to have that
part which we propose to take in, including Linton's house, fºaled round, and to
make a new pathway to the extent of, from the field on Halfhide's side our house
round Linton's house (of course, it shuts up the present footpath through the
22O THE A/AM/Z TO AV AAVZ) [1803.
yard), and to cross just beyond the orchard, where the old footway will be as usual.
There are contractors for park-paling, & if Mr. Newton and Mr. Leach are
friendly we shall find no difficulty ; but a good gravel pathway till it reaches the
old must be made before we turn the one through the farmyard. I don’t mean
to pale immediately the whole premises, as I can’t afford it. At Michaelmas you
will be able to give up Mr. Bennett's premises, and that will be a great expence
saved, for after all, my dear Emma, we are not rich. I have wrote to Haslewood
fully about the land ; I look upon him not only as my surveyor, but my friend. If
Mr. Matcham wants his 4ooo/, he had better take it now I have it, not that I have
any fears of Buonaparte's taking it from me. He be damned, and So he
will. Amen.
“Mr. M. can’t take the money, it is trust ; what a sad thing for poor old
Unwin. I pity him most sincerely.
‘You have sent me, in that lock of beautiful hair, a far richer present than any
monarch in Europe could if he were so inclined. Your description of the dear
angel makes me happy. I have sent to Mr. Falconet to buy me a watch, and told
him if it does but tick, and the chain ſu/Z of trinkets, that is all which is wanted. He
is very civil, and Mrs. Falconet has sent word that she will do her best in Chusing
any thing I may want ; I believe they are very good people. I had a letter from
Mr. Warrington, but I did not chuse to have anything to say to them—we know
her of old. Our friend Acton flatters as much as ever in time of danger ;
however, it is well to be looked up to, and if he was to quit Naples the kingdom is
lost, and I almost fear it will if he stays. Buonaparte threatens that if he will not
dismiss Acton, disarm his subjects, and get rid of English influence, that he would
march another army to Naples. The King, with his own hand, has refused, and
order'd Gallo to demand the withdrawing of the present French troops. Will Russia
& the Emperor allow these good loyal sovereigns to be sacrificed P’ . . . .
735. A. L. S. from the same to Mr. Nathaniel Taylor. Dated October
7th, 18O3. I page 4to.
‘I have to return you many thanks for your kind present of porter, which I
have accepted, although it is contrary to my established custom. Therefore, you
will have the goodness to forgive my stating what my resolution is. But I assure
you, dear sir, that I feel all your kindness on this occasion, as well as for the
trouble you was so good as to take with mythings in the Foudroyant. And I am,
dear sir,’ &c.
736. A. L. S. from Sir Joseph Banks to Charles Greville. Dated Revesby
Abbey, October I Ith, 18O3. 2.; pages 4to., with SuperScription.
[H.]
‘Thank you for your learned letter, which proves that you have made no small
proficiency in the technics of astronomy. I conclude you do not regularly study
the science, but, like the gardener in that of botany, content yourself with getting
the hard names of things by heart.
“If it proves to be a popular thing to give the medal to Mudge,” I shall readily
concur in the measure. I have, however, my doubts whether this will prove to
be the case, his maps have at different times so much varied from each other, &
his letterpress, even in figures, been so often found inaccurate. But however he
may be absolutely accurate in the real results of his observations, much fear is
entertained whether the accounts he has given of them will bear the investigation
of a geographer who is to make use of them. I grieve always when D* Grayt
Consults me in the Course of printing his papers, and points out to me errors
* Major-General William Mudge, 1762–1820, an officer of the Royal Artillery, who was
employed on the trignometrical survey of Great Britain. He was a Fellow of the Royal Society,
and of the Antiquarian Society. The Royal Society's Copley Medal for 1803 was eventually
given to Richard Chenevix.
† Edward Whitaker Gray, 1748–1807, a physician and naturalist, keeper of the department
of natural history and antiquities at the British Museum, was for many years Secretary to the
Royal Society. - -
1803.1 AWEZSOAV PAPERS, 22 f
which I should have conceived it impossible to commit, that a man who devotes
himself so zealously to the business he has undertaken, and who, I believe, performs
it in a most masterly manner, should be so negligent in his manner of recording it.
More of this when we meet, & Gray will illustrate by examples what I have stated.
‘Thank God I am tolerably well & have been so ever since I came here. We
are all learning our exercise, and even the villagers whose services have not been
accepted, continue to pose about their churchyards in military measure, and have
indeed learned the use of their legs very tolerably. We are all, however, very
stupidly collecting cash to be ready for Bonaparte's army. The gold long ago
disappeared ; the silver now follows it very fast. Lincoln Bank has for more
than a week paid in Spanish dollars at 4s. 8d.
‘Have you heard of the mud volcanoes in Trinidad 2 They are masses of mud
which have been spewed out of the earth & which still continue to puff out
water and mud from small spiracles on their sides & occasionally explode pebbles,
gravel, & flyntes with a noise like the reports of cannon. They are about ten
feet diameter, and one hundred high ; the water they throw up is salt, & they
are surrounded with mangroves and other vegetables which grow no where else
but on the muddy edge of the sea. Adieu, my dear Greville. Believe me,’ &c.
737. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to Lady Hamilton. Dated Cranwich,
December 4th (1803). 3 pages 4to, with Superscription.
“By this day’s coach, Mr Bolton has sent you a hare & brace of pheasants.
Have you had letters, or are you still in expectation of seeing my brother P You
will hear from him some days before you see him, most likely. Is the D* & M*
Nelson with you ? If they are, tell the D* Mº Bolton has written two or three
letters to Canterbury. Miss Langford has been staying with us two or three days.
She is just as usual, full of chat. The Otleys are leaving Swaffham. A Collonel
Sibthorpe is coming into his house, but whether a family or not is uncertain, &
into General Lee's house a Colº Lovelace, a sporting gentleman. Lyndford is
sold to a Mr Eyres, son-in-law to Sº Harry Parker,” who is brother to Sº Hyde.
Give my kind love to Mrs Cadogan, & thank her for her kindness to my girls, &
do me the favour, likewise, to express my gratitude to Miss Connor for the trouble
& attention she takes to teach my daughters. They, I hope, are very good, &
mind all she says. They have, I hope, got their boxes from School. I have a
frock of Eliza's which I shall send the first opportunity to town. Tom Comes
home next week ; we had a letter from him to-day. I suppose you have One, as
he says he is writing Lady Hamilton about apples or Something. Charming
weather for Merton ; you will not be much in town, I dare say, whilst this
weather lasts. I begin now to be very impatient to hear something of my Lord ;
you will, I know, write as soon as you hear. Mº Bolton & Susanna joins me in
kind love & regards to all your party.’
738. A. L. S. from Sir Evan Nepean to Lord Nelson. Dated Admiralty
Office, December 19th, I803. 2 pages folio. [P.] -
* Mahomed Elphi Bey, mentioned by your Lordship in your letter to me of
the 8th of July, arrived at Spithead in the Ærøerimenſ on the 3d October last, and
although, under the particular circumstances in which he came to this Country,
he could not be received in any public character, or be presented at Court except
by the Minister of the Porte, yet it has been thought right to pay him every mark
of attention and respect during his residence here, and to send him to Egypt in
the Azgo, which ship has been fitted for his accommodation.
“I send your Lordship herewith a copy of the orders which have been given
to Captain Hallowell, as also a copy of a secret letter to that officer ; as it is their
Lordship's intention to employ him on other service, it is their command that you
permit him to return to England after he shall have carried the directions therein
Contained into execution. I have the honor to be,’ &c.
* Sir Harry Parker, 1735–1812, the elder brother of Sir Hyde, succeeded as the 6th
Baronet in 1783. His eldest daughter, Louisa Grace, married George Robert Eyres, of Lynd-
ford Hall, Norfolk, and died his widow in 1858.
222 7A/E A/AM// TO AV AAVD [1803–4.
739. A. L. S. from Lord Carlisle to Charles Greville. Dated ‘Dec. 229*
(1803 P). I; pages 4to. [H] -
“Having got into an expensive scrape about a book, with engravings from
drawings you saw & in part approved, by Westall, I mean it should be as
complete as possible, to which end I wish to consult you about some vignettes, in
which I should not be sorry to have introduced some thing relative to this place.
From prints already published sufficient might be taken for such slight ornament,
& there is a drawing in Ly C.’s small dressing-room that would afford an idea of
Raywood & the Mausoleum. .
“If I could find a drawing of Naworth Castle, that might be an addition. I
regret much that you was not here in the summer to have given me a sketch of
the North part of the park with the new water, but this may in some measure,
tho' perhaps a deficient one, be supplied, by making some of y" protegés take a
copy of the picture in my dining-room, taken from above the quarry looking
towards the house, & I flatter myself it would be giving you a small degree of
trouble, if you would from memory cover the vale with water.
‘I have only time to apologize for this liberty, & to express a hope we shall
meet soon in London, where we shall be found before the birthday.”
740. Copy” of Letter (in French) from the Queen of Naples to Lord
Nelson. Dated January 2nd, 1804. I} pages 4to. [P.]
“Mon bien digne, cher, et respectable milord et amy, J’ai regus vos deux
lettres. Pénétrée de la plus vive reconnoisance je vois dans chaque ligne votre
âme grande attachée, et vous en suis profondément reconnoissante. J'aurois
voulu avec le Gibraltar vous envoyer douze autres vaisseaux de votre brave nation,
mais cette grande si éprouvée qualité dont vous animez tous les votres, n'a pas,
comme elle l’a prouvé si souvent, besoin de nombre. Je ferai des voeux au ciel
pour vos complet succès et bonheur. Nous Sommes toujours dans une position
bien pènible, mais qui moyennant l’amitié de votre souverain et gouvernement
et vos Soins, est pénible mais non dangeureuse. Recevez dans cette nouvelle
année, mon cher et digne milord, les voeux que je fais pour votre parfait bonheur
et consolation, ils sont liees au bonheur de l’Europe & de tout étre bien pensant.
Puisse les voeux qui je forme pour vous pleinement s'exécuter, et vos peines, soins
être couronée d’un plein succès. Tels sont les voeux que forme pour vous celle
qui est et sera toute sa vie, avec la plus haute estime et sincére reconnoissance,
votre bien attachée, vrai, sincére,’ &c.
“Mes enfans, fils et filles, me chargent de vous assurer de leur éternelle
reconnoissance, estime, et attachement.’
741. A. Doc. S. ‘E. G.’ from Mr. Gayner. Dated January 13th, 1804.
I page folio. -
“When Lieut. Pryce of the Britt. Fair cutter was here, I received a message
from a person who had undertaken to search for private information which Lord
Nelson had requested me to procure ; but as Lieut. Price was limited in his stay
here, I coud not furnish by him to Lord Nelson wth the result of my interview
w°h I have since had with the person. Its object was to inform me that twelve
thousand men, under the command of General Melas, were preparing at Toulon
for a secret expedition. This information I do not consider merits the first
confidence such as it might have deserved had a person brought it directly from
Toulon; it was collected in conversation wºn a person of consequence, & repeated
casually by a person who holds a confidential post under the French Government
in the neighbouring province.’t
742. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated Victory,
January 20th, 18O4, 3 pages 4to,
“I send a very neat watch for our god-child, and you will see it is by a good
* In the handwriting of Dr. Scott.
# The document is endorsed : ‘Recº from Mr. Gayner this morning.—J. Donnelly.”
1804.] AVELSOAV PAPERS. 223
maker, that is, I suppose it will tick for a year instead of a month or two. You
will impress her that it is only to be worn when she behaves well and is obedient.
I am very sorry that your comb is not arrived; the brig is at Malta, but I daresay
it will arrive sometime, and you shall have it the first opportunity. I send you
Mr. Falconet's letter. You will see how very civil both of them are. Mr. Elliot
is a great Minister, but I doubt whether the Queen has much real friendship for
him. Acton has him fast, but I believe that Mr. Elliot had rather that Acton
and the King and the Queen looked to him for my services than applying to
myself; but circumstanced as I have been and am with that Court Sir William
Hamilton gave it up, and no other person shall deprive me of the immediate
Communication. No, my dear Emma, what I do for them shall be from myself,
and not through him. They are in very great fears at this moment.
‘I have been towards Algiers, where I sent a ship with Mr. Falcon, our
Consul, who the Dey turned away; but the Dey has been made so insolent by
Mr. North's Conduct in giving him 30,000/., that nothing I suppose but a flogging
will put him in order, and with the French Fleet ready to put to sea that I have
not time for. I have been, [my own Emma, but very indifferent, a violent cold
upon my breast. Asses' milk would have done me much service, but I am better,
and I hope to continue so till the battle is over, then I hope my business here
will be finished ; that it may be soon is the sincere wish of [my dearest Emma,
your ſever most faithful & affectionate,’ &c.
[“I send you the Queen's last letter.” Dr. Scott, I fear, will not have time to
Copy the other. I am hard pressed for time, and am not very stout to-day.’] t
743. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to the same. Dated Wilbury House,
January 31st, 1804. 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription.
‘My dear Lady Hamilton, I am fearful, will think I have been very remiss in
not writing to her, but I have been waiting in hopes that before this I might have
been able to give her some particulars of this new purchase, but we have received
no letters from Hussam for two months. We are anxiously expecting to hear who
is the possessor of the estates; the I Ith of Janºy was the day Mr. Harward was
to have all the property given up to him and to be invested with all the rights in
the name of Mr. Matcham. The moment we get letters with particulars you shall
hear from me. I have not wrote to my dearest brother till I could tell him all
particulars, as I thought he would hear the progress from you. I long much to
know if you have had letters by these last despatches. God grant he may be
well ; I am always in a terror about him. I think I shall see you almost as often
in Denmark as I do now, for with such a family it is impossible to move in this
Country, expenses are so great. We are now staying a few days with Sir Charles
Malet, who has bought a very large estate upon Salisbury Plain. You will be
Surprised when I say it is well sheltered, and a great quantity of game. Mr.
Matcham intends going to Krutzby as soon as the frost will allow him, for though
we have so mild a season theirs never alter. He will have the pleasure of seeing you
before he leaves England. I shall remain at Bath till his return, which, I hope,
will be in a month, as he only goes over to see what is wanted ; indeed, he will
find it necessary to see the country before we all move. I hope you will let me
hear from you soon, for it is a long time since I got any accounts of you. With
my best love to Charlotte and whoever of the young people are with you, and
best remembrances to Mrs. Cadogan. I remain,’ &c.
‘We shall return home in a few days, therefore shall hope to get a letter
at Bath.’
744. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated “Monday Evening'
(February 3rd, 1804). 3% pages 4to., with SuperScription and
Seal. -
‘You see I am impatient to hear from your Ladyship, therefore teize you with
* See preceding page.
f The letter was printed in Mr. Morrison's Catalogue, First Series, vol. v., p. 17.
22. THE A/AM/Z7 OAV AAV7) [1804.
another of my stupid epistles. I suppose you have been engaged lately with your
Fête on Miss Moseley’s birthday. I hope you was well enough to enjoy it as you
always do when you are promoting other people's amusement. The party are now
all dispersed, the young party gone to school. I hope my girls are gratefull for
all your kindness & attention to them ; I am. Tom went to school last Friday ; I
went with him as far as Saham (?), & spent two days with Mr. Rolfe & his mother.
I met Horace Dashwood there ; he talks of the good dinners he got at Hillborou’
with great glee. I have enlisted two gentlemen in your service : Mr. Rolfe &
Mr. Dashwood have both promised to visit us often when you are here in April ;
you see it is never from my thoughts. I had a letter from Mrs. Matcham, they
are staying for a few days at. Sº Charles Mallet’s ; she went there for her health.
She assures me she is not in a family way, but relaxation, added to that
rheumatism ; in short, all her complaints proceed from debility, but she is better
since she has changed the scene. Mr. Matcham means to go over to Denmark
when the frost breaks. She seems perfectly satisfied with the idea of going.
The gentleman who transacts their business has a daughter at Bath on a visit to
a family a few doors from her, who, she says, is a charming young woman. If
my sister goes in the course of the summer, she is to return with them, which will
certainly be good for all parties. Mr. M. is geting forward in learning the
German language. How do you go on ? Kate is still very indifferent; she desires
her kindest regards to you, and requests, as a favor, you will enclose this letter to
my Lord when you send a packet. Are you thinking of going to Canterbury, or
are the Nelsons coming to you? Kent is not the safest place in case of an
invasion. My neighbour Edwards sits at home and frightens himself so much that
he will not suffer any of his children to go to school. Mr. Caldwick has brought
home his bride, a very nice woman, but not handsome. Mr. Bolton joins with me
in kindest love to you, Charlie, & Miss Conner. Believe me at all times yours,’ &c.
745. A. L. S. from Rev. C. Este to Lord Nelson. Dated February 3rd,
I8O4. Iş pages 4to.
‘I cannot help troubling you with a line or two, for a beloved son of mine,
who once dined with you at Merton, is again going through the Mediterranean
to Egypt. When there before he was one of the Surgeons to the Guards. Now
he goes with the mission of Mr. Locke as the Secretary and Physician. In the
strange vicissitudes of time and chance it may so happen that he may come into
your notice and correspondence ; if it should be so, my dear Lord, I will answer
for his manly conduct and unoffending manners, for the faithfulness and good
affections of his heart.
‘Adieu, adieu, Sir, the time and my spirits fail me to say more than that the
order for going to Portsmouth came with cruel abruptness but a few hours ago,
and that my Lady, the most noble creature living, has been writing for us ever
since. With kind emotions more than I can utter, and with esteem and admira-
tion too, my most dear Lord, again and again, very tenderly adieu,' &c.
746. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to Lady Hamilton. 2 pages 4to.,
with Superscription.
“I wrote you from Wiltshire last week, to say that we thought it a long time
since we have heard from you. I hope illness has not been the occasion of your
long silence, as I see there has been despatches from my dear brother. I hope
you have good accounts. On our return home we recº a letter from Husam,
with a proposal from Mr. Harward to take the large estate off our hands, which I
believe Mr. Matcham has determined to part with upon eligible terms, as he has
always been under alarm on account of the magnitude of the purchase, which
would oblige us to live on the spot whether it was agreeable to us or not. He
still intends to go over as soon as the frost will allow him to settle this business,
& if he likes the country to hire a small place for a short time, as he is offered a
Small estate, which, you know, was his first & only idea of having a small property
in another country.
“With our best wishes and love to all, I remain,’ &c.
1804.] ME/CSOAV PAA’AºA'.S. 225
747. A. L. from Lord Nelson to the same. Dated February 25th, 1804.
I pages 4to, with Superscription. [D.]
‘As Lord Nelson tells me that it is very probable this letter may not only be
read, but never arrive to your hands, I only write this line to say, here we are,
and have for the whole of this month experienced such a series of bad weather,
that I have seldom seen the like. I am anxious in the extreme to hear that you
are perfectly recovered from your late indisposition. Lord Nelson has heard very
lately from Naples. The French army is prepared for service, and have a
month’s bread baked in readiness ; an embargo is laid at Genoa and Leghorn,
and all the vessels seized as transports, so that we must have some work very
soon. I only hope to keep my health till the battle is over, but my spasms have
been very bad lately. We saw the French fleet very safe on the 22nd, at
evening. Lord Nelson rather expects the ships from Ferrol in the Mediterranean.
With my kindest love and affection to all I hold dear, believe me for ever, my
dearest Emma, your most faithful and attach’d. This goes by Spain.”
748. A. L. S. from Mr. George Rose” to the same. Dated March 9th,
I804. 2 pages 4to. [H] -
“In proposing to you to write the inclosed letter to Mr. Addington, I entreat
I may not raise a hope in your mind that your doing so will be likely to pro-
duce any good to you ; I have in conformity with the principles to which I
have invaribly adhered, been anxious from the first mention of your case to me,
to prevent your forming an expectation of success from any application you might
make to the Minister, lest I should in the remotest possible degree contribute to
add disappointment to misfortune : but I think in your situation the attempt
(however hopeless) is worth making. You will at least be put to a certainty, for
I am persuaded if it does not succeed now it never will ; and this sort of ap-
plication will, I think, afford you as good a chance of success as any you can
have ; I sincerely and most heartily wish you had a better than I can venture to
hope for.
- “If you can prevail with either the Peer or the Knight you mentioned to me,
to put your letter into Mr. Addington’s hand, or to inclose it to him, I should
strongly recommend your doing so, shewing them first the contents of it, but on
no account mention my name, or allude to me, as I am quite sure that would not
be useful to you. And when you have copied the letter to Mr. Addington, I must
beg you will burn it.
“In the event of anything wanting explanation, I will have the honour of
waiting on you any morning you please between eleven and twelve o’clock, or a
little later, if that shall suit you better. I am,’ &c.
749. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to the same. No date (March, 1804).
3 pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
“I take my chance of a letter I wrote you yesterday going safe thro' Spain, to
say I recº last night your two letters of Jan'y I Sth and 28th, with respect to the
lady, my friend at Gib". I cannot barely guess what you mean, unless M* Cutforth
is a married man, which I do not know is the case. I never saw him but once,
and that was on board the Amphion. He is agent victualler. I never saw his
house, but his character is excellent. Not all this world’s goods or charms could
shake my love and affection from my own dearest Emma ; that, Horatia’s being so
ill and you so much indisposed, gave me a raging fever all night. I shall write in a
few days by Gib", but I would not miss the trial of friend Quaker Gayner. I am
sure the French would have been at sea long ago but for the commotions in
* The Rt Hon. George Rose, 1744–1818, a statesman and political writer, Secretary of the
Treasury from 1782 to 1801; in 1804 appointed Joint Paymaster-General of the Forces, and Vice-
President of the Board of Trade. His various letters to Lady Hamilton, and hers to him, are
printed in his Diaries and Correspondence. wº
WOL. II. Q
226 - 7THE HAM// TO AV AAVZ) [1804.
France. They are perfectly ready, and Seemingly full manned, and so are we
ready to meet them.
“Remember me kindly to the Duke of Hamilton, I respect him very much
indeed, and to the good old Duke of QY say what you please. I care not for all
those nonsensical letters of M* Monckton or your titled offers. I have confidence
in your love and affection, and So ought you in the fidelity, love, and affection,
of ever yours,’ &c.
‘P. S.—Kiss dear Horatia for me, and the other. I approved of the name you
intended. Best regards to Davison, I shall write by Gib" to him. What changes/
750. A. L. S. from the same to the same. No date (March 18th,
I8O4). 3% pages 4to. [P.] -
‘We have been expecting the French fleet at sea to relieve me from some
anxiety, but many think (but I do not) that the Spanish fleet is to join them ; but
let us meet them in any reasonable numbers, and you shall, my dear Emma, have
no reason to be ashamed of your own Nelson. I send you the comb, which looks
handsome, and a pair of curious gloves, they are made only in Sardinia of the
beards of mussles. I have ordered a muff; they tell me they are very scarce,
and for that reason I wish you to have them. I must write a line to M** Denis,
but, in truth, say, although I am much obliged by her kind letter and good wishes,
that I can do nothing more, and barely that, to acknowledge the receipt. I do
not think I can answer my brother by this opportunity, I will write him soon.
“Remember me most kindly to the Duke of Queensbury, I love the old man
and would give up everything but you to him ; and to all our joinſ friends, for I
can have none separate from being yours, Say everything that is kind. Never
mind Mr. Addington, if he does not do what is right the more shame for him.
Thank God I have both the power and inclination. I shall not close this till the
last. The destination of the enemy has as many opinions as there are countrys.
Sir Alex" Ball is sure they are bound again to Egypt—time will shew. I send
you, my beloved Emma, a note, in order that you may, upon your birthday, make
Some little presents, and if you do not give it all away it will look in bank notes
very pretty in your pocket-book. Kiss dear Horatia for me, and the other. Call
him what you please, if a girl, Emma. Kindest regards to your good mother,
affection to Charlotte and all our friends. It now blows a gale of wind.
‘March 19th.--The gale seems abating, and I shall get off the vessel for
Gibralter. I have been very restless, my dearest Emma, for these several days
& nights, and shall not be better till I hear you are quite recover'd. I am yours
for ever and ever,’ &c.
‘P.S.—Hardy is well, and desires his best respects.”
751. A. L. (incomplete) from the same to the same. No date (March,
1804). I page 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
. . . . “I don't write more, as it is very uncertain how we stand with Spain;
we have odd reports of Mr Frere” and the Prince of Peace. People are so fond
of writing that you may hear I have not been very well, but I am quite recovered;
it was a kind of rheumatic fever in my head. I wish the French would come out
and let us settle our matters. I should then certainly ask to go home, for rest I
* John Hookham Frere, I769–1846, a diplomatist and author. In 1799 he succeeded his
friend Canning as Under-Secretary of State in the Foreign Office, in 1800 was sent as Envoy-
Extraordinary to Lisbon, whence he was transferred in 1802 to Madrid, where he remained until
August, 1804, when he was recalled in consequence of circumstances which made it impossible
for him to have any communication with the Prince of Peace. In 1807 he was sent to Berlin, in
1808 to Spain, with which mission his diplomatic career ended. In 1818 he took up his
permanent residence at Malta and died there. Several of his literary productions were privately
printed and have become very rare. -
† Don Manoel Godoi, Prince de la Paz, 1767–1851, a noted Spanish courtier who played a
great part in the events of his time; the favourite of Charles IV., whose cousin he married. He
followed his royal master into exile to Rome, and after his death retired to Paris, where he died,
He had a pension from Louis Philippe,
1804.] AVE/SOAV PA PAEA’.S. 227
must have. Ever for ever, yours faithfully. Remember me most kindly to all
friends ; dear mother, Adº & Mrs L., Charlotte, Miss Connor, &c. &c. &c. God
in Heaven hless you. Amen. Amen.’
752. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated ‘Cranwick, Sunday
Evening' (March 18th, 1804). 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription
and Seal. [P.]
“I was in hopes, my dear Lady Hamilton, to have announced to you the
arrival of our little stranger, but no such thing. Poor Kate seems worn out with
expectation. Our neighbour, Mrs. Partridge, has been confined this fortnight
She expected not so soon as Lady Bolton. According to this, she certainly was
not in a family way till after she came into Norfolk. Mr. Bolton flattered me by
Saying, when he came down, that you said you would write to me in a day or two,
but you have chided that vanity by not writing since. That is the only reason
I have not written to you ; not that I had anything particularly to say to you, but
to reassure you of my affection and obligation, & indeed particularly for your very
bountiful present of coffee. I hope the time draws near when I shall have the
pleasure of seeing you here to partake of it. Susanna was at Ely last Wednesday.
Mrs. Dashwood was delighted with the hopes of seeing you in Norfolk. She
told Mrs. Wm. Bolton you enlivened the country so much by your presence, that
it seemed a blank when you left it. Mr. Bolton is gone to Wales on business, but
I rather expect him home to-day. I wish to answer my brother's letter, but I still
more wish to see you & consult with you upon my answer, as he wishes Mr.
Bolton to say what situation he looks to, that he may be prepared if opportunity
should offer. All this and much more shall we have to talk of when we have the
happiness of meeting at Cranwick. We have had delightful weather this last
week; you must have found town rather warm ; or perhaps you are now at
Canterbury P. We have not seen or heard any things of the Yonges since their
return. Mrs. Bolton, with my daughters, joins in kindest regards to you and love
to Miss Connor and Charlotte. Believe me.’
753. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Dr. Baird. Dated March 19th, I804.
I} pages 4to, -
‘Many thanks for your kind letter of Oct. 30th. I am sure no man is more
able to place our hospitals in proper state than yourself, and that you always bear
in mind not to be penny wise and pound foolish. A small sum, well laid out, will
keep fleets healthy, but it requires large sums to make a sickly fleet healthy, besides
the immense loss of personal services ; health cannot be dearly bought at any
price if the fleet is never sickly.
“By general exertions we have done well, but we have not a place that we can
be sure of supplies from. Spain will not give us a live animal, Naples dare not,
and Sardinia ought not, but that is the only place we have a chance for fresh
provisions. God knows how many days, it will not be many, that island is out of
the hands of the French. I hope to hold out still after the battle, but, as you
know, mine is a wretched constitution, and my sight is getting very, very bad. I
rejoice to hear the Earl is so well.’
754. A. T. S. from Mrs. Matcham to Lady Hamilton. Dated ‘Sunday
morning ' (March 25th, 1804). I page 4to., with SuperScription.
[P.]
‘A thousand [thanks], my dear Lady Hamilton, for your letter, which I have
this moment recº. May God Almighty spare our dear friend to us ! We must
rely upon a kind and merciful providence, that has hitherto watched over him in
the day of battle. This is an awful and trying period to us all. We think of
being in town in a few days. Can you get us two bedrooms near you & a sitting-
room P. You shall hear when we leave Bath. God bless you all, & with the hope
we shall meet soon I remain yours,’ &c.
228 7TAZAZ AIA///Z 7'O/V A/V/O [1804.
755. A. L. S. from Mr. Falconet to Lord Nelson. Dated Naples,
April Ist, 1804. 3 pages 4to, [P.]
‘I am honoured with your Lordship's letter, 18 March. Mr Gibbs had within a
few days sent me an extract of your Lordship's order for 2 or 3 pieces armorino,
which is repeated in your Lordship's letter, but without mentioning either colour
or quantity. A piece of armorino runs from 2 I or 3O Canes, but having consulted
with M* Falconet, she thought 12 canes, equal to 28 yards, wº be a proper quantity,
as the Eng" piece runs about 26 yards, & that I2 canes makes 3 full gowns, the
armorino being 4 palms or ell-wide. WC chose three very neat patterns, & also
six shawls, which are much superior to the former ones, which I am glad to find
Lady Hamilton aproves. I have enclosed the whole in a case to your Lordship,
which will be delivered with this letter by Cap. Hanwood of the Bel/isſe, the box
is sealed as this letter. .
“The enclosed letter from Lady Hamilton reached me lately; it was accom-
panied with a few lines, saying I wº know how to address it, and the reason for
not doing it herself. It is an additional precaution to prevent it being intercepted,
but I must observe I have not observed since the war that our letters were
opened.
‘Enclosed I send to your Lordship an account of the hire I took & provisions
by the Cameleon, Cap. Staines, as there was no time to make it up then. It amounts
to d. 353,78 carried to the debt of your Lordship's accº & to its audit. Your bill
on Alex" Davison, IO Feb., for A, IOO at 43", less I } aggio of bank papers,
d,549,77.
‘M* Falconet presents her most respectful compºs to your Lordship. She was,
on the 18th March, safely delivered of a fine stout boy, whom she nurses herself;
she is, & the child, very well.
‘For news I refer your Lordship to M.” Elliot. I went to hear prayers at his
house this morning with my daughters, & we shall soon have there a christening.
“I forwarded to Gibbs your Lordship's letter.
‘I2 canes Armorino at 26 C ... ... ... ... ... d. 31 20
I2 do. do. do. ... ... ... ... ... ... 3I 20
I2 do. do. 29 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
6 shawls at 45 cms * & © tº e º 8 e º e e º 'º e º ſº e º e s is 27
Case & porterage ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 6o
756. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to Lady Hamilton. Dated April 18th,
1804. 6 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘As my little girl was very anxious to thank you for sending her a letter, I
have indulged her by troubling you with a few lines.* The composition and
spelling are all her own, therefore I hope you will accept it as a faint attempt to
express her gratitude for your kind recollection of her. How many thanks due to
you for the happy time we spent under y” hospitable roof; God grant we may
Some future time all meet in happier days, when peace & fresh laurels will, under
divine providence, restore to us our dear loved friend. May God Almighty
protect him, & that he may be rewarded by ending a long life with happiness, is
the first wish of your ever affectionate,’ &c.
“No letters from Hussam.
‘My most affectionate love to my ever dear Charlotte, and compts to your
circle. If a broken key is left it is ours.”
* The following is the letter referred to :—‘I am going, by Pappa's desire, to write you a few
lines to inform you how much I was delighted to see a letter from you. You desired us to keep
up Pappa's resolution in coming to London, which you may be sure I will do, for I am as anxious
as you to come and see you and my cousins. I have seen George’s seals, and I think you have
made a grand collection for him, particularly those in the in frame. Mama got home in good
time for tea on Saturday. , Tell my cousin Charlotte that I am much obliged to her for her kind
offer of amusing us when in London. My brothers and sisters join with me in sending my love
to my cousins and you.’ - - - -
1804.] WEZsow PAPERS. 229
757. A. L. from the Rev. C. Este to the same. Dated Piercefield, Chep-
Stow, April 25th, 1804. 3% pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
“When men have been on the brink of dismissal, they have done such strange
deeds of courtesy (& even to strangers, too) as they never before vouchsafed to
dream of amidst their most golden moments & to their best friends. This I Ánow
in two instances of Chancellor T. & of Harry the Ninth. And this therefore I
cannot help hinting & desiring you, madam, to submit to our very dear & most
excellent friend. Pray let me ask, does it not seem likely that a certain Żerson
may be in the same predicament soon P And then may it not be right to calculate
upon something like the same effects. Could there be any harm in your advising
a letter like this P
- ‘Sir, I never could have trespass'd against my own nature so much as to
have thought of any requital from Government without a fair claim, and had
you not intimated some opinion of the claim being such, I never should have
mentioned it to you again. This has been done more than once, yet may I be
allowed to ask about it once more, for in the experience of our own department
I have once, at least, seen and felt the effect of hurry leading to unmerited
neglect ; and I must deprecate indeed, as no small evil, from you, Sir, the
unavailing regret of remembering, when too late, what may be lamented to
have been forgotten.
‘I am, Sir, with the best wishes & respect, your humble Serv.
‘Now, my dear madam, tell me if you like this, & whether you think anything
or nothing should be done. For at this distance I guess only at what is passing,
& cannot say anything but as / do now in a form the most guesſionable.
* Finally, dear madam, let me question about yourself, about your happiness
and health P For without it what is life, even with charms and accomplishments
such as yours is not a stranger to ? And then of the Mediterranean * I hope
good tidings from thence P Indeed, I cannot augur any other tidings but the
best For health can have no source as good as spirit, and what can be so Spirit-
stirring as the dignity of worth like his 2 If the enemy venture out, we are sure
of a victory over them. If they continue in port, we may expect the continuance
of his victory over himself, the hardest victory of all. For a high heart like his
to endure a destiny where there is nothing to display but the melancholy miracles
of passive valour ! I have come to think of him with affectionate veneration, & I
would compass sea & land if for any good purpose to him or you I could show
my tenderness & zeal. May you ever both continue among the most favor'd of
the Most High. Adieu, adieu, your obliged.
‘I date this from Piercefield, Chepstow, April 25, “Where Fellows read
debates,” as the Duke says, to whom I would have enclosed this had I been sure
you [would] have liked it, and from whom, if you please, you may derive a frank.
“Of Memorabilia that is Nelsoniana or Hamiltoniana I have none since I
left you, excepting that the first moment I was in Bath I met Mr. Macham, and
at dinner encountered Capt Bowen ; that on Chepstow Bridge, where I alway
think who have been upon it, I met a poor sailor who had served under my Lord
(but in the Culloden) when he gave an Earldom to that prodigy of gratitude, St.
Vincent, and yesterday I dined where there was a pretty young man, a school-
fellow of poor Parker, over whom we made lamentations. Again, adieu.
‘Pray inform me which is the best mode of sending letters to Egypt thro'
Malta, and thro' whom, here & there 3’
758, A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to the same. Dated April 28th, 1804."
2 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
[*I did not, my dearest Emma, pass over the 26th without thinking of you in
the most affectionate manner, which the truest love and affectionate regard of
man to a dear beloved woman, which could enter into my mind.]
* According to the post-mark it did not reach Lady Hamilton until July 9th, and after being
redirected from Merton to Ramsgate, where she was staying at the time.
230 THE HAMILTON AND - [1804.
I have been for some days, and am still, very unwell, without being seriously
ill but I fret absolutely like a fool for the faults of others. It was no fault of mine
that the dispatches were taken, but of those who sent them in a vessel not fit to
trust my old shoes in ; nor is it my fault that the Kent, the finest ship, in the fleet,
is kept so long from England, notwithstanding my representations that she is now
obliged to leave the fleet, to lay guard-ship at Naples, and more will very soon be
in as bad a plight. My only wish is for the coming out of the French fleet to
finish all my uneasinesses. But I yet trust that the reign of Buonaparte will be
soon over, and then that we shall have a few years of peace and quietness.
“Remember me kindly to all we hold most dear, [and be assured, my dear
Emma, that I am for ever and ever, and if possible more than ever, yours most
faithfully, &c.
‘Captain Layman, Captain Hallowell, and I believe another packet of letters
for you, are now at Gibraltar.”
759. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to the same. Dated May 3rd, 1804.
I} pages 4to, [P.]
‘I am much better, my dearest Emma, than yesterday. The ship is this
moment going off. May heavens bless and preserve my own dear Emma &
H., fervently prays your most affectionate,’ &c.
760. A. L. S. from the same to General Villettes.” Dated Victory,
June 7th, 1804. 3 pages 4to.
“I sincerely hope that the convoy brought up by the Maidstone has relieved
your anxiety about letters by the papers I have sent. Butt you will not be
surprised at a change of ministry; it’s reported to be a coalition between the
Prince of Wales and Mr. Pitt. The names seem to mark it as such to the
exclusion of the Grenvilles. Pitt, Chief; Fox, Li Moira & Grey, Secretaries of
State ; Lº Melville, Adºy; Erskine, Attorney General ; the other places filled up
alternately. I rather think this change, with Buonaparte being Emperor, may bring
about a peace. The change, however, from a Republick, must be advantageous
to England; and if the two Emperors like brother Napoleon, we can not object.
‘I agree with you about the fatal security which the Cabinet of Naples so
readily falls into. Genº St. Cyr only meant to deceive them, for within a few days
the French Minister held the most insulting language. Gen. Acton is probably
out before this time. I am truly sensible of all your kindness, my dear General,
and good wishes; they are reciprocal in the truest sense of the word. I have
been but very so-so, but I hope to last the summer, or at least till Mr. Le Touche
pleases to come out of his nest, which, if it is as hot as it is outside, must be very
warm ; but perhaps he fancies he should find it hotter outside. But out he must
come some day or other, and as he says he beat me at Boulogne, it is, I think,
my turn now, and that it shall be so, nothing shall be wanting on the part of, my
dear friend, your much obliged,’ &c.
761. A. L. S. from Sir Thomas Louis to Lady Hamilton. Dated
Leopard, Dungeness, June 9th, 1804. 2% pages 4to, [P.]
“I received your very kind and obliging letter, for which I beg to return you
my sincerest thanks, and I am sure John will thank you whenever he has an
opportunity. I never suffered so much as I have of late about him, because when
off Cadiz in the year '98, I was absolutely promised by Lº St V. that he would
* General William Anne Villettes, 1754–1808, a descendant of an ancient French family
which had settled in England after the revocation of the Edict of Nantes. He was at first intended
for the Bar, but preferred the army, and obtained a cornetcy in 1775. By 1793 he had become a
Lieutenant-Colonel; highly distinguished himself at Toulon, Corsica, and Bastia, and in 18OI
was given the chief command at Malta. In 1807 he was recalled, and was appointed Lieutenant-
Governor of Jamaica, where he soon fell a victim to the climate.
1804.] AWAEZSOAV PAPERS. 23I
make him a Captain when he was ready, if his Lordship was living and in a situa-
tion to do it. When I found he was gone out without noticing him, it was a death
stroke to me. Had he not been placed in a frigate at home, unsolicited, which I
thought was for the purpose of attending to him when opportunity offered, I might
have sent him abroad the moment I came home from the Mediterranean. It
could have been no use (much as I respect and love my son) to have kept him
home doing nothing. His mother and myself have suffered greatly, and, poor
fellow, what will be his suffering when he finds all my Lord St. V.'s promises
nothing but air P What are we born for P Surely not to deceive and make our
fellow-creatures miserable. The number I have seen placed over my son’s head
is too, too bad. Some of them. I know, and after leading me astray to attend to
his whims and caprice, at the time he had no intention to provide for my son.
Had he not better have said so to me, when I would have taken him out of the
situation he was placed in, and had then to look out among my friends. I am
sure Lord Nelson had no other idea but that he intended to make my son, and I
had every right to expect it when the promotion took place at the close of the war.
However, I have been deceived and disappointed. I shall ever thank you for
the handsome manner in which you express yourself about him. I am sure Lord
Nelson will, when in his power, remember me by noticing him. If my son was
not one of the best young men I know, I would not recommend him in the strong
manner I do. How handsome might my Lord St. V. have done the thing by
saying he made the father and son happy the same day by promoting both at the
same time. However, I shall feel the more obliged to the man that does make
him, and never, never shall he have the least share of my good wishes towards
him. I have written Lord Nelson a long letter, and trust we shall soon hear from
him. Whenever you write, pray remember me most kindly to him, and say how
much I regret not being with him. I beg to be remembered to Mr. and Mrs.
Cadogan and Miss Charlotte.
‘P.S.—I shall be the happiest fellow in the world to get my son posted before
young Pellew.” If you would lend me the book that was printed when I saw you
in town (I understood you had two copies of it), I will thank you, and depend
upon my returning it faithfully, directed to me by the Coach, Deal, to the care of
Mr. Meek. I shall get it safe, and will return it the moment I have read it. I
understand it is a famous thing.’
762. A. L. S. from Sir William Bolton to the same. Dated H.M.S.
Chālders, Barcelona, June 14th, 1804. I page 4to, with Super-
Scription. [P.]
‘Permit me once more to present my sincere thanks for your repeated kind-
nesses shown to me in the person of my dear wife and of our dear Emma. You
are unwearied in seeking opportunities of testifying your friendship, shall I not,
ought I not then to be equally so of testifying my gratitude. But that I am
fearful of taking up your Ladyship's time, which you So well know how to employ
in benevolent actions, I should be inclined to lengthen out my letter. Let my
fear, I pray you, plead my excuse (should I be deceived) for its shortness, being
ever, dear madam,’ &c.
‘P. S.—I left the fleet, on Sunday last, off Toulon, when his Lordship was
perfectly well. The purport of my coming hither was to give Dº Scott a passage
to the ſleet. The morning I left the fleet a Neapolitan corvette arrived bringing
a letter from Sir Jno. Acton, who was embarked on board a frigate going to
Palermo, and detached this corvette to his Lordship from off Ustica. From what
I learned ſroin the officers of the corvette, Gen. Acton had left Naples on account
of Some disgust he had received from the French Ambassador. I dare not
venture an opinion on this affair. Your Ladyship's cozzzzozssance az, széſef de
AWaffles would justly convict me of vanity should I attempt it.’
* The first Lord Exmouth had two sons in the navy, but from the date of the letter this was
probably the eldest son, Pownall Bastard Pellew, 2nd Viscount, 1786–1833, who rose to be a
Captain, and only succeeded his father in the title ten months before his own death.
232 7THE HAM/Z 7 OM AAVD [1804.
763. A. L. S. from Hugh Elliot to Lord Nelson. Dated Naples, June
I5th, 1804. 4 pages 4to, [P.]
‘Accept of my most grateful thanks, and of those of M* Elliot, for your kind-
ness to our dear boy. We rely with confidence, that if God spares your life, you
will in time be as useful to those of our children who embrace your honourable pro-
fession, as their good conduct may deserve. I am certain you have placed William
as advantageously as possible, and I trust he will prove worthy of your protection.
‘The Queen asked me for your letter to Sir John Acton, as he had left
directions for her Majesty and the King to open those which might come for him.
The next day they were sent to me to be translated—that of the Ist of June I did
translate without hesitation in writing ; but the other I only read to the Queen,
as I can see no use of leaving copies of them in her hands. The originals will be
sent by the first opportunity to Palermo. [With respect to the letter regarding a
friend of your Lordship's & mine, as Addington is no longer Minister, the Queen
observed, that the application to him from her would no longer meet your purpose,
& as to a letter to his successor she must be regulated in that by your future
explanations upon the subject.
‘For my own part I take the liberty of repeating what I said at Dresden :
when the course of nature shall have done away the obstacles which now prevent
the fulfilment of a just measure the business will be settled without difficulty, and
in my opinion more Æðera//y than during the present R n.]
“There are many things to say about the Queen, which I do not wish to
commit to paper. She is in many respects so completely biassed in her attach-
ments, by the sad favourite of the day, that her heart and her understanding are
equally the dupe of this weakness.
* I understand that the Courts of Berlin and of Vienna will, without hesitation,
acknowledge the validity of Buonaparte's new title. This Court will follow their
example. -
“From Spain I have no news of a later date than what is mentioned in your
Lordship's letter. It is the fashion here to believe that the King of Spain will
Continue to avoid the war. But I speak from no authority concerning a topic
which belongs to M* Frere.
“The King of Sardinia, thinking himself no longer safe in the Roman States,
is expected to come to Gaeta in the course of this month. I have not failed
to convey the kind expressions of your Lordship towards him through the proper
channel. Ever most truly,’ &c.
764. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated Victory,
June 27th, 1804. 3% pages 4to, [P.]
“Last night, my dearest Emma, I received your three dear letters of April 13th
and 22nd, and May 13th, by way of Naples. It is the only Scrap of a pen
we have had from England since April 5th by Leviathan. You must not
complain of my not writing, for I never miss an opportunity, as the following
list will shew. February 25th by Barcelona, March 2nd, I 5th, by Rosas ;
I9th, by Gibraltar ; April Ioth, by Rosas ; I4th, by Captain Layman ; 19th, 21st,
23rd, by the Argo, 28th, by Rosas ; May 3rd, by Barcelona ; 5th, by Rosas;
I2th, by Rosas; 30th, 31st, by Gibraltar; June 6th, by Rosas ; Ioth, by Barcelona;
19th, by Rosas; [and be assured, my own Emma, that my fond attachment to you
is greater if possible than ever.] You will see, and I have wrote Davison to pay
every bill relating to the alterations at Merton, and that nothing is to be touched on
that business from the AIOO a month. I also wrote to him to pay, if I can afford it,
poor blind M* Nelson's debts. The change of ministry can do us no harm, and if
Lord Melville is a true friend he may now get it for you ; but, my dear Emma, all
their promises are pie-crusts, made to be broken. I hope to get out of debt and to
have my income clear, and then we shall do very well with prudence. I am not
surprised at the time poor Davison is to be confined, after what passed in Parlia-
ment I did not expect so little, and I fear he has a heavy fine to pay besides.
He would only consult Lord Moira and such clever folks, but an ignoramus like
me could only warn him not to touch Boroughs. He has, poor fellow, been
completely duped, and who cares? not one of those great folks. I am most
1804.] AVEZSOAV PAA’A2A S. . 233
sincerely sorry for him, but a year will soon pass away. Have not I been shut up
in a ship without any one comfort P. He is ashore with his friends round him, and
even you to go to see him. I would change with him with much pleasure. I shall
write him a line, he must not kill himself, that his enemies would rejoice at, and I
hope he will live to plague them. Acton being gone to Sicily, the Queen had
authority to open his letters. Mr Elliot explained the one relative to her writing
to Mr Addington. She said, as Mr Elliot writes me, as Mr Addington is out of
office the application to him from her would no longer meet your purpose, and as
to a letter to his successor, she must be regulated in that by your future explana-
tion upon the subject. I can think a great deal. Mr Elliot likes to class you in
Such a way as may make a precedent—that, you recollect, was always his plan,
but I shall write Acton and the Queen to say that there can be no harm in her
writing to Mº Pitt. Your eminent services, and her personal obligations to you,
&c. &c. But, my dear Emma, you know enough of the world not to be surprised
at any forgetfulness from even great folks. How delighted I shall be with
Merton, and I shall hope to find Horatia fixed there. Why not ? kiss her for me,
and may God bless her. I am always glad to hear that Charlotte behaves well
to you. She would be very ungrateful if she was not. Remember me kindly to
M* Cadogan and all our friends. I shall, if it pleases God, eat my Christmas
dinner at dear Merton. My health absolutely requires a few months’ rest, even
if my services are required again. Pray God in Heaven bless and preserve you
for, my dear Emma, your most faithful & affectionate, &c.
“Like a beast, in sending off dispatches for Algiers, Gibraltar, England, &
Spain, I forgot to send this letter, for which I am angry enough with myself.
May God bless you. The French fleet safe in Toulon; I wish from my heart
they were out. Love to Horatia and to all our friends.’
765. A. L. from the same to the same. Dated Victory, July Ist, 1804.
I page 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘I have a moment, and but a moment, to write you a line through Spain. I
wrote you yesterday by Gibraltar, and sent you the first bill of exchange for 4, IOO
for you, and £IOO for poor Mrs. Bolton. I take this opportunity of sending the
second, as I dare say that this will be home months before the other. Nothing
from England since April 5th. May God in Heaven bless & preserve you, my
beloved Emma, for your ever most faithful & affectionate,’ &c.
“All my public dispatches go for Gibraltar this day.”
766. A. L. S. from Rev. C. Este to the same. Dated Piercefield,
July 5th, 1804, 3} pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘My very dear Lady, whom I so much esteem, I cannot help troubling you.
On my return here after a long journey, I am delighted with finding a letter from
my Lord, whom I love and honor more than I will utter, and tho’ I hope to have
the happiness of seeing you in London next week (or the week after at furthest),
yet I cannot help thus intruding on you with my kind remembrances and all
good wishes, to thank you for having sent the letter to me, & above all to beg you
will not lose a moment in thanking for me my dear, good Lord on his sending that
letter and by you; for the letter, I have to say, is dated near three [or] four months
ago, and how to tell him so from this place I know not. With my most earnest
thanks, pray add, dear madam (or you will not be as good natured as you are
wont), my most anxious thoughts, and the most affectionate strong wishes of love
& zeal for his good health & spirits, & then, as for his success, I shall not think
about it, for we are sure of it; it must follow wherever he leads. Would to
Heaven that your destinies had been more proportioned to your singular
deservings, that you had a state now in the Meditteranean, and I not a stranger
to the Cabinet. That the Hero was now in full sail coming into our port with
Victory, if it could be, more astonishing than his two last victories, & to Crown all,
with a peace of his own making in his pocket! For while we are about it we may
as well wish for the best, and have a peace from the best authority rather than
from the worst : from a low Scotch lawyer, who cannot write English ; from an
ill-conditioned monarch, who can do nothing but gabble it ! Why, Doctor
234
7 HE A/AM/Z 7 OM AAVD [1804.
Simmonds and his incurables could not do worse than all that they have hitherto
been doing.
‘Adieu, adieu, dº madam. I am afraid of mentioning the doctor, as I suppose
he did not prescribe as he should for y' case.
“When you write to my Lord, pray forget not my congratulations on the proxy
against that imposition they have the impudence to call a defence. Again, dear
madam, with all good attachments, your,’ &c.
767. A. L. S. from Dr. Lambton Este to Lord Nelson. Dated Malta,
July 7th, 1804. 2 pages folio. [P.]
“While searching, this morning, the old papers at the Post Office for certain
letters of my own, concerning which not any accurate account could be given, I
accidentally met with the inclosed; from the signature on the direction, perceiving
. .." public service, I can feel but doubly assiduous in forwarding it to your
ordship.
‘The letter brought by the Italian post from Sicily to Malta, about the middle
of the month of May, has been laying at the office ever since, and but for a mere
chance might have continued there to remain.
‘This instance, one among very many others, it has been my fate to witness
generally through the Mediterranean during the Egyptian expedition, no less
than in the course of my present voyage, may serve to convince your Lordship,
how from want of arrangement and regularity, the general Service may suffer ;
while scarcely any individual can escape the inconveniences occasioned thereby.
“I venture thus to trouble your Lordship, as in the course of my various
voyages at different periods, and in different parts of the Mediterranean, with the
greatest deference to your Lordship's better judgment and opinion, it has ever
appeared that were the general inspections and superintendance of the posts
given in charge to some active intelligent person well acquainted with the
Mediterranean, the service might be materially benefitted, and every individual
embarked in its different departments, not only at Gibraltar and Malta, but
generally ; while such as are engaged in civil and commercial pursuits, along the
Barbaresc-Levant and Adriatic, together with the former, might thence derive
most material and important accommodation. I have the honour to remain,’ &c.
768. A. L. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated Victory,
July 9th, 1804. 3 pages 4to, [P.]
“Last night, my dearest Emma, I received your most kind letter of May 24th,
and I feel very much distressed that my numerous letters do not get quicker to
your hand, but I can only write and send off; indeed, I dare say, if I was the
carrier, they would not be so long in travelling. I have mentioned the date of
every letter, and how they went, in a letter sent a few days ago by Barcelona : in
March, three ; in April, six ; in May, five ; in June to the 19th, three ; June 27th,
July 1st. I must not write a word of any political matter, for, as I send this through
Mr Falconet, I have assured him that nothing which can in any manner commit
him in his employ with the French Government, shall be put in the letter. This,
I am sure I may say, that we have had no summer here. For the last four days
not a boat could pass. Before many months I shall certainly see all your
improvements, and if the Government, after some rest, want my services, they
shall have them, but I must have a change of air, for always shut up in the
Victory's cabin, cannot be very good for the constitution. I think you will find
me grown thin, but never mind. Your trip to Canterbury I should suppose the
very worst you could take ; for, on any alarm, there you must stay, and in a town
filled with soldiers; but if you like it I am content. However, we know to June
18th all was safe. What a long letter Sir Sidney Smith has wrote. Well, this is
an odd war—not a battle ! Admiral Campbell” always inquires after you, and
* Admiral Sir George Campbell, G.C.B., promoted to be Rear-Admiral in 1801, after-
wards Admiral of the White and Commander-in-Chief at Portsmouth, where he committed Suicide,
while in a state of temporary insanity, in 1821.
1804.] - AVAEZSOAV PAPERS. 235
desires to be kindly remembered. I have little to say—one day is so like another,
and having long ago given you one day, there is no difference but the arrival of a
letter or newspapers; the same faces, and almost the same conversation.
[As for the great man at the PW, I care nothing about him or her. She is a deep
one..] Remember me kindly to all our friends, and be assured I am [for ever, my
dearest Emma, your most faithful and affectionate. Kiss dear Horatia for me.
[* July 11th. We have the French news to June 28th. I have wrote to the qº
& lady at Naples about your pension. I think she must try & do something. God
bless you. July 12th. We have Paris papers to June 27th. I believe we are
never to hear from England again.]. Yours,’ &c.
769. A. L. S. from Lady Bolton to the same. Dated Cranwich, July 9th,
1804. [P.]
“I write to return thanks both in my daughter's person and my own, for your
handsome present of a coral which we received yesterday. We all admire it very
much, Miss Emma Horaţia amongst the rest, for she is attracted by the
brightness. It is the handsomest we ever saw. Permit me, now I am on the
subject of thanks, to express my gratitude for your kindness on all occasions, and
for your recommending Sir William so strongly to Lord Nelson, which I shall ever
feel particularly grateful for ; but I must quit this subject, for were I to express
half what I feel I should fill my paper, and you would think me very stupid.
‘I am very anxious to fill all your injunctions, but part of them only I have
been able to follow, for I cannot boast of being very strong myself, but my little
girl is literally as fat as a pig. We reackon very much of seeing you at the time
you fixed. My sister will go to Swaffham one day this week and learn what is to be
done there on the first of August, and as soon as we know my mother will write
to you. We are much obliged to you for giving Miss Conner permission to
visit us. We expect to hear from her every day to fix the time. Mrs. Pierson
and Constance are with us; they make us very gay, for she is very cheerful. Mr.
and Mrs. Comyn dined with us the other day; we think they will [be] pleasant
neighbours to us.
‘Mrs. Dashwood is in a very indifferent state of health ; she goes out hardly
anywhere. My sister has been at Stanham and is but just returned, and we have
been out nowhere, therefore I have no Norfolk news for Mrs. Nelson. My mother
desires her love to the D* and Mrs. Nelson. Mrs. Pierson unites, with all our
family, in love and comp” to your circle. Believe me,’ &c.
770. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated July 16th, 1804.
3 pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘I hope I may congratulate you on having letters from my dear brother. We
have got one from Sº Wm. Bolton, dated as late as June the I4, from Barcelona.
Your letter of the 25th of March gave the first intelligence of the birth of little girl.
My Lord had told him the name, Emma Horaţia, & that you and he were to
answer for it. He is not a little delighted you may be sure. He means to write
to you to express his thanks for your repeated kindness to his wife & daughter.
Had you any thing by the Azgo & Kate expected a parcel, but none has arrived.
‘And now, my dear friend, we look forward to the pleasure of seeing you one
day next week as you promised. Nothing is likely to be done on the first of
August, therefore on that day we will, if you please, have the christening.
I hope you will give us notice of the day you intend coming, whether Saturday,
Sunday, or Monday, 20th or 23rd. Be so kind as to tell the D* Mr. Bolton
has received his letter, & will settle with Mrs. Spinks as he wishes, or any thing
he can do for him.
‘The Dashwoods are all in a bustle again. The marriage has been proved, &
they are going to law again about 20,000/., which was the part of Mrs. Dashwood's
fortune which Mr. Bideux claims. Poor woman, her mind has been ill at ease;
now the worst is known, I hope she will recover her health & spirits. The united
love & good wishes of this family attend all your circle.
“Miss Connor just arrived. Believe me,’ &c.
236
THE HAM/Z 7 ON AAWD [1804.
771. A. L. S. from Miss Anne Bolton to the same Dated Stanmore,
July 19th, 1804. 4 pages 4to, [P.]
‘I would have thanked you sooner for the few affectionate lines you sent me
by Bowen, tho' indeed the life we lead is so uniformly quiet, that tho' we are
perfectly happy and comfortable, it is very unfavourable to letter writing. How-
ever, I began to think this morning that dear Lady Hamilton would forget her
Anne if she did not remind her that there is still such a troublesome being living.
It gives me much pleasure to find that Miss Connor is not to go into Norfolk till
you go ; I should not know what to do without her, she is so companionable to .
me, who, you know, would have none without her, for Eliza, when most agreeable,
I consider as nothing, and my father is very much in town. She is so good, she
Seems quite content with the very retired life we lead. We have got our instru-
ment, which, with books and work, form our whole amusement ; sometimes, by
way of variety, we have the old woman come down, who behaves extremely well,
and is become quite attached to Miss Connor. Sometimes we sing to her till the
poor thing sheds tears, and we are obliged to leave off. I am glad I have got over
the horror I once felt in her presence, because it is in my power, the short time
I am here, to contribute a little to her comfort. We have beautiful walks in this
neighbourhood, which Miss Connor and I enjoy, and you, dearest Lady Hamilton,
are often the subject of our conversation. I live on the pleasing hope of seeing
you once more before we begin our journey, which will not be till the 224 of Aug.:
but possibly, as you are so well and happy, you may prolong your stay at
Ramsgate. I was quite delighted with the account Bowen gave me of you. I
made him talk for an hour about you, and indeed, to do him justice, he seemed as
fond of the subject as myself, and thank you for the little darling pin-cushion,
which is treasured up and only taken out occasionally to be kissed. A few nights
ago I had an alarming attack of the same complaint which was very near killing
me a year and a half ago. I fainted away and terrified them all. Eliza declares
she began to consider what she could do without me. Thank God, and my
father's skill, I am again well. Pray write to me; if it is but such little a scrap
as I have hitherto had from you, I shall be content. How often we long to have
a peep at you, and I wish, too, you could sometimes see how happy we all are
Next week we are going to Mr. Emmett, near Hertford.
“Miss Conner & Eliza desire their best love to you, as would daddy, were he
at home. God bless you, most dear Ly Hamilton. Believe me,’ &c.
772. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated Cranwich, July
20th, 1804. 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
“It was indeed a great disappointment for us your postponing your visit into
Norfolk for a month later, but be assured I shall be happy to see you when you
can make it agreeable. We were in hopes of seeing Miss Connor, but find, by
your Ladyship's letter, we are not to expect that pleasure till you come. Emma,
according to your desire, is got as fat as a little pig. Kate is certainly better, and
is going as far as Ely to-day for the first time, when Susanna will call at Helwin
and see Mrs. Spinks on the D* business. I hope the baths will quite restore
your health, and that you will be better next winter than you were this last. My
girls are not yet gone to school. I wished to have spoken to you about my
brother's 200l. he is so generous to allow me at this time. This, you know, is my
last time of receiving it ; do not think me encroaching for mentioning of it. Mr.
Bolton begs me to assure you he has not forgotten he is indebted to you, but
times are very hard for farmers. Many have failed this season, but he says the
corn begins to be higher, & he looks forward to a better year. The Archdeacon
& Mrs. Young & family are still at Yarmouth, but Mr. Johnson is at Swaffham,
as I hear of his troop going to the play, for [be P; it known the Barn, alias
playhouse, is open for a few evenings, and all the genteel people of the neighbour-
hood attend. Mrs. Langford has changed her house for a better one in the
churchyard. She is in high spirits; her son is ordered to the coast of Africa;
if there is a Spanish war, he will come back immensely rich. Lady Bolton begs
I will thank you for her letter. We all join in affectionate regards to you, my
brother & Mrs. Nelson. Believe me,’ &c. -
1804.] AVE/CSOAV PAPERS. 237
773. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to the same. Dated Merton, July
26th, 1804. Ił pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘We arrived here on Tuesday evens, and had the pleasure of seeing Mrs.
Cadogan quite well. The improvements are going on very rapidly, & dear
Merton is looking delightful; all is, as usual, peace & quiet. I behave very well
this time, & look forward to the happiness of our all meeting soon again some
future day. We have some hope of spending the first of August with you all at
Canterbury. If nothing happens to prevent us, we shall be at Canterbury on
Monday evening. Pray give my best love to Mrs. Nelson, & tell her not to put
herself to the least inconvenience on our accº, as she can secure two beds for us at
an inn for a few nights. We have George with us, & no servº. I think of seeing
you all with so much pleasure, that I feel even now that something may prevent
us. With our best love to all the party, I remain,’ &c.
774. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated ‘Sunday Morning’
(1804?). I page 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘Many thanks, my dear Lady Hamilton, for your very kind invitation, which
would have made me most happy to have accepted of ; but God only knows when
we shall have the happiness of seeing you, for our eldest boy, who came from
School on account of our severe loss, is now in bed with the measles, which we
have no doubt was the disorder which deprived us of our dear boy. It is most
likely all the little ones will fall ill. We must rely on the protection of Providence
to support us in this dreadful prospect. With our united affect” wishes to you
& yº family,’ &c.
775. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Sir Peter Parker. Dated Victory,
August 4th, 1804. 3 pages 4to. [P.]
‘I have received your kind letter of May 30th, and although I most sincerely
Condole with you on the premature death of my dear friend and contemporary,
your son, yet from his constant ill state of health it was an event to be hourly
expected, and latterly sincerely to be wished. In your grandson, Peter, you
possess everything which is amiable, good, and manly, an officer and a gentleman;
we part with him with regret. I own, my dear Sir Peter, that my ambition would
never have been higher gratified than to have made him both a Commander and
a Post, I have been deprived of one step, and may be of the other, but be sure of
my warmest and affectionate interest for his welfare as long as I live; never,
whilst I breathe, shall I forget your kindness for me, to which I owe all my
present honor. May God bless you, my dear friend, and keep you in health
many, many years, is the most sincere and affectionate wish of your ever most
obliged and affectionate,’ &c.
“I beg my kindest respects to both Mrs. Ellis's, and to the Mr. Ellis I have
the pleasure of knowing.’
776. A. L. S. from Miss Anne Bolton to Lady Hamilton. No date
(August 6th, 1804). 34 pages 4to, with Superscription. [P.]
‘This moment, dearest Ly Hamilton, am I arrived in town, where we stay a
few days that we may enjoy the society of our relations. Most delightful was
the sight of Oliver, who brought me your dear letter. How very good you are
to think of me and write to me so often. All I can do in return is to tell you how
truly grateful I am, and with all the affection of which my heart is capable do I
love you. On the 15th you tell me you go into Norfolk; on the 22nd, we set out
on a tour which will not be ended till the middle of November. Think, then,
dear Lady Hamilton, how long, how very long, it must be before we meet if you
unfortunately do not make London in your way. But at all events you must go
to Merton ; if so, I will see you ; nothing shall prevent it, as God knows when
we may again have the opportunity. I have a horror of this journey which is
238 THE A/AM/Z, TON A WD - [1804.
indescribable and unaccountable, and really ungrateful to many kind friends who,
I know, will omit nothing to make me happy; but you know the only requisites
to make me entirely so is the society of those I sincerely love. I am very much
rejoiced to find that poor dear Charlotte is relieved from the horrid pain she has
endured. I was very much afraid it was not the toothache, and was only last
night talking to my father about her, and asking him if he did not think a warm
sea bath would be serviceable. He thought it would, but he will be happy
to find it is now unnecessary. The Cap" Jones who called on you cannot be
our friend, as he has been for some time at Denbigh, where he is on military
duty. I expect I shall meet with him during our excursion. Miss Connor is
with us and quite well. She desires her love to you. I am going on Saturday to
see Mrs. H. Yonge at her cottage, and the dear babes. My father is to drive me
in the old curricle; it is only sixteen miles. I shall stay one night with her, and
hope we shall not quarrel. Has any body seen a house likely to suit you in town
for next winter P There is a charming one in Curzon Street, but I fear you will
think two hundred a year too much for an unfurnished house. It belongs to a
friend of ours, Mr. Noble. You tell me to write you a comfortable letter. Alas !
I have nothing at all pleasant to write about, but Mr. Oliver very kindly and
thoughtfully brought me a frank. I wº not therefore let it be lost. I must now
conclude, having two more letters to write by this post. Eliza goes on very well;
indeed, she cannot do otherwise living at Stanmore, for she can neither run after
Grassini every day or get in debt. But to do her justice, I think she has now no
inclination for the latter. Write to me and tell me if I may indulge the sweet
hope of seeing you before we begin our journeys; as soon as you know your
plans, have compassion on me and let me know. I am glad Mrs. Bianchi is with
you; it will do her good, and add to your society very agreeably. Give my love
to her. Papa Smiled when I kiss'd him for you, and desires his affectionate
regards. Eliza's love. If you speak of me to the Nelsons, remember me to them.”
777. A. L. from Lord Nelson to the same. Dated Victory, August 13th,
I8O4. 4 pages 4to. .
‘If I could tell when to begin a letter to my dearest, beloved Emma, I could
never tell when to stop. I want and wish to tell you all my thoughts and feelings,
but that is impossible ; for thoughts so rush upon thoughts, that I cannot, as I
said before, know where to begin a letter. The jog-trot of [that] I have receiv'd,
&c., &c., but ill accords with my feelings. The Ambuscade brought me your
letters to June 5th, viz., Apl. 9th, I 5th, 18th ; May 14th, 22nd, 30th, via Lisbon ;
May IOth, 18th, 29th ; June Ist, 4th, 6th, by sea. The box you mention is not
arrived, nor have I a scrap of a pen or newspaper from Davison. What can be
the meaning of all this I do not understand it.
‘Mrs. Voller has sent out her son, but what can I do for a child who has
never been at sea P for although he may have been borne upon ships' books, that
will not make him a seaman. With all those advantages, or rather dis-
advantages, it must be some years before he can qualify himself to be a Lieut.
Capt. Hardy has been so good as to rate him Mid. here, and lent him to Capt.
Durban, where, if he chuses, he may learn his profession. I know Mrs. Voller's
uniform kindness to you and her goodness to the children upon every occasion,
and therefore I should certainly be glad to do what I can to oblige her & good
Mr. Voller ; but I cannot, my dear Emma, do what is absolutely impossible. I
have wrote her a civil letter. I have had the lad to dinner, and I have requested
Capt. Durban, who is a very clever man, to keep him. I am equally obliged to
good Hardy about Charles ; if Capt. Hillyer cannot rate him, Hardy will. Capel
could do nothing for him in that way, therefore, from all circumstances, I have
removed him entirely from the Phoebe and placed him in the AVäger with a most
excellent Captain, and who, I hope, will keep him until his time is served. I do
not think he has yet learnt much of his business as a seaman, but I will answer
his intellects are good enough. His eye is saved, and I do not think there will
be a blemish. Mr. Magrath, the surgeon of the Victory, has been very kind and
attentive to him. Mr. Scott had him every day to read and write. In the Phaeffe
he was allowed to do as he pleased, and to throw away money. Only think of
II pr. of boots, half boots and shoes. We shall now sett him off again, and he
1804.] AVEZSOAV PAPAERS. 239
shall have 30l. a year, and that, I am sure, is abundance. The lad is well disposed,
and I have no fears about him; nothing, my own Emma, shall be wanting on my
part to be useful to him.
‘I do not believe one syllable of the intention of the late Admiralty to remove
me without my own application. I verily believe so much the contrary, that I
much doubt if they would have suffer'd me to come home without very much
Contesting the point. I have every reason to believe that, as a Board, my whole
Conduct met their entire approbation, and, to say the truth, the old Earl was led
wrong agº his better judgment many a time. I am not so vex't with him as with
the others. I am sure he would have promoted Bolton if they had mentioned
him. But never mind ; the late Admiralty have the execrations of the service
for destroying as much as in them lay the AVavy.'
778. A. L. from the same to the same. No date (August 13th, 1804*).
I# pages 8vo., with Superscription. [P.]
‘My beloved, how I feel for your situation and that of our dear Horatia, our
dear child. Unexampled love, never I trust to be diminished, never ; no, even
death, with all his terrors, would be jubilant compared even to the thought. I
wish I had all the small-pox for her, but I know the fever is the natural
Consequence. I dreamt last night I heard her call papa, and point to her arm
just as you described. Give Mrs. Gibson a guinea for me, and I will repay you.
Dear wife, good, adorable friend, how I love you, and what would I not give to be
with you this moment, for I am for ever all yours.”
779. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Victory, August 13th,
I8O4. 24 pages 4to,
‘I am now going to state a thing to you and to request your kind assistance,
which, from my dear Emma's goodness of heart, I am sure of her acquiescence in.
Before we left Italy I told you of the extraordinary circumstance of a child being
left to my care and protection. On your first coming to England I presented you
the child, dear Horatia. You became, to my comfort, attached to it, so did Sir
William, thinking her the finest child he had ever seen. She is become of that
age when it is necessary to remove her from a mere nurse and to think of
educating her. Horatia is by no means destitute of a fortune. My earnest wish
is that you would take her to Merton, and if Miss Connor will become her tutoress
under your eye, I shall be made truly happy. I will allow Miss Connor any Salary
you may think proper. I know Charlotte loves the child, and therefore at Merton
she will imbibe nothing but virtue, goodness, and elegance of manners, with a good
education, to fit her to move in that sphere of life she is destined to move in.
“I shall tell you, my dear Emma, more of this matter when I come to
England, but I am now anxious for the child's being placed under your protecting
wing. Perhaps I ought to have done this before, but I must not, in justice to my
charge, defer it for any consideration longer. May God bless you, my dear
Emma, and reward you tenfold for all the goodness you have already shewn
Horatia, and ever be assured that I am,’ &c.
780. A. L. S. from Charles Connorf to the same. Dated H.M. Ship
AVäger, off Toulon, August 18th, 1804. I} pages 4to., with Super-
scription. [P.]
‘I now embrace this opportunity of writing to you, as I am in perfect good
health, and hope that these few lines will find you the same. I am sorry to say
that I have lost the sight of my right eye through a midshipman heaving an olive
stone at me, which chanced to go into my eye. Lord Nelson was so good as to
take me to the Victory to try what the surgeon of her could do towards it. I
Suffered a good deal, but it was all to no purpose, which, I am now Sorry to say,
* The following words are added in another hand : ‘The enclosed found in a letter to
Lady H., dated Victory, August 13th, 1804.’
f Lady Hamilton's cousin.
24O 7TA/AE HAM/Z 7'OAV AAVD [1804.
I have entirely lost the sight of it. His Lordship has now chose to send me into
the Niger, but I still belong to the Victory, so that I am only lent to Dr. When
I was at Gibraltar in the Phoebe about last February, I wrote two letters to your
Ladyship. I have been expecting an answer in every ship that has come from
England, but when I have heard that there was none for me, I have been almost
ready to run mad through disappointment. I can’t express what happiness I
shall feel if you will write to me, for I have never had but one letter from my
mother since I have been out here, and none from your Ladyship, so I conclude
with love to your Ladyship and Mrs. Cadogan, no more from your loving and
sincere relation.’
781. A. L. S. from Mr. Lambton Este to Lord Nelson. Dated Malta,
August 20th, 1804. 2% pages folio. [P.]
‘Your Lordship's favour of the 3rd August I had the honour of receiving duly
by the Amazon, not at all surprized that Monsieur Latouche Treville should be
endeavouring to find your Lordship anywhere, where your Lordship does not
happen to be ; cannot abandon hope that your Lordship may yet have fair
opportunity of letting him know, and in the most unequivocal manner precisely
where it is your Lordship may occasionally be met with, in order not to leave
room for mistakes in future.
“The administration of the Posts I never should have ventured to mention to your
Lordship had the inconvenience thereof been confined to myself or to my friends.
But in the course of present and preceding voyages, I never remember meeting a
single individual, in any rank or situation, who had not been to greater or less
degree a sufferer. Under such an impression, and the remembrance of certain
observations not in the way of every person to make, I felt it encumbent upon
myself, as a kind of duty, to communicate the result of my experiences to your
Lordship, especially on an opportunity and an act of irregularity like that of
Mons” Latouche Treville's letter.
‘The enclosed will afford further confirmation of anything that may have been
before mentioned, no account is given of it. The present letter did not appear at
the post office till very lately, probably came from Gibraltar in the Zermeaganſ, and
for some trivial reason or other had been thrown into that part of the office
commonly called in England the dead-letter office, from whence I have the
honour of redeeming and of forwarding it.
“My father, concerning whom your Lordship makes such kind enquiries, I
parted with in high health in London. On leaving him he put the annexed into
my hand, and desired me to deliver the same myself unto your Lordship. I have
since been preserving it under vain but flattering expectations that the chapter of
accidents might have afforded me the satisfaction of so doing.
‘Mr. Lock, on the 19th June, with Capt. Vincent of the Arrow, sailed from
Smyrna. Capt. Vincent has since written to announce their speedy voyage.
Mr. Lock may be expected daily on return to Malta before taking a fresh
departure for the Levant, or will send such instructions as will determine and
guide the movements of,’ &c.
‘Lazaretto, Malta, September 18th, 1804. The enclosed dispatch, left open
for your Lordship's perusal, contains the particulars of the unhappy fate of
Charles Lock, Esquire, late Consul-General in Egypt. Again, my Lord, I remain,
with the greatest consideration and regard,’ &c.
782. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated Victory,
October 2nd, 1804. 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“It was only yesterday, my dearest Emma, that I received your letter of July
Ist, it having travelled in a Spanish smuggling boat to the coast of Italy and
returned again to Spain, the boat not having met any of our ships. I am anxious
to put you right about my proxy, and that Lord Moira’s having it could have
had no influence against Mr. Addington, not having done anything for me or my
friends ; you will see that it was entrusted to support Mr. Addington. Perhaps
Davison has been the innocent cause of any one having my proxy, for I never
1804.] - AWE/LSOAV PAPERS. 24I
liked giving it. Lord M(oira), in his letter to Davison, says, “being entrusted by
him with the charge of repelling any attack which envy might even aim at his
character, I will give myself the pride.of being ostensibly confided in by him, and
in political questions I shall hold myself bound to give his vote as his relation to
the Ministry requires, though it may be in contradiction to my own.”
‘On January 13th, 1804, I signed the proxy and sent it to Davison with the
following extract : “I have intrusted him with what I did not believe I would have
entrusted any man, and I hope he will be a firm supporter of Mr. Addington's
Administration.” This did not get home till March, therefore no vote was given
in Mr. Addington’s administration, but you see if any had, it would have been to
support Mr. Addington, therefore it could have had no influence upon Mr.
Addington if his inclination had led him to do anything ; but the fact is, that if
my pension was entailed so would Lord St. Vincent's, and at a time he was to be
turned out for misconduct, that I take to be the reason. I think I should not
have given my vote against Pitt. I am no party man as a tool, if I am to be a
part of Administration it alters the case. If Pitt is attentive to me he shall have
my vote. I have told you, my dearest Emma, all this that you might see my
conduct had nothing to do with Addington's conduct.
‘I have kept myself in this letter entirely to the subject of yours. You see
Lord Moira bound himself to support Addington. God bless you.’
783. A. L. from the same to the same. Dated Victory, October Ioth,
I8O4, 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘This, my [own] dearest Emma, will, I dare say, be the last letter you will
receive before you see [your own Nelson]. Whatever arraingements are made
about me by the Ministers, it is all settled long before this time. You will know
from the Admiralty about my quarantine, but I dare say it will not be longer than
return of post. I would wish you, my Emma, to remain at Merton. You are sure I
shall lose no time, and it is possible, if I have leave to strike my flag at that same
moment that I get pratique, that I shall not land at Portsmouth. As I wrote you
before, I think the Superó will carry me, but if a senior Admiral comes out, I am
subject to his will and pleasure. If all our house is not finished it can be done
next summer, and we shall get through the winter very comfortable I have no
doubt. Your last letters were to August 27th. You write so naturally that I
fancy myself almost, not guite, in your [dear] company, but that will soon be,
and I hope you have fixt H(oratia) at Merton. We have had much bad weather,
and it has disagreed very much with me. [Davison will pay all the bills, there-
fore you will not be more troubled on that matter.] I have much to say to you
[but that I shall reserve to our happy, happy meeting. May God bless you, my
dearest Emma, prays ever your faithful. You will to the Duke of Q., &c. &c.,
say everything that is civil. Love to Mrs. Cadogan, Charlotte, &c.].”
784. A. L. S. from Captain Sutton” to the same. Dated Amphion, Ply-
mouth, October 20th, I804. 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘I am very unexpectedly come to England, having in charge one of the
Spanish frigates taken off Cadiz on the 5th instant, for ye particulars I refer you
to Captain Moore'st public letter to the Admiralty. They are very valuable, having
* Rear-Admiral Samuel Sutton, 1760–1832, entered the Navy in 1777, received post rank in
1797, and commanded the Alcmene at Copenhagen. After being in the Victory, he removed to
the Amphion, and had the good ſortune to assist in the capture of a Spanish fleet laden with
specie. Captain Sutton was advanced to the rank of Rear-Admiral in 1821.
+ Captain, afterwards Admiral Sir Graham Moore, commanded the Indefatigable, which,
with some other ships, fell in with four Spanish vessels from South America. Captain Moore
resolved to detain these vessels, and an action commenced. One was blown up, and the
remaining three were taken. Spain being at peace with England, great indignation was
expressed, and the conflict led to a Spanish war. Sir Graham, who was a brother of Sir John
Moore, become a Rear-Admiral in 1812, was nominated a K.C.B. in 1815, and occupied a seat
at the Admiralty Board from 1816 to 1820. -
VOL. II. R
242 THE HAMILTON AND [1804.
on board nearly one million sterling in specie, besides cochineal & other valuable
merchandise. I hope it will turn out a good thing for that great & good man
Lord Nelson, as well as for myself. The frigate I was opposed to took fire &
blew up in action. I could only save one officer & forty-four men. Thirteen
ladies, passengers from South America, were lost in the ship. On the 2nd instant
off Gibraltar I spoke the Childers, Sir William Bolton, who left Lord Nelson on
the 22nd September off Toulon. Bolton told me his Lordship meant to leave
the fleet in a few days afterwards in the Sufferó for England, so that if this
Spanish business does not prevent him from quitting the command, his arrival
may be very shortly looked for. I hope your Ladyship has enjoyed good health
since I had the pleasure of seeing you. I never was better, it could not be other-
wise with me, for Lord Nelson's kindness has been unbounded to me. When the
Childers left the fleet his Lordship was tolerably well. I have no idea of what is
to become of the Amphion ; but wherever Lord Nelson is employ'd I hope I
shall be so happy as to be with him. May I hope for the honour of hearing from
you, for believe me to be,’ &c.
‘Two of the frigates present on this occasion belonged to Admiral Cornwallis,
the other two to Lord Nelson, so that it prevents any dispute as to right to share
prize money.’
785. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. No date (October 21st,
I8O4). 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
* Indeed, my dear Lady Hamilton, I was made most happy when I received
your very acceptable letter ; we were fearfull, what was the case, that you
were not well, and had there been a sheet of paper in the house our letters
would have met.
‘What a distressed party did you leave at Cranwich ; poor Mrs. Pierson with
her ſal/iſation, and Lady Bolton with her nervous complaint, Susanna drowned
in tears, & Mr. Bolton & myself not the best of the party; we never went to church
or ever even changed our dress, but set talking of the travellers. On Monday
came Mr. Wm. Bolton in his way into Suffolk; on Thursday we had another
Separation, Mrs. Pierson, Kate, & her two children, went for Brancaster. Thank
you for your conſidential intelligence; all I shall say is I am glad the present
administration know so well how to act with generosity to a man they are so
much indebted to. Query: if Lord Moira had still the proxy, would they have
been so anxious to show their regard P I shall now be anxious to see every paper,
to look for the arrivals of the ships from the Medit., but your letters in all
probability will first announce the pleasing news of my brother's arrival. God
grant he may be better health than we expect; at least, I am sure he will have
the best nurse in the world. Take great care of yourself that you may be well
enough for the occasion. How is poor Horace P Well, I hope, by your not
mentioning him. Give my love to Mrs. Cadogan and all the young folks. , My
girls, I suppose, are thinking of going to school. We have seen none of our
pleasant neighbours since you left us. The Mayor's ball is put in grand style in
the Norwich papers. It says, after supper Lady Hamilton rose and drank the
Mayor's health in three times three. .
“No letter from you to-day, therefore, of course, nothing new. Is the taking
the Spanish frigates a declaration of war P. God bless you, my dear friend, accept
the love and good wishes of our smal/ party, believe me,’ &c.
‘P.S.—What shoes did you order from Swaffham ; here are a pair of yellow
for you, & two pr. for Caroline. Shall I send yours by the girls' cloaks either
to-day or Tuesday ??
786. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to the same. Dated 2 Portland
Place, Bath, October 21st (1804). 2 pages 4to, with Super-
scription. [P.] -
‘You will think I have been a long time without writing, but the letter from
Cranwich I did not receive till a few days since. We are very anxious to know
1804.] - AVAEZSOAV PAP AEA’.S. 243
when you heard from my dear brother, & how he was in health. It is reported
he is coming home from ill-health, which I trust is only a report from those that
wish it ; but it will make me happy to hear from you that he is coming home well
and rich with dollars, as we understand that the Spanish frigates are taken
within the limits of his command. Do let us know what is to be the result of
these great captures. I should have been truly happy to have taken a peep at
you all in Norfolk. With our united best wishes to all the party, I remain,’ &c.
787. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same (with one to her daughter).
No date (October 25th, 1804). 3.} pages 4to., with SuperScrip-
tion. [P.]
‘Your scrap was most acceptable to us. I hope with Capt. Sutton that the
prizes will be condemned—30,000/. to my Lord's share will be a fretty thing.
You may indeed dayly look for him. Be assured I shall be ready to obey your
orders whenever called upon. Do not be surprised if he does not arrive so soon
as you expect. I think it is very likely that if he falls in with the Medora he may
cruize a little off Cadiz just to skim a little of the cream & bring you home the busheſ/
of dollars. I hope the golden ships will not slip through his fingers. Kate has
had a letter from her husband, dated 27th August—quite in the fidgets at my
lord’s leaving the fleet. He says it is reported there St John Orde is to have
the command, but we know better. He says his Lordship regrets he could
not put him in a frigate, but he says he could wait with patience if he was
certain when he did get one it would be under Lord Nelson’s command.
He has sent a parcel by Capt. Sutton for his wife. I am glad the girls merit your
goodness to them in being observant of what you say ; I am sure it to their
advantage. I hope you will remember your promise and write again on Friday,
as your letters are all we have to look forward to. Believe me,’ &c.
(To HER DAUGHTER ELIZA.)
“I thank you for your letter, and rejoice to hear you have had a bad tooth out. I
am Sorry it was so much pain to take out, but comfort yourself that you would have
suffered much more had it remained in. We sent your cloaks on Monday to
Edmonton. Write as soon as you get there in answer to your sister's letter.
Write by return of post at least on Saturday, to say whether you will have the
cake sent on Anne's birthday, which is on Tuesday next, or whether it will not
be better the week after, as perhaps you will not be got there. The latest time will
suit us best, as we shall then have done all y” cloaks. Remember, it shall be as
you like best. Give all our kind love to Anne, Charlotte & Miss Connor, and
kind regards to M* Cadogan, Believe me,’ &c.
788. A. L. S. from Lady Bolton to the same. Dated Brancaster,
October 25th (1804). 3.} pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘We were made very happy to find from your letter to Mrs. Pierson that you
got to town safe and well. We fancied you were ill from not hearing from you at
the time you promised, and left Cranwich in low spirits about you ; but as it was
nothing but a cold, I hope you will soon get the better of it. I was so much
affected at parting with you, that I could not express my thanks for all your
kindness to me during your stay at Cranwich, and indeed at every other time
since I have had the pleasure of knowing you. I hope you will believe that it
was not feeling your great žindness too little, but too much, that made me unable
to express it as I ought and wished, but I felt it the more. My dear little Emma
grows ſat and looks very well ; the air of Brancaster agrees with her. Her
grandmarna and aunts doat on her and were always nursing ; but I do not think
they are any of them, except her grandmama, that nurse so well or so much as
Miss Nelson and Miss Conner. Lady Mary Bradshaw will be very happy to see
Lady Hamilton again ; she sends as may kisses as you can think of. This is
what her Ladyship desires me to say, and desires me to add that Emma sends you
her best love and as many kisses as you like to take. She desires her best love
to all the party by name and plenty of kisses; she would be glad to see you all.
244 7"HAE A/AM//, 7'O/W AAVD [1804.
Lady Mary sends her love to Cecillia—this is in her own words. She means to
write to you all very soon. I find, from your letter to Mrs. Pierson, which she
has shown me, that Miss Conner has informed you of the dispute between her
and Susanna. I should not have mentioned it if she had not, but as she has, I
shall take the liberty of saying a few words on the subject. Susanna once wished
to have mentioned the matter to you herself, but she was too generous to
endeavour to make you displeased with Miss Conner, and therefore for fear of
that continued silent ; but she was very anxious you should not think her to
blame in the affair, for she was too partial to you not to wish to behave well to
any relation or even acquaintance of yours. Miss Conner certainly did offer her
hand once, but she insisted on Susanna acknowledging herself to blame as well
as she was, which, as my sister thought herself right in the whole affair, she could
not expect Susanna (who, tho' a girl, is certainly a warm temper) would do. Miss
Conner knows I afterwards tried all my influence to induce Miss Conner to make
the slightest apology, as I knew it would have been accepted, but she refused me,
tho' I certainly could have no other intention than to make peace between them.
You seem to think Susanna equally wrong with Miss Conner, but I think if you
knew the whole affair you would not think so; perhaps you think me too partial to
be a judge, but at least Susanna said nothing and the other a great deal. I know
Susanna took great pains to behave very politely to Miss Conner, because it was
in her own house. As to her not bidding Miss Conner good-bye, was her own
fault, as the slightest notice would have been followed by Susanna kissing and
making friends with her, and she could not be more hurt at Susanna's behaviour
than I was at hers, as she never bid me good-bye or took the smallest notice of
me ; when I turned to kiss her, she was gone. This, I own, hurt me very much
indeed, as I have a great regard for Miss Conner. I think she is clever and has
a good heart, nor should I have mentioned this or anything else against her but
in defence of my sister, who I must love better, and who I could not bear to find
blamed when I thought she did not deserve it, especially by those who I am fond
of. If I thought her wrong, I certainly should not have joined in blaming, but I
should have been silent. Why Miss Conner should so pointedly neglect me I
cannot guess, as I always endeavoured, while she was with us, to behave to her
with kindness and attention ; as I really am partial to her, it vext me the
more. I hope Miss Conner will not be offended with me for what I have written.
I certainly do think her wrong in this affair, and that I told her, but every body
is wrong sometimes, and I have as good an opinion of her as ever; indeed, I
really love her very much.
“I fear I shall have tired you with this long and, to you, uninteresting letter,
but I am too much attached to you to bear you to be displeased with those I love;
you must therefore excuse me. Give my love to all your party, and write to me
soon as you promised. Your much obliged,’ &c.
‘P.S.—All the party desire their love to your fireside.”
789. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. No date (October 28th,
1804. 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘The Revd Mr. Bolton made a choice collection of shrubs, &c., at Hollesly, wh
we sent to you on Tuesday by the coach ; on Friday we sent from Cranwich a second
parcel and a hare directed to Merton, which we shall be glad to find arrived safe.
I wrote to both you and Eliza on Friday, expecting to have had a letter from her
as this day according to my request, but I shall not send cake or anything more
till she writes from Edmonton. Mr. Bolton desires me to say the man's bill for
horses at Stoke is 9 guineas; he says I must write, as he pledged his word to you
that he would say the amount.
‘Let us know when this Spanish business is settled ; I am fearful lest they should
not be condemned. No prizes, I doubt, in the lottery P Susanna says we have
no right to expect any ; the Spanish dollars to my Lord is sufficient prize for one
time. We have had a letter from Mr. Cumming ; much more comfortable than
they expected at Bridgeton, drier than they thought it was. I suppose they and
the Denhams are better friends.
“Not a soul have I seen or heard of since you left us. What can Mr.
1804.] . NEzsoy PAPERS. 245
Dashwood mean by not permitting his son and daughter to go anywhere. Give
my kind compts to Mrs. Cadogan. I wish I was your near neighbours. Susanna
and [I] amuse ourselves by thinking, if we were within a ride or walk of Merton,
how pleasant it would be to us; next to reality, you know, visions are the
happiest.
‘I am sure it is time for me to conclude this dreaming epistle, but you can
toss it in the fire when tired. Remember me to the dear girls and all your party.
God bless you ; keep up your spirits, what have you to grieve for P Have you not
riches, & the company of the man you think most of Żn view. Yours,’ &c.
790. A. L. from Lord Nelson to the same. Dated Victory, October
31st, 1804. 3 pages 4to, with Superscription. [P]
‘Various circumstances make me rather believe that it will not be possible to
land this letter in Spain, and if it is landed, I hardly think it will ever reach
Lisbon. However, as I never miss an occasion of writing, I take the chance of
saying a few words. I have prepared every thing for my successor, be he who he
will, and a few hours will suffice me to give him up the cudgels. The fleet is per-
fection, not one man ill of any complaint, a great thing to say in these dreadful
times of sickness. I have got Mr. Este's son on board—he wants to get to
England, but through Spain it is impossible, as no one is allowed to travel from
one town to another. I purpose sending him via Gibraltar, if we hear more
favourable accounts of the fever, and from thence he intends to get to Lisbon, and
go home by the packet ; but if my superiors comply with my request, I may
probably be in England sooner than this letter. [The cutter, I hope, my own
Emma, arrived safe, and I have by her endeavoured to make some amends for
the cruelty of Mr. Greville. What can he think of himself? However, I shall
be happy in sharing my fate with yours. Believe, my dearest Emma, all I would
say to you and what I think. But I must keep it to myself. I am expecting every
hour the answer from the Admiralty.] The French fleet all well the 29th. , Sir
William Bolton is at Malta, therefore I have not sent his letter. I have much to
tell you on many subjects, and what I can tell the great people (you understand
me) will, if I return again, be most useful to them, if not too great to hear what
I know. God in heaven bless you, and send us a meeting at dear Merton—a
happy one I have no doubt but it will be. My cough is so-so. Love to Horatila.
&c., &c., &c.’
791. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated ‘Oct. 31st' (1804).
2 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘I did not receive the Box till after I had sent my letter. You say you think
I shall like the tippet. Can I do otherways P But indeed I do not like to receive
so many presents. Nothing can make me love you better, but so many hand-
some things as you do for me and mine make me feel uncomfortable. Be assured
I have now everything I want, and do not send me more. I shall be afraid you
think me a mercenary wretch who has a price, but surely you have a poor
opinion of yourself and me. What a happiness will it be to me to see my dear
Anna next, to see her carriage anything like Charlotte's, but this I am certain
of, that it can not be done without her own determination to persevere in
doing everything that is proper. I see by your letter that you continue your
house in Clarges St. The Camerons alias Benesets are going to Ireland. Mrs.
Dashwood and her daughter called here on their way from Newmarket. Susanna
says she looks dreadfully. I was ill in bed, so did not see them. Excuse the
hastiness and incoherence of this, as I am not well. God bless you. Your,’ &c.
792. A. L. from Lord Nelson to the same. Dated Victory, November,
I804. 4 pages 4to, [P.]
‘I yesterday, my dearest beloved Emma, had the happiness of receiving your
[dear, kind, and affectionate] letters of September 16th, 20th, 27th, and October Ist.
246
THE HAMILTON AND [1804.
I cannot but think that I shall see you before you read this letter; it goes by way
of Lisbon, where I am sending Mr. Este, who is very anxious to get to England.
I have been, you will believe, as attentive to him as I could. I am glad that you
have had so pleasant a trip into Norfolk. That you have made them all happy
I have no doubt, but you have made yourself poor. I do not believe that Pitt
will give you a pension any more than Addington, who I supported to the last
moment of his ministry. There is no gratitude in any of them ; however, if they
do not do it, I will give it you out of Bronté. You will see what effect your
Queen's letter has through Castelcicala—a very pretty channel. She has made
Roger Dumas Commander-in-Chief, and some other Frenchman something else,
against both the King's and Acton's consent, but I fear she is ruling not so well
as we could wish. I did not hear from her by the last vessel from Naples ;
perhaps she is angry at my ill health and going home for a few months to save
my life. The china that we heard so much about never was ordered. [Mr.
Elliot, I believe, would not be satisfied anywhere. He has by this time, he
writes me, I2 children, and is poor. Geo. Elliot is grown so proud that he
scarcely deigns to own them for his cousins, and would scarcely speak to a very
fine lad which Mr. Elliot has sent to sea, and is now on board the Azazagoza.
Capt. Hardy says Geo. Elliot will turn out an ungrateful wretch, although he
may be a good officer.] I have very attentive letters from General Acton,
but he has no more the Power; the Queen has got clear of him, and never,
whilst she rules, will be suffer'd to even enter the kingdom. I send you his
private letter, his public one goes to Lord Camden. Gibbs writes me of the
difficulty of Settling all my affairs at Bronté. He is anxious to remove Mrs.
Graeffer. I shall allow the IOOZ. a-year and have done with her. If she intends
to go to England, I have wrote to Captain Lamb, Agent of Transports, to find
her a passage, which he has promised me to do. I shall get nothing from Bronté
Öut accouzets till next year's Crop, and when I let it the rents will be raised one-
third at least, and I not benefited till eight years are expired.
‘You may tell Davison, and truly, that I have so much fever and head-ache,
that if I had the King's ransom I could not write to him ; but remember me
kindly to him, and compliments to Haslewood. Love to Mrs. Cadogan,
Charlotte, &c.,’ &c.
793. A. L. S. from Mary Gibson” to the same. Dated Tuesday,
November 7th, 1804. A page 4to, with Superscription. [P.]
‘Mrs. Gibson's duty to Lady Hamilton, and am happy to inform her Ladyship
that Miss Thompson is very well, and desires her love & a kiss to her Ladyship
and to her God-papa. I have sent the receipt, and there now remains due up
to Novº 5th 24 pounds two shillings. Your most humble,’ &c.
* RECEIPT.
‘Novº 5th, 1804.
‘RECEIVED of Lady Hamilton the sum of thirty pounds, for lodging and
attendance on Miss Thompson.
“Received the contents,
‘A30 O O ‘(Signed) MARY GIBSON.”
794. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated Cranwich, Novem-
ber 7th (1804). 3 pages 4to, with Superscription. [P.]
“I received your letter this morning with two ten pound notes; I will pay all
your little accounts, & when done tell you the particulars. The girls will scarcely
save their credit ; at any rate, it will not be worth while to engage with any of the
masters, as they can have but four lessons before the holidays, except Eliza may
take a few lessons of drawing, as I wish her to improve herself as much as
possible in that. By my brother's letter you cannot expect him yet for a week or
two, so that if there is anything to be had he will have it before the great St John
* Mrs. Gibson was the nurse in whose care Horatia was placed soon after her birth.
1804.] AVEZSOAV PAPAEA’.S. 247
Orde gets out. What ship did you get your letters by ? Kitty has received
some gold chain by a Capt. Palmer, late Lieutenant of the Childers. Have you
seen Capt. Sutton yet?
‘Susanna was at Swaffham last week; it proving a wet evening she stayed the
night, & took half Miss Langford’s bed, so you see all that matter is settled. The
Gayons are going to Lynn for the winter. Mr. Johnson is in Devonshire, got
leave of absence for two months. Do you ever hear of Mrs. Matcham P I have
not this three months. Have sent you a pair of yellow shoes from the Swaffham
man in the girls' box to Edmonton. We are but a dull fireside, but such as we
are beg you will accept our kindest love and affection to you and your young
party. Tell Anne I hope she will not disappoint me; I please myself in thinking
of the great improvement there will be in her carriage when I see her next.
Believe me to be,’ &c.
795. A. L. S. from Alexander Davison to the same. No date
(November, 1804 P). 23 pages 4to. [P.]
‘Two mails are most certainly arrived, and without our friend. I am, with
you, equally distressed and disappointed. It must be, as I have before often
repeated, owing to Admiral Pole's tedious passage, and as often have I told you,
he our best friend, never would quit his station until Zºrożerly relieved—you must
well recollect my words. We cannot command the winds, and am afraid neither
you nor I have influence sufficient with that All Ruling Power to deviate from
that which is best for us, tho' however much we at the present moment consider
it otherwise. Do not, I entreat you, set me down for a Methodist, for I declare
from my soul I am the farthest from it perhaps of any man in his Majesty's
dominions. I most firmly believe our friend is, and will be, protected, amidst all
dangers and difficulties; reserved for FUTURE comforts, domestic pleasure, and
TRANSPORTING HAPPINESS.
‘Sir William has left you. Left alone to contemplate what? The pleasure of
all pleasing considerations—that of receiving the object of your affections. Is it,
or is it not ?
“Poor me am left alone, and with the exception of a few remaining visitors I
do not see a single person. I have told you I cannot set a foot to the ground,
and that if I was able to walk you should not be many minutes without my
troublesome company. I cannot help it, and unless you will rouse yourself and
come and see me, I fear I must despair of being in your presence for some time.
‘I have this day quitted my bedroom and reached the adjoining room, tho’
carried, for the change of air.
‘Mr. Poet Horne was with me when your note came, which for the moment
prevented me making an immediate reply. To-morrow, I trust, and depend and
pray, will afford us the most joyful tidings. I shall otherwise give up thinking at
all. Yours, yours, yours.”
796. A. L. S. from Lady Bolton to the same. Dated Brancaster,
November 11th (1804). 3.} pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“I fear you will think me negligent in not answering your kind letter before.
I should certainly have done it ; but as Mrs. Peirson had an intention of writing
immediately to you, I waited, as Brancaster would not afford two letters at the
same time. Our rents at this place commenced on Thursday. We went to see
neighbour Arms, and met the Wards; we had two card tables. To-morrow we
are going to Mrs. Ward's. In short, the gaiety of this place would surprize you,
but we often regret we cannot pass over the week again that you spent with us.
I hear from Susanna that the misunderstanding between her and Miss Langford
is quite made up. She denies (and Susanna thinks with truth) having ever found
fault with Susanna. Eliza Young acknowledged having said the words in a
passion, and they all, Mrs. Young among the number, declared Miss Langford
never said anything of the kind. Mrs. Young added that, on the contrary, she
was angry with Miss Langford for finding fault with Charlotte. Of course
Susanna and Miss L. are very good friends—she slept with her. I know you
248 7THE A/AM/Z 7 OAV AAVID [1804.
will be glad to hear the matter is settled, as Susanna was partial to Miss
Langford, and very much hurt at thinking she had said it. She tells me no
Swaffham news. I have not seen Mrs. Girdlestone to deliver your kind message,
but we expect her in a day or two to bring Miss Bolton home, who has been on
visit there for some time.
‘My dear little girl grows and improves daily. She can step very prettily and
stand by a chair as long as we will let her ; she calls papa very nicely. Her aunt
Emily is very fond of her, and always tells her maid she is prettier that day than
ever she was before. Caroline is quite well, and as entertaining as ever. She
wrote you a very long letter yesterday and told you all the news; she is very fond of
you indeed. Mrs. Peirson desires me to say she begins to call names, as she was
in hopes you would have written to her before this time. I have written thus far
without mentioning Lord Nelson, not because I am not anxious to know what you
have heard of him, but because I fear you are at this time rather low about him,
as I begin to think the Spanish war will detain him, and I fear you will be very
much disappointed, as you have made up your mind to expect him, and have
prepared everything for his reception ; but pray write to me all you have heard,
for I feel very anxious indeed on this subject. Give my love to Charlotte and
Miss Conner. How kind you are to Eliza and Anne ; I conclude they have left
you to go to school. I hope to have a letter soon. All here join in affectionate
regards to all your fireside. Your affectionate,’ &c.
797. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. No date (November 16th,
I8O4). 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘Thanks, my dear Lady Hamilton, for your long letter; did you know what
pleasure they give us, I am sure you would often give them us. I wish what Capt.
Sutton says of Sir Wºº Bolton may be true; I mean of his being likely to be made
Post, for I do not wish to see him home if he could get a frigate there. When you
next see Cap" Sutton ask him if he has not got a parcel for Kate; she writes us her
daughter grows prettier every day & says papa very plain, she will soon add God.
‘I think I have lost both my daughters, for I hear nothing from them ; if not
gone to School, they must write to Miss Poupard & have the last box I sent with
birthday things (as they may take hurt and spoil their cloaks sent with them)
unpacked. You, my dear friend, are too good to them ; I hope they are fully
Sensible of your kindness. You will soon now have the Doctor and Mrs. Nelson
with you, perhaps before my Lord comes home ; your house will then be full, but
I shall Come to town to see him and you too, for Mrs. Matcham will certainly be
there, and where they are I can be, so do not take any trouble about me, for be
assured tho' we sleeſ not with you, it will be the only time we shall be asunder.
‘My sister Says all thoughts of going to Husum are over ; she shall be glad to
See the money back again, she is enjoying the thoughts of again meeting all
together; she says her spirits are never so good as when with her near
connexions and friends. She says a certain Lady * is at Bath so condescendingly
Azºre&le to those who formerly she would not notice, all to be thought amiable.
Susanna is not returned from Swaffham, where she went to the ball last night.
Give my kind love to Mrs. Cadogan, thank her for her kindness to my girls; they
must be ungratefull if they did not love her. Love to Charlotte and Miss Conner.
I have sent a brace of hares by this day's coach. God bless you. Ever your,’ &c.
798. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to the same. Dated No. 2 Portland
Place (Bath), Saturday, December 1st (1804). 3 pages 4to., with
Superscription. [P]
‘Many thanks, my dear Lady Hamilton, for your kindness in writing, which
is more than I deserve for my seeming neglect ; but you may suppose I have not
much spare time for writing when I tell you that we are always fifteen in family,
which has been no little business to settle in our new habitation, & to say the
* Lady Nelson.
1804.] AWAE/LSOAV PAA’Aº AºS. 249
truth I am not very stout. God knows what are we to hope for with respect to
our dear friend's return at present or not. I suppose it will be right for him to
remain for a little longer to gain a few dollars, though I cannot help wishing he
was safe at home ; we are, as you may suppose, very anxious about him. The
Lady is, I believe, at Bath, but too great a distance for us ever to see her. We
have been at a ball, a concert, and to a play the week, but she was not at either.
My only desire is that we shall not be in the same room, & circumstances are
now so well understood by our friends, that I don’t think it likely we shall ever
meet her. We called on the Tysons yesterday, she had been in the hot bath &
he has got a severe cold. I believe they now wish to buy a house ready built,
and not s/eculate in building. We shall be truly happy to meet you all at Merton,
& it will be a joyful summons to meet my dear brother in good health. We can-
not help wishing for that happiness once more in spite of the golden shifts, for
they are not to be had without hard blows. Capt. Bowen dined with us last week,
he is as anxious as ever to be with our friend. With our best wishes to all your
party, believe me to be,’ &c.
799. A. L. S. from Captain Staines” to Lord Nelson. Dated Cameleon,
Trieste, December 5th, 1804. 4 pages 4to. [P.]
‘I am extremely sorry to say that my visit to the Adriatic has not been attended
with that success, which I am perfectly persuaded it was your Lordship's good
wishes it should be ; but, notwithstanding my failure of making captives, the
arrival of his Majesty's sloop Cameleon in these seas, in combination with other
circumstances, has certainly tended to rid this coast most completely of the
numerous French privateers which have lately infested it. The Anson and Bittern
having been in the Adriatic just previous to the Cameleon's arrival, and the
liberation of the British ship taken by one of the French privateers, with costs
against the captors, are the circumstances which I allude to, independent of the
fear which they might have entertained of our retaliating by capturing them
under the same circumstances, in defiance of neutral protection. The effect of
that combination is not only proved by my not having seen, or even having
heard of, one of those depredators since my arrival in this port, but also by the
late arrival of the Morgiana, with a convoy for Trieste ; which, although it was
separated for several days among the small islands, and on the coast of Istria
(which was most particularly the scene of their depredations), yet they all arrived
in safety at this port without any annoyance or the least appearance of hostile
intention.
‘My endeavour has been to search into all the small islands, and in every
other part wherein I thought it most probable they might still be lurking, but all
without effect. I am perfectly well convinced, however, that your Lordship's
liberality of sentiment will not for a moment allow my failure in this pursuit to
be attributed to inertness or deficiency of exertion on my part, and I am also
well aware of the good construction which your Lordship has ever been in the
habit of putting on circumstances, although wearing the most unfavourable
appearances : but I am still very anxious to have everything of that nature
perfectly undoubted, and much more so, to retain your Lordship's good opinion,
which constitutes the summit of my ambition, and the most effective spur to my
endeavours.
‘I am waiting here, my Lord, since the 29th of November, from an application
which the Consul has made to me to convoy three English vessels to Venice,
which will be ready in two days, and from thence I proceed immediately to
Malta, with the liberated ship under my convoy, she being ready laden for that
* Captain, afterwards Sir Thomas, Staines, 1774–1830, entered the navy in 1790, served
under Nelson, became a Commander in 1801, received post rank in 1806, was employed in the
Mediterranean and distinguished himself greatly in the action in the Bay of Naples in 1806, after
which he was knighted and received a pension of £300 a year on account of the loss of his arm,
In his will he left £1000 to Sir William Bolton to be paid at his wife's death. That lady married
again in a year Mr. George Gunning, who on her death, six weeks after marriage, refused to
fulfil the conditions of Sir Thomas's will, which gave rise to legal proceedings.
250
THE HAMILTON AND [1804.
destination. I am to continue in quarantine at this place, from having had com-
munication with the island of Lissa, and many other parts which are not at this
moment considered in liberal pratique.
‘The Mareschino which your Lordship expressed a wish for, I have procured
in four cases of two dozen bottles each, the bottle containing about a pint and a
half, which I shall take the earliest opportunity of forwarding to England. May
I request your Lordship will do me the honour of presenting my best respects to
Lady Hamilton, which liberty I am induced to take from her Ladyship having
been a shipmate of mine in the Foudroyant. I have the honour to be,’ &c.
800. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to Lady Hamilton. Dated ‘Cranwich,
December I Ith (1804), Mr. Bolton's birthday, 52.' 2 pages 4to,
with Superscription. [P.]
“I rejoice with you, my dear friend, in the thoughts of so soon seeing my
Lord. I trust his health is not so bad as we at a distance fancy he is. England
& the sight of his dearest friends will, I hope, fully re-establish it. Tom is home,
and desires me to say he wrote to your Ladyship a week back; you will receive
from him, in the course of a day or two, a basket of dryed apples. Kate had a
letter from her husband dated the beginning of October; he says he is to be left
behind, & my Lord says when he comes home he will endeavour to get him the
step. Lady B. is at Wells under Mr. Girdlestone's care, as she by no means get
her health and strength so fast as we could wish. Give my love to the Vice-Dean
& his lady; all here join best wishes to you & your circle. God send us a merry
meeting. Believe me,’ &c.
801. Document from Lambton Este.* Dated “On board the For Cutter
under Quarantine near Liverpool, December 18th, 1804.’ 3 pages
4to, [P.]
“After I had passed some time on board the Victory, Lord Nelson
delivered dispatches to my care, with his certificate ‘that in the whole fleet
under his command not one man was confined by any sickness whatever.’
‘Mov. 6,-Lord Nelson directed the Termagant sloop to proceed with me to
Lisbon. All communication with the land & with every vessel was
invariably avoided.
“Mov. 18. --Off Cape St. Vincent the Termagant fell in with the Swiftsure from
England. Sir John Orde, finding the certificate from Lord Nelson, gave
permission to board, and inform'd us of the For cutter being on her way
from the Straits to England.
‘AVov. 19.—Came up with the Fox, and I took my passage on board. The Fox,
though from the Straits had not any communication with the land. On
Nov. I6 the Fox had anchored, not at Gibralter, but at a distance from
the Rock, in the offing. The dispatches from Sir T. Trigge were sent
alongside. They were fumigated in the boat alongside, and when thrown
on deck of the cutter, they were fumigated again.
‘AVov. 17. –The For had sailed from thence, and without communication with
the land or with any vessel till she met the Termagant as before-mentioned.
* Dec. 4.—The For made land near Holyhead.
* Dec. 8.-Came to anchor near Liverpool. There the Fox is under quarantine,
but in perfect health. Sickness there is none; there has not been any.
‘May I, with all due deference, state these circumstances P And, sollicitous
for the duties with which I am charged, may I venture to ask such consideration
as by better judgments may be thought fit?
‘(Signed) LAMBTON ESTE.
“Private Secretary to the late
‘Consul-General to Egypt.’
* The document is in the handwriting of Dr. Este's father, the Rev. C. Este.
1804–1805.] AVE/SOAV PAPER.S. 251
802. A. L. from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. Dated Victory,
º December 19th, 1804. 3.} pages 4to., with Superscription. [H.]
‘Since I wrote to you by the Amöuscade, when I was every moment expecting
the arrival of the great Sir John Orde, I have received a letter from him, telling
me that he was in the chief command of a squadron outside the Streights, &c. &c.
&c. He has treated my ships a little hardly; but never mind, he will get all the
money and your poor Nelson all the hard blows. Am I to take this act as a
proof of Lord Melville's regard for me? But I submit patiently, but I feel. I have
not had a scrap of pen from England 90 days this day; it is rather long in these
critical times. I send this through Mr. T. at Naples, and as it will be read by
the French and many others, I don’t chuse to say anything more than I care for
all the world knowing, that I love you more than anything in this world, and next
my dº Hº. I keep everything packed up, and two hours would finish every-
thing I can have to do with my successor, who must certainly be near at hand ;
or is Sir John, after he has got riches, to come here and get glory I have
certainly much to arrange when I get home, and the situation of Mrs. B" shall
have serious consideration ; but such a place as Tyson's would very soon involve
Mr. B. in difficulties. However, I will ask, and I fear shall be refused. My
cough is still very, very bad, and I ought at this moment to have been Snug at
Merton ; but I look forward for that day with much pleasure, and please God it
will arrive very soon. You may tell Lord Melville that the French fleet was safe
the 12th December, but my reporter says that they are certainly embarking
troops; but I hope to meet them and to realize the fond wishes of my country.
May God Almighty keep you prays ever yours & only yours,’ &c.
‘P.S.—Remember me kindly to good Mrs. Cadogan, Charlotte, Miss
Conner, and all our friends. I wish I could be with you all this Xmas, which I
fully expected.”
803. A. L. S. from the same to the Hon. C. Boyle. Dated Victory,
December 30th, 1804. I page 4to. [P.]
‘I am most exceeding hurt at your not having joined the fleet, as you must
know my distress for frigates, and I am much displeased with Captain Mowbray *
for interfering with your orders. I sincerely hope this will not find you at
Gibº ; but should it, unfortunately, I desire you will not lose one moment in
joining the fleet.’
804. A. L. S. from Mr. Davison to Lady Hamilton. Dated ‘Sunday
Evening,’ January 6th, 1805. 3 pages 4to, [P.]
“I presume you have received letters from your dear Lord ; but should that
not be case, I cannot delay a moment in acquainting you that he was guite well
on the 4th of December. His private letter to Lord Melville I have heard read,
and which gives as good an account of himself as you could wish. Adm'
Campbell is come home in consequence of bad health, and Sir Rich" Bickerton
is but so-so. Your dear Lord says he cannot afford to be ill. I was rejoiced to
know he was so well, and writes in great spirits. I had a conversation about
yourself, and am sure it will afford you great satisfaction to know how much Lord
Melville interests himself in your favour. He tells Ine he has spoken to Mr. Pitt
of the propriety of your having a pension settled upon you of 500/. per annum,
and that he will speak to him again very shortly about it. I asked Lord Melville
if I might say as much to you. IIe immediately said, “Yes, certainly.” He
spoke very handsomely of you, and of your services in favor of this country
when in Naples. It is needless to repeat the just compliments he paid to our
* Richard Hussey Mowbray, afterwards Sir Richard Hussey Hussey, 1776–1843, entered
the navy in 1789, received post rank in 1797, and was on active service during all the war with
the French. He attained the rank of Rear-Admiral in 1821 and Vice-Admiral in 1837. In
1832 he assumed the surname and arms of Hussey, on succeeding to the estates of his cousin,
Admiral Sir R. Hussey Bickerton.
252 THE HAM// TOW AND [1805.
gallant Nelson, who is reinforced with four ships-of-the-line, and now must make
his fortune. Spain has declared war, and now will here be announced publicly,
I presume, on Tuesday. -
‘Sir John (General) Moore* is returned from Portugal, and looks better than he
did ten years ago. -
‘Lord Melville told me that he would dispatch a cutter or two for the
Mediterranean, so that you must immediately set to work and write your
dispatches. I shall begin mine to-morrow morning. Yours,’ &c.
805. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated ‘Tuesday Noon’
(early in January, 1805). 2% pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘I am glad, my dear Lady Hamilton, you have in some degree reconciled
yourself for my Lord’s absence till the spring ; then how beautifull will Merton
appear. He will come with y' bushell of dollars, & So rich, that I hope and trust,
unless he is particularly called for, he will not go out ag”, and then, with your
good nursing, his health will be quite re-established. I hope this active scene
will make him better, for depend on it, his disorder is on his spirits. Do let me
know as soon as you hear anything. How was the D** In high glee, I should
suppose; as rents were just come in, his purse must be full. We expected him in
Norfolk, as it was reported he was to do duty at Hilborrow on Xmas Day. Mr.
Bolton is at Norwich, which, I suppose, you have heard of by a Turkey. Pray
did you ever receive a basket of dried apples which Tom sent you? he is always
enquiring if Lady Hamilton likes them. Horace Dashwood has not yet broke
loose ; at least, De Grey, as he call his father, would not let him appear at the last
Swaffham ball. Ely is much altered since the death of poor Mrs. Dashwood.
Mrs. Tyson has invited Edward Bolton. I feel myself much obliged by your
recommendation. Mrs. Matcham I never hear from ; do you ? When the year
gets up, I hope to have the pleasure of visiting you. I shall be very happy, but
at the present the weather is too cold for me to move. I am writing to Eliza.'
806. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to the same. Dated Bath, January
2Oth, 1805. 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘I have availed myself of the offer of Mrs. Voller to take a letter for me, to
say that I think it long since we have heard from you. I was in hopes we should
[have] spent this Christmas at dear Merton, but I think now we must look forward
to our meeting in the summer. As you have had no letters from our dear friend,
Inost likely this Spanish war will detain him for some time longer; but if it
pleases God to give him health, he may now have an opportunity of adding
money to glory. We were in the same room with Lady N– a few nights
since, for the first time since she came to Bath. She had then an opportunity of
showing her insolence, as far as looks could express, so I was told by some
friends of mine, who said she look as I passed her in that scornful way which
could not but be noticed by all that saw her. But be assured there is a strong
party against my dear brother, whom we know to be all goodness and liberality.
Different tales are told in different partys, but I think a time must come when
everything will appear in a true light. I had a letter from Mrs. Bolton a few
days since, to say, that change of air, and if Bath waters could be taken, it
was the only thing that was likely to save her daughter, Lady Bolton. I beg'd
her to lose no time in getting her here, therefore I suppose you will see them on
their way through London. As she is young, I should hope good nursing and
change of scene would restore her to health. I can only say that nothing we can
do to make her comfortable shall be omitted. Our youngest little boy is very
indifferent, I believe with his teeth, but as he cannot tell where his disorder is, it
is always distressing to see a little infant in pain ; he is so delicate, we are always
under an alarm for him. With the hope of hearing you are all well, and spending
a merry Christmas,' &c.
* Sir John Moore, 1761–1809, the eminent military commander. In 1808 he was appointed
to the command of an army in Spain, and was killed under the walls of Corunna in 1809.
1805.] AVAEZSOAV PAPERS. 253
807. Copy of Letter from Lord Nelson to Sir John Acton. Dated
‘Victory, standing into the Gulph of Cagliaria, January 26th, 1805.’
2} pages 4to.
‘It has blown a heavy gale of wind from the S.S.W. until this morning, when
I am off the Island of Sarpentari, from the information of the French frigates
standing into the Gulf of Cagliari, I sent my two frigates to watch the enemy's
motions or to get me some information of their movements. One is just returned
with no information ; but as she has not communicated with Cagliari, I am
obliged to send her back. If the Vice Atoy knows nothing of them, I shall push
direct for Palermo in case Sicily should be their object, and I shall, the moment
I can get hold of my other frigate, send her to Naples, with orders for her to join
me off the Faro of Messina. I shall then be at hand to cover Messina in case
they should pass round Cape Passero, or to proceed to Naples in case they are in
that Bay. You will believe my anxiety; I have neither ate, drank, or slept, with
any Comfort, since last Sunday.
‘Zeze o'clock. I have just spoke a vessel which left the Gulf of Palma last
night; the enemy's fleet was not there. I hope to have my answer from Cagliari
by four o'clock, and I hope to be with you to-morrow. Pray, Sir John, tell the
Captain all you know. Captain Baynton is an excellent officer, and can tell you
as much as I can. Excuse my hasty scrawl, but I am,’ &c.
‘I hope the Governor of Augusta will not give up the Port to the French
fleet ; but if he does, I shall go in and attack them, for I consider the destruction
of the enemy's fleet of so much consequence, that I would willingly have half
of mine burnt to effect their destruction. I am in a fever. God send we may
find them.”
808. A. L. S. from J. W. Hillyard to Lady Hamilton. Dated Plymouth,
February 3rd, 1805. 24 pages 4to., with Superscription and
Seal. [P.]
‘I have the honour, my dear Lady Hamilton, to acknowledge the receipt of
your letter relative to Mr. Conner. I have, in consequence of it, given him a
week or ten days’ leave of absence, and I hope your indulgence will have a good
effect. It would give me great pleasure if I could inform you that Mr. Connor is
what I wish him to be, in point of correctness in conduct. He is not so, and I
shall feel particularly obliged if your Ladyship will admonish him to be good,
and to endeavour to prove worthy the patronage of his good friend, Lord Nelson.
I think a little threat on your part to abandon him if he does not behave well
may have a good effect. I lament that you are still anxious relative to his
Lordship's return. Reports here are so various, that I know not what to think.
I am still ignorant of my destination, but hope it will be to follow the fortunes of
my best and most respected friend. Offer my kindest regards to my two young
friends who honoured me with a remembrance, and believe me,’ &c.
809. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Mr. Samuel Briggs. Dated Victory,
February 4th, 1805. 4 pages 4to. [P.]
“If the French are arrived before me, you will of course not receive this letter;
if they are not arrived, it is my opinion, they are dispersed and crippled in the
bad weather they have experienced since their leaving Toulon.
‘I have wrote to the Governor of Alexandria to be upon his guard against a
visit from those gentry, for as a week ago they had not either arrived at Sardinia,
Naples, or Sicily, I still think their destination is either Egypt or the Morea. I
may chance to fall in with them on my return, for I shall pursue the route I think
they will take, but as the Governor is now put upon his guard, I hope he will
take every means in his power for the defence of Alexandria, and in particular to
have vessels ready to sink to prevent the entrance of the French fleet into the old
port until the obstructions were removed, which would give me time to get at them.
‘The French fleet sailed on the 18th Jany, with from 8000 to Io,000 troops
254 7TA/AE A/AM/Z 7 ON A WD [1805.
embarked. On the 19th they had a very heavy gale of wind to the westward of
Corsica and Sardinia. One ship of eighty guns put into Ajaccio crippled—three
others were seen steering for St. Fiorenzo. On the 21st some of them were seen
off the south end of Sardinia, but I know that on the 28th they had neither been
in Sardinia or Naples, and I was at Messina on the 30th, therefore they are either
returned to Toulon, or are, I fear, arrived in Egypt, but even in that case, if
Alexandria is properly defended, it cannot have yet fallen into their hands, or
their fleet got into the port. If the enemy is not here I shall not remain one
moment on the coast, you will therefore by the return of the boat, give me all
the information you have. I shall be much obliged to you to send my letter
when opportunity offers to Major Misset at Cairo. I am,’ &c.
810. A. Doc. S. from the same to Captain Cracraft,” H.M.S. Anson.
Dated ‘Victory at sea, February 18th, 1805.’ 3 pages 4to. [P.]
* ORDERS.
‘The victuallers and store-ship are to proceed without one moment's loss
of time to the Gulf of Palma, and there wait my arrival or they receive my
farther orders.
“If the Came/ is outside the harbour and ready to proceed, she must, with the
A ſma or some other small ship belonging to the Malta station, take charge of
the convoy to Palma.
‘The cutter from England must join me without loss of time, as I pass the
island, -
‘The Renown and frigates must do the same, standing off in the direction
you think the fleet will pass, which, with the present northerly wind, will not
probably be within 7 or Io leagues to the northward of the island. Should the
wind come southerly, so that I should not be able to get with the fleet off Malta,
I shall probably pass the Faro of Messina, but Palma must be considered as the
general rendezvous, although the fleet will probably, if the winds permit, go off
Toulon before I proceed to Palma.
‘Captain Cracraft is directed to give the necessary orders for the direction of
such ships as may be at Malta and off that port, as mentioned in this order, and
should any staff-officer or senior captain to Captain Cracraft be at Malta, he is
hereby directed to put these orders into execution.’
811. A. L. S. from J. W. Hillyard to Lady Hamilton. Dated Plymouth,
! March 2nd, 1805. 34 pages 4to, with Superscription and Seal.
[P.]
“With extreme sorrow, my dear Lady Hamilton, I sit down to address you on
a subject that I am sure will call forth your sympathy and seriously wound your
feelings. Poor Charles, within the last two days, has appeared to have evident
symptoms of derangement, which last night increased to so alarming a height
that the Commanding officer on board, with the advice of the surgeon, was
obliged to confine him and bind his hands.
‘I am just returned from the hospital, where I have taken him. I shall receive
the physician's and surgeon’s report and opinions to-morrow, which I shall iliulie-
diately transmit to your Ladyship. From what I have seen, and the hasty opinion
the surgeon formed from a short interview, I am apprehensive that he will not be
able to proceed with us, as I am in momentary expectation of my orders.
‘On the subject of care and attention to the unfortunate youth, your Ladyship
may be perfectly at ease. The gentlemen at the hospital are eminent in their
profession, and my friends will take care that he wants nothing. It behoves us
all, my dearest madam, to bear our share of afflictions in this life with fortitude.
Few are exempt from them, and I can judge of the feelings this letter will excite
when its contents are communicated to Mr. Conner's relatives. Assure them
that nothing on my part shall be omitted which can possibly tend to the restora-
* Captain William Edward Cracraft, 1767–1810, afterwards Commander of the Sea Fencibles
on the coast of Sussex. • * * - -
1805.] AVAE ZSOAV PAPERS. 255
tion of his reason, and that I can vouch for the attention of my friends should I
sail before his recovery. -
‘On the subject of his debts, the best possible arrangement shall be made, and
as they are all transferred to Mr. Dawe, a respectable mercer of Plymouth Dock,
he will receive the same by instalments as most convenient to his friends. Should
I sail at a short notice, Mr Dawe will be happy to communicate every particular
to your Ladyship, and to receive your directions as to his future conduct towards
Mr C I hope you do not allow every idle rumour to wound your feelings
respecting his Lordship. He is good, and Providence will, I trust, continue to
protect him.’
812. A. L. S. from Lady Bolton to the same. Dated Bath, March Ioth
(1805). 3% pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘How much obliged to you we are, dear Lady Hamilton, for thinking of us,
and writing to us so often. Mºs Nelson's letter I have enclosed ; we could not
send it back by return of post, as it was Saturday. The letter amused us very
much. Mrs Matcham says she should have been quite delighted to have seen the
Dr, he looked, no doubt, very great ; no person could have enjoyed the great
pomp more than he did. I had a letter from Charles Connor to acknowledge
the receipt of the letter I sent him to carry to Sir William. A few days back he
wrote me he had been very ill, but was then getting better. He was at the Naval
Hospital. He desires duty, &c., to you, and love to his sisters. I am much better
than when my sister wrote you last. My appetite is better—that is to say, I do
not eat more, but it is not so much forced upon my stomach as it was when I was
with you. I hope, when I return to town, I shall be able to enjoy the society of
my friends, which I really could not when I was there last. When you go down
to Merton, I hope you will not forget to remember all our party particularly to
Mrs Cadogan. I hope this fine weather will quite recover her, and make her very
strong. Tell my mother we had a letter from Rebecca last week, she is much
better from taking a milk diet. She had not tried it but one week and was nearly
well. They had heard from Mr Tom Bolton. My uncle much the same. Mºs
Fitch has got another little girl. Edward was still at home. Mrs Peirson and
her little girl were still at Wells, the family there much the same. My sister
would have written to thank you for your letters, but, as I found myself tolerable
this morning and had a great wish to write to you, I prevailed on her to resign
the pen to me. I am at home, quite alone, all the party are gone to church. I
am the only heathen among them, but it is so far off I cannot walk, and I dislike
a chair, it is, I think, a very fatigueing motion. I have seen Tom Tit once, she
called in her carriage at Lady Charlotte Drummond's, who lives next door. The
lady was not at home, but she got out of her carriage, walked as stiff as a poker
about half-a-dozen steps, turned round, got in again. What this manoeuvre was
for I cannot tell, unless to show herself. She need not have taken so much pains,
if nobody wanted to see her more than I do. She is stiffer than ever.
“All the party desire I will give their love to you and all their friends in
Clarges Street. God bless you, prays your,’ &c.
813. A. L. (incomplete) from Lord Nelson to the same. Dated Victory,
March 30th, 1805. 4 pages 4to. [P.]
‘Your letters, my [own dear beloved] dear Emma, by the Ambuscade, to
February 15th, came to me on the 26th ; and now Louis is arrived, I shall, the
moment I think that the French fleet will not come to sea for the summer,
put myself into the Sufferó, from which my things never have been taken from
the time I expected the great and rich Sir John Orde. I fix in my own mind to
start May 1st, for if they are not at sea in April, I think they will lay fast, unless
a very superior fleet should come into the Mediterranean, when I am readier to
start from England than being here, at least for actual service, but keep my
intended movements to yourself, for folks like to chatter. You are sure, my
Emma, that I am as anxious to see you as you can be to see me [for I love and
revere you beyond all this world, because I feel you deserve it of me]; therefore
I shall say no more upon that subject [but shall wait to give you much more
256
THE HAMILTON AND [1805.
efficacious proofs of my love than can be convey’d in a letter]. I admire dear
Horatia's writing. I think her hand will soon be like her dear mother's, and if
She is but as clever, I shall be content. You may rely that when I come home, I
shall do what I can for Mrs. Bolton, but before I can fix a sum I must see what I
have. At all events I shall be able to keep Tom at College without any expense
to his father ; that I will certainly do, and I must economise in something at
home. My letter to Lord Melville was strong about Mr. Bolton, but I have had
no answer; in short, I never had any interest.
[“I am at this moment not a little vext with Sir Wim Bolton ; he is lazy, or he
might have been worth A30,000, but he would not look after it. I never had
such a chance, or I should have been a very rich man. I am more sorry for his
family than himself. I have appointed him Post into the Amphitrife, and her and
the Renown are prevented sailing for England from Gibraltar by waiting for him,
and when I am likely to see him I can’t tell. I am sorely vext; he is a very good
young man, but he never will do any good for himself, he has no activity. I
move the whole fleet with ten times the rapidity than he does his brig. He
might have been very rich and independent ; this has vext me and all his friends
here, for every one likes him as a good man. You will agree with me this is but
a negative character.’] -
814. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Victory, April 4th,
1805. 3 pages 4to, [P.]
‘My Emma, [and God forbid you should belong to any one else, that goose,]
Sir W. Bolton, has lost his frigate, Amphitrife, and perhaps a month or two's
rank as Post, but I have waited three weeks for his joining me and the service
will not admit of my waiting any longer. Luckily for him, Lord Melville has
wrote me that he will send out a post-ship for him, and therefore I hope he will
suffer no harm, but it vexes me. [The time draws near, my Emma, my love, my
everything that’s dear . . . . and that we shall be happier, perhaps, if that is
possible, than ever, and unless the French fleet should be at sea, or a certainty
of its putting to sea, I shall move to the Superó on the day I have before told you.
[I need not say more except that I shall fly to Merton, dear, dear, Merton.] I
shall take care not to speak any thing which may subject me to quarantine,
therefore I hope a return of post, or at least two, will liberate me, [(I must not
say that)] for my liberation makes me all, all yours. I dare not send a little
letter, for what with sneaking and cutting all would be read. But let them read
this, that I love you beyond any woman in this world, and next our dear Horatia.
How I long to settle what I intend upon her, and not leave her to the mercy of
any one, or even to any foolish thing I may do in my old age. Adieu for a very
short time, and may the Heavens bless you, and give us a happy meeting & very,
very soon, prays your faithful,’ &c.
815. A. L. S. from Mr. Thomas Bolton to the same. Dated Cranwich, -
April 16th, 1805. I page 4to, [P.]
‘I am infinitely obliged for your kind letter as a proof of your willingness to
assist me upon all occasions, but at the same time it would be wrong in me not
to consider the many demands you have. It has long been an uneasiness to me,
that I have not been able to pay the A Ioo I borrowed of you before ; but I hope
for better times, when I will repay with thanks.
“I was obliged to borrow £100, and am in hopes to be able to get another
A, IOO, wº I am in hopes will carry me on till Michº, but if contrary to my
expectation, I should not be able to do this, I may then take the libertye to apply
to you,' &c.
“Emma is well.’
816. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Mr. McGrath. Dated Victory, May
6th, 1805. 2 pages 4to. [P.]
“I send you Dr. Harness's letter relative to Mr. Gardner's appointment to
1805.] AVE/CSOAV PAPERS. 257
Gibraltar Hospital. I am not only sorry for your disappointment, but also, that
however able Mr. Gardner may be, I well know you would have been an invalu-
able acquisition to the Rock. However, I hope you will soon get some other
appointment equally pleasant, and tell me if one of those hospital (posts 2)
in England would be acceptable, or what you would like, and I will try what I
can do, being, dear sir, with the greatest esteem, your,’ &c.
‘I have been, and am still very, very unwell, with my Sciatic complaint—
return Dr. Harness's letter.”
817. A. L. S. from Lady Bolton to Lady Hamilton. Dated Bath, May
I2th, 1805. 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P]
‘We all congratulate you most sincerely on having received accounts of Lord
Nelson, as we well know how great your anxiety has been on this occasion.
Indeed, it has been an anxious time for all his friends. I should certainly have
written to you before, but I had nothing pleasant to say, and was willing to stay
till I heard some good news. I hope I shall hear from you soon to tell us if you
have letters, and what date. I know not when I shall hear, I begin now to
expect letters from Sir William, and to be rather impatient for them, but the
accounts my mother has written to me have made me very happy. I have been
ill all this week, and am not yet well, with a very bad cold, nothing can be more
general than they are here, everybody has one ; the weather is so unsettled, I
fear you have all felt the effects of it. I was very happy to hear from M* Matcham
M* Cadogan was quite well. I hope she will not feel any inconvenience from
its being such changeable weather. Mr Matcham tells us Merton looked very
beautiful, he thought you had made wonderful improvements. I cannot help
thinking how delighted Lord Nelson will be with it. Do you think you have any
likelihood of seeing him at present. I was very much vexed to hear from my
mother such bad accounts of Mr Tom Bolton, but it is what we have long
expected. I hope, after the first shock is over, Mrs Bolton will consider it a happy
release. We are, however, very anxious to hear how he is, and whether they
consider him in immediate danger, and whether my father still remains at
Akenham. I find you have again visited Woolwich. I hope you liked your visit
better this time than you did before, and that you had more to eat, &c.
‘Mrs Matcham and Susanna unite in love to all your party with yours, &c
‘I have taken the liberty of enclosing a letter for Sir William, which I should
be very much obliged to you to send for me. We are much obliged to my mother
for her two letters. Let us hear from you soon, if you are engaged make Eliza
write,’ &c.
818. A. L. S. from Sir William Bolton to the same. Dated H. M. S.
Guerrier, Gibraltar Mole, June 27th (1805). 2 pages 4to., with
Superscription. [P.]
‘May I entreat your Ladyship's assistance and advice, how to act in order to
get clear of the Guerrier, my situation in her is exceedingly disagreeable, and as
Sir Richard Bickerton has nothing to do with her (the Guerrier being under
Adm' Knight's* orders) the hopes I had of Sir Richard’s assistance are vanished,
“If I knew it would not be against Lord Nelson's wishes, I would ere this
have written home to be superceded, but I think right to wait till I hear from his
Lordship how I ought to act.
‘It is some time since I have received any letters from Fngland, but from
Capt. Mackenzie, just appointed to the Childers by Sir Rich" B., I am happy to
hear your Ladyship & all my friends are well. I have written to my dear Kate
by the Amphitrife, which ship carries this mail.
‘Sir Richard Bickerton is gone up the Mediterranean with four ships of the
* Admiral Sir John Knight, 1748–1831, entered the navy in 1758, was in the action off
Martinique, and received post rank in 1781 ; was promoted to be Rear-Admiral in 1801, Vice-
Admiral in 1805, and Admiral in 1813. He was made a K.C.B. in 1815. -
VOL. II. S
258
7A/A2 AIA////, 7'O/V AAV/D [1805.
line. All the sloops & frigates that were under Adm' Knight's command, are
distributed between the squadrons of Sir Richard & Adm' Collingwood. The
former & Adm! Knight are at variance ; my Admiral imagining Sir Richard
carries a high hand. He has, by an order of the Admiralty’s, appointed Capt.
Mackenzie to the Chālders in the room of his son ; this makes Adm" Knight
rather sore. Having recommended myself & my affairs to your Ladyship's
protection, I feel perfectly satisfied. Your friendship for Lord Nelson reaches to
his friends. I hope soon to hear of Lord Nelson, and of his success.’
819. A. L. S. from Miss Bolton to the same. Dated Bath, July 7th, 1805.
3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“We are all anxiety, as you may readily conceive, for news. You are, we
know, even more anxious than we are. We often talk of you, and wish ourselves
with you, that we might talk it over. I know you are by far too anxious to write
to any of us, but we beg that if you hear any report that is likely to be authentic
you will let Eliza write it to us. I do not ask for you to write if you have letter
from my Lord, that I am sure we may depend upon your doing without being
asked, for you will be anxious to communicate good news, which it will be to us
to hear he is in good health, in good spirits I am sure he is, if he has any chance
of coming up with the French fleet. We hear hundreds of reports, but, I think,
without any foundation. We see no papers, therefore we hear only vague
rumours, that are even worse than hearing them from the papers. I am happy
to find he is in the right track, for I am certain to have been otherwise would
have made him very uneasy. My mother wrote us you talked of going to Southend
by the Ioth of this month, but this news will, I am sure, keep you in town, that
you may be as near as possible to the place where you are likely to hear anything.
I am glad anything detains you, as we now hope to have the pleasure of Seeing
you in our way through town, which we had almost despaired of. My aunt has
had no letter from Mr. Matcham since the 16th of June, he was then well, but
did not appear to have got at all forward in the settlement of his business. My
aunt is anxious to hear, for his abscence is so much longer than she expected that
she feels it very much. However, on the whole he is very well and is grown fat.
The poor little sick boy is just the same as ever; he is like a skeleton, but since
he has held out so long, I hope he will recover. The young one, William
Alexander, is a fine baby and goes on well. We hear that Tom Tit has been
very ill, and been attended by two physicians. She is now, however, got quite
well ; she looks shockingly, really, and very old. M* Matcham often wishes she
was in Heaven ; we join and make no doubt we have your good wishes on the
occasion. She is still in Bath. Kate goes on very well except in walking, of
which she still makes a miserable hand.
“Remember us to Mrs Cadogan. Merton must be charming now. All join in
love to Charlotte, Miss Connor, and Eliza,’ &c.
‘P.S.—Beg Eliza to write very soon ; I will write to her the middle of this week.’
820. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated Cranwich, July 16th,
I805. 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘On my arrival at home last night, I received two letters from you. How
good you were in writing to me. Believe me, myself and the whole party at
Brancaster participated in your joy at my dear brother's victory, I must call it,
Since he has done so much, or more than any action could have done. Has he
not saved the West Indies P. His name is so terrible to the French navy, that
they dare not face him. That I have the happiness of calling such a man my
brother | Where is the man who would have becn so active or done so much P
I hope now we shall soon see him at home. God grant it ! I saw the D* and
Mrs. Nelson last night in my way through Hilborow. Madame was nursing her
foot, which was rather better.
“A letter from Lady Bolton to-day says she shall leave Bath in a few days ;
but I doubt, according to Mrs. Nelson's account, not time enough to find you in
town, though they think much of it. If you are not, will you permit them to have
1805.] AVE/CSOAV PAPAEA’.S. 259
a bed in Clarges Street? Will you be kind enough to give them a line, or make
Eliza do it, to tell your plans a little. Tom returned with us from Brancaster. If
you do not leave town so soon, we shall be in town on Saturday morning ; but if
you do go, he may as well stay here till Mr. Lancaster's vacation is finished, as
his own holidays are not over, and he has got his cousin with him. I hope you
will write to me frequently when you get to South End. May you have a pleasant
excursion, and soon be called back by the arrival of my Lord. God bless you,
and give us all a happy meeting once more. Yours,’ &c.
“Tell Eliza to order Mr. Rowland to make a wig like mine, with her hair; it
is for Mrs. Pierson. It will be 5s. 6d.’
821. A. L. S. from Mrs. Cadogan to the same. Dated Merton, July 18th
(1805). I page 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“I shall be very glad to see you to-morrow, and I think you quite right for
going into the country to keep yourself quiet for a while. My dear Emma, Cribb
is quite distrest for money, would be glad if you could bring him the 13/. he
paid, that he paid for the taxes, to pay the mowers. My dear Emma, I have
got the baker's and butcher's bills cast up ; they come to I hundred pounds,
Seventeen shillings. God Almighty bless you, my dear Emma, and grant us good
news from our dear Lord.”
‘My dear Emma, bring me a bottle of ink and a box of wafers.
“Sarah Reynolds thanks you for your goodness to invite her to Sadler's Wells.’
822. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated Cranwich, August 1st,
I805. 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.] -
‘This is the victorious first of August. I hope you are enjoying it with your
friends at Southend ; nothing to be done in Norfolk as usual. The ladies in
Swaffham did vote for a ball, and was in hopes, as the D* and Mrs. Nelson were
in the country, they should have succeeded ; but no such thing. We have this
instant heard the news of Sir Robert Calder's action with the combined fleet.
How vexed I am my Lord was not in at the death. I am sure he has had a long
chase after them. I hope he will not make himself unhappy that he was not
there, though I acknowledge I think the man who has watched them for two
years ought to have gained the laurels and riches. How do you find yourself?
I still hope he may pick up some of the stragglers. I find you have had letters
from my Lord. Where was he I was in hopes you would have favoured me
with a line at that time. My daughters beg I will thank you in their name for
the boon of your house in Clarges Street. Kate is certainly better, though not
very strong, but they came to Cranwich in one day from town. She did not find
her little girl so well as I wished, she had a bad fever and sore throat; but Mr.
Helsham has taken his leave to-day. I see Mr. Comyns now at the gate, but I
shall finish my confab with you first. Mr. and Mrs. Bolton passed through here
in their way to Cranwich, and begged, when I wrote, to assure you were, and
ever would be, remembered by them with the greatest regard and esteem, and, I
should hope it is needless to say, equally so by me and mine.
‘How do the girls go on ? I hope Anne is better and more attentive, and
that they both improve, and are sensible of your kindness and attention to them.
Will you permit Eliza to take another plan of Merton to show Mr. Bolton P
Believe me,’ &c.
823. A. L. S. from Mr. William Pearce to the same. Dated Admiralty
Office, August 5th, 1805. 2 pages 4to., with SuperScription and
Seal. [P.]
‘The combined fleet has certainly steered to the southward. Sir Robert
Calder's letters of the 31st of July report that he has lost sight of them : they are
not in Ferrol nor Rochfort ; the opinion is, therefore, that they have pushed for
Cadiz. With a heart anxious for the glory of England, and sincerely attached to
Lord Nelson, I entertain a strong hope that he may fall in with them. May
26o 7"HE HAM/Z TOW AAVD [1805.
every success that your ardent and anxious mind may predict attend our champion
on the ocean. I remain,’ &c.
‘You will hear this information from other sources ; but I write that you
may have some confidence in it, and I will not omit further communication if
necessary.’
824. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. No date (August 8th, 2
1805). 2% pages 8vo, [P.]
“I was happy to find, by your note this morning, you arrived safe thro'
Newmarket. You cannot think how dull you left us, tho’ Miss Langford was so
good as not to leave us till this day. She is in great spirits, as we see by the
papers her brother is arrived in England. Poor W* Girdlestone is very ill with
an abscess formed in his ear; the pain is dreadful. Have you received a paguet
of letters we sent by the coach to Merton on Wednesday. I hope you will see
Mr. Bolton in town. Pray tell Tom to make a point of Seeing him if he is in
town. Give all our kindest loves to all y” party. Accept the same.’
825. A. L. S. from the same to the same. No date (August IOth, 1805).
I page 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“Thanks, my dear Lady, for your scrap. It was, indeed, short and Szweet, for
sweet was the intelligence that my dearest brother was arrived in England.
What a Paradise he must think Merton, to say nothing of the Eve it contains. I
need not give you joy, for I am sure you have it. The D* is at Mrs. Burney’s ;
but depend upon it, they will soon be with you and fill your house. When you
give a hint I will come.
“No time, I know, to read my thrash.’
826. A. L. S. from Mrs. Tyson to the same. No date (August 12th,
1805). 3 pages 4to, with Superscription. [P.]
‘I cannot resist taking up my pen to tell your Ladyship we spent a very
pleasant day with dº Mrs. Cadogan at charming Merton. She, with Miss Lewold,
are quite well, and we did not forget to drink my Lord’s and your health. Tom
Bolton was of the party. We left them at 6 o'clock, horse-back; but, alas, I am
got so weak, that the ride is too much for me, and I am very unwell. This
morning, had I been well, I should have been happy to have paid you a visit.
Mr. Netley is ordered this day to Gravesend in the same nice boat, and we should
have had so fine a day. I know not what is the matter with me, but I am so
weak, and my lungs so bad at night, that I fear I shall never be well in this
place. Had my brother been fortunate enough to have got the cottage, I should
have spent much of my time at it; but the gentleman has altered his mind, to our
great disappoin/ment, in all ſhings. Now I have no plans, but do not like his
retiring to Jamaica. Something may yet be met with, then I hope to God my
wishes—you know what I mean—may be realised. God send.
‘I am, my dear Lady Hamilton, wishing all the blessings your good and
charming disposition should have in this life.
‘Your Ladyship, I beg, will pardon this, and please give it to Nancy.’
“Nancy, I will be much obliged to you look for a pair of silk stockings
marked H. S., or only H., as they were given me at Bath, changed in the wash.
I brought them to Southend, and when going to wear them they had a hole.
I then gave them to my servant to mend ; she really does not know what
place she had laid them in. I will thank you to look for them, and let me hear
if you found them. She has been very pert about them, and I will not pay
her till I hear from you.-E. TYSON.”
827. A. L. S. from Frederick Langford to the same. Dated H.M.S.
Zarę, Portsmouth, August I4th, 1805. 2 pages 4to, with Super-
Scription. [P.] -
“The kind interest you have always so handsomely expressed for me, induces
1805.] AVELSOAV PAPERS. 26ſ
me to intrude on your patience with a few lines, to say, I am returned from the
Coast of Africa, which abounding in curiosities gave me an opportunity of providing
myself with a few ; and as I have been lucky enough to preserve a crown bird
and a civet-cat, which, if your Ladyship considers worth your acceptance, I shall
feel much pleasure in forwarding to you. They are animals that will not require
much care, and, I hope, will be found worthy of stocking your list of curiosities.
I have long lamented the cruelty of fate in separating me from the fortunes of
Lord Nelson, and can only derive consolation in anticipating the happiness of
again serving with him. I should have been truly proud and happy to have
made this the channel of Congratulating you on any new accession of honour to
so great a man. But the occasion of increasing his hitherto innumerable honours
will, I have no doubt, soon happen to him : such appears the disposition of our
enemies in risking out their fleets. With every respect and remembrance to
your party,’ &c.
828. A. L. S. from Sarah Connor” to the same. Dated ‘Tuesday’
(August 20th, I805). 4 pages 4to. [P.]
‘Thank God, he is safe and well. Cold water has been trickling down my
back ever since I heard he was arrived. Oh I say, how he looks, and talks, and
eats, and sleeps. Never was there a man come back so enthusiastically revered.
Look at the ideas that pervade the minds of his fellow citizens in this morning's
post. Timid spinsters and widows are terrified at his foot being on shore ; yet
this is the man that is to have a Sir R. Calder and a Sir J. Orde sent to intercept
his well-earned advantages. I hope he may never quit his own house again.
This was my thundering reply last night to a set of cowardly women. I have
lashed Pitt on this score to his idolatrice brawler. I send you her letter. The
public are indignant at the manner Lº N. has been treated.
“Old Edmonds died last Sunday, and there was a caveat entered at the
Commons early on Monday morning. Blessed disgrace, all Sophy and M* Elliot’s
coadjutors will meet if it comes to trial. The Prince at the head, to dazzle an old
crazy fool, comes to use undue influence, for it is on that ground they are to be
attack'd. B. Smith has just left me—she died early on yesterday, and M*S. had
entered her caveat at the same moment Lº P. had entered his. He has had the
start of all the great lawyers on his side, and he will out of spite, keep them at bay
these ten years. M** Boscawen the maid-of-honour cuts a sad figure for a
paltry 4OOZ. My Gad In short not one of the old woman’s acquaintances, Save
and except myself, that will not be made to blush. Only think of Townsend the
thief-catcher dining with the Prince at Brighton, and getting so beastly drunk
that he could not tell where he lodged. I can hardly believe it—but Hookham
assured me it was a fact. -
‘Lord Barrymore f has been handsomely taken down by Martin, the Member
for Galway. L. B. affects to be a jester, and, to make the Prince laugh, he
attacked this Irishman’s groom in ridicule. It is too tedious to tell you all, but
this was the finale:–“My lord,” said Martin, “before we part, I will tell you a
jester requires talents to tell a story well, good humour to bear raillery, and
courage to stand the consequences. Neither of these three requisites does your
lordship possess.”
“Miss Thompson, of G– Square, that was to be married to Mr. Grant, the
match is off. The clothes bought, the day fixed, but the gentleman took a freak
in his head to quarrel, and shook her violently. She screamed and fainted, and
on her aunt coming in to her aid, she expostulated, and his reply was, “That was
a trifle to what she might as his wife expect.” She declared against putting it in
his power, and off he walked. Now, there can be but two modes of reasoning:
he is either mad, or did not know how to act like a gentleman. Her friends fear
she is attached, and too much of the spaniel to snap her fingers at him. The
Duchess of Castor's ſatller comes from Youghal, in Ireland ; she has given more
than one proof that she is very prolific, and the great name will not be extinct.
* Lady Hamilton's cousin.
t Henry Barry, 8th Earl of Barrymore, 1770–1824. He was the last Earl of the name, and
succeeded his brother in the title in 1793. .
262
THE AIAMILTON AAWD - [1805.
I am writing with a compress of goulard on my left eye—it is dreadfully inflamed
—and dread my letter is not legible. I am made very unhappy. I hear dear,
invaluable Lord Nelson is not well—no wonder —but quiet and peace and
Merton air, I trust in God, will establish his health. Tell every one in the
country he is in town, and every one in town he is in the country—in short, to
use Hamlet’s words, don’t let the winds of heaven visit his face too roughly—
except on the quarter-deck at Merton.
‘Adieu ! Say everything in the tenderest style of friendship to that good,
great man for Chaº & me. Heaven bless him and you.’
829. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to the same. Dated ‘Friday
Morning’ (August 24th, 1805). I page 4to, [P.]
“Some day next week we hope to meet you all at Merton. We should have
set out immediately, but your little god-son has been unwell, cutting teeth, and
we hope in a day or two to leave him quite well again. I must say with what
happiness I look forward to the day of seeing our dear friends. I shall write
when we leave home. Mr. M intends writing a few lines to my dear brother.
With my most affectionate love to him and kind regards to all, I remain,’ &c.
830. A. L. S. from Mr. Matcham to Lord Nelson. No date (August
24th, I805). Ił pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
“Most sincerely do I join in the congratulations of your friends on your Safe
arrival. God grant you may remain in England to enjoy the remainder of a life
devoted to the service and honour of your country.
“It was my intention, my dear Lord, to have troubled you once Inore for a re-
commendatory letter on behalf of my poor relatives. The anticipation on your part
makes me doubly grateful. The names of the parties are: Mrs. Pitt and her
family, including a son, grown up, and a married daughter; Short and his family;
Rose and his family; Powel and his family, if deserving, of which heretofore I
have had some doubt. Of the Pitt, Short, and Rose families I have had very
favourable accounts. We expect in a very few days to have the heartfelt satis-
faction of welcoming you, in person, once more to old England.’
831. A. L. S. from Mr. Bulkeley to the same. Dated Pencombe,
Bromyard, August 26th, 1805. 2% pages 4to. [Pl.]
‘Many thanks to you, my dear friend, for your short but most comprehensive
letter, mine to Captain Hardy was conditional as to Richard’s leave of absence,
and the conditions, such as I suppose, from the present posture of affairs, will
prevent his allowing him to visit me; but should he have complied, you may
depend on my not detaining him from his duty, or exposing him to any risks
from love. I must not omit, in this place, giving you Richard’s own words, in
his letter to me, on his arriving at Spithead. “I solicit you to write directly to
Lord Nelson, and return him your grateful thanks for the unexampled attention,
conduct, and fatherly affection, which he has marked towards me ever since I
have had the honour of sailing with him; expressly mention how warmly I feel
it.” Need I, my dear Lord, say more ? the boy's sentiments corrcSpond most
perfectly with those that I feel.
‘The last sentence in your letter grieves and vexes me; surely the crisis is
sufficiently alarming for Ministers, in defiance of personal partiality or private
interest, to prefer the country's good, and to give its best hope a carte blanche.
You have put us out of conceit with all other Admirals. Look into your own
acts and read the public papers for the last four months, then judge if John Bull
will Consent to give up his sheet anchor. We must not be imbecille at Sea, as we
are in the Cabinet.
‘Pray tell me, if you received a book upon the subject of increasing Sea-
men for the navy. I think I sent it by Captain Layman. Have you got any
letter since your arrival at the Admiralty from me? - - - -
“All here join in best wishes and compliments to you. God bless you—may
we Soon hear of your thunders. Your,’ &c. ---
1805.] AVEZSOAV PAPAERS. 263
832. A. L. S. from Mr. Naylor to Lady Hamilton. Dated Herald's
College, London, August 31st, 1805. Ił pages 4to. [P.]
‘Enclosed are two paintings of Arms for your Ladyship's choice, subject to
the approbation of the Kings-of-Arms, previous to being confirmed by patent,
and registered in the College. The one marked A represents part of the Arms
to the name of Lyons, with the Cross of Malta in chief; the other, marked B,
is also part of the Arms borne by the name of Lyons, with a Fess charged with
cinque foils and the Cross of Malta, in allusion to the Coat of Hamilton, and the
aforesaid Order. I have also herewith enclosed a copy of the King's warrant to
record the documents relating to the Order of Malta, given by the Emperor to
Sir H. R. Popham, and a copy of his Grace the Earl Marshal’s warrant for
recording your Ladyship's Arms, and like honours in the said College, previous
to which it will be necessary for your Ladyship to collect all the documents
relating thereto for registration; and should it be the wish of your Ladyship to
have the Order of Malta recognised by Royal Warrant similar to Sir H. Popham,
I conceive it may easily be done. Your Ladyship, in transmitting me the
necessary documents aforesaid, will be pleased to signify which of the two
drawings, A or B, you should prefer having granted, in order that I may be
enabled to proceed with the patent, and when completed will be borne on an
Escutcheon of Pretence, the arms of the late Sir William Hamilton, K.B. I
have the honour to be,’ &c. .
833. A. L. S. from Captain Malcolm * to Lord Nelson. Dated Donegal,
off Cadiz, September 5th (1805). 3% pages 4to. [P.]
‘Admiral Louis conveyed to me your very handsome letter of thanks to the
Officers and crews of the ship that had the honour to serve under your flag. I
can assure your Lordship that the Donegals feel most particularly flattered by
your good opinion, and it is their most anxious wish that they may again serve
with you, and our hopes are very sanguine, for in such eventful times your Lord-
ship will not be permitted to remain on shore, and we believe that if in your
power, you will have your own old friends again with you. I fear there is little
prospect that the Donegal will be dock'd ; was her copper clean there would not
be her superior in the service. Sir Richard sailed round us, and wrote me a
complimentary note on her appearance. We are in wonderful health Considering
we have had no refreshments since we sailed from Tetuan. I suppose our chiefs
have taken measures to procure supplies, but we are in the dark, for as they have
done me the honour to place me near to the rear of the lee division, and as we
keep open order, we know not what is done in the van. Since we joined Admiral
Collingwood we have been detached with Admiral Louis inshore. The enemy
appear ready for sea, that is, thirty-six sail of the line, and reports say they have
embarked troops. If we are to blockade them, I fancy we must be very much on
the alert, for they will be very active with their gun-boats. Last night I had the
look-out inshore ; at daylight near twenty of them came out, and had the breeze
not sprung up, they would have been within shot in an hour ; as it was, they were
at no great distance. -
“If your Lordship is in London when you receive this, you will confer a
singular obligation on me if opportunity offers, if you would mention to Lord
Barham that my brother has been soliciting employment upwards of two years.
Sir Thomas Pasley has applied very frequently, but I apprehend he is considered
as past Serving, and therefore not attended to (the more is the pity). I would
not have troubled your Lordship, as I know you have so many such applications,
but my anxiety for my brother induces me. I have the honour to remain,’ &c.
* Captain, afterwards Admiral, Sir Pulterley Malcolm, 1768–1838, cntered the navy in 1778,
and was advanced to post rank in 1794. He distinguished himself off Domingo, was employed
against Washington, Baltimore, and New Orleans, and was at the siege of Fort Boyen. He
became a Rear-Admiral in 1813, and commanded in chief at St. Helena from early in 1816 to
the end of 1817. He was advanced to the rank of Vice-Admiral in 1821, and to that of Admiral
of the Blue in 1837.
264 THE A/AM/Z TOW A WD [1805.
834. A. L. S. from the Abbé Campbell to the same. Dated Naples,
September 6th, 1805. 2 pages 4to. [P.]
‘I can’t let escape the opportunity of the Bittern's sailing this evening from
hence to join you without troubling your Lordship with a few lines, which in all
probability will find you at Merton, where I sincerely wish to have the honour of
seeing you and our dear friend Lady Hamilton, being certain of a friendly recep-
tion. How sorry I was that your Lordship did not meet with the combined
fleets, we should have had a better account of them. Your friend the Marquis
Circello has not been as yet officially appointed to any place, some attribute it to
the fear of displeasing the French, whilst others think it is a cabal of Medici, the
Duke St. Theodore, Cardito and Gallo against him ; he, however, goes as Coun-
Sellor of State to all the Councils, and is extremely liked, particularly by the poor
good King, the Queen likewise is very attentive to him. St. Clair is made
Gentleman of the Chamber to the great scandal of every well meaning person of
the Country; Count and Countess de la Tour, as a cloak to the former, are
appointed one a Gentleman of the Bedchamber, and the other Lady of Honour,
these last are mortal enemies to us English, even more so than St. Clair, because
they are more clever.
‘The French are very quiet here at present, but it is only momentary, as they
are waiting for a force from the north of Italy to march into the kingdom when-
ever they can safely do it; they are now at Bari, and as I am informed will
retreat to Pescara without risking a battle, in case either the English or Russians
land in the kingdom, this is what I learn. The King comes to town to-night
from Caserta, the Queen from Castel-à-Mare, and the Prince from Portici to
assist at a popular feast near Possilippo, named Pie della Grotta.
‘The Marquis and Marchioness of Circello desire their best respects to you.
I have not heard from our dear Lady Hamilton since my arrival here, though I
wrote twice to her. God for ever bless you, and believe me, my dear Lord,’ &c.
‘P.S.—Pray remember me to my brother parson, Scott, whom I like much.”
835. A. L. S. from Sir William Bolton to Lady Hamilton. Dated
H.M.S. Guerrier, Gibraltar, September 8th, 1805. I # pages 4to.,
with Superscription. [P.]
‘It is with heartfelt pleasure I learnt his Lordship's safe arrival in town, but I
felt a stronger Sensation at finding Cobbett,” in his paper, directing the attention
of the public to the virtues of a friend we all so deservedly venerate. I cannot
help Smiling at this singular beginning to your Ladyship, but, or I am mistaken,
your Ladyship feels greater pleasure in the smallest addition to my noble Patron's
glory than in any compliment my weak pen can address to yourself. I will not,
therefore, offer at an excuse.
‘It is generally believed here that his Lordship sails for this country some
time this month, in which case a letter could not reach him in England. Should
I, therefore, be out in my conjecture, I trust to your Ladyship's known goodness
to present him my grateful respects. I am full of hopes from his Lordship's
being in town, he will have it in his power (he ever had the will) to take me out
of the Guerrier. I heard from my dear Lady Bolton about the middle of July.
My letters from Norfolk are all full of the praises of my Emma. With so generous
a friend as your Ladyship has approved yourself, and surrounded as they are by
papas and mammas, to me absence seems deprived of half its désagrément, and
should our own Admiral come to us again, I verily believe the remaining half
would be felt no more: but your Ladyship will not be so cruel to tell Kate so.
The Rock is still perfectly healthy, and every prospect of continuing so this
Summer, to the general satisfaction of the inhabitants. Isolated as we are, I can
have nothing in the shape of news to communicate, but remain,’ &c.
* William Cobbett, 1762–1835, a voluminous political writer. After serving in the army he
settled in America, but at the repeal of the Six Acts returned to England, and in 1832 was
returned M.P. for Oldham.
1805.] AVELSON PAPERS. 265
836. A. L. S. from Lady Bolton to her mother. Dated ‘Brancaster,
Saturday Evening ' (September 9th, 1805). 3 pages 4to., with
Superscription. [P.]
‘My uncle arrived this day; he brought the bonnet, which pleases all the party.
Mrs. Peirson is much obliged to you for the trouble you have taken about it. I
admire the gown very much, and am much obliged to you for it.
‘William Girdlestone came with my uncle to drive Susanna back in the
whiskey. She intends leaving on Monday. We have received two letters from
Sir William—one to Susanna, dated the fifth of August, the other to my uncle, of
the twentieth of August. He was quite well ; in his last, he says, Sir Richard
Bickerton has been obliged, from ill-health, to give up his command to Admiral
Knight, and has hoisted his flag on board the Guerrier. He mentioned that Sir
Richard Bickerton perhaps might order the Guerrier establishment to be reduced
immediately, agreeable to the Navy Board order, which had arrived there,
although the Admiralty order to the same effect had not yet come to hand. He
adds, that, in that case, he might probably get a passage home in the Azzºhion,
Captain Sutton. Should the convoy, which was daily expected, arrive before the
Admiral's departure (which was expected to be in about ten days) for England,
the order might perhaps arrive in time. This, with desiring to be respectfully
remembered to Lady Hamilton, was all worth mentioning, except that they looked
upon themselves quite safe from the pestilence. The place was very healthy. I
can only hope, my dear mother, that the order did not arrive in time, as I know
how great would be his disappointment should he arrive in England after Lord
Nelson had left it. Thank Lady Hamilton for her letter. Her god-daughter
sends her some kisses. She is as well as usual. I have enclosed a letter from his
father to Sir William, to be sent by my Lord. If it should be too late for him,
we would thank you to send it by the post. I beg you will say everything to my
aunt, to thank her for her kind offer of receiving me again in the winter.
Susanna desires I will give her love to her, and all the party desire the same
to all.’
837. A. L. S. from Colonel McMahon * to Lord Nelson. Dated Carlton
House, Wednesday Evening, September I Ith, 1805. I page 4to.
[P.]
“Colonel McMahon presents his best respects to Lord Nelson, and is com-
manded by the Prince of Wales to say how miserable he shall feel if his Lordship
were to take his departure without his Royal Highness having the happiness to
See him, and to entreat for that pleasure to-morrow morning at any hour, however
early, that Lord Nelson will have the goodness to appoint.”
838. A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to Mr. W. Perry. Dated September
I2th, I805. I page 4to., with SuperScription.
“We expect you and Mrs. Perry to dinner, although I am going to London this
morning by desire of the Prince of Wales.
‘I have left two of my little books for your amusement. In the one wrote by
me is the first thought of my going to the West Indies, p. 330. After I leave
Cape St. Vincent, no letter is interesting till June 4th, and then to June Ioth ; but
I trust you confidentially with the perusal. The one wrote by my secretary is the
reasons for my going to Egypt, which subsequents reports have confirmed (as
far [as] I believe). My letter respecting Sardinia, as amongst the last, will be very
interesting. Fver, my dear Sir,’ &c.
“I think you will find two hours' amusement.’
* The Right Hon. John McMahon, having been Private Secretary and Keeper of the Privy
Purse to the Prince Regent, was created a Baronet a month before his death in 1817.
266 THE HAM/Z7 ON A WD [1805.
839. A. L. S. from the same to Lady Hamilton. Dated ‘Victory,
September 20th, 1805, 30 Leg" S.W. from Scilly.' I page 4to., with
Superscription. [P.]
‘A frigate is coming down, which we take to be the Decade, from the fleet off
Cadiz. If the battle has been fought, I shall be sadly vexed, but I cannot help
myself. We have had very indifferent weather, and it is still very dirty. Perse-
verance has got us thus far, and I trust will accomplish all our wishes. I write
this line to put on board her, for if she has news I have to write to the Admiralty.
May heavens bless you. Kiss dear Horatia. For ever yours,’ &c.
840. A. L. S. from Miss E. Bolton to the same. Dated September
28th, 1805. I; pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“I should have written to you before, but I thought my letters would not be
worth the postage, and as papa was going up to town, I awaited for that oppor-
tunity. We expect Lady Bolton home next week, with Emma. I reckon very
much on seeing her. They tell me she is still very pretty and very engaging.
She does not talk much, but she tries. Pray give my love to Mrs. Cadogan when
you write to her. Susanna desires her love to her, and begs that you will tell
her that she hopes to have three or four bottles of ketchup for her, but it is
not ready yet ; when it is, she will send it. I practise music, read and translate
French every day. I try to keep up what I already know, and I hope I shall
succeed, as I should be very sorry to lose what Mrs. Weichsell has taught me,
and I hope, when I return, you will be satisfied with what I have done. Pray
give our love to Anne, Horatia, and all the party.
‘P.S.—We have sent one bottle of ketchup and one of pickled mushrooms.’
841. A. L. S. from the Rev. C. Este to the same. No date (Sep-
tember 30th, 1805). 2% pages 8vo, [P.]
“Much esteemed, dear lady, I trouble you with this brief note to tell, what
probably you may be glad to hear—viz., that some troops were to embark this
morn at Portsmouth. Their destination is said to be for the Mediterranean, but
I cannot help thinking, for the Fleet, for I cannot help thinking also that we shall
have the greatest triumph of all. I shall not wonder even if we were to have the
greatest part of the fleet. Yesterday being the 29th, Horatio-mas day, we kept
it accordingly with all possible observances of love and honour. Adieu, adieu,
dearest lady, and be ever as happy as you would and should be,’ &c.
‘The troops above-mentioned are about 3OOO. A Brigade of Scotch High-
landers. For The Day of the Illustrious Tutelary Saint, Horatio, let me say
Molti e Felici, again, again, and again. Again, too, dear madam, adieu.’
842. A. L. S. from Miss M. Connor to Miss Charlotte Nelson. Dated
October 4th (1805). 34 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘I am excessively obliged to you for your kind letter, which, I assure you,
has given much pleasure. You see I take advantage of your request to write
soon by answering it as quickly as possible. I hope, however, as you have begun,
you will often write me long letters. Little Horatia sends a kiss to you & Lady
H., & her love to all your party. She is looking very well indeed, & is to me a
most delightful companion. We read about twenty times a day, as I do not wish
to confine her long at a time, & she is now learning the names of the keys on
the pianoforte. I am quite busy dressing her doll. I’ve just completed a
mattress & pillows for the bed; it is a continual source of amusement. We are
all very sorry to hear poor Julie is so very ill. I fancy by this time Marianne is
arrived at Canterbury. Mrs. Cadogan desires her love to Lady H., Mrs. N., &
yourself. She would have written, but as Marianne would arrive as soon as the
post, & would tell you everything, she thought it unnecessary. I had, last night,
1805.] AVE/SOAV PAA’AºA'.S. 267
a letter from Miss Yonge, she is yet at Stanmore ; her father came to town
to-day. I am quite astonished at Mrs. Franco's having eloped. I only wonder
who she could find to elope with her. I dare say he is not very sorry if the
truth were known.
‘Mr. Bolton left us yesterday morning, & set out for Cranwich the same
evening. We went to town on Wednesday about Tom's clothes, & meant to
have dined in Clarges Street. We had forgot they were busy papering, so we
dined at Mrs. Roberts. Horatia liked it amazingly, & we bought some shoes &
stockings & a hat for the doll. She is uncommonly quick, & I dare say will read
tolerably by the time you see her again. I told her she was invited to see
a ship launched ; every morning she asks if it is to &e ſo-day, & wanted to
know if there will be any ſiring of guns. Mr. Bolton told us you had the
usual delicate fare at Woolwich. I am sorry to hear poor Mrs. Tyson is ill.
I believe I have pretty nearly tired your patience. Adieu, my dear, dear Miss
Nelson ; may God bless & grant you every happiness is the sincere wish of
your affº friend. -
“Horatia has written & indited the whole of what is written at the end.
i. wants to guide my hand as I did hers, while I write this. My love to my
ady.
[“My dear my lady, I thank you for the books. I drink out of my Lord’s cup
every day ; give my love to him every day when you write, & a kiss. Miss
Connor gave me some kisses when I read my book well. O, here three kisses.
My love to Miss Nelson. My dear my lady, I love you very much.']*
843. A. L. S. (incomplete) from Lord Nelson to Lady Hamilton. No date
(October Ist, I805). 4 pages 4to. [P.]
. . . . “And when Louis's squadron goes I shall have twenty-three sail of the
line to meet them, but we shall do very well. I am sensible that Ministry are
sending me all the force they can, and I hope to use it.
‘ October 2nd.—Last night I got your dear letters, September 18th, I9th, by
Admiral Sutton. You must not complain of my short letters, [for all that I could
write, was it a ream of paper, might be comprised in one short sentence, that I
love you dearly, tenderly, and affectionately.] I have had, as you will believe, a
very distressing scene with poor Sir Robert Calder. He has wrote home to beg
an inquiry, feeling confident that he can fully justify himself. I sincerely hope he
may, but I have given him the advice as to my dearest friend. He is in adversity,
and if he ever has been my enemy, he now feels the pang of it, and finds me one
of his best friends.
[“Our friend, Sir Evan, is a great courtier; whilst we are in prosperity, or that
your face and voice may please him, he will be our admirer in different ways—me
to feed his ambition, you to please his passion. But I can, and So Can you, See
into such friends. Why don’t he serve poor Brent.]
‘Louis, Hallowell, Hoste, are all inquiring about you, and desire their kind
regards. I am pressed beyond measure for time, for I cannot keep the vessel, as
Vice-Admiral Collingwood's and Sir Robert Calder's dispatches were stopt by me
off Cape St. Vincent on the 26th. May God bless you, [my dearly-beloved Emma.]
Kiss Horatia for me a thousand times. I shall write her very soon ; in 8 or IO
days another vessel will be sent. Remember me kindly to Mºs Cadogan, Miss
Connor, Reynolds, and Charlotte, and say everything kind for me to the Doctor
& Mrs. Nelson, if this finds you at Canterbury, and again & for ever believe your
most faithful, in every sense of the word,’ &c.
“If you see Lady Elizºn Foster, say that I have delivered to Clifford all his
things, letters, &c., and he is to dine with me to-day. I have just got your letter
of Aug" 6th recommending Mr. O'Reilly of the Canopus. I fear I can do nothing
for him, unless the combined fleet puts to sea.
‘Make Illy compliments to Mr. Perry and our Merton friends. I congratulate
you on the fall of the wall and the opening prospect. I hope the kitchen is going
on. God bless you. Amen, amen, amen, with all the fervour . . . .” . -
* The portion in square brackets is in the child's writing, and signed “Horatia.’
268 - THE HAMILTON AND [1805.
844. A. L. S. from Lady Hamilton to Lord Nelson. Dated Canterbury,
October 4th (1805). 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“My most dear Nelson, I forgot to tell you that Lord Sidmouth's son* stab'd
himself at Worthing about a month ago—that was what H. Adington aluded to.
He is not dead, it is the Clerk of the Polls, the boy you heard of as being too
young to have such a place. Lord Douglas as just call'd ; he would have given
much to have seen you when you was in England ; he looks upon you as the
Sweetest of all human beings. The Dr has invited him to dinner to-morrow.
The poor old Duke must have a letter every day from me. I had begun to fret
at not having letters from you. I send you a letter of Miss Connor's, for there is
much in it about our dear girl, you will like it. I also had one from my mother,
who doats on her, she says she could not live without her. What a blessing for her
parents to have such a child, so sweet, altho’so young, so amiable ! God spare her
to them, and be assured, my life, my soul, of your own Emma's fondest affections.
You are my all of good. Heavens bless, bless you. Yours only, yours,’ &c.
845. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Canterbury, October
8th, 1805. 5% pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘My dearest life, we are just come from church, for I am so fond of the Church
Service and the cannons are so civil ; we have every day a fine anthem for me.
Yesterday, Mr., Mrs., & Miss Harrisson, Mrs. Bridges, Marquis of Douglas, and
General Thornton, and Mr. Baker the Member, dined with us. The D* gave a
good dinner, and Mariana dressed the macaroni and curry, so all went off well.
Our Julia is very ill yet, but not brought to bed, as she is only seven months. I do
not mean to keep Julia after she gets well. I was obliged to send for Mariana
down, & my mother can ill spare her ; she gives me such an amiable account of
our dearest Horatia. She now reads very well, & is learning her notes, & French,
& Italian, & my mother doats on her. The other day she said at table, “Mrs.
Candogging, I wonder Julia did not run out of the church when she went to be
married, for I should, seeing my squinting husband come in, for, my God l how
ugly he is, and how he looks cross-eyed; why, as my lady says, he looks 2 ways
for Sunday.” Now Julia's husband is the ugliest man you ever saw, but how that
little thing cou’d observe him ; but she is clever, is she not, Nelson 2 We go
to-morrow for 2 days to Ramsgate to see an old friend, poor Lady Dunmore, who
is there, is in great affliction for the loss of her son, Captain John Murry.t To-day
we dine alone, to eat up the scraps, & drink tea with old Mrs. Percy. Charlotte
hates Canterbury, it is so du//; so it is. My dear girl writes every day in Miss
Conner's letter & I am so pleased with her. My heart is broke away from her,
but I have now had her so long at Merton that my heart cannot bear to be without
her. You will be even fonder of her when you return. She says, “I love my
dear, dear, godpapa, but Mrs. Gibson told me he kill'd all the people, and I was
afraid.” Dearest angel she is Oh, Nelson, how I love her, but how do I idolize
you—the dearest husband of my heart, you are all in this world to your Emma.
May God send you victory, and home to your Emma, Horaţia, and faradžse
Merton, for when you are there it will be paradise. My own Nelson, may God
prosper you & preserve you, for the sake of your affectionate,’ &c.
‘I hope Sir Edward Berry has joined you by this time, but I now long to have
letters from you. Everybody is full of Sir R. Calder's coming home. Captain
Staines called yesterday; he is gone to town, as he wishes much to join you.
Lord Douglas beg'd me to ask you if you ever met with Turkish tobacco, &, if
you did, he wishes you wou'd send him some. Write often ; tell me how you are
& how the sea agrees with you, weather it is a bad port to blockade, in short, the
smallest trifle that concerns you is so very interesting to your own, faithful,’ &c.
‘My compliments to the Mr. Scotts and Mr. Ford. Poor Nancy recommends her
brother to you. Nancy has nursed me in many an illness, night and day, & you
will love her for that. Tyson is going to buy a country seat and park for Mrs.
* Lord Sidmouth had only one son, William Leonard, 2nd Viscount, 1794–1864. He was
in holy orders, and succeeded his father in the title in 1844.
† Captain John Murray, R.N., 1765–1805, third son of John, 4th Earl of Dunmore.
1805.] AVAE/SOAV PAPERS. 269
Tyson, near Woolwich. My compliments to Admiral Louis. God bless you, my
own, own Nelson.’
846. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to Lady Hamilion. Dated ‘Thursday,
noon’ (Bath, October 18th, 1805). 3 pages 4to., with Superscrip-
tion. [P.]
“I shall obey y” commands, or rather, I may say, wishes, & be at Merton
next Tuesday night, & if I am well enough will be with you at Woolwich on the
24th, at any rate shall see you before I leave town ; but I am, & have been, very
indifferent, indeed, so much so that I am sure you would not wish for my company
did you know what an invalid I am ; in very truth, I have not been well since I
have been at Bath.
‘You desire me to write you a letter to enliven you ; I have begun it well. I
saw Tom Tit yesterday in her carriage at the next door, come to take Lady
Charlotte Drummond out with [her]. She look'd then much as usual; had I seen
only her hands spreading about I should have know her.
‘I hope by the last Lisbon mails you have got letters from my dear brother,
& that I am sure will drive away all the blue devils, in spite of screetch owls,
rooks, &c. You must keep up your spirits. What in the world will my Lord think
if he comes back & finds you grown thin & looking ill P
* Mrs. Matcham wrote a letter to you last week about Dr. Fisher; did you ever
receive it P. He is to be my companion to town next Monday; he is a very
cheerful, pleasant man. I had a letter from Cranwich yesterday. Lady Bolton
was yet there ; she had a letter from her husband dated the beginning of Sep.
in full hopes of seeing my Lord. They had got it in report that he was appointed
to the Fishguard, but upon enquiring it was the other Capt. Bolton. I wish we
could hear that he had a frigate. Mr. & Mrs. Matcham are well, & children.
Kitty is much obliged to you for thinking of her music. They are very thin, not
at all in your style of beauty, for they have not flesh enough on their bones to give
your torments, the crows, a dinner. We all join in kind love to you and Charlotte,
the Dr., & Mrs. Nelson.’
847. Facsimile” of A. L. S. from Lord Nelson to the same. Dated
‘Victory, October 19th, 1805.’ 2 pages 4to, [P.]
‘My dearest, beloved Emma, the dear friend of my bosom, the signal has been
made that the enemy's combined fleet are coming out of port. We have very
little wind, so that I have no hopes of seeing them before to-morrow. May the
God of Battles crown my endeavours with Success; at all events, I will take care
that my name shall ever be most dear to you and Horatia, both of whom I love
as much as my own life; and as my last writing before the battle will be to you,
so I hope in God that I shall live to finish my letter after the Battle. May
Heaven bless you prays your Nelson & Bronté. Oct” 20 in the morning we
were close to the mouth of the Streights, but the wind had not come far enough
to the westward to allow the combined fleets to weather the Shoals of Trafalgar,
but they were counted as far as forty sail of ships of war, which I suppose to be
34 of the Line and six Frigates. A group of them was seen off the lighthouse off
Cadiz this mornº, but it blows so very fresh & thick weather that I rather believe
they will go into the Bay before night. May God Almighty give us success over
these fellows, and enable us to get a peace.”
848. Copy of Document. Dated ‘Victory, October 21st, 1805, then in
sight of the combined fleets of France and Spain, distant about
ten miles.’ I page folio.
‘Whereas the eminent services of Emma Hamilton, widow of the Right
* The original of this, Nelson’s last letter, is in the British Museum. At the end Lady
Hamilton has added, “This letter was found open on HIS desk, & brought to Lady Hamilton
by Capt. Hardy. Oh, miserable, wretched Emma Oh, glorious & happy Nelson 1’
27o 7A/E A/AM/Z 7 OAV AAV/D [1805.
Honourable Sir William Hamilton, have been of the very greatest service to our
King and country, to my knowledge, without her receiving any reward from
either our King or country :—first, that she obtained the King of Spain's letter
in 1796, to his brother the King of Naples, acquainting him of his intention to
declare war against England ; from which letter, the Ministry sent out orders to
the then Sir John Jervis, to strike a stroke, if opportunity offered, against either the
arsenals of Spain or her fleets. That neither of these was done, is not the
fault of Lady Hamilton. The opportunity might have been offered. Secondly,
the British fleet under my command, could never have returned the second time
to Egypt, had not Lady Hamilton's influence with the Queen of Naples, caused
letters to be wrote to the Governor of Syracuse, that he was to encourage the
fleet being supplied with every thing, should they put into any port in Sicily.
We put into Syracuse, and received every supply, went to Egypt, and destroyed
the French fleet. Could I have rewarded these services, I would not now call
upon my country; but as that has not been in my power, I leave Emma, Lady
Hamilton, therefore, a legacy to my King and country, that they will give her an
ample provision to maintain her rank in life. I also leave to the beneficence of
my country, my adopted daughter, Horatia Nelson Thompson ; and I desire
she will use, in future, the name of Nelson only. These are the only favours I
ask of my King and country, at this moment, when I am going to fight their
battle. May God bless my King and country, and all those who I hold dear. My re-
lations it is needless to mention, they will, of course, be amply provided for.’ &c.
849. A. L. S. from Rev. A. J. Scott to Mrs. Cadogan. Dated ‘Victory at
Sea,’ October 27th, 1805. I page 4to.
‘Hasten the very moment you receive this to dear Lady Hamilton, and
prepare her for the greatest of misfortunes. I fear even now I am too late, but
ever since the fatal victory we have been separated by a gale of wind from the
Fleet, and the news already may have reached you.
‘Pray, my dearest Madam, assure yourself of my constant attention and
friendship while I live and breathe. It is now my duty to show it and I can act
up to it. The friends of my beloved N. are for ever dear to me. God of heaven
bless you all, my dear Madam. I shall not quit the remains of my Lord until
the last moment. Again I say I am devoted to you and Lady H.’s command.
It is still a hurried time, & I can say no more. Good God l have I not said too
much P While I live I am your,’ &c.
850. A. L. S. from Mr. Thomas Bolton to Lady Hamilton. Dated Cran-
wich, Novembcr 3rd, 1805. I page 4to., with Superscription.
“I saw in the paper of Thursday last the death of Welbore Ellis Agar,” Esq.",
one of the Commºs of the Customs, and as I have heard nothing from Mr. Rose,
I fear they have given it away. If you can with propriety say anything to remind
him of his promise to Lord Nelson I shall think myself obliged. At present
there is no time fixed for my coming to town, when it is I will let you know. It
. not depend upon me. We are all well, and are always glad to hear from
ertOn.
851. A. L. S. from Sir Thomas Louis to the same. Dated ‘Canopus,
off Cadiz, November 9th, 1805. 24 pages 4to. [P.]
‘The painful task I am now about to undertake is truly distressing to me,
still, after the many repeated marks of attention and friendship from you and
yours when abroad as well as in England, I should think myself very deficient
indeed at a moment like this not to offer my condolence with yours for the loss
* Welbore Ellis Agar, 1736–1805, one of the Commissioners of Customs, and a great
collector of pictures. Lady Hamilton’s letter to Mr. Rose, written the day after the above, is
printed in Mr. Rose's Diaries and Correspondence, but under date 1804; Lady Hamilton having
merely dated her letter November 4th, and having spoken of the death of Welbore Ellis, the
editor was uncertain as to the year.
I805.] AVAE/...SO/V PA PAEA’.S. 271
of our gallant, valuable, and much to be lamented Lord Nelson. To enter upon
my sufferings on this awful occasion must give pain to both, and every one that
knew his valour. Never was a man more beloved by all, nor a loss So much
regretted. He died truly the Hero in the arms of Victory. Such a loss can
never be replaced. Could I suppose when I last parted with him it was never to
meet again? Surely not. How would I have parted from him had a thought of
the kind entered my heart, altho' I might have received his displeasure at the
moment in objecting; but it was my lot to be detached with a division to receive
supplies at Gib. and water at Tetuan, after which to protect a valuable convoy
with a considerable sum on board clear of the Carthagena Squadron. I could
not help remarking to my most worthy and good friend, Lord Nelson, that I
feared the enemy would come out while we were absent. His reply, “Pozº'ſ
mind, Louis ; they won’t come out yet, and my fleet must be completed ; the
sooner you go the better.” Now, what must all our distress and suffering be after
following him close upon the enemy, and then to be prevented the honour of
closing the day with the man we all so much adored, and what was still more
distressing, to lose him on that ever to be lamented day. Poor Captains Hallo-
well and Stopford were of my party, the former you know full well, the regard
they had for each other. The grand consolation now left that after the Severe
wound he received had he lived he might have lingered a life and existence ex-
tremely painful to himself, and equally or more so, as well as very distressing, to
those who knew and loved him.
“It wou'd be a great gratification to me to have something that was once
really his as a token of remembrance and regard for the man I loved and had the
highest respect for, which shall be handed down to my posterity. I never made
such a request before and never shall again, for no man ever can have the warmth
of my heart and soul so strong and sincere. I don’t care what it is. You will
oblige me much by sending it directed to Mrs. Louis, Cadwell, Newton Bushell,
Devon ; she will take care of it untill my return. God bless you, my dear Lady
Hamilton. Had I shared the honours of that day, I might have seen you earlier
than it appears likely at present I shall, but whenever I am in England I shall
not lose time in paying my respects, and to assure you how much obliged I feel
for every mark of attention and kindness from you, and how much I regret the
loss of my dear and valuable friend, Lord Nelson. -
‘My best wishes attend you, Mrs. Cadogan, and Miss Charlotte, to whom I
beg to be particularly remembered.’
852. A. L. S. from Mr. Rose to the same. Dated November 17th, 1805.
3 pages 4to. [H.]
‘There are occasions on which silence is more expressive than words. If I
were to attempt to convey what I feel, & shall to the end of my life, at the
irreparable loss the country and the friends of the glorious Hero have sustained,
I should utterly fail. In the beginning of September he wrote to me from
London, on my entreating him to sit to Edridge" for me, that he should certainly
do so if he were not ordered to sea very, very soon. When I saw him on board
the Victory I did not ask him whether he had done so, lest if he had not he
should be at all uncomfortable ; but since the melancholy news was received I
wrote to Mr. Edridge, & learn from him that I am disappointed. I recollect an
admirable portrait by Sir Wm. Beechey,t to whom I wrote to learn where it is, in
the hope of getting a small whole-length by Boneſ from it, but Sir Wºº Beechey
* Henry Edridge, 1769–1821, a miniature painter. In 1814 he became a Fellow of the
Royal Society of Antiquaries, and in 1820 an Associate of the Royal Academy. Many of his
likenesses, including one of himself, are in the British Museum.
t Sir William Beechey, 1753–1839, a well-known English painter, who first exhibited por-
traits in the Academy in 1775. In 1781 he removed to Norwich, where he stayed for some
years, and in 1793 was elected A.R.A., and painted a portrait of Queen Charlotte, which
procured him the appointment of portrait painter to her Majesty. He was knighted, and was
for a long while the fashionable portrait painter of the day.
# Henry Bone, 1755–1834, an enamel painter, in 1811 elected a Royal Academician,
272 7TA/AE A/AM/Z 7'OAV AAV/D [1805.
tells me it is in the Great Hall at Norwich. In this state of despair I entreat you
will help me in the best way you can. I dare not hope that any one who has an
original painting, or the roughest sketch of a drawing, would let me have it,
though I should set a value on it above all price. It seems to me, however, that
you may be able to assist me, and afford me the highest gratification (next to
possessing anything original) by procuring me the loan of a good portrait of him
to have one done from by Bone. I will make no apology for this intrusion on
you. I am,’ &c. -
“I return to Cuffnell's on Wednesday.
‘I have this instant a letter from my incomparable & ever to be lamented
Friend, in which (when he was hourly expecting the action) he says, “I verily
believe the country will soon be put to some expense on my account, either a
monument or new pension.”’’
853. A. L. S. from Mr. J. D. Thomson* to the same. Dated ‘Thurs-
day, 12 o'clock’ (December 5th, 1805). I page 4to., with
Superscription. [P.]
‘The Victory is safe at Spithead, and is about to proceed on to the Downs.
‘If I hear anything of Capt. Hardy's motions, I will assuredly let you know.
“The other 2 ships are also safe in Port.’
854. A. L. S from Mrs. Blackwood to the same. Dated Portsmouth,
Friday, December 6th (1805). 2 pages 4to., with SuperScription.
[P.]
‘It was Captain Blackwood's wish to have had the pleasure of addressing you
himself, but the great hurry of accumulated business on his arrival at Portsmouth
will, I hope, apologise for his thus deputing me his secretary. Cap" B. is anxious
to communicate to your mind the relief which, allow me to say, we trust the
prospect of this letter may afford you, in informing your Ladyship that he saw
Capº Hardy this morning, who has in his possession papers and the last will of his
ever to be regretted Commander, which will prove highly gratifying & satisfactory
to you ; that it is Capº Hardy's determination not to deliver any of them up to
any person untill he has seen you, which, in the course of a few days, he hopes to
do in town ; that Capº Hardy will most steadily endeavour to fulfil the wishes of
his departed friend, by his best exertions and utmost efforts to assist your interest
& promote your wishes in every possible way he can. Cap" Hardy, this mornº,
set off for Mr. Rose's, at Cuffnell’s, upon business of importance. What I have
taken the liberty of expressing was expressed by Capº H. in the most kindly and
zealous manner towards your Ladyship. I am,' &:
855. A. L. S. from Rev. A. J. Scott to the same. No date (December
22nd, 1805). I page 4to. [P.]
‘I did not get your letter before yesterday afternoon, too late to answer you
from hence—indeed, now it is such weather, I doubt if I can get my letter on
shore. I cannot come to London yet ; nothing upon earth, however, would
prevent me but the duty I owe the remains of the best beloved and most
* Sir John Deas Thomson, 1763–1838, at that time Private Secretary to the First Lord of
the Admiralty, afterwards Commissioner and Accountant-General of the Navy. He was
knighted in 1832.
† The Victory, with Nelson's body on board, anchored at Spithead, December 5th.
+ On the third page of the letter is the following A. L. S. from Capt Blackwood :-‘Hardy
may have spoken his mind on former occasions more freely than you could have wished, but
depend upon it that the last words of our lamented friend will influence his conduct. He desires
me, in the most unequivocal manner, to assure you of his good intentions towards you. This, I
hope, will ease your mind.”
1805–6.] AVAZZSOAV AAA’Aº AºS. 273
interesting of human beings. I will not go on shore but with them, after which
my next duty will be to pay my respects to you. In offering you my services, for
the first time in my life, I regret my own insignificance; I am devoted to you,
however, sincerely.
‘Admiral Collingwood sent home despatches, without giving us an opportunity
of writing. A gale of wind had separated us from the fleet, otherwise I had
taken precautions to write to you. I hope you do not think me either
negligent or forgetful. Have the goodness to remember me to all the family,
Lord N., Lady N., and Lady Charlotte. Believe me,’ &c.
856. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated December 23rd, 1805.
I page 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
* I take the liberty of writing to you, only to say that, with the blessing of
God, the remains of your beloved, incomparable, and invaluable friend, are safe,
and will be on shore at Greenwich by to-morrow. I would wait upon you to-
morrow, but it does not agree with the principle I have adopted of not leaving the
place where he is until I lose sight of him for ever ; I know you will approve of
this. God bless you, my dearest Madam. Accept the warmest prayers of my
heart for your repose and welfare. I am ever, while I live, with zeal and
attachment,’ &c.
857. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated ‘Park Row, Greenwich,
No. 2 I, near the East Gate of the Hospital, December 25th, 1805.
I page 4to. [P.]
‘The body of my dear Lord was last night deposited in the Board Room of
Greenwich Hospital, which will not be opened until his removal to the Painted
Chamber. I need not tell you how sorry I was to quit it. I have taken lodgings
here, and shall remain until the procession goes from hence to London. In all
things you may command me, and I really wish for your approbation in every
thing, considering you as a still surviving part of my blessed and beloved friend.
God bless you, my dear Madam, and give you happier days than these. With
respect, I am,’ &c.
858. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated No. 2 I Park Row,
Greenwich, January Ist, 1806. I page 4to, [P.]
‘Why, my dearest Madam, do you not order one of your young folks to write to
me and let me know your health and spirits are improving P I do not expect you
shou'd trouble yourself with writing to me—no human being is more sincerely
interested in your happiness & welfare than I am. I have not moved out from
these lodgings but to go to the hospital over the way. I saw Mr. Tyson yesterday,
who had enjoyed the good fortune to see you. I cannot, unless you expressly
wish it, until after the funeral, when the scene is closed for ever with my invaluable
and incomparable friend. I am devoted to your service. Good God how does
the country want him now ! -
‘I do not mean to speak to you in worldly terms, my dearest Madam ; while
I live, with the deepest respect, regard, and attachment, I am,’ &c.
859. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated No. 2 I Park Row,
- Greenwich, January 3rd, I806. I page 4to. [P.]
“I received this morning your very kind note, and altho’ I am flattered and
feel grateful for the manner in which you speak to me, still I am sorry you should
have troubled yourself to write. Earl Nelson and Horace* were here to-day, the
latter was very much affected, and wept a great deal. I can truly say he won 111y
heart by it, & I hope to God he will never one day of his life forget his uncle.
* Horatio Nelson, Viscount Merton, 1788–1808, only son of William, 1st Earl Nelson.
VOL. II, T
274
7THE A/AM/Z7'OAV AAWD [1806.
“Had you not mentioned, I shou'd most certainly have waited on you imme-
diately after the ceremony. It is a duty, and with me a sacred one, to do all and
everything which he cou’d wish, were it possible for him to look down and direct.
My heart pays a grateful tribute for the kind expressions in your letter. I honour
your feelings, and I respect you, dear Lady Hamilton, for ever.’
860. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Admiralty, ‘Wednes-
day night, #-past I2 o’clock’ (January 8th, 1806). 2; pages 4to.
[P.]
‘I am sorry not to be able to write oftener to you, and more at length ; how-
ever, just now I sent Mr. Beckwith, foreman to Mr. France,” who has throughout
conducted the business—he can tell you everything minutely. I hope he will
get in, though it is now very late. Nothing ever was equal to the affection shewn
for your poor hero. One trait I must tell you ; the very beggars left their stands,
neglected the passing crowd, and seemed to pay tribute to his memory by a look
—many did I see, tattered and on crutches, shaking their heads with plain signs
of Sorrow. This must be truly the unbought affection of the heart.
“I should never have made any request of the kind to the Earl, but merely as a
tribute of affection to the name of Nelson; to no other nobleman in the land would
I be Chaplain, nor indeed could I, with any propriety, ask the Prince of Wales to be
Chaplain to any one else, without whose particular leave no Chaplain of his could
presume to belong to any one else also. Your poor Nelson, upon his first vacancy,
intended to speak to the Prince about it, and to have nominated me. I wished
it earnestly, not for any nasty material good of this world, but because it drew my
Connexion closer with him ; it was a matter, therefore, I did press with him, as he
knew it could be no advantage to me, already Chaplain to the Prince, and entitled
therefore to all privileges which it affords. But indeed, my dear Lady Hamilton,
I would never have talked on this subject while dear Lord Nelson remained
unburied, but for the information I had that the Earl was already arranging his
Chaplains. Meeting him, I wished to put him on his guard, as he might other-
wise have forgot my prior claim to any one ; but in all this do you but approve
of my conduct, and I care little for the rest in this world.
‘Sir E. Nepean was here just now, and cried very much—most sincerely ;
had the man not been in office, I would have taken him by the hand for it—nay,
embraced him. Every thought and word I have is about your dear Nelson. I
have him now before me, dear Lady Hamilton ; here lies Bayard—but Bayard
victorious—sans Zeur et sans reproche. This is my motto for an emblem to be
worn by those who cherish his memory—it might be interwoven in a sprig of gold
laurel. Dear Lady Hamilton, speak to some of your sex about it. Sans Zeur et
Sans refroche. So help me God, as I think he was a true knight and worthy the
age of chivalry—one may say—/u? méme fait le siècle—for where shall we see
another? When I think, setting aside his heroism, what an affectionate, fasci-
nating little fellow he was, how dignified and pure his mind, how kind and conde-
scending his manners, I become stupid with grief for what I have lost. Pardon
my Scrawl. Your devoted servant,’ &c.
861. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated ‘Wednesday night, or
rather Thursday morning’ (January 9th, 1806). I page 4to., with
Superscription. [H.] -
‘Mr. Beckwith has just come back, and I learn he did not see you from the
lateness of the hour. I sent him only to give you a minute detail of every thing
which he must be better acquainted with than any one else. I came from Green-
wich with our dearest Lord in the same boat. I am grievously vexed that to-
morrow I am all day so far removed from him by my place in the procession. I
cannot with ease bear this separation ; but there is no help for it. To the last I
could have wished to have been near him. God bless you and give you rest,’ &c.
* The undertaker employed by Government. + The day of Nelson's funeral,
1806.] AWAEZSOAV PAPAEA’S. 275
862. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Great Portland Street,
January 26th, 1806. 2 pages 4to, with Superscription and Seal. [H]
. “Zmöroglio gui cá sta—what am I to do P. The Viscountess Perceval” has
invited me to dinner, but I understood it was a party of your making, & that you
were to be there. To-day I learn in Clarges Street that you dine at Brompton—
gºlesło m2 moråſica—because, but for the expectation of seeing you to-day, I wou'd
have been with you yesterday evening ; do not blame me, therefore, for not
having been at Brompton.
“I shall go to Curzon Street at 6 o'clock; if I find myself expected, well, if not,
I will come on to you. Lady E. Forster enquires after you earnestly, & Horatia,
whom you promised to shew her. I dined with Col. Bosville yesterday in
Welbeck Street, and any how cou’d not have reached Brompton until late.
Young Lind says I was expected at his mother's on Thursday evening, after our
dinner at Mr. Deputy Birch's. Pray have me excused in this case, for not one of
them ever asked me. On Friday I dined in company with Hardy a little way
out of town, and cou’d not possibly reach you that evening. And so you have my
journal ever since I saw you. Oh I forgot | On Wednesday I dined with
ºvel of the Lord Chamberlain's office, at six o'clock, & cou’d not get away
Llnt1] I2.
“Do not think I forget or neglect you, for I cou’d be with you much happier &
more pleased than in most other places. And so—
‘Good appetite, and good afternoon to you, my dear Lady Hamilton. I saw
the Duke of Clarencef yesterday in Pall Mall, who stopped me—shook hands
with me, and enquired after you particularly, or it wou’d not be worth men-
tioning. I believe he really lov'd my Lord sincerely. Ever truly your,’ &c.
863. A. L. S. from the Rt. Hon. George Rose to the same. Dated Old
Palace Yard, January 27th, 1806. 2 pages 4to. [H.]
“Deeply as I am affected by the recent loss I have sustained in the death of
Mr. Pitt, I cannot onlit to express to you my sincere and deep regret that I had
not a possible opportunity of fulfilling the engagement, which the veneration I
have for the memory of Lord Nelson induced me to make with you in my letter
from Cuffnell's after I had seen Captain Hardy.
* I had no alarm about Mr. Pitt’s health till it was decided he should leave
Bath, but on my seeing him at Putney Heath I found him so ill as to preclude my
talking to him on any business whatever. Sir Walter Farquhar, indeed, had
positively prohibited any one from doing so.
“I shall certainly not remain in office ; & respecting arrangements that are
about to take place I know nothing. No one can be in more utter ignorance of
them than I am, but if it shall happen that any representation of mine to any of
those who may fill the Departments of Government can have the remotest chance
of being useful to you, it shall not be wanting. I am persuaded, however, Lord
Nelson's last and solemn appeal to his country for justice to be done to your
claim will be the best possible support to it.
‘I will have the honour of waiting on you some morning in the course of the
next week. I have the honour to be,’ &c.
864. A. L. S. from Sir William Bolton to his wife. Dated H.M.S.
Eurydice, February 2nd, 1806, off Cadiz. Ił pages 4to, [P.]
‘I have but a few minutes' leisure to assure you of my constant affection to
* Bridget Wynne, Lady Percival, only daughter of Lieut.-Col. Wynne, and wife of the 4th
Earl of Egmont. She died in 1826.
+ William Henry, Duke of Clarence, afterwards William IV., 1765–1837. He succeeded
his brother, George IV., on the throne in 1830.
f Sir Walter Farquhar, 1738–1819, a London physician who, after being created a Baronet
in 1796, was appointed Physician-in-Ordinary to the Prince of Wales, and rapidly took a high
place in his profession. In 1813 he partially withdrew from practice. - * -
276
7THE HAM/Z 7"O/W AAV/O [1806.
you & my Emma, as indeed to all my near and dear relations. It would have in
a great measure contributed towards my present ease (hapiness is now out of the
question) to have received a few letters from you, the more so as I have not
received one of a later date than the latter end of August last. I was in hopes
our present Commander-in-Chief would (from his professions) have behaved in a
handsome manner, but I am now convinced policy was the only inducement. I
am very anxious to learn the truth respecting the affairs on the Continent. Every
vessel we speak gives us a different account, tho' I still pin my faith in the Gazette
account of the defeat of Napoleon on the 3rd and 4th of Decº, which was brought
out by the A/cmena, tho’ she brought no letters. I was recalled into the fleet
yesterday, and expect to remain for a time attached to it. I have no desire now
but to see home as soon as possible, yet shall take no steps untill I hear further
from one of my fathers. It was formerly a pleasure to serve, it is now become a
toil. I feel no longer inclined to forfeit my happiness, but regret every moment
of absence from my country. My love to my brothers and sisters, & duty to my
parents, I am,’ &c.
865. A. L. S. from Mrs. Cadogan to Lady Hamilton. Dated Merton,
February 13th (1806). I page 4to, with Superscription and Seal.
[P.]
‘I will not show them one bill or receipt ; I will tell them you have them
locked up. Some were as Cribbe” has sumed it up. I have receipts for thirteen
hundred pounds, besides the last forty-two. Mrs. Cribbe advises me not to show
them till you have seen them. On Saturday I shall send Sarah with them, as
Trances comes to town. I had a very canting letter from Haslewood yesterday
saying the Earl & him was coming down to-day. God bless you,' &c.
‘P.S.–I will write and tell you all to-morrow, if it is too late to-night for
the post.’ ‘.
866. A. L. S. from Rev. A. J. Scott to the same. Dated St. John's
College, Cambridge, February 19th, 1806. I; pages Afo., with
Superscription and Seal. [H.]
“I suppose you are well acquainted with my being at this place, which accounts
for my non-appearance for some days. Supposing hourly I should set off for
town, I have deferred writing to you, to tell you that the University arc about to
petition the King to grant me a D.D. degree by mandamus. You will be
delighted, I think, in knowing this, as it marks attention to the memory of our
dear Lord. The matter has been some time in agitation, but I think now is pretty
well fixed. It was necessary that all should join in the business—I mean all the
Heads of Colleges ; this they have now done. I remain for ten days longer,
by which time it will be finished, and I shall return to you with all the dignity of
a Doctor of Divinity. I thought the whole could not be compleated before July,
when the commencement is, and therefore was removing to London ; but I now
am given to understand that it can be done as soon as the King has signed the
mandate. So much for plans and projects, &c., &c. But I write chiefly to give
some account of myself & tell you that I constantly remember you, and that no
selfish consideration can supersede the regard and attachment which I bear you.
‘Pray kiss Horatia for me, and let her not forget the sound of my name. Make
my respects to the Earl and Countess, Lady Charlotte, and those who recollect
me; to Mr. Bolton and his wife many kind and true expressions of regard, with
Anne, Miss O'Connor, and Mrs. Voller, if with you. With respect and
affection,’ &c. .
867. A. L. S. from Rev. C. Este to Lady Charlotte Nelson. No date
(1806). Ił pages 4to, with Superscription. [P.]
‘Will you, if you please, be so good as to mention that, among other courtesies
* Cribb was the gardener at Merton.
1806.] MAE ZSOAV PAA’AA’.S. 277
from your illustrious, your ever to be lamented uncle, he let me put into his cabin
a few of my old books? Books otherwise of no account, but hence, indeed, become
inestimable in my sight.
‘Now, may I beg to be obliged with one or two of them back again? If not
disagreeable, what I should wish would be Boswell’s Ziſe of Johnson, and the
Zāle Comedies of Foote; for, added to the fond veneration of them thus as
relicks, they are the works of those I knew—one a little, the other a great deal.
Adieu, dear Lady Charlotte, & with the best good wishes, may you & your
brother ever try to resemble your unrival’d uncle in the purity, the exaltation, the
Captivation of your heart. I know not how I can wish you more.’
868. Document S. ‘Nelson.” A receipt from the Earl Nelson to Lady
Hamilton. Dated February 22nd, 1806. I page 4to. [P.]
‘Received this 22nd day of February, 1806, of the Right Honble. Emma,
Lady Hamilton, the following articles belonging to the late Lord Viscount Nelson,
viz.:-The diamond aigrette presented to his Lordship by the Grand Signior, the
Sword presented to him by the Captains who fought at the Battle of the Nile, the
diamond sword presented to him by the King of the Two Sicilies, and the collar
of the Order of the Bath.”
869. A. L. S. from Robert Keen to the same. Dated Rye, Sussex,
March 25th, 1806. 3% pages 4to., with Superscription and Seal.
[P.]
‘You will, I fear, think me ungrateful not to have written you to thank you for
your attention to my girls when in town. The sensibility and warmth of your
heart, I know, receives pleasure whenever you have it in your power to extend
the hand of benevolence to those labouring under affliction. Our dear departed
hero knew well how to value its merit, and had it been the will of Providence to
have blessed him with a longer continuance in this world, your mutual influence
would have been felt by thousands. What a blessing would it have been for him
and his family had he escaped the union with that horrid temper'd woman, Lady
Nelson ; my own situation teaches me how to feel for and pity him. Great God
what he must have suffer'd from her horrid inventions and worst of dispositions;
he, I trust, in Heaven, has his reward, and she, I hope, will receive her
punishment.
“The Markhams and Tuckers have begun with me already. The order which
Lord Barham gave me to commence payment from the date, is order'd not to
be paid from the date, but from my appearance. By its being payable from the
date it prevented my coming to this place immediately, & gave me leave to
remove my family without coming here first ; & tho' it cost me 2007, to place four
children at school & remove nearly 300 miles, the Board think it worth while to
take 30/. from me, which is all the difference it makes. I prayed Lord Barham
& Mr. Tompion not to give me employment, knowing the system of persecu-
tion I was to experience from the present Board, but to give me my promotion &
leave me undisturbed with my little family ; but I could not be heard. It is my
intention to be in London soon if I can obtain leave, but for the present the
absence of Capt. Schomberg—who is the commanding officer—being in London,
my absence will be impossible. I was very sorry to see in the papers the illness
of the Dutchess of Devonshire ; the affliction our very amiable friend, Lady
Foster, must suffer on such an occasion will, I am sure, be severe, for I think
your Ladyship must agree with me she is a most charming, benevolent dis-
position, tho’ I will not say more least your Ladyship shou’d suspect me of
flattery, tho’ I hope you will be assured of every sincerity when I assure that I
remain, with ever respect,’ &c.
‘P.S.–My two daughters desire their kind regards to your Ladyship, & unite
with me in the most sincere wishes for your health, with our compliments to all
the family under your hospitable roof.
‘This is but a poor place, full of military lodgings, intolerable, bad, & dear; tho' a
fishing town, the badness of the weather has hitherto deprived us of that necessary,
tho' I hope we shall soon be able to give you a specimen of its produce in that way.'
278 7"HA: AMA MAZ7 OAV AAV7) - [1806
870. A. L. S. from Mrs. Cadogan to the same. Dated March 29th,
1806. 2 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘I have enclosed to you Cribb's account he brought me from Haslewood the
other day. Let me know whether you have a copy of the will or not, as I under-
stand the executers are to pay every expence for six months after his death.
Pray write me word wether you have employed a lawyer against Haslewood ;
let me, in particular, for if you have not I will. I am well informed of the
measure the land your house stands upon, and will not allow the pleasure ground
that is taken in, that you have a right to take in what part you like of Linton's farm,
and leave out what you like of the Wimbledon estate. Write me every particular
that I may not be taken unawares. Don't you think if you was to write to Mr.
Goldsmid,” and let me know very particularly who I am to aply to. I was in
hopes Mr. Bolton would have been here at the time. Pray, my dear Emma, let
me know wether you have answered Mr. Roberts's bill or not, as I shall write to
Mr. Roberts and Mrs. Burt. I should not be surprized if [I] was to see Mr. Kidd
come up with Mr. Hughes, but if he does he never sleeps in the house where I
do. I had a letter from poor Mrs. Dodsworth yesterday to say she should come
to Merton to-day. I am very glad of it, as poor Sarah & me has not the news-
papers now, and the weather very wet and dirty one cannot get out. God
bless you,' &c.
*P.S.—S. Reynold's love to all.”
871. A. L. S. from Sir Alexander Ball to the same. Marked ‘Dupli-
cate.” No date (postmark, March 31st, 1806). 2 pages 4to., with
Superscription and Seal. [P.]
‘By the time this will probably reach your Ladyship, I hope you will in
some measure have recovered from the shock caused by the irreparable loss of
our immortal Nelson. In him we have to bewail the death of our best friend, and
the public that of their greatest hero. The nation was sensible of his inestimable
talents and worth before he was snatched from us. I cannot but lament that it
was not ordained that he should live a few years with us and witness the plaudits
of a grateful nation, and enjoy the society of his much-attached friends. I have
to entreat you to continue to command my services whenever they can be useful.
‘Their Sicilian Majesties are once more doomed to quit their Neapolitan
dominions, and take refuge at Palermo. They will now more deeply feel the loss
of their confidential friends, the Hamiltons and Nelson.
‘I hope you will do me the favour of answering this, and that you will be
assured of the respect and esteem of,’ &c.
872. A. L. S. from Mr. Abraham Goldsmid to the same. Dated
Finsbury Square, April 8th, 1806. 3 pages 4to. [H.]
‘I had the pleasure yesterday to receive a few lines from you ; am happy you
are well, but am sorry your spirits are not yet recovered ; hope shortly to see you,
& to tell me that it is the Will of Providence to him. It is our duty to content
ourselves, and on mature reflection you’ll be convinced that it was done for the
good of those he esteemed, & his time was to die, and if not by a shot you might
have lost him by sickness, and then his feelings would not have been fulfilled
according to his own wishes, which, to me, I am sure of. Now for business, &
please to keep it to yourself and Mr. Bolton. I have been, as you suppose, most
busily employed respecting the late loan of which, my dear Lady, you have a third
of 6000, which is neat am" 2000, being divided into 3 parts ; of Course, every
person has a third, being after battling about coalation took place, but have never
* Abraham Goldsmid, circa 1756–1810, a Jewish financier of Dutch birth, whose father
settled in London. After carrying through many enormous transactions, he fell into difficulties
and committed suicide. The news of his death caused Consols to fall from 65% to 63%, and one
of the papers of the day questioned whether peace or war, suddenly made, ever caused such a
bustle as the death of Mr. Goldsmid.
1806.] AVAZZSOAV AAA’AA’S. 279
lost sight of Mr. Bolton & Mr. Matcham. I have seen and conversed with all the
parties, and pushed all I could. The answer from Lº G. was, he meant to give
to Mr. B. IO,OOO!. at his disposal, & Io,000 to Mr. M. for his disposal. My
answer was that, as Mr. M. they might be an apoligy for such a sum, but as to
Mr. B. I hoped & trusted they would give at least 20,000 ready money, exclusive
of a respectable place under Government for Mr. B. Mr. Vansitart answer was
that he admired my zeal in the promotion the wellfare of the late Lº Nelson
family; but they had a deal to contend with, which was the service of the late
Duke of Marlborough. My answer was, that I look it much more, and no
example whatever, as times stood, required more exertion than the present. My
final answer I have not received, but expect, in a week or ten days, to know
the result of Lord Grenville ; but as to a place for Mr. Bolton, he agreed it ought to
be done, and no doubt, if any confidence is to be placed in ministers—it will be so.
I think that Mr. B. ought to be here in London the latter end of next week at
farthest, that I may have him at hand. Yours,’ &c.
“Excuse all faults, as I have not a minute to spare, & hardly know what I
have written, therefore take the will for the deed.’
873. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated ‘Tuesday, noon'
(April 22nd, 1806). , 3 pages 4to., with Superscription and Seal.
[P.]
‘What a blank you have made in our party. I went to bed far from well, and
when we all met at dinner we were all in fears to see the vacaná places, where so
lately they had been filled with those so dear to us. Even poor Emma is con-
stantly calling for you all, tell Horatia she wants to go to her bed in a morning.
I am glad Mrs. Lind was with you on Sunday evening, as she is very cheerful,
and, I know, very fond of you. I do not wonder at Mrs. Pierson’s liking her.
‘The girls are now busy in preparing for Miss Hetherset's ball next Monday ;
she is of age, therefore she may now marry Mr. Dashwood if she chuses. Poor
Captain Hooke has lost his favourite sister; poor thing, she has been long in a
declining state, he could scarcely hope to find her alive at his return. We now
see no papers therefore from you ; we hope to hear news. I hope the old adage
here will not prove true—delays are dangerous. Do you hear nothing of your
own business P Believe we [are] all as much interested in that as our own affairs.
Tell Mrs. Pierson we have no letters from Brancaster yet. You were very good
to have poor Tom ; it gives me great pleasure to hear he is improved. I wish I
could say anything cheerful or that would entertain you even for a moment ; but
this place produces nothing but love and respect for you from all this family. We
all join in kind love to dear Horatia & all the party. Believe me,’ &c.
874. A. L. S. from Mrs. Cadogan to the same. Dated Merton, April
26th, 1806. Ił pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“I pray God send you many happy returns of this day. I have sent you a
gown of Sarah Reynolds's making. If I had ten thousand pounds to send you
this day, I should have been very happy. I have sent Mariann, as I thought she
might be of use to you to-day. I am all over with bricks and dust and stinking
paint, being no-body but our own family. On Saturday you shall have a
Żmeness/ra verde and one thing roasted. Mariann will tell you how miserable I
have been this week. -
‘My dear Emma, I owe Mariann 4 months' wages, which is two guines ; I
had it not to give her, and she want shoes and stockings. If you can, give Sarah
Conner thirty shillings to pay her washer-woman, as she is indebted to her for
three months' washing ; I have got her washing down here. You must send
Mariann as soon as you can in the morning.
“God bless you, my ever dear Emma,’ &c.
[* “I wish you many happy returns of this day. I should have been very
* The portion in square brackets is from Sarah Reynolds.
28o 7A/A2 AAAZZZTO/V AAVZ) [1806.
happy had it been in my power to have made you a small present on this day,
but not having anything but what my dear aunt and you have been so good as to
give me. I wish it had been in my power ; I should have been very happy,
believe me, my dear Lady Hamilton. With gratitude and thank for what you
have done for me and my dear father and family. God bless you, dear Lady
Hamilton.’]
875. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. No date (May 13th, 1806).
3 pages 4to., with Superscription and Seal. [P.]
‘I hope, my dear Lady, after your kind and unexpected favour at Akenham, you
have not thought me neglectfull in not answering it before ; but I have been upon
the move so much, that I have scarcely had time enough to myself to write. I
am sorry to say we found the poor invalid even worse than we expected ; if she
goes on in the same way as she has done for the last fortnight, she cannot
continue many weeks. You may suppose the wretched state her poor mother is
in. We left Beca there for a week or two, and then Susanna is to take her place,
as we are resolved not to leave them alone at this time. Poor Maryanne was
pleased when I told her you desired to be remembered to her. From thence I
went to my cousin Taylor's, who was quite disappointed she had not the pleasure
of seeing you at Nouham ; she is the same cheerful creature she ever was. My
aunt Rolfe wish’d very much to see Horatia, & so did Mrs. Taylor ; she says
every one ought to adore that child, give our kind love to her ; tell her Emma
trys to imitate her attitudes every day.
‘You have indeed introduced Anne into the great world ; she will, [I] trust,
improve by it, & see how necessary it is to [be] well educated to be even possible
in those great circles. I hear Mrs. Rolf's presents are very much admired by the
ladies of Swaffham ; I knew they would be handsome where you was concerned.
Are not all your ideas noble P When will the Earl's affairs be settled P very
strange, is it not P Lord Duckworth's pension is settled I see.
‘Susanna wishes to hear from her father, to whom give all our loves, & accept
the same with your sincere & affectionate friend.”
876. A. L. S. from Captain Hardy to the same. Dated 77°iumph, May
I4th, 1806. 2 pages 4to. [P]
“As you will not write to me, I cannot sail without again repeating to you how
happy I shall be at all times to attend to your wishes, and whenever you want to
send a young friend to sea I will take him with pleasure. I took the command
of this ship yesterday, and we sail under the command of Sir Richd. Strachan” on
Saturday. I have written to the Earl by this post, and as I do not know where
he lives, I have directed it to Clarges Street. The letter is giving him an account
of the arrival of his wine at Portsmouth. I beg my best love to Horatia, and
best compliments to Mrs. Cadogan and Mr. & Mrs. Boulton. I remain, with
great truth,’ &c.
877. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to the same. Dated ‘Wednes-
day Morning' (May 15th, 1806). 2 pages 4to., with Super-
scription. [P.]
‘I thank you much for your kind letter, which came very fortunately, as
Mr. M. intended to go for a few days on a visit to Sir Chas. Malet this morning.
He will now stay only one or two nights at Wilbury, and go from thence to town, as
* Sir Richard Strachan, 1760–1828, entered the Navy at an early age, succeeded to the
Baronetcy in 1777, and took post rank in 1783. He distinguished himself on the East India
station and off Ferrol, where he took four French ships which had escaped from the battle of
Trafalgar. He was shortly afterwards promoted to the rank of Rear-Admiral of the Red, in
1810 became Vice-Admiral of the Blue, and in 1821 a full Admiral, and obtained a pension
of IOOO!, a year.
1806. AVEZSO/W PAPAERS. 28I
you seem to think he should be in London when this business is brought forward.
What a winter, my dear Lady Hamilton, have I spent, & I am Sorry to own even
now I cannot bring myself to look forward with pleasure to anything that can
happen. God knows, nothing can ever make up to me and maine for our loss. I
can only say, God’s will be done; but I feel quite heart-broken, as my good man
will tell you. Bath has been very gay ; young Betty” has been performing here for a
fortnight. I went one night only to see him, and was much entertained ; his
manners are more elegant than any one could imagine. He is a wonderſheſ &oy,
but I doubt his progressive improvement with his years. His voice is quite gone,
and it is said he is in very bad health. I have no news to write about, as I never
go into the gay world. Pray remember me to Mrs. Pierson. I suppose her little
girl is grown quite out of my knowledge. She must be a nice companion for
Horatia, who, I am glad to find, is so quick at her studies. Pray tell her not to
forget her aunt Matcham. With my best love to all the party, I remain,’ &c.
878, A. L. S. from Admiral Keats to the same. Dated Superö,
Cawsand Bay, May 18th, 1806. I page 4to., with SuperScription.
[P.]
“The two inclosed letters were returned to me yesterday, and I avail myself
again of Sir John Duckworth's politeness to convey them safely to you. They
compleat the number addressed by you to my care. Two I enclosed to you from
off Cadiz, five are under another cover with Sir John Duckworth, and the two in
this make seven. I sincerely hope you have recovered your health and Spirits.
* I have the honour to be,’ &c.
879. A. L. S. from Miss R. Bolton to her sister Mrs. Pierson. Dated
Colchester, May 21st (1806), 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription.
[P.]
* I left Akenham at twelve o’clock yesterday; poor Mary Ann was very bad
and my aunt almost distracted. It was distressing to me to leave her at such a
time, but Mrs. Andrews was waiting at Ipswich for me. Mrs. King returned in
the chaise which brought me to Ipswich. Tom returned to Ipswich again in the
evening to inform me Mary Ann was better, she was sensible, and wished to see
her mother, which she had not done for some time, as it was too distressing to
my aunt to see her in such a state. I was with her all Monday ; it was a dreadful
day to me ; she was delirious and yet at times perfectly sensible. Mrs. Hitch
and my aunt could not bear to be in the room, indeed she would not suffer them
in her sight. My spirits were kept up whilst I was there by my endeavours to be
of assistance ; now I am away I feel more, for I can think of nothing else. I
wrote to my mother on Sunday begging she would come to my aunt if it was
possible.
‘I have this moment received a letter from Lady Bolton. My mother,
Susanna, and herself, she informs me, are just arrived at Akenham. Mary Ann
is still composed, but they had none of them seen her. My mother remains some
days there ; we are to see Kitty and Emma here this evening on their way to
town ; it is a great satisfaction to me that my aunt has somebody with her, I know
she particularly wished for my mother. . .
‘Mrs. Smith was at Ipswich on Monday; she called at Mrs. King's, who told
her how ill Mary Ann was, and that Mrs. Andrews had better not go on to
Akenham as she intended, but that I should meet her at Ipswich.
* Mrs. Smith acquainted Mrs. Andrews with it, saying my cousin was not
expected to live till the next day, which my aunt Andrews interpreted she was
* William Henry West Betty, 1791–1874, better known as the ‘Young Roscius.” An actor
whose first appearance took place in 1803, and his last as a boy actor in 1808. After being put
under private tuition, he went to Christ's College, Cambridge, but returned to the stage in 1812.
In 1824 he found it expedient to retire, and passed the remainder of his life in the quiet enjoy-
ment of the large fortune he had amassed in his youth.
282 7THE A/AM/Z 7'O/W AAV/D [1806.
dead, and when she called on Mrs. Clarke she told her so ; we called on her again
to inform her of the mistake, but she had already written it to Mrs. Clarke, and
my aunt wrote a few lines to my father to contradict it; she begged I would
explain it to you. Mr. Andrews is very angry, as he had told Mrs. Henry of it.
‘You may expect to hear of her death very soon, though she may last some
days. I hope for my aunt's sake it will soon be over.
‘I am afraid I have dwelt too long on this unpleasant subject; you must
excuse me. It gave me great pleasure to hear you were so much better; I hope
to hear you are quite strong. Pray write me word of Caroline's improvements, I
hope she does not forget her musick. I am quite at a loss for musick here, as
my uncle is so fond of it, and I have none with me ; if you could manage and
Send me some from Miss Marshall I should like it, but do not trouble yourself; I
shall borrow what I can of Eliza Smith. Kitty tells me my brother is not
expected in London till next Wednesday; you may suppose how glad I was to
hear of his safe arrival, and how happy shall I be to see him. -
‘Pray remember me to all your party, and believe me,’ &c.
880. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to Lady Hamilton. Dated ‘Cranwich,
Monday morn’ (May 26th, 1806). 2% pages 4to, with Super-
Scription. [P.]
‘By the waggon on Saturday I sent your linnen from Mrs. Betts; 3 doz. &
3 towells, 4 pr. Sheets, Anne great coat, & some drawings belonging to her master.
By this day’s coach Eliza has sent you a box with rugs, which she hopes you will
most graciously accept as her work. By not having heard from you this week I
was afraid you were not quite the thing, but Mrs. Pierson’s letter to-day says you
are much as usual—I wish she could have said better. Your very agreeable
intelligence found us at Saham, Mrs. Rolfe never looking better. I hear Miss
Yonge means to return with Miss Burton into Shropshire ; the Archdeacon thinks
her too young to marry yet.
‘I am glad to hear Anne is at Merton. Mrs. Pierson has said the cause; she
will, I have no doubt, be quite well now. Remember me kindly to Mrs. Cadogan.
As to Mr. Bolton, I know not what he is about, he never writes to me. I hope you
will ; I feel quite uncomfortable this week not having heard from you. I hope
you are certain that I am,’ &c.
‘P. S.—Love to all your circle.’
881. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated ‘Thursday, noon
(May 29th, 1806). 3 pages 4to., with Superscription.
‘How good you are, my dear lady, to write to me so frequently with
Such flattering accounts as you give me of all my friends. They are much
delighted with Merton and your reception as you can with them. I am happy
the proper steps are going to be taken about the codicil; what a shame it was
not done long since. Why not accept the offer of going with the Earl and
Countess to the sea P. It may amuse for a time, and you can leave them whenever
you chuse. If you come to Cromer I may have a chance of seeing yozz. We
have had Mr. Tom Bolton of Akenham with us this week. He says D* Cluble
Says Mary Anne is a very different complaint from what was supposed—an abscess
On the liver. I have seen Mr Edwards. He looks as if he was going to the grave.
Madam is fat and vulgar as ever. I do not like her. Madame Partridge is
come here, but I have not seen her. What a pleasing description did you give
of the employments of all the party, & so just that if you had not said their names
I could have known them all by their employments. For a moment I wish'd
myself with you, & but a moment, for I cannot think of Merton without a broken
heart, even now can scarcely see for fears. How I do feel for you my own heart
can tell; but I beg pardon for mentioning the subject, nor would it have been
but that I well know your thoughts are always so. My dear Horatia, give my
kindest love to her. The more I thin/é, the dearer she is to me.
‘I am glad M* Cadogan likes my little Emma. I long to hear what her
father thinks of her. I wish I had anything amusing to tell you, but we see
nothing at Cranwich, and never move from it. God bless you. Yours,’ &c.
1806.] AWEZSOAV PAPERS. 283
882. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated ‘Cranwich, Friday,
noon (June 6th, 1806). 2% pages 4to, with SuperScription and
Seal. [P.]
“Shall I be glad to see you? (how could you ever for a joke write such
words 2) that I shall and all your party. You know my accomodations here are
the same as you left. I wish they were better, but a cheerfull heart and a hearty
welcome you will be sure to find. By a letter from my sister yesterday, I find
the Vicountess is going to law. What for, to enrich that son of hers; for depend
on it, she will not gain a sixpence, if so much income. What a vindictive woman
she is P Tisputes even the last words of the man she once fretended to love. She
has changed her mourning, & is off for Cheltenham. I hope it will purge away
all her sins. I would not have been with you at the parting for anything. Poor
Kate and you, I felt for very much indeed. Had I been with you I should not
have been a comforter. Poor M* Matcham seems very low. She has not left off
her mourning yet. They do not think of quiting Bath this summer. What a
rage the Earl will be in indeed to have such a wicked report about him and the
little woman will draw up with such disdain. - -
‘Give my kindest love to Mrs Cadogan. I wish she would be of your party.
‘God bless you, my dear Lady, and believe me at all times, yours,’ &c.
883. A. L. S. from the same to the same. No date (June 7th, 1806).
3 pages 4to, with SuperScription. [P.]
‘Thank you, thank you, my dear Lady, for your long and descriptive letter.
How I felt for you at the meeting, I thought of you all day. But how good you
were to stifle your own feelings to enjoy the happiness of others. Believe me,
they all saw and grieved with you for the cause, but no more on that subject.
My niece, Emily, who is with me, is much pleased at what you say affoul Alady
Bolton. She wished much to know your opinion what would be the result of so
short an interview.
‘How comes the Earl not to be in town at the birthday—surely he ought.
What use is the Codicil to him He cannot fear it should be any detriment to
him Zaozy. -
‘I hear they are going to spend some time at Yarmouth this month ; at least,
so Lady Charlotte writes to her cousin. You may be sure it is in the neighbour-
hood of their friends the Berneys. They are the last people I should wish to be
near, were I in their place after what has been talked of .
“Give my kind love to Mrs. Cadogan. She is beloved by all. I am glad Mr.
Bolton has had his tooth out (poor Emily has done the same). I shall be glad
when the agents are fixed, for I think the farm will want him, but I would not
hawe him come here before on no considerations.
‘Tell Kate, tho' I do not write, I congratulate her most cordially: to Sir Wm
I have written. Susanna is still in the house of mourning.
‘You ask me to write, but I think you will be tired of reading. Eliza begs I
will give her kind love to you & Mrs. Cadogan. How is Anne? We all join in
kind love to you and all the party. , God bless you, and believe me your,’ &c.
“Was Anne's bill ever paid or will they not allow it P’
884. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated ‘Cranwich, June 20th,’
(1806). 2 pages 4to., with SuperScription and Seal. [P.]
‘I was in hopes to have announced the arrival of Mr. & Mrs. Bolton, but not
a word have we heard from them. Beca arrived here yesterday from Akenham.
She left poor Mrs. Bolton very low indeed. Susanna is gone to Mrs. Taylor's to
spend a short time, & has promised to return to her aunt again, but when she
hears of your arrival I am sure she will wish to return home. What is the
Viscountess thinking of a lawsuit for twenty years, what is [she] desirous of getting? .
I rather think she is in Suffolk on a visit to Lady Riddleton, as Beca thought she
saw her at Colchester. Mr. Comyns has just been here ; come to consult Mr.
284 7A/E A/AM/Z 7'O/V AAV/O [1806.
Bolton about tythes. He says Madame cannot walk since the first week in July.
I hear the Earl, &c., are coming to Hilborow, but what do we care F I hope you
will bring all the party down with you we had in the Spring & Tom added to
them. Kiss dear Horatia, & tell her how happy her aunt Bolton will be to See
her. When will good Mrs. Cadogan perform her promise of visiting me. I hope
I shall see you in the course of next week. Give me two days' notice, that I may
have something in the Žof for dinner. How good you are for writing ! I wish
I could entertain you as well. God bless you, my dear friend.”
885. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated ‘Cranwich, June 29th
(1806). 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘I was glad to find by your letter that you had nearly fixed the day for coming
into Norfolk. We think the time long now till you arrive. Susanna is here,
busy in preparing for you ; at least, to have things as comfortable as we can for
you. I think Lady Charlotte will make a conquest worth having at Cambridge.
They are generally men of fortune that stay the commencement ; but the Earl
will look sharp after his daughter, none but men of fashion must have her, unless,
indeed, Mr. Berney will condescend ; but I hope Charlotte will have too much
spirit for that. Eliza and her cousin are gone to Suffolk to be confirmed by the
Bishop to-day. Poor Mr. Bayley came in to me just now crying most bitterly,
some officious person had told him we were going to leave Cranwich. He
knows very well Mrs. Wm. Bolton will take care of him, but he don’t like parting.
Your message to-day came just in time to comfort him. He is determined to
have a clean face the day you arrive, and be dressed, “but you know, mame, my
Lady can’t expect I should be so every day.” Whether he expects yº Ladyship is
to kiss him or what, I don’t know. I am happy to hear you are pleased with
Anne, but should hope she is so sensible of your goodness to her as always to be
grateful and good. Give my love to Mr. Bolton. Tell him he has not done his
part towards helping to accomodate you. I sent down twice to the Waggon, but
nothing for me. Our sheep-shearing was yesterday. Susanna's love to her
sister. She has not time to write, but will be obliged to her to make sure of the
young ladies when they go to town to get her a hat to ride, to walk in, the very
prettiest of the kind she can procure. She knows what she has now got ; it is
not proper for either.
‘Will you excuse my troubling you with a message. We beg our kindest love
to you and all your party.
“The Earl and Countess will be at Hilborow on Thursday.”
886. A. L. S. from the Rt. Hon. George Rose to the same. Dated Old
Palace Yard, July 3rd, 1806. I page 4to. [H.]
‘I have made arrangements for to-morrow that would render it really incon-
venient for me to wait on you while you are in town. I would, however, break
in upon these to call in Clarges Street if I have a chance of being useful to you,
but I am certain I cannot. What I have repeatedly suggested I am more and
more confirmed in, that the difficulty in affording you relief is increased to a great
extent by the length of time that has elapsed since your claim arose, in which
period there have been three administrations. If you cannot obtain attention to
it now, I am sure you had better think no more of it. I do not say this from
indifference in the subject, but from an anxiety that you should not continue to
entertain a hope that must (if you do not immediately obtain relief) end in
disappointment. Lord Nelson's codicil, I think, affords a ground for making a
last attempt.’
887. A. L. S. from Sir Thomas Louis to the same. Dated Cademill,
Newton Abbot, July 22nd, 1806. I; pages 4to, with Super-
scription. [P.]
‘I have been very often in the act of sitting down to write to you to say that
1806.] AVAEZSOAV PAA’Aº AºS. - 285
your youngster had joined the Canopus, and that he shall be taken care of. He
is a very fine boy, and no doubt will do well.
‘I hope you are now enjoying yourself at Merton, the prettiest place in the
world, and in the way, if possible, to make it more so, I Say nothing about the
comfort, because I know whatever you undertake will succeed. I hope Lady
Bolton has had another interview with Sir William, as I saw a few days since in
the papers his ship's arrival. I wish them joy and every happiness with all my
heart.
“And now for yourself. I hope you are doing well, and will receive everything
you are so truly deserving of in my opinion, and I sincerely hope all your ex-
pectations and wishes may be gratified. I beg you to remember me very kindly
to Mrs. Cadogan and all yours I am known to with many sincere regards.
‘P.S.—Don’t you forget me in the request I made some time ago. I shall
Soon join Canopus, as I understand she will be out of dock the beginning of next
month, when I will attend to your Żrotégée.
888. A. L. S. from Sir Thomas Duckworth to the same. Dated Stoke,
Plymouth, August 7th, I806. Ił pages 4to., with SuperScription
and Seal. [P.]
‘As I shall always have great pleasure in meeting your wishes, the trifling
request about Charles Fox cannot fail to be attended to whenever he makes his
appearance, and to it I will add every protection given. I was much mortified that
attendance and dependence while in town, but that to no purpose, deprived me of
the gratification of paying my compliments to you often at Merton, but as
it appears we are about to patch up a peace, if that happens I shall then be at
liberty to indulge my own feelings. A very great friend of mine, and an intelli-
gent, pleasant gentleman, of the Island of Jamaica, having, during a three weeks'
stay with me, expressed a great desire to be known to your Ladyship, I have
presumed to give him a letter of introduction, from a conviction you are kindred
Souls. Mrs. King begs to be held in your Ladyship's remembrance, and I
am, with real regard, my dear Lady Hamilton, your faithful friend.”
889. A. L. S. from Miss Eliza Bolton” to her sister Anne. No date
(1806). 2; pages 8vo., with Superscription. [P.]
“I should have written to you before, but I waited till you returned from
School. Tom tells me you get on very well in drawing, which I am very glad to
hear. I was very much obliged to you for the pencils, which were very acceptable,
though at this time I have nothing to copy. Susanna desires to say that you
must take care of all the towells that come up with the things. There is one
to-day. Lady Hamilton is very much obliged to you for your letter. Give my
love to Miss Connor, and tell her I know nothing of the music she spoke of
belonging to Mrs. Bartholomew. The last time I saw it was in Clarges Street,
but I know nothing more. Give my love to Lady Charlotte, and thank her for
the music which she sent me. My uncle and Mrs. Pearman left us to-day for
Brancaster. Miss Smith is still with us, and stays till papa returns to town, when
he takes her with him on a visit to a lady in town. I shall be very sorry to
part with her. I assure [you] she is at present my music mistress till I get Becca.
Love to all. I am,’ &c.
‘2 couple of rabbits.
“A goose.
‘A spare rib of pork.”
890. A. L. S. from Mr. Oliver to Lady Hamilton. Dated August 16th,
I806. I; pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘I have been to the White Horse, in Fetter Lane, and at the Golden Cross ;
* Eliza Ann Bolton, 3rd daughter of Mr. Thomas Bolton. She married the Rev. Henry
Girdlestone, of Colton St. Andrew, Norfolk,
286
THE HAMILTON AND [1806.
no such person is yet come by the Lynn coach. I have left a message, & shall
be on the look out when he arrives. Mr. Salter don’t know any one going to
Plymouth, but will enquire. I shall see him off to that place, and in all things do
your Ladyship's will and pleasure. Mr. Harrison is greatly beholden to your
Ladyship for yr kind offer of assistance that he stands so much in need of His
affairs are quite desperate. Mr. Chapel has stopped the weekly allowance. No
one but y Ladyship can enable him to finish his work, and without some Small
assistance now, the whole must be spoiled. He wished to do honour to the work
& justice to those who take it, all which, & Saving him from ruin, depends on a
few kind remarks from your Ladyship in his extremity, for which favour he will
be thankful as long as he lives. Yº Ladyship has it in yº power thus to alleviate
his numerous suffering family, for, when once his work is done, he can demand
his money, & not before. I cannot go to Merton. Shall see the Duke, & deliver
y” Ladyship's kind message. e
‘I have opened this letter to tell yr Ladyship that Mr. Dubois had franked his
number. Francis came to town yesterday. Signora Madre was quite well. I
hope this will find yr Ladyship in perfect health.
“Signor Racco Bovi has called. He goes next week to Naples, and will be
glad to take any letters, &c. Mr. Harrison is here bewailing y” Ladyship's
absence, & still more y” illness, as the greatest evil fortune.
“Mr. Matcham is gone to his new estate. Nanny has been here. I was out.
She returns to-morrow. A man has called for 44 shillings, amount of a pair
of boots for the coachman.
‘Mr. Amyot has called.’
891. A. L. S. from Mrs. Peirson to the same. Dated Brancaster,
August 26th, 1806. 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘Your letter has made me more unhappy than I was before, which I thought
impossible. How extraordinary that Susanna did not inform you of the state they
were in, that you might have judged for yourself whether or not to have gone.
We hope your fright has magnified the danger. My mother entreats that you
will return to Brancaster with your party immediately, and wait till the danger is
over. I cannot express how anxious I shall be till I hear your determination—do,
my dear, my beloved friend, returns to us. We think, as you kept the dear
Horatia from them, she is perfectly safe, therefore do not fret about it; if you
make yourself ill you break my heart. We are much obliged to you for the care
you have taken of Emily, and long to thank you in person. I shall send this off
to Wells to-morrow morning early, that you may be sure to have it to-morrow,
& then you may be with us the day after. I rode to Burnham last night, in hopes
of finding a letter from you, & I could not have patience to wait the arrival of our
Snail-paced post. I was disappointed. I hope you will receive four letters which
I forwarded to you yesterday, & one to-day, & four papers came last night, but
not this evening.
‘I have nothing new to tell you, except that Caroline was obliged to have a
tooth drawn, & that I cried famously—foolishly I might say. Tell Emily my
mother is much the same as when you left us, and that I shall not forgive her if
she does not prevail on you to return to us. I hope you will not want much
entreaty to oblige us all. -
‘My mother, Miss Bolton, &c., join me in kindest love. Do give me an oppor-
tunity of regaining your good opinion, which I know I sunk in the last few days,
& you will find that you are dearer than ever to yours,’ &c.
‘Kiss Horatia for me & Caroline.’
With the above is the following A. L. S. from Miss M. Bolton to Lady
Hamilton –“My dear Lady Hamilton, come to us directly. I hope & think you
can have taken no infection ; we are not afraid, at any rate. Susannah certainly
could not think it catching or she would have mentioned it at Swaffham, which,
at all events, she ought to have done. -
“We shall be expecting you Saturday and Sunday. The sea breezes, I hope,
will keep us in health, I feel greatly obliged by your kind attention to Emily.
1806.] AVAEZSOAV AAA’AA’.S. 287
Why stop at Hilbro'ſ You must excuse me, but I do think you would have done
better to have returned to us immediately. I have received a letter from M*
Bolton this eveng. All does not go on smoothly; Mº Wilson, I believe, is not a
very pleasant man. If the young ladies would pick up a parson to bring with
them, he would be a welcome guest for a few weeks. Yours,’ &c.
892. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated ‘Cranwich, Friday
noon (September 19th, 1806). 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription.
[P.]
‘You are very kind indeed in writing me so many letters. I am glad to hear
your invalid is getting better. How is good Mrs. Cadogan 2 What delightful
weather for Merton. I was sure you would have as much company as you chose,
wherever you were. Remember me to Mrs. Lind, if she asks after me. The
Earl was here on Monday, came along in his carriage with his papers, red trunk,
&c., to have some talk with Mr. Bolton, and was much vexed he was not at home.
To-day I believe he & Archdeacon dine at old Dashwoods on venison and a
pasty besides. The Countess, I believe, goes to Swaffham. The Earl expects to
have a summons to Father Berney's, as soon as young Berney returns, for Ld.
Merton, to stay a week or two with them on a shooting party, but the Earl means
to stay a week with them. The ladies remain at Swaffham, so there is an end of
my seeing them in Norfolk. What do you think of the Braem żarty. Mr. Comyns
has just been here. He begs his best respects to you and all the party. He is
full of a very fine dinner and company they had at Mr. Frank's. I had a letter
from Mr. Bolton, who has seen Mr. Vansittart, who remembers his promise and
says he will tell Lº Grenville so, but Mr. B. says, do not be too sanguine. How-
ever, his going to town certainly was of great use, nothing like being present
yourself. Susanna has been down to Rundford to look at y” girl. She says she
is a very spruce-looking girl, therefore either will suit. Let me know in your
next letter. Mrs. Girdlestone is still with me. Lady Bolton has some thoughts of
going to Brancaster for a week or two before the cold weather comes in, most
likely next week, when Sir Wim Bolton returns to Ipswich again. Give my kind
love to dear Horatia, & believe me, my dear Lady Hamilton, I shall be truly happy
to hear you are tolerable cheerfull & amongst your friends. We all join in love &
best wishes to you, and believe me,’ &c.
893. A. L. S. from Mrs. Peirson to the same. Dated ‘Brancaster,
Tuesday, 23rd September’ (1806). 3.} pages 4to., with Super-
Scription and Seal, -
* I enclose a Bank post bill for twenty pounds, which you paid to Mr. Cutting
without first endorsing it. You will have the goodness to write your name on the
back of it, and send it to me by return of post, as the man wants to make use of
it. I received your letter the day I wrote to you, & was very happy to find you
were well, and that you found your good mother the same. I hope long before
this Miss Foote is recovered. Bessie begs I will thank you for your kind invita-
tion. She cannot say positively when she can come, as that depends upon a
proper opportunity offering for her going up, as my father never suffers us to
travel alone, but the sooner, the better she will like it. My mother is not very
well, and her spirits are not good. She has just heard the death of her brother,
Mr. William Woodthorpe, the father of the nephew you had the goodness to write
to Captain Morris abont. He died in a fit ; his death is perhaps a relief to his
family.
‘We are expecting Lady Bolton and Emma to-day; the weather is unfavour-
able, & I fear it was just tempting enough for them to sett off. She come in
the gig. Mr. Crowe has just been here. His son is worse; he is going with him
to Lynne, if he is able to bear the journey, to consult Dr. Redfern if it would be
right for him to go to the West of England. They are now too late. You do not
mention Horatia in your letter to me; I hope she is well, and that she has not
288 7A/AE A/AM/ZZ TOAV A/V/O [1806.
forgot her Brancaster cousins. Kiss her for me & Caroline. Give my love to Anna,
who, I am very glad to hear, is so good to Misses Conner, Footy, & Reynolds,
& to your mother remember me most affectionately. I have almost platted my
daughter a hat, & have been a regular school mistress since you left me. Write
me a long letter; your letters are my greatest pleasure, as your love, your friend-
ship, are my greatest happiness, so answer this as usual.
“My father, mother, Miss Bolton, & sister desire to be remembered to you and
the rest of your party. The postwoman waits to take this to Burnham.’
894. Doc. S. by George III. Dated September 30th, 1806. 3 pages
folio. [P]
“George the Third, by the Grace of God, of the United Kingdom of Great
Britain and Ireland King, Defender of the Faith, &c., to our Right Trusty and
Right Entirely Beloved Cousin, Charles Duke of Norfolk, Earl Marshal and our
Hereditary Marshal of England Greeting :—
‘Whereas William Earl Nelson, Doctor in Divinity, William Haslewood,
Esquire (Executors of the last will and testament of the late Horatio, Viscount &
Baron Nelson of the Nile & of Burnham Thorpe, in the County of Norfolk, Baron
Nelson of the Nile and of Hillborough, in the said County, Knight of the most
Honourable Military Order of the Bath, Vice-Admiral of the White Squadron,
Duke of Bronté in the Kingdom of Sicily, &c., deceased), & Dame Emma
Hamilton (widow & relict of the late Sir William Hamilton, K.B., deceased),
named in & by a codicil annexed to the said will sole guardian of Horatia Nelson
Thompson, an infant, have, by their petition, humbly presented unto us that the
said Horatio, late Viscount & Baron Nelson, having, in a clause contained in a
codicil to his last will & testament, which codicil bears date the twenty-first day of
October last, expressed himself in the following words, “I do leave to the benefi-
cence of my country my adopted daughter Horatia Nelson Thompson, & I desire
she will use in future the name of Nelson only,” the petitioners are desirous that
the said injunction should be strictly complied with, the petitioners, therefore, on
behalf of the said infant, most humbly pray our Royal licence & authority that the
said Horatia Nelson Thompson may assume & use the surname of Nelson only,
know ye that we of our princely grace & special favour have given & granted, &
by these presents do give and grant, unto the said petitioners, on behalf of the
said infant Horatia Nelson Thompson our royal licence & authority, that she may
assume & use the surname of Nelson only, provided this our commission and
declaration be recorded in our College of Arms, otherwise this our licence and
permission to be void & of none effect. Our will and pleasure is, therefore,
that you, Charles Duke of Norfolk, to whom the cognizance of matters of this
nature doth properly belong, do require & command that this our commission and
declaration be recorded in our College of Arms, to the end that our officers of
Arms & all others upon occasion may take full notice and have knowledge thereof,
and for so doing, this shall be your warrant.
‘Given at our court of Saint James's, the thirtieth day of September, 1806, in the
forty-ninth year of our reign. By His Majesty's command. [Signed] SPENCER.’
* Recorded in the College of Arms, London, in the Register I 37, pursuant to a
warrant from the most noble Charles Duke of Norfolk, Earl Marshal and
Hereditary Marshal of England, and examined therewith this fourteenth day of
October, 1806. [Signed] GEORGE HARRISON, Clarencieux & Register.’
895. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to Lady Hamilton. No date (Octo-
ber 4th, 1806). 2% pages 4to., with SuperScription.
* Thank you, my dear Lady Hamilton, for your letters, for indeed Mr. Bolton
does not write so often as I could wish. I know he does not like to tell me he
has no chance of having a share of the agency, but I had rather hear it at once
than be kept in suspence. I do not think after this he can ever apply for anything
more, but never mind, if they will but do something for you I shall be satisfied.
The Earl & Countess, with Lady Charlotte, will be in town this week. Surely
1806.] NELSON PAPERS. - 289
Miss Yonge has not acted an honourable part by Mr. Rolfe. She ought to have
known her mind sooner. He has not left the country, but is at Ely. I should not
wonder if old Dashwood had an eye to him for his daughter, but he certainly was
So very fond of Eliza Yonge, that I do not think he will marry in haste. What
nuts for the Whitchurches. You must have had a delightful musical party on
Friday. Mrs. Lind, I daresay, was delighted to be of the party, as who would not ?
Is Blindy yet returned 2 I wish to know. If you will be so good as to chuse a
pattern for bottle rugs, she will have much pleasure in working them, Eliza
desires me to say, with her kind love. Mr. Wm. Bolton is in Suffolk, I suppose,
waiting for his broker as [they] have some business to transact for Mrs. S. Bolton.
I wish I could tell you anything to amuse you, but I have not been out of Cranwich
since you left me. All the family join in united love to Mrs. Cadogan and all
your circle.
‘Tell Mr. Bolton I have directed a small parcel for him in Clarges Street, for
the last time, I suppose.”
896. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated ‘Friday morning
(October I Ith), 1806. 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘How shocked and surprized I was, my dear friend, at the contents of your
last letter. Poor wretched girl, what will become of her ? What could possess
her to circulate such things P But I do not agree with you in thinking that she
ought to have been told before, nor do I think anything more ought to have been
Said than to set her right. It is no kindness to set you fretting, for after all Miss
C. would not even have hinted a word but to your friends, who of course would
not have believed anything to your prejudice; & that she well knew, for no one
would have been warmer in your cause, had she heard any person living even
$24.7/m2sed anything against you. Now, my dear Lady, pardon me if I have said
anything to offend you. I am sure I would say and do everything to please and
nothing to fret.
‘I have sent by the coach yesterday a hare for dear Mrs. Cadogan, the first I
have had this year. When Susanna goes to Swaffham she will get Miss Roger-
son’s bill ; I have likewise a small bill sent from Mr. Griffens; these, with the
Dr.’s bill shall be sent upon an opportunity. As to the post bills, she says she has
kept no account, & they are paid for with ours.
‘The Earl and Countess will be in town, I suppose, by the time you receive
this. I bought nothing at the auction, but Mr. Mower bought the drawing-room
chairs & cushions, I dare say for your Ladyship to sit on, or my Royal/. We
have had a letter from Sir William, off Ushant with the fleet, but was to sail again
in a few days. Have you seen Mr. Matcham is going down to his place to build,
for I suppose they will remove in the spring. Mr. Bolton is expected by his
brother at Ipswich, on business for Mrs. S. Bolton ; he can do no good in town
now, or, as it has turned out, has he. You never tell me how your business of the
codicil goes on ; believe me, no one is more anxious than I am in everything that
concerns yozz. Ever,’ &c.
897. A.L.S. from Lady Bolton to Sir William Bolton. Dated Cranwich,
October 28th (1806). 3.} pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
* I yesterday received a letter from my mother saying Captain Joyce would
take a letter from me to you ; she likewise adds that she understands you will
have a share (as commanding officer) in the prizes taken by Lieut. Nicholson,
and Congratulates me on it. But I own I am not very sanguine about it ; I fear
it is not true, but I understand nothing of these matters. My father flatters
himself that you will get it. At any rate, we are determined to enjoy it in
imagination, for fear we should not in reality. My mother has seen your friend,
Capt. Staines, and was pleased with him. Lady Hamilton, my mother, and all
the party from Merton, have been to Woolwich to the Tysons to see the launch
of the Ocean. Everything went off well ; no accidents happened. It must have
been a very grand sight ! She is the longest ship ever built in this country. I
WOL. II. U
29O THE HAMILTON AND [1806.
forgot to mention your father wrote to Capt. Staines to invite him to Brancaster.
We had a letter from him to say he will come if possible, but he fears it will not
be in his power. Your father was with us one day last week. He had been to
Cambridge with Henry Girdlestone ; he is now returned to Halleday. Your
mother is at Colchester; your brother and Charles Girdlestone are with her.
There was a bad fever near Beccles, and, several people having died, your father
thought it better to take them away for the present. Mr. Lorrey Girdlestone says
they have earned the holiday—they have been so attentive to their lessons. I
hear from Miss Langford her brother, to his great mortification, is not going to
the Mediterranean, but is ordered to go with a convoy to the coast of Africa
again. His only consolation is, he is not ordered to stop, but to return back to
England directly. Mr. George Langford is expected at Swaffham at the coursing
meeting; he is only waiting for leave of absence. I understand he likes being a
soldier very much. We expect Becca and Eliza Smith to-morrow to spend a
short time with us. It will not, I fear, be long, for the party are very small at
Brancaster, and your father and mother are not likely to return at present. I
have heard no news since I have been home, for Susanna and Eliza have been
out nowhere, not even to Swaffham. I can now say I am quite well. This
weather agrees with me, and a cold bath, which I have every morning, certainly
strengthens me. I am no walker at present, but that I attribute in a great degree
to not having been accustomed to it for some time. Mrs. Pierson has written to
me to beg I will ask you to enquire of Dr. Scott, when you see him, what he did
with the parcel he had to deliver from Mrs. Robinson to Capt. Robinson (you
mentioned in one of your letters it was Arabella's picture). It has never been
received by him, and Mrs. R. has written to your sister to ask her to make some
enquiries about it. I hear Emily was so delighted at hearing of your mother's
recovering from a slight indisposition she has had (very slight, only Emily, who
you know is very timid, alarmed herself about it) that she wrote half a
sheet to Becca, but did not venture to send it. I begin now to despair of ever
having her for a correspondent ; she is, I think, incorrigible. My father desires
me to say, if you meet with an excellent lot of tobacco remember him, and bring
him some. Susanna sends her love to you, and hopes you will not save any for
yourself. You know she hates Smoking, nor is she a bit fonder of it than when
you left her. My dear Emma is well. She has lost her maid, who has had the
care of her ever since she was born, and of whom she is very fond. She left her
last night ; she is going to be married, or I would not have parted with her, as
she was an excellent servant and very attentive to the child. Poor Emma does
not love her new maid as well, and it causes some tears at night ; for in the day
she is very fond of her, as she is not afraid of strangers. She is in a fair way of
being spoilt, for she is indulged by the whole house. She has learnt to say when
she is asked where her papa is, “gone to Sea,” but this is not often said when my
father is present, for then she points to him, as she always calls him papa. She
repeats everything after you, but she speaks but few sentences at present. She
promises to love her papa very much ; in short, she says she will be a dutiful
daughter. I cannot say she is very obedient to mama, I never can persuade her
I am in earnest. If I bid her not do anything, she does it, looks up in my face,
and laughs ; but if I look grave, she comes directly and holds up her little
face to be kissed, for she cannot bear any one to be angry with her. All unite in
love,’ &c.
898. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to Lady Hamilton. Dated Bath,
November IOth, 1806. 2 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“I was very happy, my dear Lady Hamilton, to receive a few lines from you.
I hope you will not forget to let us hear from you sometimes; it will always give
us pleasure to hear from yourself that you are well and comfortable. I sometimes
flatter myself that we shall see you at our little farm ; all we can promise is home/y
fare & a hearty welcome, for, be assur’d, my dear Lady Hamilton, I never can
forget the many happy days we have spent together. We shall be in Sussex, I
hope, early in the Summer, as we intend to dispose of our house as soon as
possible. My good man will be in town about Christmas, as I am fearful we
1806.] MEZSOAV PAPERS. 291
cannot prevail upon the gentleman to remain in our house in Sussex longer than
that time. Pray give my love to Horatia, and tell her not to forget her at/má
Matcham, & that I hope to present all her cousins to her in the summer. As
Mr. M. will add a few lines, I shall only beg my best wishes to Mrs. Cadogan &
all your party. Believe me to be,’ &c.
[* “You guard us against malevolent tongues, but, be assured, we hear nothing
of you but what is good. Knowing our attachment, even your enemies would not,
in our presence, infringe the rules of civility by speaking anything derogatory of
you—our associates are your admirers. You need not tell me that you will ever
continue a friend & well-wisher to the family; your natural disposition sufficiently
guarantees it, we therefore never doubt it.
‘Our house, I fear, will not be so readily sold as we flatter'd ourselves ; the
winter is coming on, and we still hope we shall not be obliged to sell it under its
value. At Ashfold Lodge we shall have a hope of seeing you, as the distance
from London is nothing. g
‘Do, my dear Lady, urge the Earl to exert his interest to procure for Oliver
some appointment. He has a fine friend in you, but it would relieve his mind if
he could obtain some little independence. Before Christmas I shall have the
pleasure of paying my respects to you. I am,’ &c.]
899. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated ‘Thursday morning’
(November 15th, 1806). 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.
‘What a letter, my dear Lady, did you write me ; how could you think that
people who were receiving obligations from you every day, in the person of their
daughter, could ever be ungratefull. But I hope you received my letter, & that
set all matters right. As to Mr. Bolton, he really worked like a horse from morn-
ing to night, & had no time to see you, his son, or Mr. Goldsmid, before he came
home, where he was much wanted, as we could do no further, having neither
money or credit, as we could sell nothing without him, and Mrs. S. Bolton was
come here in hopes to meet him. Had he known where and when to have seen
you in town, he would have stolen an hour from sleep to have seen you. He was
in hopes you would have given him a noſe, but, be assured, you will always be
loved and respected by us both, not only on your own account, but for the sake
of him who is gone. Give my love to dear Horatia ; Anne I will write a line to
the other side. Mr. Bolton, in some of his perigrinations, met with a gentleman
who is the great friend of the Viscontess. However, he gave him his opinion
pretty freely, as you know he can do ; amongst others, he said “You, as a Sensible
man, cannot have known her so long without knowing she is a f .’ The gent.
gave an assenting nod. Thank you for the verses. Mr. Ollivere was So good
as to send me an account of the fête. I am sure you will enjoy yourself with
Mrs. Benfield. Whatever either Mr. Bolton or myself may do, be assured we
would not willingly for a moment slight you, &, be assured, you have not firmer
ſ?iends, and with reason. Yours,’ &c.
[t “Thank you, my dear Anne, for your letter. I wish you would write
oftener both to me and your sisters. I am glad you are sensible of my Lady’s
kindness to you. I was pleased to hear you made your own things, you will find
the good effects of it every day; it costs as much money to pay for the making as
it does for the buying. Give my kind love to Mrs. Nelson, and tell her the goose
was not forgotten, but I understood she was not in town at the time. I fear they
are not so good just now, but I will send her a ham if she likes that better, when
she gives me a direction. Give my kindest love to Mrs. Cadogan, Miss Conner,
& all your party. Give my kindest love to Tom, and ask if he wants anything.
His father was to have done it but came away in such a hurry he saw no one.
Believe me,’ &c.]
* The portion in square brackets is in Mr. Matcham's handwriting. tº
+ The portion in square brackets is to the writer’s daughter Anne, at that time staying with
Lady Hamilton. . -
292 THE HAMILTON AND - [1807.
900. A. L. S. from Lady Bolton to the same. Dated Cranwich, March 1st,
I807. 3.} pages 4to, with Superscription. [P.]
“I should have written before this, to have thanked you for your kind letter
with the agreeable intelligence about Sir William, but I was in hopes I should
have been able to inform you I had had letters from him, but I have now given
up all expectation of it at present; you will easily imagine the pleasure I received
from the news you were so kind as to send me of him. I had been So long in
uncertainty about him that I began to be very uneasy about it. I cannot express
how much I feel obliged to you for sending it to me so expeditiously, but you were
always quick in executing what you think would give pleasure to your friend.
“I’mma has just been asking to whom I am writing, and when I told her, she
desires I will tell Lady Hamilton & Miss Horatia that she is very good, she talks
often of her grandmama. She wishes she was at home, for she wants to talk to
her. She sings, she often asks for her, & sends kisses to everybody she knew at
Merton.
‘Eliza and I are still alone, for tho' we have been expecting my father &
Susanna for several days, but they are not yet arrived ; perhaps they will come
this evening. I am much obliged to Anne for her letters, but who Mrs. Batchly
is we are at a loss to discover ; we imagine it is Marianne, but yet we know not
what can bring her into Norfolk. I shall write a few lines to my mother on the
other side. Eliza unites in love to all your circle. Your affectionate and
obliged,’ &c. - -
(LETTER TO HER MOTHER.)
“I received your letter this morning, and tho’ I liave nothing to say, I wish to
write a few lines to thank you for it. The print for the bed Susanna has got at
Ipswich ; but as she cannot match the print for my patchwork, I should be obliged
to you to try the same coloured ground, and the pattern Small. I should prefer
something with yellow or green, but if the ground is the same colour, I should like
to have three yards ; or a yard and a half would do. If you can get it and send it
by Mrs. Batchely, I should be very glad. I think I will not trouble you to get the
Calico for the lining of my bed, as I find I can get a very good peice of muslim for
a shilling a yard, yard wide, or ell wide at one shilling & sixpence, and I do not
think it likely you could get it cheaper, & have the trouble & expence of getting it
and sending it down.
‘I am in haste, as I fear being too late for the post. Yours,’ &c.
‘We have read Văcăssifiedes Abroad,” and like it very much.”f
901. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Cranwich, March 5th
(1807). I; pages 4to, with Superscription. [P.]
“I feel truly grateful for your kindness to me on all occasions. I have just
heard from Mr William Bolton you have been so kind as to write to Lord St.
Vincent to take Sir William under his command—he informs me the request was
granted, and that orders are to be sent to recall him. I know not how to express
my sense of your goodness to me ; be assured I shall ever feel it. My dear little
girl, I assure you, talks often of Lady Hamilton, and says she loves her very
much indeed; she knows your picture, and says it is a beauty. She is very fond
of talking of Horatia ; I am sure they would be great friends. Emma is so
fond of children ; she says grandmama is coming from London to see her, and
counts of seeing her very much. I have heard from Mrs. Peirson very lately,
she desires her best love to you. Susanna & Eliza unite with me in love to you.
Pray remember us to Mrs. Cadogan and Miss Horatia for us.”
* Văcăssitudes Abroad, or the Ghost of my Father, a novel by Mrs. A. M. Bennett, published
in 1806. Mrs. Bennett, who wrote a number of novels, died in 1808.
† At the bottom in another hand is the following note from Miss E. A. Bolton to Lady
Hamilton : “I have just been enquiring of Lady Bolton if she mentioned me particularly to you
and Horatia, as I desired her. I find she has only given it all together, and as she asked me to
direct the letter, I would not let it go without beging you to accept the love of yours,’ &c.
1807.] AVAEZSOAV AAA’AºA'.S. “ 293
902. A. L. S. from Miss Eliza Anne Bolton to the same. Dated Cran-
wich, March 8th, 1807. 24 pages 4to,with Superscription. [P.]
‘I received the parcel yesterday morning. For the gown I beg you will accept
my best thanks. Lady Bolton desires me also to thank you for the pieces for
patchwork which we received with the gown. My sister Susanna returned from
Suffolk only last Monday. We were very glad when they returned, as we had
been very dull the week before. She left Mrs. Taylor very well. As we have not
much news at Cranwich, Susanna and myself purpose going in a few days to
Swaffham, to pick up a little—where we have not been for some time. I hope
Horatia is better, as we heard from Mrs. Bachellor she had had chicken pox,
which must have made her very ill. Pray give my love to her, and tell her I
think Emma will be able to dance with her when she sees her next.
‘As Lady Bolton talks of writing, I must leave the rest of the paper for her.
Pray remember me to Mrs. Cadogan when you see her. My father and sisters
unite with me in love to all the party, and accept the same from.’
“Emma desired me to give her love to Lady Hamilton, and tell her that she
would send her a piece of sugared barley. The above is the exact message.’
908. A. L. S. from Lady Bolton to the same. No date (March 8th,
I807). I; pages 4to, [P.] -
‘I would not suffer this letter to go without writing a few lines to thank you for
your kind letters. I desired Eliza to return my thanks for the patchwork, which
I hope she has done. Susanna and I shall be most happy to accompany you to
the seaside, or, indeed, to see you at any place. My mother flatters us you will
pay us a visit in the course of the summer. I hope you will, and enliven Cran-
wich, which without you is far from gay. If it were not for my work, I should be
tired of living where we have not the chance of seeing a soul. Emma indeed is
alway merry, and is singing and dancing from morning till night. She has not
forgot Merton, but was describing her going over the bridge to the dairy to see
the milk, tho' of all she saw there Mr. Sancho made the greatest impression. .
“My father talks of writing to my mother in a day or two. Susanna desires
her love to Anne ; she has not had a letter from her lately. We should have
written to you yesterday as soon as the parcel arrived, but it was not a post day.
You must take care of yourself, for everybody have been ill about us with very
bad Colds & cough. You will find it very difficult to get rid of it. I have a bad
cold now, indeed I have not been without this winter. My mother must excuse
; not writing, for as I write to you so often my brains will not furnish another
etter.”
904. A. L. S. from Lady Abercorn” to the same. No date (1807 ?).
2 pages 4to. [P.]
“I must confide a secret to you which I depend upon your keeping, because I
do not wish a conversation about it. The Princess of Wales dines here, and, I
hope, on Friday, that being the only day neither Naldi or Madame Bianchi c'
dine with us. As Naldi must return to town, c6 you not contrive that he shou'd
come after dinner on Friday (I cº, send the carriage for him). He cº stay all
Saturday and Sunday; manage it if you can well. He will be a great acquisition
on Friday evening, but cºl not well dine with the Princess of Wales. We cº send
him back on Sunday night if he wish’d it, or on Monday as early as he pleased,
but if that arrangement don’t suit him, any other days he likes whilst you are with
us we shall be very happy to see him. º
‘Thursday will answer just as well for us, except being a day longer without
the pleasure of your company. When does Madame Bianchi come: e
‘We hope you will not forget any of your shawls or things for attitudes.
Yours,’ &c.
º, Anne Jane, daughter of Arthur, 2nd Earl of Arran, widow of Henry Hatton, married,
April 3rd, 1800 (his third wife), the first Marquis of Abercorn. She died in 1827.
294 7A/E HAM/Z7'OAV AAV7) [1807.
905. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton and Lady Bolton to the same. Dated
Cranwich, March 23rd (1807). 3} pages 4to., with SuperScrip-
tion. [P.]
‘We left you with our hearts full of your kindness & attentions, both to Becca
& myself. As to my daughters, I shall leave them to express their own acknow-
ledgements. We talked oſ nothing but you for the first hour, but I thought we
should be so worn out before we began our journey, therefore, when we had
breakfasted at Epping, I proposed turning our thoughts to our friends we were
going to meet. We arrived about nine quite worn out. All yesterday I was very
ill, & not much better to-day. Kiss dear Horatia for me ; tell her I love her, I
think, better than ever. As to Emma, glad as she was to see us, would have
rather seen Lady Hamilton & Miss Horatia. I am glad the new minister is such
as you like. I hope now you will soon be well, and then perhaps it will be
fortunate you were an invalid, as it prevented your business being brought
before those cold-hearted Grenvilles. Mr. Bolton says he will let them be safely
seated before he comes to town. Give my love to Mrs. Voller & thank her for
her letter. I will write to Anne & her the middle of the week. Make my kindest
love & regard to dear Mrs. Cadogan ; thank her for her kindness to me and
mine. Love to Miss Reynolds, Miss Boydell, and all the party. Ever believe
me your,’ &c.
‘Mr. Bolton desires I will give his kind love to you, & he is pleased to see
you consider your own interest in getting rid of that fellow Crib,' &c.
(FROM LADY BOLTON.)
‘I will write a few lines, my dear Lady H., to thank you for your handsome
presents to my dear Emma ; they are not to be shown till to-morrow, as we mean to
give a fête. Nanny Gant, her baby, and Miss Sarah Jex are the guests invited, and
there are very few people she would prefer having, I think, except you and Horatia,
for when I told her that her grandmama was coming home, she said she should
like to see her, but she had rather see Lady Hamilton and Miss Horatia. I
should have written before to thank you for the number of kind letters I have
received, but I have been very ill all the week with a very bad cold and sore
throat, which have made me feel too ill to write. Indeed, to-day, I have so bad a
headache that I can scarcely hold it up. If, therefore, I omit returning my thanks
for your presents so fully as I ought to do, you must lay it to my head, and not to
my heart. Susanna desires me to return her thanks for the very handsome gown
you have sent her. It is beautiful ; I think it the handsomest pattern we ever
saw. Eliza went to Brancaster yesterday. Anne thanks you for your presents ;
she will write herself, but she said she should wait a few days, if I would write and
return her thanks, as she is anxious that a day should not pass before you hear
how much obliged she is for your presents. Susanna desires me to return her
thanks for your letter, but my mother writes so often that she has not often an
opportunity of writing. We admire Za Belle Assemblée.
‘Love to all. You must excuse my writing any more, my head is So bad.'
906. A. L. S. from Miss R. Bolton to the same. Dated ‘Brancaster,
March 24” (1807). Ił pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“We reached home in safety at the time we had appointed, and found all the
party in good health and spirits. We persuaded Mr. Bolton to give his consent
to Eliza's accompanying us to Brancaster, which adds to the gaiety of our party.
I feel very anxious to hear that you have lost your cold. The weather is, I think,
more favourable than it has been of late. I hope the good air of Merton will
soon make a cure. Every one tells me of the good effect it has had on me, and
that I look much better than when I left Brancaster. Eliza sends her love, and
thanks you for the book, which she is much delighted with. She begs you to
give her love to Horatia ; she is much mortified at her not having received her
letter. Mrs. Peirson is anxious for the letter you have promised. I hope, if you
do not feel inclined to take up your pen, you will ask Anna to let me know how
you and all at Merton are. All here beg to be remembered to you, Mrs. Cadogan,
and all your party. I beg you will give my love particularly to Horatia.’
1807.] NELSON PAPERS. 295
907. Three A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to Mrs. Voller, to her daughter
Anne, and to Lady Hamilton. Dated ‘Cranwich, Wednesday,
noon (March 25th, 1807). 34 pages 4to., with SuperScription.
[P.]
1. (To Mrs. Voller.) “You were very good, my dear Mrs. Voller, to write
to me when I had used you so shabbily before. I am afraid Tom Bolton will
make but a bad hand at the kissing breeches part of the business, but I hope
he will come to town when they are all firmly seated. Tell my Lady I hope
these new ministers will do such things for her as will, with the help of the fine
weather, quite restore her to her usual state of health & spirits. No one wishes
it more, & you will say no one has more reason, for I know not where I should
find so good a friend. Tell my dear Horatia, Emma was delighted with her
letter, &, when she is able, will write to her, but that will be, I doubt, this
many a day. Give my love to Miss Voller, and accept the same from all this
party.’
2. (To Miss Anne Bolton.) “Your sister Susanna thanks you for your letter,
& will certainly write soon. I forgot to tell Mrs. Voller the velvet spensers
were much approved of— the thing of all things they wished for. Eliza is gone
to Brancaster for a few weeks only. The toys & books were opened on Emma's
birthday. Such shouting and such joy you never beheld. She talked all day
of Miss Horatia. Be so good as to pay for me at Hamilton's, James Street, 5/6
for a piece of silver, & at Turner's for 2 pair of short gloves & 2 p" socks. Tell
Mary Arbour I have left a chemise and a napkin behind me, the former (dirty)
I suppose she will find with your’s when she wash. I am glad to hear Such a
good character of you for your early rising, &c. Tell Mr. Oliver the book he
bought for me has 16 pages left out, therefore will trouble him to secure me
another. I will send the one I have the first opportunity. Give my love to Miss
Boydell & your father ; particularly to her. Remember us to Miss Reynolds
and Letitia. The whole party send love to you.’
3. (To Lady Hamilton.) “I cannot, my dear Lady, Suffer a sheet of paper
to go out of this house, without saying how much I am obliged to you for your
doyly covers. Everything seems to be going on as you could wish. No doubt,
now, but Government now will reward your–services I must call them–God
grant, as ample as you desire, & as your best friends can wish you : a very just
criticism on the Earl. I have not yet recovered my journey, for it was too far in
one day. I forgot I was no longer young. Mr. Commings dined with us yester-
day ; he talks of being in town the middle of next month. My neighbour,
Partridge, I see walk past—that is all I know of her. Give my kindest love to
Mrs. Cadogan, & kiss dear Horatia again & again for us all. Mr. Bolton
joins with my daughter in kindest love to you.' .
908, A. L. S. from Mr. Charles Greville to Lady Hamilton. Dated April
7th, 1807. I; page 4to., with Superscription and Seal. [P.]
‘I am very sorry I am not well enough to accept your obliging invitation to
Merton. After I rec'd your note I sent off my letters to the Bishop, that there
might not be any obstacles to my placing your donation as a relict in the church
at Milford. I mentioned it with other particulars, & have a general aprobation
from the Bishop of all I propose, & he is to be, next month or the beginning of
July, at Milford to consecrate the chapel. I only stated that I had expectation
of a piece of the wreck of the L’Orient, you are therefore, in no degree
committed, but you may destine it to any other use if you find one preferable to
your inclination. I feel, as I cannot come to it, I wish it could come to me at
the bottom of your carriage, tied round with paper, that it may not be rubbed,
and I will then have time to get it from Mr. Bianchi, & order a pedestal to
enclose it, and get it in place before the Bishop comes, for I should not think it
right to put it in the chapel after consecration is over.
“Do not be on compliment on the occasion. I suggest it as likely to be as
gratifying to you as it will be to me to insert your name as the donor.”
296 THE AAMILTON AAWD [1807.
909. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. “Dated Cranwich, Tuesday,
noon ' (April 7th, 1807). 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription and
Seal. [P.] -
“I should have written to you on Monday, but thought our letters might cross
on the road ; but I am sorry to find no letter from you to-day, not illness, I hope,
prevents you, but that you are far better employed on your most essential business.
If but a line, write to say you are well. Kate has just heard from Sir Wº. He
expects to stay at Plymouth a week or ten days more ; he is afraid no more Cruis-
ing, now he has lost his friend. Susanna was at Swaffham yesterday. Charlotte
Young is off to spend a month with her aunt, Lady Nelson. Mrs. Dennis Young
will be in town in about a fortnight, for two or three days. She hopes you will
be in town, as she wishes much to see you, & she is in such a precarious
State (she is fearfull she will miscarry) that she is afraid to jolt more than need
must, and she is anxious to get to Devonshire. I fear they find Norfolk too
expensive for their circumstances. Mr. Rolfe's marriage is all premature ; no
Such thing thought of. I believe he is going to leave the military. I forgot to
tell you what I am sure you will be glad to hear. Mrs. Bouchery, amongst
bequests, has left Mrs. Williams, the miliner, A. I 500, enough, poor thing ! to make
her comfortable for life. She is going to quit business. I see all your friends
are gazetted. Do summon all your friends, & make a bold push both for yourself
& Horatia. They are so often changing, whatever is done must be done quickly.
When you have had an opportunity of sounding them about Mr. Bolton we will
Come to town. I saw the cabinet dinner was only Lº Sidmouth, Archbishop, &
Bishop Exeter. Lords Grenville & Petty sent their excuses.
‘Mr. Bolton is now off for Brancaster for a few days. How is the weather with
you? Here nothing grows ; the sheep and lambs, I fear, will be all starved. By
a letter from Eliza to-day she is anxious to hear from Horatia that you are well.
We are all ill with colds. Give my kind love to Mrs. Cadogan & dear Horatia,
Anne, &, in short, all your circle. My daughters join in kindest love & regards
to your Ladyship.
‘I have had such a letter from Mrs. Andrews, so full of the charms of Merton
& its inhabitants. Sir Win Bolton is particularly gratified you were so good as to
invite his aunt Andrews.’
910. A. L. S. from Sir William Bolton to the same. Dated H. M. S.
Eurydice, Monday, April 13th (1807). 2 pages 4to., with Super-
scription. [P.] .
‘I have written by this post to your friend, Lady Percival. I need not say
how happy you have made me, by giving the occasion of showing that to me your
Tadyship's wishes are commands. I have not at present a vacancy for the young
man, but there are two chances of there being one, & I have said to Lady Anne
that she may depend on being rated midshipman the very ſirst minute I have
the power. If an occasion does not offer very soon, I will make an opportunity. I
heard to-day from my dear friend, Captain Staines: he sets off from town on Sunday
morning, so that he will reach this by Wednesday next. Anne, I fear, is very
idle. I have never received a line from her, and now give up all hope. I heard
the 8* instant from my dear Kate, and had the satisfaction of learning several
anecdotes highly honourable to our darling Emma, and to me who lave such
abhorrence of meanness, it is particularly grateful to hear she promises to imitate
her charming Godmanna in generosity. T. Bolton is going to town to try his
luck with the new minister, and I pray for his success. Eurydice will be ready
for sea by Wednesday, but as no orders are as yet come down from her, it may
be next week ere we sail. God bless you, my dearest friend, and have you in his
keeping, and if there is faith in works, I cannot doubt but Providence will
watch over your happiness, which is as dear as his own to your Ladyship's
faithful,’ &c. - -
1807.] AVEZSO/W PAPERS. 297
911. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated ‘Cranwich, Tuesday’
(April 14th, 1807). 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘I am glad the Duke has said he does not approve of No. 136% for you, it looks
as if he really meant to leave you something to keep up a better establishment.
Shall I say the truth, I was very much hurt to see you were obliged whether you
liked it or not to mix with their society, indeed, if they had given you up the front
drawing room entirely & two bedchambers you might have been more comfort-
able. I am sorry to find your friend, Williams, has not succeeded as a Director
because at this time I have to request the favour of you to use your interest for
Wm Girdlestone. He is gone to town to his mother now to be fixed in some situation
directly, a Clerk in the India House, if he could once get a footing there I know
he will get forward. If you can do it it will be a great act of kindness to the young
man. Eliza is returned from Brancaster ; Mr. Wm. Bolton has had a return of his
complaint, but is better again now. I look at every paper in hopes of Seeing your
Memorial. I trust they will do something for you & Horatia. As to Mr. Bolton
I am not at all sanguine. Tom I hope will be provided for, but that I trust to
you. All here join in love to you & all at Merton. God bless you.
“I write in haste to save post.’ .
912. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to the same. Dated Portland Place,
April 29th, 1807. 2 pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘We were very sorry to find by a letter from Lady Charlotte that Mrs. Cadogan
had been dangerously ill, we hope before this she has been getting strength, as
the weather is very fine for invalids; it has been a very unhealthy Season at Bath,
everybody, young & old, has been complaining. Mr. M. has been very indifferent
ever since he left town, but these few fine days have quite cheer'd us all. We
shall soon begin to think of moving, it requires courage, I assure you, to remove
so large a family, but I hope we shall be settled there for some time. We shall
cxpect the happiness of seeing you at our farmhouse before the Summer is over.
I can only say, my dear Lady Hamilton, it will give us much pleasure to ſºle you
the best in our power. Horatia, I hear, is much improved. Tell her I long to
see her & likewise Anne, who, I hear, is a fine young woman. You must come
into Sussex & take a look at us.
“With the hope of hearing Mrs. Cadogan is getting well & our united best
wishes to you & all your party.’
913. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. No datef (May, 1807).
2# pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘I am always happy when I get a letter from you, it is the chief pleasure I
have here. By this you will have seen Mr. Bolton, as he proposed being at
Merton. He has been upon tramp all the time, & so much taken up that till this
morning I have not had a line, altho' on business. They made a point of his
being in Hanover Square, & I had not received your very kind invitation for
him before he left us. As to Lady Bolton & Susanna, as you give a choice
whether they will come up to you or you come to them, Surely you do not think I
shall let you off your visit to me. I am going to clean up my house, as far as
whitewashing, &c., and get rid of my wine, as Soon as Mr. Bolton comes home,
& then I shall hope for the happiness of seeing you. The journey will be of use
to Mrs. Cadogan, & as pleasant as we can make it ; but you make every place
cheerful. I am anxious every day to hear something further of your business.
I hope the chief of your friends will be returned for their places in Parliament. I
have enclosed this to Mr. Bolton, as I have not a proper direction to you in
Bond Street, neither is it worth the postage.
“Give all our kind loves to Mrs. Cadogan, Horatia, Anne, & accept the same
yourself from all the party.’ -
* 136 New Bond Street.
ºf The letter is not dated, but the reference to an election places it in 1807.
298 7A/E HAM// TO AV AAWD [1807.
914. A. L. S. from Capt. George Langford, R.N., to Mrs. Cadogan.
Dated His Majesty's Ship Sappho, Sheerness, May 7th, 1807.
2 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
* No doubt you will be a little surprized on receiving a letter from me, but I
assure you altho' I have never of late had an opportunity of paying my respects to
my friends at Merton, I am not unmindful of them. I called last Wednesday
week at Clarges Street, and was much disappointed I had not the pleasure of
Seeing Lady Hamilton, whose kind notice and friendly enquiries after me I can
never forget. I was appointed to the Saftſ/ho by Mr. Grenville thro’ the interest
of Lord Spencer; she is a beautiful new brig, and quite ready for sea, excepting
men, and Lord Mulgrave has promised my father that I shall go to the Mediter-
ranean. My first Lieutenant (Mr. Alexr, Hills) was a Lieutenant of the Victory
with poor dear Lord Nelson at the glorious and ever memorable battle of
Trafalgar. The object of this letter is to request of you to be so kind as to present
my very best respects to her Ladyship, and say that if she has any friend that is
desirous of going to Sea I will with great f/easure receive him, and do all that
lays in my power to make him happy and comfortable. Poor Mrs. Langford and
our dear Sweet little boy (I must call him so, and I think Lady H. would say the
same if she saw him) are to remain with her father at Windsor till I return, which
I hope will not be long first. I understand an extensive naval promotion is
about to take place, and I am pushing hard to be included. I often think of the
many happy hours I passed in the Foudroyant. When I receive my orders for
Sailing from hence I will write to you in time for her Ladyship to get anything
that she may wish to send to that quarter. May I anticipate the pleasure of
receiving a line from you? And with kind remembrances to Lady H. I must
subscribe myself,’ &c.
‘P.S.—I have never been able to get my medal for the battle of the Nile.”
915. A. L. S. from Miss J. Bolton to Miss Anne Bolton. Dated
Cranwich, Saturday evening (May 12th, 1807). 34 pages 4to.,
with Supescription. [P.]
‘You express So great a desire to hear from us, and complain so much, that I
really feel a little ashamed of myself for not having written before ; but I really
grow quite lazy in the letter way, & am in debt to all my correspondents. This
proceeds from two things—want of inclination & want of subject; to you the latter
Chiefly applies, ſor my mother writes so constantly to my Lady, & Cranwich is
So dull, that I find nothing to say. Emma is our only amusement, & she grows
more entertaining every day; she imitates everybody, generally calling her grand-
mama mother & her mama my Lady or Kitty; she often talks of you & Miss
Horatia. The wax doll my Lady sent her she has named Emma Hamilton,
entirely her own thought, & is very fond of her. I cannot say the studies proceed
very rapidly, but her memory is as good as ever & she learns all her little books
by heart ; she is as generous as ever, and will give away everything she has. I
must mention as a proof of this a circumstance that happened a short time since.
Emma was extremely hungry, having had nothing from breakfast about half past 8,
& had just had a very nice plum-cake put into her hand when a poor woman
(that is, William dressed up) came to the window and related a piteous tale of
being extremely hungry, and concluded by saying, “Pray, Miss, cannot you give
me something P” “Yes, poor woman, here is a cake for you,” was the reply, &
the plum-cake was given to the poor woman, & she waited for her dinner, not
without many fears that the poor woman would be starved as she had nothing
more for her dinner. This you will see is entirely for yourself, but I know all
about her is interesting to you. Give my love to Horatia, I am happy to hear she
improves so much. Give my love to Lady Hamilton & I hope she will have some
good fortune, for I dreamed that the Duke of Queensbury was dead & had left her
a handsome legacy & my mother did the same. I am happy to hear Mrs. Cadogan
is so much recovered, I feared for her ; the Spring and winter proved very trying
1807.] MELSOAV PAPERS. 299
to everybody's constitution. Give my love to her. Eliza would thank you to get
and send down by the coach for her as soon as you can I doz. black chalk pencils,
you know the kind, and my father will pay for them when he comes to town. My
mother thanks you for your letters and sends her love to you, my Lady, &c.
ºna sends kisses. We all join in love & good wishes to all your party. Yours,”
C.
916. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to Lady Hamilton. Dated June 1st, 1807.
3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘How Could you for a moment, my dear Lady, suppose I could have any
engagements that should prevent me from having the pleasure of seeing you and
yours here, give me a day or two's notice and I shall be happy to receive you at
any time. The reason of my not getting your letters was I have been gossiping
to Saham & Swaffham for this week past—quite a gay scene for me. Mrs. Rolfe
looks as well and as chearful as she did ten years back, she is now in her 78th
year. Tell Mrs. Cadogan she shall see her ; I hope she will live as long and look
as likely to live as Mrs. Rolfe does, who I hope will live as long as her mother,
who was 91. On the Wed. we went to Swaffham & dined with Mrs. Day, a large
party—the first time Eliza Yonge and Mr. Rolfe met. Mr. R. was a moment or
two before he could speak to her, but he did not seem the least discomposed.
Mrs. Yonge speaks highly of the Hanoverians' great kindness to Charlotte, if they
purchase the estate in Suffolk she is to go down with them there. Mr. Johnson
likewise was delighted with his visit ; they are always all politeness to him, &
they always liked him, that may be, but I remember the time when he would
not go as far as Hilbro’ to dine with the Rector & his Vic., what a difference does
nobility make. The most of my time I spent with the Langfords, who beg their
kind Comp" to you. How happy I am I was not at your grumtulation dinners.
I am rejoiced to hear your affairs are drawing to a crisis, I hope to a good
purpose, you may have waited so long as you have done. I hope in God
Mr. Rose will have the power as well as the will to serve us all. I cannot say
but I am anxious about telling Tom, he is 21 in July, Emma sends her love to
Horatia, & shall be so happy to see her at Cranwich. We all join in love and
good wishes to you and your party.
‘Thank you for your secret, I wish the admiration were to the purpose you
would take care she would not be an Eliza Yonge.
‘Mr. Johnson says Lady Charlotte is improved in her person, grown faſter.
Does Mr. Berney flutter about the ſame 2 I am,’ &c.
917. A. L. S. from Miss Bolton to the same. Dated Cranwich, June
3rd, 1807. 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.] -
‘I am much obliged to you for your two kind letters, which I should certainly
have written to you before, but on Sunday my mother wrote & yesterday we were
engaged all day by a very agreeable visit from Mr. Comyns, who was stupider
than ever. Eliza, being butler, grumbled very much, for he did not talk, but sat
& drank a bottle of port, and that being finished, he helped us to drink best part
of a bottle of white; this, with a glass of cherry brandy which he drank in the
morning, I think must have pretty well satisfied him. Mrs. Comyns and the baby
very well. What you write me of the Nelsons does not surprise me. I always fore-
saw how they would behave. Lady Charlotte is certainly good-tempered, but she
has got no heart or she could not behave unkind to you, who have been so very
kind to her, but she is one of those characters that are always governed by the
opinions of those they are with. We are anxiously expecting you ; I hope it will
not be long. Tell Horatia Emma reckons on seeing her. We are preparing to
receive you. Eliza and I as head-gardeners are busy at work cleaning, the
garden chairs are painting, &c. Emma is to be innoculated for the Smallpox
to-morrow or next day; we do not expect she will have it, but she is prepared by
medicine exactly as if she was. Caroline Peirson has been to Wells & was
innoculated ; she was unwell with ſever two nights, but they say she had not the
3OO THE HAM/Z TOW AND [1807
Smallpox. My love to Anna, & thank her for her letter. I shall not write, I
hope soon to see her. How delightfull Merton must be this weather. My
mother desires me to say that she hopes that if it is possible you will bring Miss
Reynolds with you. We shall all be most happy to see her. My love to Mrs.
Cadogan. I hope [the change] will make her quite well. Miss Partridge will
certainly be an idiot. Henry Yonge, who was here the other day on his way
ſrom Cambridge, says, “What can you expect P the mother is very little better.”
Emma says she must write to you, “my dear Lady Hamilton, you must come &
see me with Miss Horatia, for I will not cut my hair again, Emma.” We all join
in love.’
918. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. No date (June 9th, 1807).
3 pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘You are very good, my dear lady, to think of your friends on a Sunday. I
do like to receive a letter on that day, sure enough. I hope & doubt not (now
the Earl is not here) but your company will prove very agreeable. I think the
Countess will be delighted with Merton. She must if (she) has any taste. We
shall be truly happy to see you for as long a time, and when it will be most agree-
able to you I shall be glad to see Cecilia. My dear little Emma was innoculated for
the smallpox yesterday. She has already had the vaccine, but her mother was
willing to make the experiment. Caroline has, & it is doubtfull whether or not
she has not the smallpox. Doctors differ.
“We expect Mrs. Pierson & Caroline on Tuesday, Mr. and Mrs. Clarke, of
Ipswich, who are returning from Brancaster. You have had a gay scene lately,
& I hope will be the better for it. Mr. Johnson says you never looked better or
handsomer than you do at this time. Madame Berney sticks to the Countess,
but she is aware of her. Is there any thoughts of Berney & Lady Charlotte P
The Earl is mad enough for any things in that family, but I hope the ladies have
more spirits. I must not say more as Mrs. Partridge is going to the post, & if I
miss that it will be a day later. Give my love to Tom—when are we to see him P
I find I am too late, so may chat a little more. I find Charlotte Yonge is such a
favourite that she is to go down to Suffolk with them. I forsee she will now be
the first favourite; as Eliza is too handsome, they will be afraid of the young lord,
that is the Earl. I do not think her ladyship would dislike it. Tell good Mrs.
Cadogan we are all nurses here & will do the best we can for her. How happy
we shall be to see her at Cranwich. T.ove to dearest Horatia & Ann. God bless
you, my dear friend. Believe me ever.
“I shall adore Mr. Rose if he docs what he talks oſ.’
919. A. L. S. from the same to the same. No date (June 24th, 1807).
3 pages 4to, with Superscription. [P.]
“I was happy to see by your letter, my dear friend, that the time was drawing
so near when we might expect the pleasure of seeing you at Cranwich. This last
fortnight seems, indeed, a time of fatigue. But a few weeks at Cranwich, where
solitude has unbounded sway (for Mr. Bolton must be in town before the fifth
& Mrs. Pierson is going to leave us), will, I hope, quite recruit you for a more
cheerful excursion ; but this I must say, nowhere will you meet with more affec-
tion & attention, and where so natural P-have we not both lost our dearest &
best friend ? I am glad you found out who the tickets were for. I should have
been sorry those Berneys & Atkins should have received any favor from you. I
am glad Charlotte is going with you. She will find out she will have no such
pleasant parties as you can introduce her to. I hope I shall hear from you after
the masquarade all news about it. When you have fixed your day of rest &
packing, write to me; a very short notice will do for us, as we shall be so happy
to see you all.
“God bless you till we meet. Ever,’ &c.
‘Mr. Bolton, Mrs. Pierson, & my daughter join in kindest regards.’
1807.] AVAEZSOAV PAPERS. 3OI
920. A. L. S. from Mr. Bolton to the same. Date ‘Saturday, 24th '
(July, 1807). I page 8vo., with Superscription. [P]
‘Yesterday Mr. North, joining us in a party to Vauxhall, mentioned his
intention of calling upon your Ladyship before he left town, and has kindly
offered to take me down on Wednesday next if your Ladyship should be at home,
of which I am to inform him as soon as I receive your answer. I shall certainly
come. Knowing that Mrs. Cadogan will not be far from Richmond, I shall add
no more, reserving everything until we meet, yours,’ &c.
921. A. L. S. from Sir Alexander Ball to the same. Dated Malta,
August 2 Ist, I807. 2 pages 4to. [P.]
“I beg you to be assured that I shall always feel much flattered and highly
gratified in being introduced to your friends and having an occasion of showing
them kindnesses. I have seen Madame de Carbara, who makes but a short stay
here.
‘This will be presented to you by Mrs. Graffer, who looks cheerful and well.
She talks of returning to Sicily, but I think that doubtful—so much will depend
on the conduct of Ministers in these momentous times. Had our dear Hero
been alive and made Viceroy, that island might be saved from the iron grasp of
Bonaparte—indeed, nothing short of the most energetic measures can prevent its
falling into the Napoleonic vortex.
‘Adieu, my dear Lady Hamilton. Pray write to me whenever I can be useful,
and believe me always, with the highest respect and esteem,’ &c.
922. A. L. S. from Mr. Thomas Bolton to the same. Dated Byfleet,
August 23rd, 1807. 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription and Seal.
[P.]
“By some mistake you have directed Anne's letter to Eliza to me, and she, I
suppose, your letter to Eliza ; therefore, instead of having a letter from you, as I
flattered myself by the direction I had it turned out not to be so, to my great
mortification, & I felt it the more as I am very anxious to answer my friend’s
letter, who begged of me to write soon. If you can let me know how long you
intend staying at Worthing, then I shall be able to manage so that you can have
the grouse sent to you there without going to Merton first, but you must give
me your address. I hope when you write again you will not be so unfortunate as
you were in this. Pray give me all the news you can to write Sir William, as I
am purposely delaying his letter till I hear from you. To my great regret I have
not heard from Norfolk yet, but, from Anne's I presume they are alive. I am very
happy to hear that Lady Bolton is with you, as I think the sea air will be of
service to her. You have seen M* & Mrs. Matcham ; pray how do you like their
house and grounds, & what do you think of my cousins P Which do you think
sings, plays, or is the prettiest, and what is the name of the place they are living,
as I have entirely forgot, & I wish to write Sir William everything & should like
to be correct P Does George go to Cambridge this year as usual P Have the
great ſolks left town for Canterbury yet, as they were only talking about it the
last time I heard about them P Pray do you like Worthing as much as you did
Southend ? I suppose Mrs. Cadogan is improving now very fast as to her health.
Do you not find that the bathing is very beneficial both to you & Horatia P. Give
my kind love to her, Mrs. Cadogan, Kate, Anne, & all the rest of your party. I
am afraid you find my letters very insipid for want of news, which it is impossible
for me to get here. I am fully engaged in business during all the week, so that I
am not sorry when Sunday comes that I may rest myself a little & write to a few
of my friends & take a little ride, as I shall do this afternoon in order to put this
into the Post-office, which is about three miles from here.
‘Tell my Lady B. to give you her direction to Sir William, as I do not know
whether I am to direct to Plymouth Dock or not. Likewise tell Anne I shall not
send her letter into Norfolk, Once more, adieu,” .
3O2 7 HE HAM/Z TOW AND [1807.
923. A. L. S. from Lady Bolton to the same. Dated ‘Sunday, noon
(August 24th, 1807). I page 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘We are very much surprised at not hearing from you to say how you like
your residence at Worthing. As you promised so positively to write directly, the
only thing we can imagine is some mistake in the direction. We are anxious to
know how you are, and whether Horatia has derived benefit from bathing. I
have heard from none of my friends since you left us. The boy is waiting, so I
have only time to say will unite in love to all.
‘The proper direction is : Ashfold Lodge, near Horsham.’
924. A. L. S. from Mr. A. Warrington to the same. Dated Messina,
September 29th, I807. 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription and
Seal. [P.]
“I received your letter of the Ioth June by Mrs. Corbara; poor woman, her
situation is very uncomfortable ; however, I will do all I can for her. I have
been promised a passage for her by the first transport for Capri, where her
husband is now, and will give her a letter to the Colonel of the regiment, which
may be of some comfort to her. Pray remember me to Lord and Lady Henry
Fitzgerald,” our old acquaintances at Naples.
‘You ask me when we shall return to England ; I see no chance of it at
present, though our situation in Sicily does not appear quite Secure. Still, I have
more faith in our little British army here than to suppose they will let us be
turned out by the French as we were at Naples. Perhaps if a general peace was
to take place then we might be induced to return home, but of that there seems
but little chance. -
“Messina is but a miserable place; if it was not for the English that are here it
would be intolerable. The situation is certainly beautiful, but there are no roads,
so that you see the country at a distance without being able to enjoy it, and, from
the bad Government that exists, provisions are both bad and dear. -
‘Mrs. Graffier is by this time, I suppose, in England; she left this last month.
Poor woman, I am afraid she was a good deal reduced in her circumstances.
She was in Messina some days, but never called. I am glad She is gone home
for her daughter's sake. By all accounts she wanted education, which she would
never have acquired in Sicily. I am glad to hear of my dear little Caroline ;
they say she is growing a fine girl. By the last packet but one I sent her a coral
necklace and her mother a shawl; I hope they have received them safe. I do not
hear from them as often as I should like, but distance is a sad thing ! -
“Annarella is grown a great girl—you would not know her. We do not see a
great deal of company, but she is better amused dividing her time between
reading, drawing, and music, which she is very fond of. Adieu ! With joint
remembrances, believe me,’ &c.
925. A. L. S. from Lady Bolton to the same. Datcd Brancaster,
October 18th (1807). 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘I ought to fill this letter with apologies for not having written before, but I
fear you will consider that as worse than leaving you to make them for me, as it
will oblige you to read a long account of various circumstances which prevented
my writing so soon as I wished. The principal is my uncle having been ill (which
you have heard from my mother), and having been ill with a violent cold myself
ever since he got better. I hope you will not attribute my silence to an intention
of neglecting you; I have no friend for whom I have a sincerer regard than
yourself, nor any to whom I owe so much for numberless attentions and obliga-
tions of many kinds which I can never for one moment forget, but must ever feel
truly grateful for, I conclude you are returned to Merton and shall direct this
* Lord Henry Fitzgerald, 1761–1829, was the fourth son of the 1st Duke of Leinster. He
married in 1791 Charlotte, Baroness de Ros. - - - -
1807.] AVAE ZSOAV PAAAA’.S. 303
letter there. I have heard nothing at present of your promised visit to Cranwich;
I hope you have not given up the plan, as I have anticipated much pleasure in the
promised meeting. I hope Horatia is quite recovered from her illness, children
of her age are always thin from growing so much. Caroline is quite as thin as
Horatia was when I saw her last ; she desires her love to Horatia. Emma is
talking to me, desiring me to give her love to Mrs. Cadogan ; she is grown even
fatter than when you left her. Mrs. Pierson desires to be affectionately re- .
membered to you all ; she is quite well, out a great deal directing the improve-
ments they have been making here, which I think you will approve. Give my
love to my dear Anne ; I have the same request to make her for forgiveness as I
have to you, but I trust you will both judge from your own hearts how much I love
you. She will be sorry to hear poor Mr. Tom Wild is dead ; he died about ten
days back, leaving a widow and seven children, all young. He was not ill more
than ten days, he is regretted by all who knew him. Write to me soon, my dear
Lady H., to assure me of your forgiving my silence. All unite in love to you,
Anne and Horatia, not forgetting Mrs. Cadogan, who is deservedly remembered
by all who ever experienced her kind attentions, which are all who ever had the
pleasure of seeing her. Believe me,’ &c.
926. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated ‘Monday morning’
(October 19th, 1807). 3 pages 4to, with Superscription. [P.
“I was, my dear Lady, very much pleased with your last letter to find Mr. Rose
was such a kind friend to you & dear Horatia, I only hope it will be shewn shortly,
for every year weakens her claim, new people shoot up. I wish I could hear Mr.
Canning was exerting himself as much, somehow I fancy he has most power.
Your two old beaus, why do they not come forward like men & say, “My dear
friend, you have too little for the good things of this world, & I have Super-
abundance, therefore take of mine.” Would you not say so to your friend ? I
know you would.
“Do you recollect Mrs. Wild who dined at Merton with Mrs. Andrews? Poor
woman, she has just buried her husband, left with seven small children, & Scarcely
got well of her confinement. .
‘Our young peer, I find, is flying about the country ; he has been staying with
Mr. Wilson (I mean Dick Wilson); he has been to Bury Fair, to the Sessions ball
at Norwich, & is now staying with Mr. Barny at Lord Baynings. He talks of being
at the Swaffham Coursing Meeting Ball, where, if I am there, I shall see him, not
else, I am stºre.
‘How much you must have to hear from Mrs. Greffer. Where is King &
Queen of Naples P. Have they, as the papers say, left Sicily P. The Duke of
Clarence has been on a visit last week to Houghton & Holkham, he went to Lynn
and accepted the freedom of the town. I feel rather sorry they behaved so ill to
our dear Lord, I shall never like Lynn again. Tell Mrs. Cadogan we have not had
a hare in the house yet. Mr. Bolton has not been out or she should have had one.
Give my love to Anne, and tell her she shall have a letter soon. How fortunate
Mrs. Nichols is in marrying her nieces. Mrs. Gibson might well say she liked old
men best. We all join in love to you, & believe me,’ &c.
927. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated ‘Sunday morning’
(November 3rd, I 807). 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘How good you are, my dear Lady, to write to me so often ; I wish I could
write anything to amuse you, then would you hear oftener from me. I have just
been reading the papers, & find how shamefully they have behaved to the King of
France. What was (to us) this calamitous war for P Was it not to reinstate the
Bourbon family on the throne P And now for fear of offending the Usurfer have
England refused to let him land on her shores. What a shame for Brittons.
You who have been such a friend to Aoya/#y must feel your heart spurn at them.
Mr. Bolton is off to-morrow for Cambridge to meet his son ; poor fellow, he is now
entering the world, I hope he will be what he now is—good, & then he will be
3O4
7A/AE A/AM/Z7 OAV AAVZ) [1807.
comparatively haft/y. I hope Mr. Rose will procure something for him ; I do not
wish him for the Church, we have no interest there. Depend upon it our young
Lord will think of Wm. Yonge in Żreference.
‘I admire your address to dear Horatia ; let me hear her answer and all about
your fête. I wrote to her and Anne to be received on their birthday. I hope she
delivered Mr. Bolton's message to say how happy he should be to see you at
Cranwich, & I am sure / sha/Z. Tom will be home in Decº, perhaps you will come
then ; I know that will be an inducement to Mrs. Cadogan.
‘Lady Bolton and Emma are not returned from Brancaster, but expect her in
a few days for the Coursing Meeting Ball. Mrs. S. Bolton is happy in having her
son safe home. Capt. Bolton was at Copenhagen ; he had the command of the
fort which in fact did all the business ; he behaved so bravely as to have the thanks
of the Commander-in-Chief and the congratulations of all his brother officers. I
know not how you feel, but for my part I sicken when I hear any naval exploit ;
God knows how heavy may heart is.
‘I do not know what Lady Charlotte’s [talents?] may be, not to any great extent;
but when she went to school as a child the governess was told she was to attend
to nothing but her music. As to writing, she always had a master when with you,
& her hand was good enough. What the substance was I know not, having never
had the honour of a letter from her. Accept love and respects from all here. God
bless you, my dear friend. Yours,’ &c.
928. A. L. S. from Mr. Thomas Bolton to the same. Dated Peterhouse,
Cambridge, November 22nd, 1807. 3} pages 4to., with Super-
Scription and Seal. [P.] -
‘I am afraid you will think me very neglectful in not writing to you before,
but I flatter myself you will excuse me when I say that it has really not been in
my power to write to anybody yet, for I am so unsettled even now that I scarcely
know what I am about ; in fact, I have not an hour that I can call my own, for I
am so engaged in preparing for lectures. I am going this evening to take my
supper with my friend Hodgson. Lord T. did me the honour to call upon me
once, & I returned the visit very soon after, but he was not at home, and I have
not seen anything of him since. My cousin Henery Girdlestone being here makes
it very pleasant to me; indeed, I hardly know what I should have done if he had
not been here. He lives at Catherine Hall, which is very near to our college, so
that we constantly see one another every day. If you should ever come to
Cambridge whilst I am here, I am afraid you would not be able to come into my
rooms to see me, for I live in a garret, and there is a terrible bad staircase to
lead up to them, and the entrance into the room is so low that it would very near
break your back to stoop to get in ; but, after you had overcome all these difficulties,
I think you would say my rooms were pleasant for garrets. I received a letter
from home the other day. They were all very well; had been to the Swaffham
Coursing Meeting Ball, they had 200 people there, which is a great number for
Swaffham. Indeed, they went a large party themselves Becca, Anne Cirdle-
stone, & Lady Bolton, in a post-chaise ; William Girdlestone, Mrs. Comyns, my
mother, Eliza, & Susanna, in the carriage; Tom & Mr. King on horseback. They
kept it up till about 3 o'clock in the morning. Tom, my mother, Lady Bolton, &
Mrs. Comyns, went home that night ; the rest stop’d & went to a dance the next
night which Mrs. Day gave. They kept that up till 3 o'clock, so I think they
will not want another ball quite yet. Sir William, I understand, is arrived at
Plymouth, & we hope to have the pleasure of seeing him in this part of the world.
I always feel very low of a Saturday & Sunday, not being able to come down to
Merton to see you all. I am afraid it will be a long time before I see such times
again. I suppose you heard how well my cousin, Samuel Bolton, behaved at
Copenhagen—had the thanks from all the officers. My dear Lady, I must now
conclude with my kind love to Mrs. Cadogan, Horatia, Anne, & the rest of the
party. Pray favour me with a letter soon, as I am very anxious to hear how you
are all going on, & whether Mrs. Nelson has left you. I remain,’ &c.
1807.] AVAE/LSOW PA PERS. 305
929. A.L.S. from Mrs. Matcham to the same. Dated ‘Sunday morning'
(November 22nd, 1807). 3 pages 4to., with Superscription and
Seal. [P.]
‘I hope you will not think me neglectful of all your kindness in not writing
more frequently to you, but, as this dull season will only furnish me with a repetition
of Storms and rain, which we have experienced in a high degree this last ten days,
I am only induced to take up my pen to inquire after all our friends at Merton,
& to hope they have not suffer'd by the severity of the weather. We may think
ourselves very fortunate in not receiving sorry damage, as such a storm is scarcely
remember'd as we had on Thursday night. We see by the papers Mr. Rose's
son was driven back by the high wind. I hope your affairs will not be retarded,
& that everything will end for your benefit. I am sure no one will rejoyce more
at any good fortune that attends you than ourselves. When you have an
opportunity, I know you will not be unmindful of the circumstance which I have
So much at heart, & which you & Z agreed would be of so much service to my
family, & Surely azz /ēonor to them.
‘I have recº a letter from Mrs. Coehoorn, who has heard from the Col. at
Wibourg, & I hope he is well. With him, as a prisoner of war, is a Capt. Dobson,
who says he was a protégé of our dear-lamented friend / Do you know him, my
Lady ? Poor young man! I hope it will not retard his promotion, & that the Col.
and him will soon be relieved, as they are only detain’d for being Englishmen. I
expect Mrs. Coehoorn next week. Our young friend is highly delighted with his
profession; he expresses himself very grateful to you & your kind exertions for him,
& I hope he will be an honor and a comfort to his good mother. I hope soon to
hear from you, my dear Lady. . With the united best wishes of our fireside to all,
& a thousand kisses, &c., to Horatia, not forgetting cousin Ann, I remain,’ &c.
930. A. L. S. from ‘Mari’ Thomas to the same. Dated Hawarden,
November 27th, 1807. 2 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘Your favour I recº, and be asſir'd that I will to the best of my abilities fulfil
your Commissions. I am truly sorry that you have so much trouble with your
relations, and the ungrateful return your care and generosity meets with is, indeed,
enough to turn their heart against them. However, ungrateful as they are, your
Own generous heart cannot see them in want, and it is a pitty that your great
generosity towards them shou’d be so ill-placed. I don’t doubt but that you
receive a sattisfaction in doing for them, which will reward you here and hereafter.
I sent for Mr. Kid upon the recpt of your letter. I believe he has been much
distressed for some time back, as at this time of the year there is no imployment
Suitable to him, for, as he observes he was not brought up to work. I have
promis’d to pay for his lodging, and have pass'd my word to pay for his meat till
I hear from your Ladyship. I have not acquainted him with your inclos'd five
pounds for fear he might expect to have some of it ; in my opinion the less
pockit-money he has the better, for it wou'd onely be spent in the ale house, and
then he gets abusive, so shall keep it for furthers orders, tho’ I have order'd him
a hatt, a pair of shoes, three pair of strong stockins & some colour'd hand. for
his neck; has to his upper clothing, they may do till spring. I sent for Becka
Rynold ; she begs her duty, but is sorry it is not in her power to board Mr. Kidd.
Mrs. Newcomb has sent for a bed, and she has not another to spare, other-
wise she wou'd be happy to do anything your Ladyship shou’d require. Mrs.
Nichol, Mr. Kid’s relation, is going to give up the publick line & live in a small
house. If agreeable to you, and you aprove of her terms, she will be glad to
board him ; but she attaches a od request, which is, as her circumstances is but
limited, to pay a quarter board in advance. She expects ten shilling pº week &
6 pence for washing, for which beer & eatables found him—consequently he will
not need pockit-money. He has encur’d some debts, which I have inserted
underneath, & the which you will give me your orders when you write, weather
you wou’d wish them discharged. There is £2 Is. left unpaid by Richard
Rynolds for cloths, which your Ladyship sent money in part for ; for shoes &
mending, 18s.; Mrs. Humphries for lodging, 8s.; Mrs. Nicol, I2s.; Wilm. Rynold,
WOL. II, X
3d6
THE HAMILTON AND [1807.
2s. I cou’d wish an answer to this soon, as now I liave answer'd for logº and
board, the charge perhaps will be more then when settled ; but be assur'd your
generosity shall not be impos’d upon, & believe me,’ &c.
‘P.S.—My daughter joins with me in best love & respects to Mrs. Cadogan &
your Ladyship.’
931. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated ‘Sunday, noon
(November 29th, 1807). 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘Many thanks, my dear Lady, for thinking of such a little body as myself in
the midst of royalty. Mr. Bolton will be much obliged to His Royal Highness
for the tobacco to be sent here; you must deliver the message in your own name,
we are not in the habit of sending & speaking to such great personages. You
delight me by saying Horatia has so much notice taken of her. I hope, when
she is introduced at Windsor, George our King will fall in love with her, & give
her a good pension out of his privy purse. He ought to have a fellow-feeling, for,
like her, he has lost a great supporter. I may say this to you, and indeed it is true.
‘S’ Wm does not leave us till Tuesday evening. If it is possible he will be at
Merton, but I fear not ; at any rate he will write from town, he wishes much to
pay his respects to you.
‘What a bountiful supply of food you have sent us ! I see you are with
us for clothing the naked & feeding the hungry. I only wish you had fortune
equal to your generosity. How does the old Duke do this severe weather ?
“Tom is but a bad correspondent to any of us. He is now fully determined
to study very hard ; he never writes but on a Sunday, & that but once when he
heard Emma was ill. Do not accuse him of ingratitude—that he never will be,
he is too fond of you all for that. I am sorry to say we are a large party, but
have been ill with sore throats, servants, &c. Poor Capt. Langford went home
& has got the same complaint. The poor little child Partridge has been very ill,
& lost the use of her limbs. Mr. Edgar has told them she has not her proper
senses ; the poor mother had no idea of such a thing. She is much affected, &
thinks it cruel none of her friends would inform her of it. Yours,’ &c.
932. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Cranwich, December
8th (1807). 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘Here we are, my dear Lady, all our large party separated—at least, will be this
week—except Mrs. Pierson, who takes the opportunity, when Tom comes home,
to go in the carriage to Cambridge in her way to dear Merton. You have seen
Sr Wim, he was determined to see you, if for only one half-hour ; he says he never
spent such happy days in his life. He seems delighted with his wife and child,
& happy to see all his friends around him ; a melancholy parting, you may
suppose. Poor Mrs. Pierson and myself, from a double cause we cannot forget
our last fatal partings, & when Sº Whº said he had never spent such a happy time
before, my heart sank within me.
‘How favoured you have been by their Royal Highnesses passing so many
days will you. I do not wonder their liking Merton & your society. Did the
Prince of Wales spend more than one day with you ? Poor Blindy I had I been
in her place I should have kept my room the time they were there—at least the
Prince. We are going to dine at Saham on Thursday. It is supposed when
Mr. Motte marrys, Mr. Rolfe will look about for a wife, but she must have a good
fortune & in present possession. Now where that lady is to be found who will
have my cousin Robbin, is a matter of doubt with me. How does Mrs. Cadogan
this severe weather P She must be carefull of cold. We have throughout the
house—servants and all—had a severe throat and fever. I was at Swaffham
yesterday, but no news could I hear; dull enough I assure you. Emma sends
her love to Miss Horatia, and pray give mine to her, Anne, and all your party.
We drank your health on your presents, and nobody's more sincerely. I hear
Mr. Matcham means to bring George to Cambridge himself, and intends visiting
Mr. Rolfe, of course visiting me. As it will be in March I shall take the
opportunity of coming up with him. You see I am planing to visit you. God
bless you, my dear Lady, & believe me,’ &c. -
1807–8.] AVAEZSO/V PAPERS. 307
933. A. L. S. from the Rt. Hon. George Rose to the same. Dated Old
Palace Yard, December 14th, 1807. 2 pages 4to. [H]
“When I came to town I did not expect to be detained more than two or
three days, or I should have written to Mr. Matcham on the subject about which
he and you spoke to me; but as nothing can be done in it without a communica-
tion with Mr. Bolton, it can not suffer by a delay till I am settled in town after
Christmas.
“I saw Mr. Newcomb, and learned from him that he should like to be purser
of an Indiaman as well as any situation that could be procured for him. My
success this year is uncertain, but not desperate, as you will see by the inclosure
from the Member for Dorchester, who is a great East-India ship-owner. If I fail
now, I think I can be sure of succeeding next season. I will certainly do all I
can to prevent a disappointment to a man who suffered by the death of Lord
Nelson—would to God I could do so in instances more deeply interesting ! I
never exerted myself in any occasion in my life more with my whole heart, and
I deeply lament my want of success.
“I stay for a meeting of Lord Nelson's trustees on the 17th. He wishes to
have an estate of Mr. Suckling's in Norfolk bought for the family. I am, dear
madam, your,’ &c.
934. A. L.S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated Cranwich, December
16th, 1807. 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“I received your always welcome letter. Mrs. Pierson is set out for Cambridge
this morning (accompanied by Susanna & Eliza, that for to escort their brother
back). She expects to be at Merton on Thursday evening ; she said she should
write you, but it would be at Merton. Thank you kindly for speaking to Mr.
Rose about Tom, & I truly hope he will do something for him. I am anxious
about him ; he is coming into the world, & we are going out, & was it not for
the sake of my daughters we might as well live in the Country.
‘The Royal Family are quite right to support Mrs. Billington.* All the world
have forsaken us, and why should we support them when we have those of equal
abilities; surely it would be no encouragement. We have had letters from
Sr Wim Bolton ; he had his father at Plymouth with him for a few days, which
made him rather idle.
“I was surprized at the intelligence of Mr. Suckling selling his estate, but
Mr. Bolton said he guessed as much by what the young Lord said here about
the timber, &c. I hear he had left in his will that it should be valued & offered
to our lamented Lord, & if he liked it there was to be £500 less taken than of any
other person. Whether the Earl will be offered the same is a query. Mr. Bolton
is quite impatient for his princely tobacco. When does your business come on 2
I am impatient till something is done for you. Do not delay it a moment longer
than is absolutely necessary. With or without the child, if you are well provided
for, she can never want, & depend upon it she will marry well. My letter may be
stupid, but I have no chit-chat to tell you of. We all join in kindest love to you
& all your circle. Believe me,’ &c.
935. A. L. S. from Earl Nelson to Mrs. Maurice Nelson. Dated
Canterbury, January 5th, 1808. I page 4to., with SuperScription
and Seal. [P.]
‘I have received your letter. You may always rest secure that I never forget
my promises or engagements one moment after they become due. Mr. Haslewood
received £25 from me ten days ago, which I requested him to transmit to you—
probably it may be at Greenwich even now. We beg to be kindly remembered
to Lady Hamilton & all friends at Merton. Your obedient,’ &c.
* Elizabeth Billington, circa 1768–1818, one of the greatest singers England has produced.
She first appeared at a public concert at Oxford at the age of I4, and first Sang in London in
I786. During 18OI she made from Io,000l. to 15,000l., and at one time her fortune is said to
have amounted to 60,000l.
308 7 HE HAM/Z, TOM AAVD [1808.
986. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to Lady Hamilton. Dated ‘Tuesday,
noon (February 17th, 1808). 3 pages 4to., with Superscription
and Seal. [P.]
“At length, after being almost buried in the snow, the mail begins again to arrive
in proper time, & I am set down to chat with you. How are your invalids F I fear
this severe weather has not forwarded good Mrs. Cadogan, but I hope the warm
weather, which we are likely to have with the spring, will quite restore her. God
grant it may, & spare her to you for many years. I think Mr. Matcham & my
spouse are in too great a hurry about changing the name; the poor young man” is
Scarcely cold in his coffin, & do not think they have shewn much feeling for his
parents. Some months hence very well—at least, that is my idea therein,
regarding me is nothing, I act as my heart dictates, & So do they, perhaps you
will say—enough of this.
‘The young ladies desire their love to Anne & Horatia, & beg to inform them
that they had the most beautiful valentines that can be ; they were so pretty that
nothing but Clarges Street could produce. As to Emma, she is now come to tell
Miss Horatia all about it, she has got a very pretty Mr. Kissem all.
“We shall, I hope, have a happy meeting & jaunt to Ashfold. I mean upon
this occasion to be absent six weeks—3 with you & 3 with my sister, of which I
hope you will partake with me. We have not heard from Mrs. Pierson since she
left you. As to Mr. Bolton, we are expecting him home now every day, as the
weather is breaking up. If you see him, tell [him] his sheeſ are all alive and well,
tho’ some have been buried in the snow. Emily is here, a small party at Brancaster,
Mrs. B., Miss B., & Mrs. Girdlestone, for a beau, Henry Girdlestone ; they make
a party at cards every evening, & are very chearfull. I have not heard from Tom
lately, but hear he is well, as the Azchdeacon Yozge called on him on his way
down. We are anxiously looking for news of the Rochfort squadron, I hope soon
to hear of their defeat. Did I ever think I should be anxious about any fleet
again P But somehow the navy must always be interesting to me. I may say I
suck'd it with my mother's milk, for she was quite a heroine for the sailors.
“God bless you, my dear friend. Believe me,’ &c.
‘P.S.—The girls all beg their love.’
937. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to the same. Dated March Ioth, I808.
2 pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
“I should have wrote to you before to thank for your kind exertions for us to
Mr. Rose ; indeed he has shown himself a kind friend upon all occasions. Mr. M.
intended being in town this week, but the weather is so very severe he is afraid of
venturing from home. We are very low and unwilling to move, as you may stºose,
though, thank God, our young folks are all well, & I trust the summer's Sun will
in some degree cheer us. I had a letter from my sister last week, she talks of
coming soon, and I reckon very much of seeing her, & I hope when she has left
us you will give us the happiness of your company for a few days, which is all I
can ask you to spare from the gay world. I am delighted to hear of your going
to all these great parties; London is certainly the place for your constant resi-
dence, where you can enjoy the society of your friends, without the immense
expence of entertaining their servants, which you are obliged to do in the Country.
I hope to hear in your next that Mrs. Cadogan is quite recover'd, to whom & to
all your party we beg to be kindly remember'd, not forgetting my dear Horatia, &
accept our sincere good wishes from, my dear Lady Hamilton, your affectionate,’ &c.
938. Doc. S. ‘J. Willock.” Dated Golden Square, April 4th, 1808.
I page folio. [P.]
* The Particulars of Zady Hamilton's Villa af Merton, in the Parishes of
Mitcham and Wimbledon, in the County of Surrey.
‘The House with the Offices, Lawns, Shrubberies, Canals, Plantations, Farm
* Referring to the death of Viscount Merton, which had taken place a month before the date
of the letter.
1808.] AVEZSO/V AAPEA’.S. 309
House, Barns, Stables, Outbuildings, Yards, and Four Inclosures of Land, situate
altogether within a Ring Fence, and bounded on the North & West by the Turn-
pike Road from London to Epsom, and on the East partly by Merton Abbey Lane,
in the Parish of Mitcham. -
And
the Kitchen Garden, Gardener's House, Plantation, and Three Inclosures of
Meadow Land, lying all within a Ring Fence opposite the House, and bounded on
the south by the said Turnpike Road, east by the Road from Merton to Wandsworth,
west by the Road from Merton Turnpike, and north by a common footpath in the
Parish of Wimbledon, which contain altogether seventy-two acres, or thereabout,
and are all Freehold.
‘I have carefully surveyed the above described Premises, and I am
of opinion they are worth the sum of ... tº e º tº º º ... à Io,430
“And that the furniture and effects in the House, Offices, Gardens,
and Grounds are worth the sum of tº gº tº tº º º tº e º 2,500
A 12,930
939. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to Lady Hamilton. Dated ‘Friday
morning' (April 8th, 1808). 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“I was made very happy by receiving your letter; we were very dull & stupid
after you left us, and such miserable weather, not seen the sight of the sun till this
day. Mrs. Cadogan is very good and kind to take Anne to Merton, I have the
highest opinion of Mrs. Parrot's abilities & Mrs. C.’s nursing. I hope in God she
will recover, if not she must try her native air ; to say truth, I am very unhappy
about her, she grows So fast. At all events, I hope your business will be so far
settled to your satisfaction that you will be able to accompany me home where
(notwithstanding Mrs. V.) you will receive a most sincere & cordial welcome from
all the family. Are we not obliged to you, I may say, for whatever is done by
Government and your own kindness 2
‘What a dreadful shock must the death of Mr. Lambert* be to you; he appeared
such a good and placid man, but that nasty money is ruin of us all one way or
other. Poor woman, she is left to bear not only the loss of her husband but her
fortune. Good God, what a severe stroke to her. Write us all the news you can, we
have a dearth of that here. We read and work and talk in the day, in the evening
a party of cards, but not me, I read, I never play cards, that is whist, but with you.
Tell Horatia she has left many lovers behind her, her cousins all love her, buf none
more than her aunts. Give our kind love to Anne, best respects to Mrs. Cadogan,
our compliments to Mrs. Greffer. You will be glad to hear poor old Clark is dead.
Poor Bidy is very sorry for him. Do you understand, I mean the old shepherd at
Cranwich 3
“The man is waiting for my letter to set forth for Horsham. The best love of
this party attend you. Believe me,’ &c.
940. A. L. S. from Mr. Bolton to the same. Dated May 2nd (1808).
I} pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘I need not tell you how pleased we all felt at the good news you communicated,
and not the less from the thoughts of the disappointment it will be to our enemy,
who, I think, deserves it.
“I feel the kindness of Mr. Rose, and I think every one who hears of it must
think highly of him ; he has shewn that he strictly regards his promise even to the
dead. I could not tell what to make of your compºs to Sº Wºº & Lady Bolton, but
this morning, at 4 o’c., he & HW G. arrived from Cambridge, he had stopt a day at
Tottenham. My son will he here on Monday, as Mr. Hagget can not receive him
for a fortnight. I would not have you make yourself uneasy about selling Merton,
necessity has no law ; it would have been better had you sold at first, you know I
always advised you to do it. Never fear, I have no doubt we shall do well from
the good wishes of him that's gone to heaven, & to disappoint the wicked. I do
* Mr. Lambert was an eminent stockbroker, who had committed suicide April 4th. After his
death it was discovered that his affairs were greatly embarrassed, -
310 THE HAMILTON AND [1808.
not know if they have acquainted you the child has been very bad, but, thank God,
she is now quite recovered. I hope we shall see you soon. Dinner is ready.
God bless you,' &c.
941. A. L. S. from Miss Anne Bolton to the same. Dated Bradenham,
May 4th (1808). I; pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘You will, I know, my dear Lady, be grieved to hear of the severe illness of
my dear mother. She has, if you remember, long been unwell. Lately she has
been much worse. Her complaint is extreme weakness; indeed, she has hardly any
strength left, & what little now she has seems dayly to diminish. We sent to Norwich
for better advice, but I fear. . . . .
“Ah ! my dear Lady, you know how to pity us, and can easily imagine our
anxiety on such an occasion. God only knows how long she may continue with
us, and now in God alone I put my trust, there is hope, I fear that is all. She is
at present able to come down stairs. You know her mildness at all times, but
I think it is more visible at this time than ever. We have got my aunt Girdle-
stone with us, and also my aunt Bolton, which is some comfort, as the first is so
good a nurse. You will, I hope, write, and if you can think of anything you fancy
my dear mother would wish to hear, pray write, as she will wish me to read her
what you say. She has often wished to hear from you, therefore, pray write.
I can only say I will write again if we see any great change, and that [it] may be
the better is, as you may suppose, the continual prayer of your,’ &c.
942. A. L. S. from Sir William Bolton to the same. Dated ‘H. M. S.
Furydice, May 6th (1808), Channel Fleet. 24 pages 4to., with
Superscription. [P.]
‘I have just time to send my best wishes for your Ladyship's health and
prosperity, as a cutter is leaving the fleet for Plymouth instantly, & whilst others
have been writing, the Admiral has sent me a chasing. I returned from the
coast of America to this place on the 28th of April, since which time Admiral
Sotheby has thought proper to keep me with him off Ushant. Your Ladyship
will feel how great has been my disappointment at not being suffered to go into
port after so tedious a cruize, particularly as I have received advice from the
Admiralty of my appointment to the Druid, & I am ordered by their Lordships
to take up my commission for her at Plymº. I learnt the death of poor Trafalgar
at the Western Islands, where I put in to water; but I am still ignorant of the
cause of his death, yet not more ignorant than my Admiral who, when I asked him,
could tell me nothing about it. We are in daily expectation of a cutter from
Lord Gardner, who I hope will take pity upon poor Eurydice & order her in,
when I hope to be enabled to visit Merton, as the Druid is on a cruize off the
Azores, & I hope to be immediately superceded. We are all agog at the rumour
of the Emperor of Russia's death, & of his brother Constantine. What credit is
given to it in town I cannot say. Two days ago I boarded a privateer brigg
going out on a cruize; who should I find to be her commander but a stout
mustachio'd man—the Baron Homspech. , I wrote to Kate this morning, but as
yet have received no letters of any kind since my leaving Rochfort the latter end
of January. . Your Ladyship will believe me very impatient to hear of your
welfare. In hopes you will compassionate my anxiety, I must, as ever, Subscribe
myself,’ &c.
‘P.S.—I intreat my best respects & love to your good mother, to Horatia, Anne,
& Mrs. Graffer. From the beginning of my letter your Ladyship will see that I
am full of hopes.’
943. A. L. S. from Mr. G. Matcham, with A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham
to the same. No date (May 8th, 1808). 2; pages 4to., with
Superscription. [P.]
‘What you have written us in respect to the Earl has quite astonish'd me.
I could never have conceiv'd he could have so betray'd Tom Bolton, but it is
1808.] - AWAE/SOW PAPAERS. 311
evident that he is as great an enemy to us as our dear lost friend was our
patron. The extinction of the whole family would be a matter of the greatest
exultation to him, with the exception of his own dear self and Lady Charlotte.
God only knows what his shocking rancour will lead to, but while this man
exists, I can safely say there is one person with whom I would not exchange situation,
moral or worldly. God mend him and preserve his wife, a wish comprising his
punishment and his restoration. In respect to the change of the name, he cannot
say it is any personal pride that has made me anxious to assume that of the good
& noble Viscount, that I should feel the honour is most true, but I desir'd
Mr. Haslewood to say that my anxiety was for Mrs. M. and our children to enjoy
the honour and the advantage, & that I was very willing to descend to the grave
as plain George Matcham; but the man is a rancorous foe to his sisters and
their offspring.
‘Can you come down with Eliza: Mrs. M. takes the pen from me to solicit.
Believe me,’ &c. -
(MRs. MATCHAM to LADY HAMILTON.)
‘I hope & trust if you have any thought of leaving this country you will let
us know in time that we may spend a few days together. I wº rather see you in
our little habitation than go to town, where I know it will be all hurry and
confusion; but I hope you are not going. This is a selfish wish, I own, & had we
peace, it would be for your comfort to leave this country. If the name of our
dearest angel is taken we must all have it, for Z will never fake one that my good
husband is not allowed to have. If it will be of service to my children to assume
it, we will give it up to them, but I don’t think you will approve this plan. Let
a family sink or swim together, if equally deserving.
‘How happy we should be to see you with Eliza for a few days. I hope she
will come when you have shown her all the gay parties.
“With our kindest love to all, believe me,’ &c.
944. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated ‘Sunday morning’
(May 15th, 1808). 3.} pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘We arrived here on Friday evening a little fatigued, for I do not yet feel
quite strong, but the country and fine weather will, I hope, restore me my usual
health. I find home the only place for a weak old woman. How I wish you
were with us; it would do you so much good to what hot rooms and large parties.
At this time of the year, it seems to me the strangest thing in the world that
people should prefer crowded rooms to the delightful air of the country. You
have been very kind in taking Eliza out with you so much ; I hope she has left
town, as I fear her aunt will think she neglects her if she stays any longer. By a
letter from Brancaster to-day we learn the death of poor Mrs. Foley. Poor young
Creature—only 24 She was confined about a fortnight since of a fine girl.
They did not apprehend her in imediate danger. She has left three children.
‘I am glad you treated the old Duke with a sight of you in all your brilliancy.
Depend upon it, it will be a thousand founds more in your pocket, for he does
love to look at a handsome woman ; still, depend upon it, your person has more
charms for him than all the beauties of the mind. Treat him as often as you can
with a sight of you, that's the only way. I find you & Mr. Bolton correspond, &
Scem much of a mind in some particulars. The girls were on a visit at Swaffham
when we returned home, a long engagement; very gay there this week : Mr. &
Mrs. Tayler & the Days were all there for some days. The Rolfes have been in
this country to make visits. I am glad they called on you ; it shows a proper
attention on Rolfe's part. I wonder if they called on the Countess, & how Eliza
Yonge look'd. Mrs. Cadogan is, I hope, enjoying country air ; I know she does
not love town. Give our kindest love to Horatia & Anne. Mrs. P. & my daughters
join in love to you ; the former will be happy to hear from you. My comp" to
Mrs. Greffer. God bless you, my dear friend, believe me,’ &c.
945. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Cranwich, “Tuesday’
(May 26th, 1808). 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“I was fearfull you were unwell, it was such a time, as I thought it, before I
3I2
THE HAMILTON AND - [1808.
heard from you. I know you fret a great deal ; do come into the country & lay
aside your cares a few weeks (they expect you at Brancaster), it will do you good.
I do hope now a few weeks will decide all our cares & fears from Government. I
was surprized to see by the papers to-day the Duke of Q. was in the park—a ſlash
before death, or does he never mean to depart this life P Poor old man he must
have outlived all his pleasure except looking at your Ladyship, which I hope he
will remember with grafitude.
‘On Thursday we are going to dine at Saham & meet a Swaffham party, &
on Friday Mr. & Mrs. Tayler come here for a few days, when we shall paper and
whitewash the house for your reception. I shall not finish my letter till to-morrow,
as I hope you will send us some intelligence of Mr. Áºose.
‘Wednesday, & no letter. I know if you had but a gleam of hope you would
communicate it to us. Alas ! poor Tom | I fear he has no chance of getting
anything done for him now. You, I hope, will be more successful, & that will be
a comfort to us.
“A letter from Tom to say he shall quit Cambridge on Monday fortnight for
Mr. Hagget's, but if he thought you would be there in a few days, he would wait;
if not, he will certainly see you in his way thro’ town. I have not yet left off my
wraps—indeed, I have been far from well since I left you, scarcely left the house.
I hope you will write soon and give a better account of yourself. How is Mrs.
Cadogan P Love to Anne & Horatia ; compºs to Mrs. Greffer. Believe me,’ &c.
946. A. L. S. from the same to Miss Anne Bolton. Dated Cranwich,
‘Monday’ (June, 1808). 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘You see I never forget you, altho’ not always punctual to the day. I hope
lily Lady will come as early in August as she can. To say the truth, I all rather
glad she does not come before, as I shall now have a clean room for her, which
would have been done before, but waited for her coming. We have now got
painters, whitewashers, &c., full of stinks and cleanliness. You will likewise like
it better, as your sisters and your niece will all be at home. Eliza you will see
this week for only one night, I think, as she must go to Tottenham or, as I under-
Stand, Mrs. Robinson will be offended. She goes only for a day or two at the
most, as Miss Woodthorpes is ready & her holidays have been begun some time.
‘You have seen Tom, & I hope he has paid Mr. Olliver. My index, &c., I
left behind. I hear the Guild at Norwich was very splendid ; Mary Anne, more-
over, was said by the Swaffham party to be the belle of the day. The Yonges
did not look well, rather under-dressed, which is not usually the case there. Mrs.
Day's dress, Magº her sister's, white sarsnet ; Miss Anne looking very well indeed.
How did your day pass off at the Earl's ; we hear from Swaffham they are going
to Cheltenham. Mr. Partridge is likewise going there. Susanna, your father, &
myself, are the only ones at home; he begins to grumble sadly for his g.-daughter.
Kate might go where she would if she left that child behind her. Give my kind
love to my Lady ; I will write in a few days to her. All send love to you, &
believe me,’ &c.
947. A. L. S. from Mr. Thomas Bolton to Lady Hamilton. Dated
Byfleet, July 7th, 1808. I; pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘I am now addressing myself to you on my birthday. I am happy to tell you
that I never was in better spirits or happier in my life time. I hope by this time
Mr. Rose has settled everything you wish'd for, & that you will be able to go into
Norfolk with a mind free from troubles. I was very glad to hear you fixed
Saturday for going, as I am sure you, who cannot bear the least heat, must be
running a great risk of your life by remaining in town this time of the year.
When you return from Norfolk, and get settled comfortably at Richmond, I shall
then take the liberty of coming over to see you. You observe I do not stop for
my invitation, but invite myself. If you would favour me with a letter by return
of post, to let me know how you all are and what sort of a day you spent on the
water, I should be very thankful. As you go thro' Cambridge you probably wil
1808.] AVAEZSO/V AAA’AA’.S. 3I3
See Henry; give my love to him, and make him show you my apartments. I
only wish I was there ready to receive you, but, however, I hope you will come
down to the commencement one year & then I certainly shall be there. Likewise
remember me to all the good people at Cranwich & Brancaster, & also to your
mother, Anne, Horatia, & Cecilia, & believe me,’ &c. -
948. A. L. S. from the Rt, Hon. George Rose to the same. Dated Old
Palace Yard, July 21st, 1808, 3} pages 8vo. [H]
‘I have seen Mr. Dawson this morning in consequence of my sending for him,
and I find there is now a gentleman from the East Indies about the property at
Merton, who is likely to give nearly £13,000 for the house, land, & fixtures—
exclusive of the furniture, wine, & books, the latter I am sure should be packed
up and sent to London. From all that passed with Mr. Dawson I am led to
hope the Sale is likely to take place, and if that should fail, I have advised the
place being let, as the only possible means of putting an end to the expence, and
it would produce some money to you. I would not, however, advise the letting
the house except in the case of absolute necessity. I said everything to Mr.
Dawson that I could to incite him to activity, and I verily believe he will now
exert himself. -
‘I had an opportunity of a very quiet conversation with Mr. Canning on
Sunday last, about the paper written by Lord Nelson just before he went into his
last action, which has led to a further communication on the same subject. I
repeat, what I think I before said, that there is a perfect disposition in Mr.
Canning's mind to give effect to that paper, but the difficulties are, I fear,
insurmountable. I can most truly assure you that I have most anxiously and
Conscientiously discharged. all that Lord Nelson could have expected from me if
he were now alive, & I am most sincerely grieved that I have failed of success.
The point is not absolutely decided, but I should be inexcusable if I were to give
you any hope. .
* I leave London to-morrow, and from Cuffnells I will write to Mr. Bolton on
the affairs which interest hill. I am,' &c.
949. L. S. from Lady Hamilton to Lord St. Vincent. No date (July,
I8O8). 4 pages 4to. [P] -
“A strong sense of the deep regard which you have ever shewn, for all that
relates to the welfare of our country in general, and consequently to its naval
glory in particular ; with the tender recollection, how dear you thus rendered
yourself to the heart of our immortal and incomparable hero, whose ardent wish
it was to see your Lordship always at the head of the Admiralty, a Sentiment that
still pervades the bravest bosoms in the navy, have awakened in my heart a
hope, after so many years of anxiety and cruel disappointment, that the public
Services of importance, which it was my pride as well as duty to perform, while
the wife of his Majesty's Minister at the Court of Naples, may, possibly, through
your Lordship's friendly and generous advice, and most able and active assist-
ance, which I now most earnestly solicit, but a short time longer remain either
unacknowledged, or unrewarded, by my King and country.
‘I will not agonize the extreme sensibility of your Lordship's feeling breast,
by any attempt to detail the various vicissitudes of my hapless fortunes, since the
fatal day when dying Nelson bequeathed myself and his infant daughter, expressly
left under my guardianship, to the munificent protection of our Sovereign and the
nation. I will not arouse the just indignation of your Lordship's great and
honourable mind, by reciting the many petty artifices, mean machinations, and
basely deceptive tenders of friendship, which hitherto have prevented Lord
Nelson's dying request from being duly heard by those to whom it is so peculiarly
and pathetically addressed.
‘You, my Lord, cannot be insensible of the value of my public services; since
it is to them alone I have been so many years indebted for the proud boast of
possessing your friendship. As the widow of Sir William Hamilton, more than
3I4 7TAZAZ Aſ AM/Z 7 OAV A/VD [1808.
thirty years Ambassador at the Courts of Naples and Palermo, had I never seized
the opportunity, or even felt the inclination, to perform any one act of public
service, I might still have expected a reasonable pension would be granted, if
duly applied for, by the benevolent Monarch whom my husband had so long, so
ably, and so faithfully served. Even the widow” of Mr. Lock, only about two years
Consul at Palermo, a man not remarkable either for great loyalty or the most
correct attention to his official duties, had a pension assigned her almost imme-
diately on his death, of £800 a year; while I, who have been seven years the
widow of such a man as Sir William Hamilton, the foster brother of our Sovereign,
and have constantly done all in my power to benefit my country, continue to be
totally neglected. The widow of Mr. Fox, whose services to his country are, at
best, very problematical, had instantly a grant of A, 1200 per annum; and even his
natural daughter, Miss Willoughby, obtained a pension of £300 a year. Yet this
ſman of the Žeople, did not shed his blood for his King and country ; and neither
asked, nor could have expected, from them, when dying, like the noble and
confiding Nelson, any such posthumous national support, as has humanely been
extended to those who had thus lost their only protector. Surely the daughter of
Lord Nelson, now Miss Nelson, is not less an object worthy the attention of her
King and country, than Miss Willoughby, the daughter of Mr. Fox.
‘I have said, perhaps, more than enough ; but the goodness of your Lordship's
heart will excuse whatever may flow from mine, however irregularly, in the act of
addressing, as my assured friend, the greatest statesman that the death of Mr.
Pitt has left behind.
‘Lamenting, as I feelingly, perhaps selfishly do, in common with all who have
a just sense of your Lordship’s transcendent abilities, and the exigencies of our
country at this eventful period, that you are not in the proper situation to act
more effectually for the national security and glory, I shall in a few days, transmit
you a printed copy of Lord Nelson's dying request, prefaced by his admirable prayer
for his King and country, and accompanied by the Reverend Dr. Scott's attesta-
tion, as registered with this remarkable codicil, in Doctors Commons; and relying,
with the most unbounded confidence, on your Lordship's judgment, as to what
measures may be most advisable to be pursued, for the attainment of objects so
important to Miss Nelson, as well as to myself, and so dear to the heart of
Britain's greatest naval hero. I am,’ &c.
950. A. L. S. from Miss Anne Bolton to Lady Hamilton. Dated
“Piccadilly, Friday.' 2% pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘Your note very much surprized me, as indeed I fully believed, from your long
& entire neglect of me, that I was forgotten & given up by the inhabitants of
Clarges St. As I have lain on a sofa by the window for a little air, I have often
seen you pass, & it has more than once made my head ache to find you did not
think me worth an enquiry whether I was alive or dead, altho' I was so very ill
when I exerted myself to call on you. But I said, it signifies not ; in one short
month I shall be gone for ever from the possibility of witnessing myself deserted
by those I have best loved. I have been very, very ill, and my father and sister
being absent, I felt peculiarly forlorn ; had it not been for the kindness of Mrs.
Harris, who devoted all her time and attention to me, I might now perhaps have
been in my grave. Forgive me, my dear Ly Hamilton, for taking up your time,
but your note to Eliza requires a little vindication of myself. I was indeed
unconscious of behaving unlike myself when last I saw you ; I did think that to
you, at least, my conduct was uniform. I am at a loss to know to whom you
allude when you speak of false flimery & palaver; indeed, my dear friend, I
have had no one near me to so indulge me if, indeed, I was fond of it, which you
know is not the case, tho' from my soul I feel every acá and word of kindness. I
am therefore, you may believe, sensible of your kind invitation to Merton, & could
I think that low & weak & miserable as I am that I should not be a burthen on
your hands, I would spend a few days with you in the next week, Žerhaps the last
time I may ever be with you in this world. There is a feeling for you at this heart
of mine that will not be conquered, & I believe will accompany me wherever I
* Mrs. Lock was the daughter of the Duchess of Leinster by her second husband, Mr. Ogilvie.
1808.] AVAEZSOAV PAPERS. 3I5
may go, & last while I have life; but from no one else in the world will I endure
to be slighted without casting them away from my warm heart.
“Tell me then whether you are still inclined to receive me, & if I may bring
my nurse with me ; she will sleep with me and (sic) but I can do without her if
inconvenient to you. My doctors will not lose sight of me for a day or two, but
they think I may be better to-morrow. They all advise change of air ; I have
myself no hopes from it, but you may, perhaps, do more for me. Ever y”
affectionate,’ &c.
951. A. L. S. from Lady Hamilton to (the Duke of Queensberry).
Dated Richmond, September 4th, 1808. 4 pages 4to. [P.]
‘My dear Lord & friend, may I hope that you will read this, for you are the
only hope I have in this world to assist and protect me, in this moment of unhappi-
ness and distress. To you, therefore, I appeal. I do not wish to have more than
what I have. I can live on that at Richmond, only that I may live free from fear
—that every debt may be paid. I think, and hope, £15,000 will do for everything.
For my sake, for Nelson's sake, for the good I have done my country, purchase it;”
take it, only giving me the portraits of Sir William, Nelson, and the Queen. All
the rest shall go. I shall be free and at liberty. I can live at Richmond on what
I have ; you will be doing a deed that will make me happy, for lawyers will only
involve me every day more and more—debts will increase new debts. You will
Save me by this act of kindness. The title deeds are all good and ready to deliver
up, and I wish not for more than what will pay my debts. I beseech you, my
dear Duke, to imagine that I only wish for you to do this, not to lose by it ; but I
See that I am lost, and most miserable, if you do not help me. My mind is made
up to live on what I have. If I could but be free from Merton—all paid, and only
one hundred pounds in my pocket, you will live to see me blessing you, my
mother blessing you, Horatia blessing you. If you would not wish to keep
Merton, perhaps it will sell in the spring better—only let me pass my winter
without the idea of a prison. 'Tis true my imprudence has brought it on me, and
villamy and ingratitude has helped to involve me, but the sin be on them. Do
not let my enemies trample on me ; for God’s sake then, dear Duke, good friend,
think 'tis Nelson who asks you to befriend,’ &c.
952. A. L. S. from Miss Anne Nelson Bolton (with a letter from Mrs.
Bolton) to Lady Hamilton. Dated Cranwich, Sunday, September
I Ith, 1808. 3.} pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘I have but this moment received your kind letter, for which I am very much
obliged. I was sorry to hear Jhion had been so ill, but was fearful when you left us
he was not in a proper state to travel, and that he said he was better than he really
was, for fear of being left behind. Hope the fine air of Richmond will do him
good. Believe me, althow with my father, brother, and sistres, I felt very low-
spirited for the first day or two, but hopes of soon seeing you soon again made me
cheer up. We went to the play on Thursday. Mrs. and Miss Fisher desired me
to say how grateful they felt for all your kindness to them. We were very much
entertained. All the people at Swaffham were very much disappointed at not
Seeing you, particularly Miss Langford. The delicate Mrs. Edwards and all her
family were there; all the soldgers were there ; God save the King was sung, and
after it the men got up and gave three cheers—quite grand for a barn. I can
assure you I think poor Horatia would have been very much delighted. Pray
give my love, and tell her not to forget her cousin Anne. Tom would not go to
the play with us, the reason / cannot tell, perhaps she may. Give my best love to
dear Mrs. Cadogan, and tell lier we all wish to see her here with you soon. Who
do you mean by Horatio Bolton P You will, of course, say everything that is
kind to Mrs. Greffer for me. Love to Sarah, hope to see her here also. Mama
will write in this letter. I wish I had some news. All here send their love and
* Merton,
3I6 7THE A/AM/Z 7'OAV AAV/O [1808.
kisses to Horatia. Emma sends her love and a kiss; hope she is better. I hope
when you write again will tell me how you like your rooms at Richmond. Pray
write Soon, as we shall be anxious to know how you all are. Believe me,’ &c.
(LETTER FROM MRS. BOLTON.)
‘We began to be rather uneasy at not having a letter from you yesterday, lest
you were unwell from travelling, but had no idea you were so unfortunate in
your journey as to be three days in getting to town, but I hope dear Horatia is
quite recovered. And now you have seen Mrs. Cadogan I hope your affairs look
better than you thought when at a distance, and that your spirits of course will be
better, & you will be able to come quite happy to fetch Anne. We are all dull
enough now you have left us. I have never been out of the house since you left
us. Mr. Steele was here the other day. He tells us Lº Mountjoy” is coming down
with a great deal of company, amongst others, L' Hamilton, a son of the Marquis
of Abercorn, & the report is he is to marry one of the Marquis's daughters.
‘I have had a letter from Mrs. Matcham. She writes, supposing you are
with us. She begs love, &c., &c., and hope you will not let the autumn slip
without visiting them at Ashfold. Mr. Bolton sends his love, and desires I will
tell you Mr. Matcham has complied with his request, you know what. Tom, I
think, mends every day in his looks. He seems now pretty well, therefore, I hope
you will find him much improved. All join in kindest love to your party.
Believe me,’ &c. -
953. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. No date (September 15th,
I808). 3.} pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘I am liappy to hear you are safe arrived at dear Merton (for dear it will ever
be to me), & found Mrs. Cadogan well, and the improvements so much to your
liking. You must have had a very fatigueing journey ; I am happy to find you
were not ill yourself after such a night as you had. You give me the greatest
pleasure when you say Anne behaved as you wished, it will be the way to make
me love her. Mr. Wm. Bolton, Emily left us Saturday morning, and Mr. Bolton
is gone to town, where he will arrive on Monday late; he is gone to see after the
prize-money in Mr. Davison’s hands, & buy into the funds, and pay the legacies as
far as the money will go. He will be at the Bedford Coffee House, Covent Garden,
but will in the day be backwards and forwards in Clarges Street. He hopes to
have finished his business in less than a fortnight, I hope he will, as the harvest-men
will want him very much. We have nothing but rain and dull enough since you
left us. We went to church yesterday, & Madam Partridge was there dressed in a
color'd gown & a checked silk handkerchief, such as the maids, & looked no
smarter. Wm. Girdlestone is in high spirits with the idea of his East Indian
Expedition, which you are so kind as to interest yourself in. Will you tell me
whether you think Blindy will be in town by the tenth of October or not? If we
find Anne's letter we will send it to her. Emma talks much of you and Horatia ;
she is now at my knee, and says love to you both, in which the whole party most
cordially join & to Mrs. Cadogan. All who know her must love her, & dearly too.
God protect you, my dear friend, & believe me at all times,’ &c.
‘P.S.—Susanna has sent by the waggon 8 boxes and I portfolio ; she will ride
down to Woodford about the girl you mention, but I shall not keep Hannah longer
than Michelmass ; I think, if you like, she would suit you better; she is perfectly
clean, and neat, & a quiet temper, & I dare say would be glad to come on y” terms;
in the meantime Susanna will take a look at the other girl. Let me know in your
next which you like best.’
954. A. L.S. from Miss Anne Nelson Bolton and Mrs. Bolton to the same.
Dated Cranwich, Sunday, September 25th, 1808. 3.} pages 4to.,
with Superscription and Seal. [P]
‘Your kind letter was more acceptable than ever, as we feared from your long
* Charles John Gardiner, 2nd Viscount Mountjoy, afterwards 1st Earl of Blessington,
1783–1829, husband of the celebrated Lady Blessington,
1808.] AVEZSOAV PAPERS. 317
silence you where ill; we were sorry to hear of poor Jhion, but it is what we
all said, I fear by this time he has breathed his last. Poor man, he certainly was
attached to you, therefore you must regret him much. I fear you where in town
when the dreadful fire broke out, we have been very anxious of hearing from you.
Fear you where much frightened, if in the Strand you where not far off, and must
have been in some danger. Indeed, I much wonder they were able to stop it so
Soon, it must have made a great noise. I hope Horatia is quite well. Tom Sent
her some birds, hope she has received them, they were of his own killing, I can
assure her. I go out every day ; cannot walk much, my legs are so weak.
“My father went to Suffolk last Sunday, and returned yesterday with my cousin
Tom. Mrs. H. Partridge is here ; they had a dinner party yesterday; Tom was
invited, but did not go ; he has been and she (Mrs. P.) behaves very well to him.
Emma is always talking of Horatia and you. Last Thursday was Eliza's birthday;
we had great doings, we had a great deal of company, amongst the fashionables
where Mrs. Fuller, Mrs. Geyex, Miss Fuller, & Miss G.; the gentlemen where
Tom, James, &c. &c. Plumb pudding and plumb-cake ; a cold plumb-pudding
we eat next day under a tree in the field ; some of them went in the carriage ; I
went on may horse, who, wishing to have a roll on the grass, lay down with me. We
go out almost every day; we take a bottle of cider and harvest cake in a basket,
and so set down under some tree. We have got plenty of ketchup for Mrs. Cadogan,
to whom pray give my best love, hope we shall see her here. Pray has Mrs.
Greaffer left you? If not give my love to her, also to Sarah & Cecilia, hope they
are well. You must excuse all blunders, as my horse is at the door. Hope to hear
from you soon. Believe me,’ &c.
(LETTER FROM MRS. BOLTON.)
‘I have not permission to read the other side, therefore I scarcely know what
to say. What a dreadful thing was the fire at Covent Garden, it quite upset me
when I first heard of it ; the first idea was, where is Lady Hamilton P sure she
is not in the Strand. But upon talking it over we were in hopes you returned
home on Monday evening, as you only mention'd calling on the Duże , I hope it
was so, I thank you for your news of Mr. Rose, but depend on it nothing will be
done for 74s, that time is over. Horatia, I hope, will be well provided for, as to you
must look to the Duże, if he deceives us, how I shall extreate him, but I hope
better things. Lady Bolton goes to Brancaster and Wells in a few days, or it
will be too late in the season. Love to all your party from all, & believe me,’ &c.
955. A. L. S. from both the same to the same. Dated Cranwich,
October 2nd, 18O8. 3.} pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘I hope you will excuse my not writing before this, but have been very ill ever
since I received your last letter, with a return of my old complaint, but am now
much better. Sorry to say Susanna is ill in bed ; she has hurt her arm from a
fall she had yesterday. Am much obliged for your good advice. We received
papa’s new coat and waistcoat ; the latter we all thought very pretty, and, of
course, of your chuseing. Susanna desires me to say I have been through nine
hedges and a crooked apple tree, and that I have been complimented this morning
on my good looks and ſºme complexion. Tom sent you two brace of birds on
Thursday, and a hare for Mr. Salter ; hope they arrived safe, and proved good.
I and Lady Bolton went to church ; found Mrs. P. reading to the Clerk only, or
perhaps there might be a few old crows, or an owl or so. I think the sermon was
something like God save the King, with variations. This morning we sent the
carriage for Miss Langford ; she is not yet arrived, but I think I hear her tongue
going at this distance. We have not been to Swafham since you left us but once
(no great loss). Lady B. and Emma leave us for Brancaster on Wednesday next.
Susan has becn ill ever since you left us ; we had a letter from her mother, who
feared she was going into a decline. Lady Bolton sends her love ; she has not
heard from Sir Will” lately, and wishes to know if you have. You must really
excuse all my nonsense; but, indeed, there is not anything else. Hope poor Jhion
318 THE HAMILTO/W AND [1808
is better; fear not. Give my love to all at Richmond ; they all here send their
love. Accept the same from,’ &c.
(LETTER FROM MRS. BOLTON.)
‘It was my full intention to have written to you last week, but Anne had a
billious attack, but her medicine had much the same effect as when Mrs. Cadogan
had her at Merton, so hope now will rub [along] for some time, she is now quite
well. I was disappointed by your saying yourself and Mrs. Cadogan were not
coming, but shall be very happy to see Miss S. Conner, and hope you will permit
her to make as long a stay as you conveniently let her; we will do all we can to
make it comfortable for her, but very gay she must not expect. Lº Mountjoy
has been down for a few days; he comes with a large party for a short time, but,
I find, will not open his theatre till next spring; therefore, if you will favour us
with an early visit, you may, if you chase, be present. I will write the middle of
the week if you chuse, but I must say our chit-chat is scarcely worth the postage.
Give my kind love to my dear Horatia ; tell her Anne shall bring her tea-things
she left behind. God bless you, my dear friend, your affectionate,’ &c.
956. A. L. S. from Mrs. and Mr. Matcham to the same. Dated ‘Tuesday
morning ' (October 4th, 1808). 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription.
[P.]
“I was delighted to receive a letter from you on Sunday, for we began to be
quite uneasy at hearing nothing from you since your return from Cranwich. I
hope you will find Richmond a pleasant residence. When you are settled, do
come and see us, if it only for a few days ; the distance is no more than a
morning's ride. George will pay his respects to you next week in his way to
Cambridge, & then you can fix the time for our having the happiness of Seeing
you ; we shall have a great deal to fa/A of, and you will find our placc improved.
The change of air will do you good after your indisposition, which I trust has been
nothing more than the bustle of moving. If the name is changed, it will be
entirely by your perseverance. I confess I am anxious for it, as I know, could our
dear angel look up, he would be gratified with our expressing the wish that after-
ages may £now to whom my family belonged. How much do we feel his loss in
the most trifling things more and more every day ! God bless you, my dear Lady
Hamilton, and with our united best wishes I remain, &c.
‘P.S.—Kiss Horatia for me, and tell her cousins send her a thousand kisses,
and hope to see her soon. We all beg to be remembered to Mrs. Cadogan, &
hope to see her with you.
(LETTER FROM MR. MATCHAM.)
“An objection may arise to my and Tom Bolton assuming the name ; for my
part, the only wish is that the children may bear it. The world will ascribe to me
vanity instead of the persuasion that the change may be of service to my children
should the Court clamour arise. (I wish) Mr. Rose would not think of us, but
confine the name to the young ones, for Mrs. M. will not be call’d but by [my?] name,
tho' I have endeavour'd to persuade her to be mention'd in the permission to the
children ; to them it may be of consequence. Let us see you all soon. I am,’ &c.
‘P.S.–Miss Hay is going, the beginning of Novº, to Bath for a fortnight or
three weeks. Do you know of any lady, a proficient in musick, who would wish to
change the air of London for the country during that time P. We should be glad
to entertain and to pay her for instructing our girls—especially if a good singer.’
957. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton and Miss Anne N. Bolton to the same.
Dated Cranwich, October 8th, 1808. 3.; pages 4to., with Super-
Scription. [P.]
“I was made very happy yesterday by receiving your letter. I began to think
you had forgot old correspondents, but Anne told me you had promised her.
1808.] AVEZSO/W PAPERS. 3 IQ
What a rascal and a fool Olliver is for quarreling with his best friend, for he may
be assured, if it ever was in our power to serve him, it would be done, to take him
off your shoulders. I am vexed you are so fretted with his nonsense when you
have so many more serious concerns; but cheer up (after a storm comes a calm)
says the old Żroveró, & that it may soon be verified to you is my sincere prayer.
Oh, that old Duſée / How soon he might make all matters easy. I hear by the
Yongs that the Countess has been very ill indeed, with a complaint in her bowells,
but is better now ; they are at Broadstairs for her health ; Eliza Yonge is to stay
the winter with them. Mr. Bolton, who was at Lynn the other day, heard that the
Earl has declared that he will have a son and heir ; and another piece of news
which will surprize you : that the Viscountess is going to be married to a Lynn
gentleman—one of the merchants there—but I do not credit it ; she would never
lower her dignity to marry a tradesman. What think you ? It may be that she
is courting their favour for her son to marry their daughters, with a large fortune
to be given for the honour of her connection. Mr. Girdlestone is likely to get out
to India, when we will call upon your Ladyship for the kind offer you made of
giving him letters to Lord Minto, & any other you can procure, as the more the
young man is known the better chance he has. Tom is quite well; he lives in the
air. Mr. Partridge is very civil to him whenever he likes to go shooting with him.
He begs his love to you and your circle, as do we all. Had Mr. Salter a hare
Tom sent? Tell Mrs. Cadogan I have half-a-dozen bottles of ketchup for her.
God bless you, my dear friend; keep up your spirits says your affectionate,’ &c.
*P.S.—Miss Langford sends respects.” -
(LETTER FROM MISS ANNE N. BOLTON.)
‘I would not let a letter pass without adding a line ; indeed, it must be one,
for in this place there is nothing to say. I was sorry, though not surprized, at
hearing of the behaviour of Mr. Oliver; I fear it must hurt Mrs. Cadogan very
much. To-morrow we loose almost all our party—Lady Bolton, Miss Langford,
Tom, and (Susanna); they did not before, as Susanna's health was so very bad–
she could not sleep for three nights, but she is now much better. You never
mentioned in your last how Jhion was ; hope he is better, for God knows you have
trouble enough without losing him. I think you are right to give those men a
good drubbing, but they will not mind a woman. Oh, how I wish I was a man ;
how I would make them dance I Love to all the party, and believe me,’ &c.
958. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated ‘Thursday morning’
(October 14th, 1808.) 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.
“I should have written to you yesterday, but we were afraid of alarming you,
as I know you feel for us, as we do for what concerns you. Tom has been ill a
week with an intermittent fever, which is very prevalent in this neighbourhood ;
but, by the help of the bark, he was certainly getting better till yesterday ; as he
was going to rise his nose bled in such violent manner as to frighten us. Mr.
Steele came, and said it was common in the complaint. They tell me he bled
near a pint, which has made him very low indeed, but he has had a good night,
and is certainly better this morning. He can sit up, and talks of taking a turn or
two before the door.
‘Then, to complete the misery, poor Anne is very ill; she has now a blister on
her side, and Mr. Steel has altered her medicines, & we will give them a trial.
If they do not succeed, he says she must have other advice ; he seems to think
something must be done for her. Mr. Bolton is more alarmed about her, as she is
certain she is in a bad way ; but I hope as slie is young, and nothing the matter
with her lungs, she will do very well. She has been growing weaker every day,
but I did not wish to tell you, as I was in hopes she would soon be better, & now
I think she will. We have sent to ask Mrs. Girdlestone to come & help nurse,
but my son, I hope, will be nearly well, if he has no return.
‘Anne says she will write a line to my Lady, or she will be alarmed for me.
This she said last night, but she has been very restless all night. She begs her
32O - 7A/A2 HAM//ZTO/V A/VD [1808.
love, and she will write on Sunday, I hope, a better account of herself. Tell Mrs.
Cadogan I will take care of her children. .
‘Lady Bolton has left us, and poor Susanna has but one arm, but she does as
much with that as most people do with two. Now, send us something good of
yourself, & that will help to cheer us, for, believe me, we look to your welfare as
our own. Believe me,’ &c.
959. A. Doc. S. ‘Emma Hamilton’ (at the bottom of every page).
Dated Richmond, October 16th, 1808. Io; pages folio.
“This I declare to be my last Will and Testament, October the 16th, 1808,
Richmond.
‘If I can be buried in St. Paul's, I should be very happy to be near the
glorious Nelson, whom I loved and admired, and as once Sir William, Nelson,
and myself had agreed we should all be buried near each other. If the King had
[not] granted him a public funeral, this would have been, that three persons who
were so much attached to each other from virtue and friendship should have been
laid in one grave when they quitted this ill-natured slanderous world. But 'tis
past, and in heaven I hope we shall meet. If I am not permitted to be buried in
St. Paul's, let me be put where I shall be near my dear mother, when she is called
from this ungrateful world. But I hope she will live, and be a mother to Nelson's
child, Horatia. I beg that Merton may be sold, and all debts paid ; and, what-
ever money shall be left after all debts are paid, I give to my dear mother, and
after her death to my dear Horatia Nelson. I also give all that I am possessed of
in this world to my dear mother, Mary Doggin, or Cadogan, for her use, and,
after her death, to Horatia Nelson. I give them all my ready money, plate, linen,
pictures, wearing apparel, lousellold furniture, trinkets, wine, in short, everything
I have in this world to my mother during her life, and after her death to my
dearest Horatia Nelson. I hope Mr. George Rose will be my executor,
and take care of my dear mother and Horatia, and if he should not be
living, I hope his eldest son will do me this last favour to see justice done to
Nelson's daughter, and also I beg His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales, as
he dearly loved Nelson, that His Royal Highness will protect his child, and be
kind to her ; for this I beg of him, for there is no one that I so highly regard as
His Royal Highness. Also my good friend the Duke of Queensbury, I beg of
him, as Nelson beseeched him to be kind to me, so I commend my dear mother
and Horatia to his kind heart. I have done my King and country Some service,
but as they were ungrateful enough to neglect the request of the virtuous Nelson
in providing for me, I do not expect they will do anything for his child ; but, if
there should be any administration in at my death who have hearts and feelings,
I beg they will provide for Horatia Nelson, the child who would have had a
father if he had not gone forth to fight his country's battles, therefore she has a
claim on them. I declare before God, and as I hope to see Nelson in heaven,
that Ann Connor, who goes by the name of Carew, and tells many falshoods that
she is my daughter, but from what motive I know not, I declare that she is the
eldest daughter of my mother's sister, Sarah Connor, and that I have the mother
and six children to keep, all of them, except two, having turned out bad. I
therefore beg of my mother to be kind to the two good ones, Sarah and Cecilia.
This family having by their extravagance almost ruined me, I have nothing to
leave them, and I pray to God to turn Ann Connor, alias Carew’s, heart. I
forgive her, but as there is a madness in the Connor family, I hope it is only the
effect of this disorder that may have induced this bad young woman to have
persecuted me by her slander and falsehood. I give all my papers, books, lace,
and, indeed, everything to my dear mother and Horatia Nelson. This I declare
to be my last Will and Testament, and to do away with all other wills.’
960. A. L. S. from Miss Anne N. Bolton and Lady Bolton to Lady
Hamilton. Dated Cranwich, November 22nd, 1808. 3 pages 4to.,
with Superscription, [P.]
‘I am much disappointed at not hearing from you, fear you are not well,
1808.] NELSON PAPERS. 321.
Last Thursday we whent to the ball, my brothers George and Henery came
from Cambridge to meet us there, so we had plenty of beaux. There where a great
many people. Mr. and Mrs. Mott ; I think her a pretty woman. She did not
dance, so I suppose she is with child. The Youngs where dressed in pink sattin ;
indeed nothing but sattins where worn, but I think Lady B. was the handsomest,
it was trimmed with silver. Eliza's dress was very much admired. We got
home at about six o'clock ; my mother and the invalids were up. The young men
came home with us, and set off the same day after dinner. We have had Mr.
& Mrs. Moris Suckling staying with us this last three days. I like her very
much ; indeed, she gave me a very kind invitation to go and stay with her. They
left us this morning. I am happy to say Bessie and Susanna are quite recovered.
I hope you will excuse my not ending the last letter I wrote, but my father and Tom
came in such a hurry that I asked Eliza to direct it and seal it. I was happy to
hear from my father you were well when he saw you ; hope to hear you are so still.
* Sorry to hear Mrs. Greafer is so ill. I think she must think me very remiss
in not mentioning her in my letters, but realy till my father said the Cther day
she was not well, I was quite surprised, as I thought she was gone abroad. I
hope you will now give my love, and tell her how sorry I am she is so unwell.
Best love to Mrs. Cadogan, Horatia, and the rest of your ſamily. Hope you will
write very soon. Emma sends her love to H. Believe me,’ &c.
(LETTER FROM LADY BOLTON.)
‘I have requested Anne to leave me room to write a few lines to you, as I
thought you would like to hear how she looked at the ball. I assure you, tho’ she
was far from well, I thought her one of the handsomest women in the room. She
danced very little indeed, as Mr. Steele wished her not to exert herself too much,
and, even as it was, she was so much fatigued that she has not quite recovered
yet. She is going out on her donkey to-day; it is charming weather for the time
of year. I am glad to find from my father you are tolerable well at this time.
Emma is quite well; sends a thousand kisses to cousin Horatia. You must
excuse my writing but these few lines, as I have a bad head-ache; to say the truth,
I have not yet recovered the fatigue of the ball ; you know I am soon tired.
All unite in love, dear Lady H. Yours,’ &c.
961. Doc. Dated November 25th, 1808. 2% pages folio. [P.]
“At a meeting of the friends of Lady Hamilton, held at the house of Sir John
Perring, Bart., the 25th Novº, 1808.
* g Present :
; Jºing. Mr. McClure. | Mr. Nichol.
M. º Mr. Goldsmid. Mr. Wilson.
Mr. Gooch. Sir Robert Barclay. Mr. Lavie.
Mr. Dawson attending as Solº to Lady Hamilton.
‘READ. A letter from Lady Hamilton addressed to the gentlemen attending
the Meeting.
‘READ. A list of debts delivered in by Mr. Dawson as obtained by advertize-
ment, also a list of additional debts delivered in by Lady Hamilton herself, the
whole debt estimated at 8000/, exclusive of Io,000l. 1 equired to pay off annuities.
“Upon consideration of the property possessed by Lady Hamilton the same
was ascertained as follows:–
Books tº ſe tº © tº º tº e º tº tº e * @ & © e ſº tº a tº ... A 1,500
Wine tº e e tº e tº tº e º tº gº tº tº e e tº ſº º © tº º & e & 2,OOO
Statues, Vases, China, Pictures, and other articles of fancy ... I,500
Furniture and Fixtures ... e tº e s e e e e a tº º ſº e s tº I,500
House & 32 Acres *g, * * & 4 e tº ſº tº e tº º tº $ & & º e 7,500
40 Acres ... .... tº º tº & © tº tº £ tº e is e tº º tº tº dº e 3,500
Taken at a very low rate. £17,500
. The above property being independent of her annuities under the wills of
Sir William Hamilton and Lord Nelson, and her claim on Government. -
VOL. II, Y
322 THE HAMILTON AND [1809.
‘RESOLVED. That an assignment of the whole of Lady Hamilton's property
be taken, and that the same be made to :—
Sir John Perring, Bart. - Richard Wilson, Esq.
Alexander Davison, Esq. and .
Abraham Goldsmid, Esq. Germain Lavie, Esq.
as Trustees for Sale, &c. •
‘That in order to afford an immediate relief the following sums be advanced by
Alex" Davison tº tº wº tº Gº tº tº e tº º tº º One thousand pounds.
Abn Goldsmid tº º e tº tº º tº º 'º tº e tº One thousand pounds.
John Gooch ... & ſº tº tº tº e tº e ſº & e º Five hundred pounds.
Richd Wilson ... ... gº º º tº tº º & © & Five hundred pounds.
Sir Robert Barclay ... ſº tº e. tº dº º tº º o Five hundred pounds.
John Perring & ſº tº * * * tº & © tº gº tº Two hundred pounds.
to be secured by the said Trust with interest.
‘That the money collected by the above advances be applied in payment of
all incumbrances absolutely necessary to be immediately discharged.
‘That all the creditors be applied to to execute the Debt of Trust, and to agree
to accept a payment out of the Trust Estate. -
‘That pending the Trust Lady Hamilton be allowed to receive her annuities,
but in case of deficiency the same shall be applied in liquidating the balance.
‘That the Trustees be a Committee to follow up the claim on Government, in
which all the friends of Lady Hamilton be requested to co-operate.
‘That the Trustees do go to market in the most advantageous mode possible,
So as not to injure the property by a premature sale.
“Signed. Robert Barclay. | Geo. Gooch.
Alex" Davison. A. Macklew.
F. Moore. | George Nicol.
Abn Goldsmid. Richd Wilson.
Gerinain Lavie. . Jolin Perring.’
962. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to Lady Hamilton. Dated December
3 Ist, I808. 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription. - - -
‘We are very anxious to get a line from you to know how you all are after the
very severe weather we have had ; it is so long since we heard from you that I think
something must be wrong. You will be glad to hear that George is returned from
Cambridge quite well, and delighted with his college life, though we have the
pleasure of seeing him happy to return to our quiet fireside. I had a letter from
Lady Charlotte a few days since ; she is likewise fearful you are unwell, as she
wrote to you a month since to have recº no answer. Do let us know how your
affairs are going on, we hope to your satisfaction. If our good wishes could be of
any use, God knows you have them to the fullest extent. We long much to see
you ; at present our little habitation is quite full. We have a cousin of Mr. M.'s
staying with us, & her 3 children, an unfortunate widow, left with a very scanty
Income. She will stay about a month longer, when we hope you will make it
convenient to come, if only for a day or two. Col. and Mrs. Coehoorn have been
here for two days; he is delighted with our little farm. They intended going to
call on you at Richmond to thank you for your great kindness to their young
midshipman, who I hope will turn out a good young man, & be an ornament to
his profession. I find the Ear/ does not come to London before the first week in
Febry. I fancy they find it a hard matter to please him, either in town or
Country. Poor Capt. Bowen is dead ; he was the Earl’s constant companion.
God knows, we see the falacy of titles and riches, for he was much more respected
as a country Żarson & a happier man than he is at present. We have received a
letter from Doctor Lawrence, who begs to recommend (if you should not be engaged
with a medical gentleman) Messrs. Steight & Hunter as men of great respecta-
bility & in very extensive practice. We all join in love & every kind wish to you
all, & may you enjoy many happy years. Believe me,’ &c.
‘P.S.—We have all got colds and sore throats; I hope you will escape. Pray
tell Horatia, with all our loves, we long to see her.’
1809.] - NEZSON PAPERS. 323
963. A. L. S. ‘A. B.’ from Miss Anne N. Bolton to the same.
Dated Cranwich, February 14th, 1809. 24 pages 4to., with
Superscription. [P.]
“I should have written to you before, but did not find myself quite well
enough ; am now nearly recovered. I am sorry to say my poor mother is still
very low and weak, but am in hopes she will in time get over it ; she is certainly
better to-day than she has been this last week. We have had quite a sick house
since you left us—a good thing for the doctor, for I am certain I have not passed
a day without taking something out of his shop. I have just parted with Mrs.
Pierson, my uncle, and Caroline ; they came this morning to breakfast, on their
way to Brancaster. Caroline is grown very much indeed, Mrs. P. said she
should write to you soon, therefore did not send any message. I write to-day, as
most of our party are gone to Swaffham, but the letter cannot go till to-morrow.
I was sorry to hear of the death of poor Jhion, and yet it was a happy release for
him. My mother will write to you if she is well enough. I wonder what Miss
Langford thinks of my cousin Robin P I hear from Mrs. M. that Mrs. Rofe is a
very good-looking woman. She met them arm in arm at Colchester; he introduced
her. Pray write me word how you liked Lady Rushe's Ball. I should [have] liked
to have been there, if I was well. You must excuse all my blunders, not being
well; I feel rather tired. I hope my next will be more legible. Pray give my
love to Mrs. Cadogan, and tell her I often think of her goodness to me. I think
she would have been a little bit frightened if she had seen me with the fever, so
bad I had it last week. It was the worst sort ; it made me very low. The first
time they got me out of bed I nearly fainted. My poor sisters sat up with me
four nights. If it had not been for their good nursing, I think I should not have
been alive now. Love to Horatia, Sarah, and Cecilia. My mother sends her
kind love ; she will write to you next week, as she does not find herself well
enough now. Believe me,’ &c.
‘Pray write soon.
‘P.S.—Emma sends her love to Horatia; she was writing to her yesterday.
Pray, did you receive a turkey P Say in your next. Should thank you to Send
Mrs. Nelson's direction, as my mother wishes to send her a turkey.’
964. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Cranwich, April 16th
(1809). 2 pages 4to. [P.
“I fear you have not received my last ; perhaps I did not direct it wright.
Shall send this to Richmond, in hopes of finding you returned and of receiving
an answer. My mother & father, with my aunt, have [been], and are still, in
Suffolk, in hopes that change of air may do my mother good. We had a letter
from my aunt on Fryday, she said my mother was better; they return next
Thursday. Susanna, Lady Bolton, and myself, have been alone this last three
weeks; we have been very busy makeing orange wine, and have the raisons
now in the house to make raison wine, for my father liked the Currant that
Susanna made so much that he is determined to have nothing but made
wines; hope you will come and give your opinion of them. I propose
having a board put up before the house, “fine wines made here,” (N.B. the good
O.C.); hope you will patronize us. Hope Horatia is quite well; was in hopes of
hearing from her. Suppose she is grown so much that I should hardly know her;
pray give my love and a kiss. Shall be happy to hear you and dear Mrs. Cadogan
continue well. Tell her I have heard her dear Tom is well ; he has been staying
at Alecham this last vacation. -
“Fear you will find this very stupid, but have not seen or heard from any body
but my aunt. I keep scratching my poor head in hopes of getting something to
say, but all in vain. I suppose you heard of the prize Sir Will” got, laden with
cotton, coffee, and sugar. We are in hopes the spell is broke. Pray, my dear
Lady, write as soon as you receive this, as I am quite anxious to hear you and all
your party are well. -
‘I know what it is has made me so very stupid. You must be told (for I do
324
7"HE A/AM/Z 7 OAV AAVD [1809.
not think you know) that us country folks always lay in bed much later on a
Sunday than on any other day, so we thought we would do the thing gentely, and
we got up at halfe past (nay, do not be frightened, dear Lady), it was only eleven ;
we sat down to redishes and bread and butter at twelve. You will be surprized to
hear what a great work-woman I am, two urn rugs, patchwork without end, &c.
“Emma sends her love to Horatia and a hundred kisses; she is now standing
by me. Susanna, Lady B., and myselfe, unite in best love to you and all your
family. Pray do not forget to write to your,’ &c.
965. A.L.S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated Cranwich, April 23rd
(1809). 23 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘Your letter yesterday gave us the greatest pleasure and satisfaction to find
you were quite well & amusing yourself. I have been a little excursion to
Stonham, Akenham, & Colchester, as Mr. Steele thought I should be better if I
would try to change the air ; I am, I think, rather stronger. When I got home
& found no letter from you, I was much surprized—I confess not much alarmed, as
I depended on Mrs. Cadogan's writing—but Anne, who depended on my hearing
from you, was much alarmed, as you will find by her letter to your good mother.
‘I am glad to hear a Goldsmid has purchased Merton rather than any stranger.
You, I hope, will feel more easy now it is gone. Perhaps you & I may one day
have a melancholy %/easure in tracing former times in those walks. Anne talks
of returning with Mrs. Bolton to Brancaster, which is the first time she has been
out of Cranwich, except for one ball, & that was much against her inclination.
Indeed, she was very ill there. Dear Horatia, I am glad you have got such an
accomplished governess for her. I am sure she will improve Inuch under such
instructors as she has ; but do not let your generous feelings for her induce you
to do too much for her to your own injury, for remember your life and welfare is
everything to her. I should like to see Richmond. I hope another year I shall
be better both in health & wealth, & then I shall be so happy to make you &
Mrs. Matcham a visit. My Tom was in Suffolk for a few days, & has been return’d
to Cambridge this fortnight. I am glad he has made his visit ; he has not been
there these four years, & I found they thought themselves slighted. I should not
like him if I thought he should show disrespect to any of his old friends. He says
you never write to him ; he has written to you several times. We all unite in
kind regards to you & your household. Bclicve me,’ &c.
966. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to the same. Dated May 15th (1809).
I} pages 4to., with Superscription and Seal. [P.]
“George wrote to me that he had the pleasure of seeing you in town, & that
you promised him to come down to us for a few days. We have been expecting
the pleasure of hearing from you every day. The country now is very beautiful,
& I hope you will very shortly perform your promise, as we long much to see you
and dear Horatia. We have had Mr. Haslewood here for a few days. He is so
delighted with the country, that he has purchased some land near us, & intends
to hire a house in the neighbourhood for his family to come to occasionally.
There is no house on his own grounds, but it is a beautiful place if he should wish
to build, but that is an expensive & troublesome undertaking. We heard from
George last week; thank God, he was very well. We hope to see him in about
a fortnight. He says Tom is very well and grown quite stout. With our kind
wishes to Mrs. Cadogan, & affect” love to dear Horatia, & a kiss from us all,
believe me,’ &c.
937. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated Cranwich, “Monday
morning’ (May 15th, 1809). 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“Before this you have seen or heard of Mr. Bolton, who is just gone to town ;
whenever you wish to see him give him a line at the Bedford. Your letter arrived
when I was at Saham making the wedding visit—the first time I have been able
1809.] - AVEZSOAV AAA’AºA'.S. 325
to go. Madame is in a family way—rather too late for a bride visit, you will say.
He has made a very good choice, she suits him in point of age, and in every
respect makes a good clergyman's wife; she was an exemplary daughter, & that
is a good prospect for him. When I return'd I found Mrs. W* Bolton here.
Anne went to Brancaster last Saturday. If Mr. Bolton permits, we are all going
for a week, as I am recommended to make short excursions. But I shall go no-
where, but a few lines from you to say you are coming will bring me back with
much pleasure to receive you. What do you think of our friends the Ministers?
this reform, I fear, will be a bad thing for us, they will be afraid to bring forward
any more pensions. I was glad to hear you mention the old Duke again, I thought
he was in such a state [as to be unable to] recognise his old friends. I hope you
will be in his favour whenever he departs this life, for I dare say the will is altered
every week.
“Mr. & Mrs. Tayler are in this neighbourhood, & on the 29th they will come to
me for a day or two. Lady Bolton has had a letter from Sº W* yesterday; he
has sailed again on a cruze. I hope he will pick up a little something—it is time
now to begin. God bless you, my dear Lady. Your,’ &c.
968. A. L. S. from Miss Anne N. Bolton (with A. L. S. attached from
Mrs. Pierson) to the same. Dated Brancaster, May 25th, 1809.
3} pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
“I should certainly have written to you before, but really could not find time,
as you will, I hope, allow when you hear that all my sisters are here and likewise
my mother, so you may suppose we are very gay, particularly as this is Brancaster
races; on Thursday, my uncle was so kind as to give us a little dance, and invited
the Misses & Mrs. Sharps and one or two more beaux; we danced till two o'clock.
Of course we are all pretty well knocked up.
“My mother set off for Wells this morning with Susanna and Emma ; they
stay one night with my aunt Girdlestone, who is, I am happy to say, better than I
expected to find her. You, perhaps, would wish to know how I heard it ; I did
not hear it, for I saw her last Fryday––Lady Bolton, Eliza, and myselfe rode to
Wells and dined with her. I wrote to Sarah Connor the day before I left home
to request her to do a little commission for me and Eliza ; if you can spare her I
should be much obliged, as I heard from Cecilia she was out, suppose she is with
you. I beg she will not hurry herselfe, as any time before the Swafham races we
are to be very gay as we are to have two balls then ; pray tell Sarah to send us
word what is worn by way of cloaks. You, I fear, think this very stupid and
badly written, but the maid has just been in to say the post is waiting for me.
Mrs. Pierson desires her love; she meant to have written in this, but will not have
time. Give my best love to all your party; the whole of ours join with me in
best love to you. Believe me,’ &c.
‘P.S.—I will write something more intelligible soon.’
(LETTER FROM MRS. PIERSON.)
‘Anne has given you all the news and the post waits, yet I can not suffer this
to go hence without saying I am hurt at not hearing from you. I wish to hear
something too of Horatia ; I suppose she is a compleat French woman by this
time. Caroline sends her love to her. Mrs. Bolton is just gone to Wells for a
day, she is much better than she has been for some time past; I wish I could
say the same for my mother, who has been far from well for some time; we were
in hopes the warm weather would have been of service to her, but neither that nor
change of air have yet done much for her. I heard yesterday that Richard Wood-
thorp is appointed surgeon to the Kent, so he has waited for something good.
I have only time to add that I hope you will soon find leisure to write to me.
Ever yours,’ &c.
969. A. L. S. ſrom Mrs. Matcham to the same. Dated June Ist, 1809.
I} pages 4to., with Superscription and Seal. [P.]
‘I hope when everything is settled you will then come down to us. We shall
326 THE HAMILTON AND [1809.
be happy to see Madom” Roulanch & any part of your family; we beg Mrs.
Cadogan will come with you. Be assur’d we shall be at all times delighted to
have you here and accomodate you the best in our power. The country is now
delightful, and I trust we shall soon see you. Mr. M. and the girls beg to join me
in every affect” wish to you, & believe me to be, my dearest Lady H., ever,’ &c.
‘P.S.–Pray kiss Horatia for us; I hope she has not forgot her aunt
Matchamz.” -
970. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated Cranwich, “Monday
morning’ (June 5th, 1800). 23 pages 4to., with Superscription.
3 - “-
“We came from Brancaster last night where I left Anne for a few weeks, un-
less we have the favour of your company—in that time, of course, she will come to
receive you ; that this may be the case we all hope. Eliza received the box with a
Couple of very pretty hats, which we think very cheap ; am much obliged to you for
taking the trouble of choosing them ; when Tom visits Richmond he will pay the
bill to Miss Sarah Conner. I am sorry Mr. Bolton did not see you when in town, as
he wished much to do ; but his brother's business was so urgent & much wanted
at home, therefore had but little time to spare could he have seen you would
have fixed a time to visit you at Richmond when he was certain of your being at
home. Of this be assured—we all Zoze you, The Brancaster people are all in
the same state as you left them. Poor Mrs. Bolton is in very indifferent health
and looks sadly. As we pass'd through Swaffham Mrs. Wood enquired after
you ; I told her I hoped to see you this summer, she was much pleased. Swaff-
ham races are the latter end of this month.
“I was afraid both for you and my son ; the Ministers dare not bring anything
forward this sitting of Parliament, but Mr. Percival has pledged himself to bring
forward Tom's business at Xmas. What a stir has Mr. Wardle made in the
nation ; as to Lord Gambier, is detested in the country; all agree he has got
dismiss'd the Service a far better officer than himself.
“Give my kind regards to Mrs. Cadogan & dear Horatia. All unite in kindest
love to you and your circle. Believe me,’ &c.
971. A.L.S. from Signor Francesco Bianchi” to the same. Dated June
I6th, 1809. I page 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
I was married on the 15th, we were destined to be separated 15 days after.
I thought much before taking this step, and did all I could to avoid it, but unfor-
tunately it has happened. The past is over, it is not necessary to think anything
more about it. I should be the vilest of men if I drew back and repented, and
should deserve the contempt of all the world, and above all of my wife herself, if
I were guilty of such a mean action. Remember, my lady, the last farewell my
wife gave me, and then judge if a man of my character ought to return. In view
of all this excuse me, my lady, if I cannot go to see you before your departure. I
am the more firm in this fixed resolution because some one might try to move me,
and I do not like to disoblige friends by refusing what they ask of me. I pray that
I may keep your friendship, and that you will ever consider me to be your, &c.
972. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated Cranwich, “Monday,
noon (June 19th, 1809). 24 pages 4to., with SuperScription.
[P.]
“I was in hopes of having a letter from you before this to say you had truly
acquitted Tom of all ingratitude to you & Mrs. Cadogan ; I should be very much
* Francesco Bianchi, 1752–1810, a dramatic musical composer of Italian birth, who settled
in London, and was for some years connected with the King's Theatre. The last ten years of
his life were occupied chiefly in teaching, Sir Henry Bishop being one of his pupils. He com-
mitted suicide at Hammersmith, where he resided. Most of the musical biographical dictionaries,
including Fétis, say that he died at Bologna in 1811. A further reference to his death occurs in
Letter No. IOO5. - -
1809.] AVEZSOAV PAAAA*S. 327
hurt if he had. Anne, who is still at Brancaster (but coming home in a few days),
wrote to beg we would write him a scolding letter, for you & Mrs. Cadogan had
always been kind to him (she knew not how he was situated). Lady Bolton &
Emma are gone into Suffolk a visiting her friends, whishe has not done since
she married. Who do you think is the gay lady of this village 2 No less than
Miss Clarke & the gallant Mr. Ellinor, your Mary’s father. Biddy is very uncon-
Cerned about it ; she says others have done so before, & more than half the parish
are so. So much for village scandal. She being an acquaintance of yours, I
could not refrain from telling you. Poor Aunt Goulty has buried her son, a very
great loss to her in every respect. He has left a large family, but his wife is a
clever woman, & fully able to carry on the Özzsäness. A letter from Ashfold last
week; all well. You know Hazlewood has purchased Sheffield Park, a most
beautiful situation. Horatia recollects, I dare say, the ruins she walked to with
her cousins. He has appointed Mr. Matcham his steward and overlooker. What
do you think of that? Tom has been to call on Mr. Rose, & he has given him an
official letter for his father to say Mr. Percival has pledged himself for £500
pr. ann. to begin at Xmas. Remember us most affectionately to dear Horatia &
Mrs. Cadogan, & believe me,’ &c.
‘P.S.—You see my pen will not write a word more.”
973. A. L. S. from Lord Northwick” to the same. Dated Harrow-on-
the-Hill, June 28th, 1809. 3% pages 4to. [P.]
‘I am delighted with your letter this momt. recd., & look forward with
impatience for the 6th of July, when I shall have the pleasure of seeing you at
Harrow. Your proposal of inviting Mrs. Bianchi is most excellent, & you have
indeed anticipated my wishes, tho' I should not have ventured to have proposed
it, as it might be construed into an intention of giving a Fête, which I hope your
Ladyship will have the goodness to explain to Mrs. Bianchi will not be the case,
as, with very few exceptions, our little party will be confin'd to a ſew of our old
Neapolitan friends. The Duke of Sussex has very condescendingly promis’d to
join us, with, I hope, Lord Douglas. I told H.R.H. that I had written to you,
which seem'd to give him great pleasure. -
‘Your amiable and most interesting &/eve (if report says true) repays your
care and solicitude by her improvem” in every grace, in every charm—& could it
be otherwise with such inimitable perfection before her ? I am most anxious to
See the progress she has made, & am much gratified by your Ladyship's acquies-
cence in my wishes by allowing Horatia to accompany you.
- ‘I hope it will not be too great an effort to be here by one o'clock in time for
the speeches, as I am Süre your presence wº be the greatest possible incitem" to
our juvenile orators to use their utmost endeavours to be deserving of your
commendation. *
‘I am, with every sentiment of regard,’ &c.
974. A. L. S. from the Rev. C. Este to the same. No date (1809 P).
I} pages 8vo. [P.]
‘I hope to have the pleasure of a day or two with you next week. Should any
cross accident thwart me I will write on Tuesday, & then send what you wish
as to a letter, tho' surely we had better talk together before you send the letter,
and therefore I shall the rather strive to be with you. I have but two minutes to
say thus much, and in those two minutes I am so far in the little luck of getting a
cover. Most affectionately adieu, dear Lady Hamilton, with kind wishes to all,
your obliged,’ &c.
975. A. L. S. from Miss Anne N. Bolton to the same. No date (July
3rd, 1809). I page 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘I have been expecting to hear from you, as you said in Mrs. Pierson's that
* John Rushout, 2nd Baron Northwick, 1770–1859, well known for his liberal patronage of
the fine arts. -
328 THE HAM/Z7 ON AAV/D [1809.
you should write to me directly; fear you have forgot that you owe me one. I
have not much news, as Susanna has told all the Swafham, and you know that is
where we get all ours. My Aunt & Anne Girdlestone are here, two cousins from
Suffolk. I am sorry to say my father is still very unwell. I left Brancaster last
Sunday; they where all well, except my aunt, and she, I am sorry to say, is much
the same as when I last wrote. This letter I fear you will find stupid, but I
thought it would be better than none. Give my love Mrs. Cadogan; hope
she continues well. Kiss Horatia for me; tell her I hope she will not forget
yours,’ &c. -
* P.S.—Love to Sarah and Cecilia.”
976. A. L. S. from Lord Mansficla to the same. Dated Great
Cumberland Street, July 8th, 1809. 3 pages 4to. [P.]
‘Mr. Greville and myself feel much obliged by your kind indulgence as to the
payment of the quarter of your jointure which became due the 29th of last month.
You have an undoubted right to have this payment made regularly according to
Sir William Hamilton's will, and the money is ready from the rents of the estate ;
but as these rents from Lady Day last to Michaelmas will form a part of the
estate of the late Mr. Greville, they must form a part of his personal property,
and therefore come under the jurisdiction of the administrator, and the cause in
the Prerogative Court is still pending, but we hope will now soon come to a
decision as to who is to be the administrator. This seems a long history, but I
thought it necessary fully to explain how any delay could occur as to the regular
payment of your jointure this quarter. If you are in want of the money before
Michaelmas, when Davis (the steward) will come up to pay in the rents, perhaps
under the circumstances and the security of Sir William Hamilton's will, perhaps
Messrs. Coutts would advance you one quarter, or if you can wait you will receive
two at Michaelmas. You may be guiſe sure after that quarter that your payments
will be functually exact, and I am very sorry that the unexpected difficulties
about the administration should have occasioned this inconvenience to you. Pray
let me hear from you as soon as you can about this, & be so good as to inform me
what is the form of receipt you give on receiving payment, & remember you must
not be put to any difficulty, & in some way or other the money must be paid if
you are in want of it. Of course, we are still detained in town, and do not know
how much longer we may have to stay. I am,’ &c.
977. A. L. S. from Miss Anne N. Bolton to the same. Dated Cranwich,
July 26th (1809). 24 pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
“My mother and myself have been anxiously expecting to hear from you this
last month ; fear you are not well, or have quite forgot your friends at Cranwich ;
hope you will favour either her or me with a line. I had the pleasure of hearing
from Tom that you were well when he left you, and you told him that you should
write to me, therefore I did not write to you as I otherways should have done,
and, as you well know, we have not much news here, meanly that the hen sat, the
cow calfed, or that the crofts are pretty good, and, lastly, we are all as well as can
be expected this hot weather. I thought you who are in the world, and have so
much, and know so well how to fill a letter, would have written two to my one
(which is not worth the postage). I think you have had enough of this.
“I suppose you have seen in the paper that Sº Wilm has taken another prize ;
we have seen it this week past, but have not heard anything from him, therefore
fear it is only rumour; have you heard anything P if you have, would thank you
to mention it, as we are anxious to hear. Lady Bolton is still in Suffolk. Miss
Anne Framington is here ; Mrs. Day brought her a fortnight ago. My aunt and
Anne Girdlestone are still here. My father, I am sorry to say, is not yet well, he
is indeed very weak and low ; I fear this hot weather does not agree with him,
as he is now come to lay down. When you see my letters you do not expect to
be entertained by them ; if you do, you are wofully disappointed. I am now
1809.] AVE/SOAV PAPERS. 329
sitting in Tom's room opposite two of your pictures which he has had nailed up
in his room. .
‘I hear from him that Horatia is very much improved ; pray, my dear lady,
is it part of her education to forget me 2 I was in hopes she would have written
to me; give my love and tell her so. Hope Mrs. Cadogan is well, I know this is
the weather she likes. Sarah and Cecilia are also quite well, I hope ; my love
to them all. My mother sends her love to you and begs you will write by return
of post if it is mearly to say that you and all your family are well. Believe me,’ &c.
978. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Cranwich, August
22nd, 1809, with A. L. S. attached from Mrs. Bolton to the same.
3} pages 4to., with SuperScription.
‘I hope you will allow that I am much better than you are in answering
letters ; believe me, I do not mean in the style but in the quickness. Lady Bolton
I am happy to say, is better; she has not had any return of her complaint, but
she is still very weak, so much so that she cannot yet return home. My father
and Susanna went into Suffolk to fetch her, as we have more faith in Mr. Steele
than in the person she has now to attend her, for, by all accounts, he knows no
more about her disorder than I do. I think we shall see them the latter end of
this week. I was extremely sorry to hear poor Horatia has been so unwell. My
mother sends her love to you and hopes you will come into Norfolk as you
promised, as perhaps the change of air may be good for Horatia, which I know
will be a very great inducement for you. My mother talked of writing if I left
room for her.
‘We have had a very great disappointment this morning, which was a letter
from Sir Will” (who is now at Plymouth), in which he told us that he could not
come into Norfolk this time, for as he has struck good luck he is impatient to be
out again. I suppose you have seen that his second prize is arrived safe ; I do
not know which it is, hope it is something good. You have indeed, my dear
lady, been most unlucky with your maids, hope you will be more successful the
next. Our cook is going to be married ; Hannah is going to leave us, for it is too
large a family for her, she would have liked to have stayed ; cook said my mother
did not think her good enough, so you see you are not singular in having to
change often. I have heard you say you wish you could get a modest, ignorant
country girl ; my mother has one who answers to that description exactly—she
is even allowed to tuck Tom up of a night; she is not like a feather-bed tied
in the middle, but a pillow. I think, my Lady H., you ought to write two
letters to my one ; you have not only more to say, but yours are so very short in
comparison with mine. Pray give my best love and kisses to dear Horatia ; tell
her Emma is quite well, and I am sure will be very much pleased when she hears
she is coming to see her (I hope soon). Best love to dear Mrs. Cadogan ; we
shall be very glad to see her with the rest of the family. Remember me to Sarah
and Miss Connor. Hope you will write soon and tell us Horatia is quite well, and
what has been the matter with her. Believe me,’ &c.
(LETTER FROM MRS. BOLTON.)
‘How sorry I am for our dear Horatia. I can easily imagine your feelings on
the occasion ; give my kind love to her, I shall be most happy to see her and you
too before the summer leaves. I hope you will put your threat in execution of
being in Norfolk. Poor Kate has been seriously ill, and is now so weak as not to
set up more than 2 hours a time ; but hope soon to get her under Mr. Steele's
care. Sº W* is at Plymouth, brought in two prizes. Yours,’ &c.
979. A. L.S. from Mrs. Graefer to the same. Dated Bronté, August 27th,
I809. 2; pages folio.
‘I hope long before this reaches you that you have received a packet of letters
which I sent to the care of Mr. Broadbent, begging of him that he contriv'd that
they reached your hands safe : but, for fear of accident, I enclose you a copy of
33O
7'HAZ AAA/V/L7'OAV AAV/O [1809.
what I sent you, which is the exact state of the Dutchy of Bronté. I hope—
sincerely hope—that our plan may succeed ; a great deal depends on you.
Forcella has received, since last Sep", above 7000 ounces, & has wrote to D. G.
to send him 5000 ounces more. D.G. wrote to Mr. Gibb to let him know of it ; I
believe it will cause some disturbance between them, & not without reason, for
the Cavº certainly is not very honest. As to my writing to him for your ass, it
is now so many years ago that he would be capable of denying it, without you
sent a letter by me to deliver to him. It wou’d at present be very acceptable to
me, as the doctors as ordered me viper broth & to straddle your ass (if I cou’d
get it) every morning. I am afraid I am on my last leggs ; but, my dº Lady
Hamilton, we must all die of some disorder, & if this is to be my death, I must
resign myself to the will of the Almighty without repining. But let me beg it as
a favour, you will not acquaint any-one that I am So ill, particularly my uncle, not
even if you was to hear of my being dead, for he would be capable of altering
his will and not think of my dº Caroline. Pass'd by here last week Cap" Wynyard,
Ass" Adjº General, & Capº a' Court, Aide de Camp, who as promised me to
forward my letters with their's to England, therefore I am in great hopes this
will reach you. The Queen has sent me word, if I can procure any writing to
prove I have a right to a pension, she is willing to grant me one. A pretty
answer for a Queen but can I expect justice from the Court of Palermo P I
don’t like to tell you my reasons, but don’t write to her any more, she's an
ungrateful wretch.
‘I told you in my last that poor Wade is prisoner; pray believe me, & write
me word you have paid Gibbs. I have wrote by this £ost to my uncle & to d"
Mrs. Leckie. Caroline is well, but poor little Emma is in a very bad way. I
think before this reaches you she will be in Paradise ; she is the very image of
her mother. How I long to know how your dear Horatia comes on in her educa-
tion ; wether she is good & loves her dear mother & grandmother. If she is,
pray give her a thousand kisses for me, & think of me sometimes with regard, for
God knows if ever I shall recover my health again. I feel sick at my very heart.
Pray how is Sarah and Cecilia, Mrs. Harrison, & all my friends. I long much to
hear from you. Mrs. Denison as had the happiness of receiving a letter from her
sister; am very happy to hear she is well. God bless you, my dearest of friends.
Believe me,’ &c. - -
‘P.S.—I am sorry I can’t perform your commission of the corral & musick,
for my disappointments in the money way prevents mc having that pleasure.’
980. A. L. S. from Miss Anne N. Bolton to the same. Dated Cranwich,
September IOth, 1809. 2 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“I should certainly have written to you before, but waited in hopes of hearing
or seeing something of your servant; suppose he is not in Norfolk, as Miss
Mary is still with her mother and seems quite quiet ; hope you will not have
occasion to fret yourself any more about either him or her. I shall direct this to
Richmond, as I suppose you will have left Ashfold. My father, Tom, & one of
my cousins from Suffolk, are at Brancaster in hopes of having some good shooting.
The young squire was rather disappointed that he had not better spent the first
day or two ; hope he will return better pleased with his new dogs and himself.
Indeed, my dear Lady, my letter must be very stupid, for we have not any news
in this part. Mr. Hitch is now here ; he is going to B. to fetch his wife. I think
you have seen her at Akenham when you where there. Hope Horatia is quite
recovered and has not had a return of her illness ; pray give my love and kisses
to her and all your party. My mother sends her love; hopes you will not forget
your promise of writing to her soon. We have Mr. & Mrs. Rolſe to stay a day
and night with us ; I think she is a very pleasant woman. She is in the family
way, which, of course, gives Mr. R. a great deal of pleasure. You asked me if
Mrs. Partridge's child was an idiot—no, it is, I am happy to say, different from
all the others, and am in hopes it will live to be a comfort to the poor father, who
is now, I am sorry to say, in very bad health. Believe me,’ &c.
‘P.S.—Excuse the shortness of this, but I have been out all day in the harvest-
field, and am quite tired and (as you will find) stupid.
1809.] AVE/SOAV PAPERS. t 331
981. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated ‘Cranwich, Friday
morning' (September 29th, 1809). I? pages 4to., with Super-
Scription. [P.]
‘Now, my dear Lady, I think your visit to Ashfold must be over, & all your
Summer excursions must be nearly at an end, & you will now turn your thoughts
towards Cranwich, where you will be most cordially received. Out doors it
begins to look rather dreary, but within you will find warm and affectionate hearts
to receive you; a few days' notice will suffice. Tom is still at Brancaster shooting;
he is a bad sportsman, but uncommonly fond of it. The air and exercise agree
with him ; he was never better. Tell Horatia we shall be happy to keep her
birthday & Anne together this year. How long it is since we had the pleasure
of hearing from you ; hope we shall soon have a letter from you. You will
excuse the incoherence of this letter when I tell you Mr. Bolton and Anne are
playing backgammon, & amongst the party is Miss Langford, who begs to be
remembered to you. The party joins in the good and kind wishes to you, Mrs.
Cadogan, & Miss S. Conner. Believe me,’ &c.
982. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton and from Miss Anne N. Bolton to
the same. No date (October 12th, 1809). 3 pages 4to., with
Superscription. [P.]
‘What can be the reason, my dear Lady, that we have not heard from you. I
was in hopes that you would have fix’d your time for coming into Norfolk. I long
to see you ; why not keep the birth days together ? I sent Mrs. Cadogan a hare
last week, & this day Tom sends you two brace of birds. He returned from
Brancaster this week not very successfull in the shooting way ; he begs his
kindest love to all. Lady Bolton & Emma are gone to Brancaster quite recovered;
it was very unfortunate her being so ill when her husband was at Plymouth, as
he had flattered himself that when he had brought in two prizes that he should
have had the pleasure of seeing his wife & child ; he was not able to come into
Norfolk. Mrs. Andrews is with me for a few days; she begs her best respects
to you. Do think seriously of coming; we long to see you & dear Horatia. Anne
claims the other part of the letter. Believe me,’ &c.
‘P.S.—Ask Blindy if she received a fat goose from me on the 11th Oct".
(LETTER FROM ANNE BOLTON.)
‘I Suppose by this time you are returned from Ashfold, and that you have
received my mother's invitations; hope you have determined to come and give
us a little of your good company this dull weather. I have been to Brancaster
for two days since I wrote to you last ; happy to say they where, and are, all well.
Mrs. Pierson rather disappointed at not hearing from you ; she talks of being in
town after Xmas. Caroline is much improved. Lady Bolton and dear little
Emma are at B.; Emma often talks of Horatia, who, I hope, is well. She has
long promised to write to me, but I have never yet been favored. Hope she has
quite recovered her late indisposition. Pray give my love and a kiss to her &
dear Mrs. Cadogan, who, I flatter myself, does not quite forget the Anne to whom
she was so good and nursed with such motherly care. Suppose she has been to
See Mrs. Newcombe, who is well, I hope. Pray remember me to Sarah & Cecilia.
Tom, I am happy to inform you, is quite well and strong. You must excuse the
shortness of this letter, but my mother, of course, said all she could muster, & left
nothing for me to say than that I am,’ &c.
983. A. L. S. from Thomas Kidd and Jonathan Ingham to the same.
Dated Greenwich, November 17th, 1809. 23 pages 4to, with
SuperScription. [P.]
‘I recº yours, and should have been happy had it been in my power to have
332
THE HAM/Z TOW A WD [1809.
'acted according to your directions, which it is not possible for me to do as I
would wish. For I declare my small cloaths are scandoulos, and my hat has the
crown part nearly off, but Mr. and Mrs. Ingam has contriv'd it so that what I
was in need of they have lent me. I have to inform you that your brother Chas. is
in Greenwich College, and has been here since the 6th inst.; and when I informed
Mr. and Mrs. Ingam that he was here, they have given him a strong invitation
for to pass what few hours he has to spare to abide at their house, and Mr. Ingham
has got him removed from the Hall where yº brother was, to an appartment
belonging to the Hall where Mr. Ingham is. From yº affºe cous”,” &c.
(LETTER FROM JONATHAN INGHAM.)
‘Your kind offer to do me a service is more than I could ever expect ; but I
believe, by what I have been credittly informed, that thcre will be a vacancy for
a porter at the West Gate at Christmas next, as the man who is porter now is
very old and infirm that he is not able to do his duty, so that he is to be super-
anuated ; So I hope that your Ladyship's indisposition will not prevent you from
making intercession in my behalf, by letter or in person, to the Lords of the
Admiralty, who, I make no dout, by so doing I shall meet with that encourage-
ment as I desire. But should I be dissuppointed of the situation of porter, there
is the rosting cook very ill at this time, and, should that place be vacant, will
prove acceptable to me.
‘P.S.–As to my character when I was in His Majesty's service, I believe
it to be justifiable in every degree, for I have served as a sailor on board the
Baſſeter and Prince near Io years, and never had one complaint against me. So
I remain,’ &c. -
984. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated ‘Tuesday morning’
(November 2 Ist, 1809). 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘How sorry we all were to hear you had been so very unwell ; the last, I
much think, has been on your spirits—the worst of all disorders, which these
November fogs are much against. This fine, cheerful frost will brace your nerves
& revive you again. Poor Capt. Stains, I cou’d, I am sure, have joined you in
your tears; I have such a respect and regard for an officer with one arm that, if
the young ladies are of my opinion, he may chuse were he will for a wife. To
the surprize of all my neighbours, I went to the Coursing-Meeling Ball, which
was very full–many of the county families. I staid two nights at Mrs. Langford,
Susanna and Eliza with me. Poor Anne not well enough, yet at times very full
of Spirits ; I hope she will be one day very strong again.
“When I came home who should we find here to dinner but Capt. Manby” ;
had I been a certain great lady I should not have much admired him—a good-
hearted Sailor, but did not strike me with elegance of person or manner. He has
been at our windows this morning in his shooting dress looking much the same ;
he is expecting a ship-of-the-line, he has given up the Thalia. Tom is gone to
Cambridge ; before he went—last Sunday week—he sent you a leash of birds, all
he had. I hope you have received them. Mrs. Pierson is here to make me a
visit in her way to Tottenham to spend her Xmas. Did I tell you my cousin
R. Rolfe has got another daughter?
‘I am glad to find Mrs. Dart has disposed of her daughter so much to her
satisfacion; she begs me to assure you how grateful they are for your kindness
and attention (so different from all others) she says. Tell my dear Horatia,
Caroline Pierson begs her love; she is grown very tall & improved, we think,
but still that little reserve. No account from Wº Girdlestone yet ; Harry was
here last week.
‘We all join in kind love to Mrs. Cadogan, IIoratia, & the 2 Miss Conner.
Emily Yonge came out—by some thought the beauty of that family.
“God bless you, my dear Lady, ever believe me,’ &c.
* Capt. George William Manby, I765–1854, inventor of apparatus for saving life at sea, and
an old schoolfellow of Nelson's. In 1803 he was appointed Barrack Master at Yarmouth.
According to the Mew Mational Biography, he married, in 1793, a daughter of Dr. Preston.
She died in 1814, and in 1818 he married a daughter of Sir Manners Gooch.
1809.] NEZSON PAPERS. - 333
985. A. L. S. from Miss C. Matcham” to the same. Dated Ash-
fold Lodge, ‘Sunday Nt’ (1809 ). 3% pages 4to. [P.]
“I should long before have acknowledged your very kind letter, but Miss
Owens particularly requested me to defer it till she should have the pleasure of
delivering it to you in person ; and, as it was likewise an agreement between
Ourselves, I hope you will exculpate me from all appearance of neglect. Miss
Owens anticipates much pleasure in seeing yourself and dear Horatia, and giving
you an account of all our party ; she will be absent three weeks, during which
time I shall be employed in Áeeping school, & should feel very happy in having
Horatia of my party, but suppose she will be employed in celebrating the wedding
at Bradenhan, A/a/Z, as I understand you are expected to grace them with your
presence at that period. Lady Bolton wrote me word it was to take place at
Xmas, if so the time is fast approaching. We have had Mr. Haslewood and
IDr. Lawrence staying here for one day; the latter papa wrote to you about on
Monday, and the doctor intends taking the liberty of calling upon you. Mr.
Haslewood is quite delighted with his additions at the park, and expects to be
enabled to pass a month or two there in the autumn with his family. The Lambs
are gone to Bath to spend their winter, and I think they will find themselves
much more comfortably situated there than upon the bleak hill of Tilgate, with a
road to the house quite impassable, which you can easily imagine is the case from
the experiment you had in the summer. Our great favorite, Mr. Coxe, promised
to visit the forlorn inhabitants of Ashfold Lodge at Xmas, but we have had no
notice to prepare for his arrival (tho’ he informs us his bed he can bring in his
£ocket), that I am apt to suspect he is like Imost other single gentlemen—very
changeable. The Graingers are all quite recovered, but poor Mrs. Taylor is laid
up with the gout, which must occasion Mrs. Grainger much trouble, who I think
is looking wonderfully well considering the fatigue she has undergone. I have
not heard a syllable of the Col. and his Lady for some time, nor do I think it
likely we can have any communication from that quarter. The Pilfolds have just
got their little girl from school, which will detain her at home all the holidays.
Your friend Mr. Fieron honor'd us with his company a fortnight ago, and, believe
me, reminded us of the delightful singing which you favor'd him with, particularly
the universal favorite “Fly not yet.” Hariet is very busy writing to her cousin,
to whom she owes a letter, but, as she does not see quite so many Zions, cannot
tell her so much news. I suppose Horatia is anxiously waiting for the appear-
ance of this new performer at Covent Garden—the elephant ; pray give our best
love to her, & I shall be most happy to hear from you, my dear Lady Hamilton,
whenever you feel inclined to write. Your Godson has got five teeth, and is so
lively; Mr. Haslewood was quite delighted with him. Horace is very much
improved, and grown tall; all the others are quite well. If you are at the
wedding we shall be happy to hear when it has taken place—at any rate, let me
hear from you soon. In the meantime believe me,’ &c.
986. A. L. S. from Miss Anne N. Bolton to the same. Dated Cranwich,
November 26th, 1809. 2.; pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“I should have answered yours, but have not been well this last fortnight, but
am now as well as usual. Was sorry to hear you had been so ill ; hope you will
now enjoy better health, as by your account you have had a pretty good clear-
ance. My mother was much pleased to hear Miss Dart was married. We are all
happy to hear Capt. Staines is in such good health & spirits, and that he is
knighted, for though it is but a poor Order, yet it may (we think) bribe some fair
lady or other to bless him with herself & fortune for the pleasure of being called
my Zady. Give my best love to Horatia, tell her Emma is quite well and can
play halfe a tune which her aunt Pierson taught her. She is fond of it, and plays
from morning till night ; hope she will come and give her a little instruction.
She sends her love to her. She often has Miss Horatia down to kiss. -
* Mrs. Matcham's eldest daughter, Catherine. She married, in 1820, John Bendysche, Esq.,
a Lieutenant in the navy, and died in 1831.
334 7TA/A2 A/AM/Z 7 OAV AAVD [1810
‘This is bad weather for London and for dear Mrs. Cadogan, who I hope has
not got a return of her old complaint. Give my love to her, & tell her Tom was
Quite well when we last heard. He is so fond of shooting and everything that
belongs to it, that we had a letter sealed with a pointer, quite sportsman-like.
He will return in three weeks, when, I am sorry to say, we shall loose Mrs. Pierson
and her daughter, who are a great acquisition, particularly as Eliza is now at
Brancaster. You must not expect any news from me, one day is so much like
the other that we can hardly tell the difference; to me there is a little variation,
for one day I am well and the other ill with my old and faithfull complaint, which
I now have done tormenting with doctors. You must excuse the shortness of
this, as the boy is going to the post directly. My sister Kate has had a letter
this morning from Kitty Matcham ; I am happy to say all the family are well.
Give my love to Sarah & Cecilia; hope the latter is better than when you last
mentioned her.
“I suppose you heard that Susanna, Eliza, with my mother, whent to Swaffham
Ball ; Saw a great many Smart people. I did not go, as was not quite well, and
thought sitting up so late would compleatly knock me up. You must excuse the
bad writing, as I have been in a hurry all through this letter. Hope you will
favor me with an answer soon, and say that you and all the family are well. My
mother, sister, and Mrs. Pierson, with all the rest of the party, jhoin with me in
best love to you and yours. Pray write to your ever,’ &c.
987. A. L. S. from Lady Bolton to the same. Dated Stoke, January 3rd,
I8 IO. 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘I have this instant received a letter from Susanna giving me your direction,
and, tho' I have time to write only a few lines, I am determined to write by this
post if I can possibly finish it in time. I cannot describe my disappointment at
calling at No. 36 Albermarle Street and finding they did not know you. I then
tried at No. 44, the Hotel, but they said they knew no such person. Poor Emma
then began to look quite melancholy at the thought of not seeing cousin Horatia
and her Godmanna, and I assure (you) I looked quite as dismal—in short, you
must have anticipated quite as much pleasure from the meeting as we did before
you can have any idea of our disappointment. I was loth to leave the street
without a further attempt, and seeing a letter carrier we stopped him, feeling
certain of his knowing where you resided ; but, unlucky as we were fated to be,
he did not deliver the letters in that street. I would have gone to Bond Street
to enquire where you were to be found, but we were so stricted for time it was
almost impossible that I could have gone, at all events, had I not taken it into
my stupid head that you must always go to No. 44, but that from Some accident
you had not received Anne's letter and were at Richmond. I feel so vexed with
myself at having missed seeing you, when I was so near. Pray write to me and
let me have at least the pleasure of hearing of you, tho' I did not see you. It is
the only amends I can now have. You cannot think how melancholy I felt when
we passed the gate at the top of Piccadilly, thinking how often we had passed
it together. We travelled on without having a minute, as we did not stop to take
any refreshment from six in the morning till eight at night, then got here on
Monday last to dinner. It was three days after the time the Aſelena was expected
to Sail, but she is not yet ready, which provokes me very much, as I might have
spent a day or two with you in town and still have been in time. If you will have
the goodness to write to me within two or three days after you receive this I may
possibly get it before I sail—at any rate, it will be forwarded to me ; but if you
have not time I will write and give you my address as soon as I get to Cork, but
I hope, if you are well enough, you will write here. Emma sends her best love
and kisses to you and Horatia and Mrs. Cadogan ; when I told her just now how
if we had gone two houses further we should have seen you, she looked very
grave. At last she called out, “Pray, mama, promise me to call as we go back
to Cranwich.” I declare I feel much more pained than I did when I thought you .
were at Richmond, for then I blamed only my bad fortune, now I feel vexed to
the heart at my own stupidity. God bless you, my dear Lady H., and pray write
1810.] AVA. ZSOAV PAA’AºA’.S. 335
to me. My love to Mrs. Cadogan, Miss Conner, and my dear Horatia ; how I
long to see her. I will write as soon as I am settled at Cork.’
988. A. L. S. from Mrs. Pierson to the same. Dated Tottenham,
January 7th, 1810. 3% pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘I have just received a letter from Lady Bolton, informing me of the great
disappointment at not being able to see you on her way through town. She
proceeded to number thirty six Albemarle St., and was informed you were not
known there. They then drove to No. 44 in the same street, thinking as it is a
Family Hotel, you might be known there, but with no better success, and at last,
had the mortification of being obliged to proceed on their journey without seeing
you, which was the more distressing, as you were expecting them. I don’t know how
the mistake in the address happened, but I know that their disappointment has
saved me one, for I should have sought you there the first opportunity. I beg you
will give me a line, that I may know where to find you if you are in town, as I shall
be anxious to see you. Lady Bolton bore her journey much better than I
expected, and my father left her very comfortably settled with Mrs. Smith and
Emma, quite domesticated with the little folk. The Helena was not quite ready
for sea, so that I trust Sir William will be at Cork to receive her at her arrival
there. Her joining him is so much for their mutual happiness, that I almost
rejoiced at parting with her. I shall be very anxious to hear of her safe arrival
at Cork. My father was so pressed for time on his return, that I had the
mortification of knowing he passed the end of White Hart Lane and could not see
him. He did not reach home till last night. I have not heard from Cranwich. Toor
Susanna how I pity her | This separation must be a cruel one for her.
Kate has a pleasure in view to repay her for all, but Susanna will for a long while
feel her loss, I fear. Remember me to your mother and Horatia, whom I expect
to see much grown, & who I hear is improved. Caroline sends her love to
her. We have had a large party this Christmas, but our pleasure was damped
by the situation of poor Mrs. W. Robinson, who had just received the intelligence
that there was no hope entertained of the safety of the Harried commanded by her
brother—Captain Ridge. With remembrance to the Miss Connors.”
989. A. L. S. from Sir H. Fetherstonhaugh to the same. Dated Up
Park, ‘Thursday’ (January 14th, 1810). 24 pages 4to., with Super-
Scription and Seal. [P.]
‘It gives me the greatest pleasure to receive a more favourable account from
you, and I trust you will soon be relieved from all that load of anxiety you have
had so much of lately, & which no one so little deserves. That arising from our
own ill-health & the indisposition of others, we are all liable to, but feeling
minds only suffer much for the latter. As I am alive to all nervous sensations,
be assured I understand your language. They are troublesome and de fro/
sometimes, yet I would not wish to be altogether without them, & wrap myself up
in cold indifference. Pray take care of yourself. Endeavour to obtain rest which
you have been so long without, & make use of all the resources of a strong mind
& a happy disposition. I generally stay here till the end of March, and shall hardly
be in town before my usual time. Be assured I shall lose no time in seeing you,
which I wish much to do, having many things to say to one, who, I am pleased to
think, feels an interest for me. Tho' I lament that there should be such a reason
for your quitting Richmond, because none such ought to exist had you common
justice done you, yet your judgement is good in doing so, and at all events I
shall stand a better chance of seeing more of you. I hope you received the first
basket of game as well as the last. You shall certainly continue to have a supply
from time to time. Receive it as a mark of attention most gratifying to myself
to shew. Pray let me hear from you occasionally, & when you get out again
you may have some entertaining observations to make. Do you often hear from,
and sometimes see (when you get out) the D. of Q. P Tho' Napoleon may not
be acting from Žassion, he is playing a most nice political game. I should like to
£rée atta moces.’
336: THE HAMILTON AND - [1810.
990. A. L. S. from Mrs. Pierson to the same. Dated Tottenham,
January 24th (1810). 13 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“Ever since Saturday (when I learnt the melancholy lossº you are afflicted
with) I have been impatient to be with you, and nothing but the expectation I
was daily in of going to town prevented my writing to offer to come to you. At
present I have been unable to learn (having been entirely confined to the country)
whether you are in town or country, but I conclude the latter. Only let me know
that you wish for me, & I will be with you as soon as I am able, and will bring
Caroline or not, as you please, for Mrs. Robinson will take charge of her in my
absence. I know too well how vain all attempts at offering consolation for your
loss must be to attempt it, but, be assured, my dear friend, I most sincerely
partake of your sorrow and regrets, & with love to Horatia remain,’ &c.
991. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. No date (January 27th,
I8 IO). I page 4to., with SuperScription. [P.] -
“I must write, tho' I have before written to Miss Conner, and hoped to have
heard, but Cecilia said you were not only grieved, but very unwell. Do pray cause
to be written only one line to say how your health is -—miserable I know you
must be. Dear Blessed Saint, was she not a mother to us all. How I wish I was
near you, but that is impossible. I am afraid I shall never get so far from home
again, but I know you have many kind friends around you. My dear friend,
endeavour to support yourself under this very severe trial, for the sake of dear
Horatia. What can she do without you & many other friends, amongst whom I
rank myself. Do pray come to me as soon as the spring gets milder. Every
one here will endeavour to soothe you. The united love of this party send love.
“Anne in particular, she is most grieved for her kind friend.
992. A. L. S. from Sir H. Fetherstonhaugh to the same. Dated Up
Park, ‘Sunday’ (January 28th, 18 IO). 2 pages 4to., with Super-
Scription and Seal. [P.] -
“It was with much pain and sincere anxiety for yourself, that I read an
account in the paper of the loss you had sustained, but you have the best and
surest consolation in the reflexion of having constantly shown such marks of duty
and affection to a parent as must have made her life happy, & been the source
of much permanent comfort & satisfaction. Time alone can heal the wound
which such a loss naturally inflicts, with the assistance of excellent sense, great
fortitude, and the most amiable disposition, all of which you possess in an
eminent and most advantageous degree. I wish I had been on the spot to have
offered to contribute to the relief of your mind by friendly interviews, which, I am
sure, you would have admitted of from me, as it is best procured in the conversation
of those on similar occasions who are persuaded of the interest which each may
feel for the other. Pray let me hear soon that you are better, & reconciled to
what cannot be otherwise. As for peace, I cannot recommend it to any one as
an object to look forward to, unless to those in infancy, there is no probable
chance of it for such as have reached years of maturity, unless they outlive the
race of peculators who fatten upon the distresses of others. Among the millions
wasted, it is hard to withold a mite so much your due. We have a constant fog,
tho' not so thick, probably, as yours in London, where you must have candles in
the middle of the day. A sharp frost also, & very cold, tho’ that is hardly ever
felt in this house. I expect the Duke of Argyll, Sefton, &c., &c., to-day to finish
the shooting campaign. You shall not fail to be the better for it, only tell me if
I am to continue to direct to you in Stratford Place. I hope you got the last gibier
duly delivered.’
* Referring to the death of Mrs. Cadogan.
1810.] AVE/SOAV PAPAEA’.S. 337
993. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated Cranwich, “Monday,
February 12th (1810). 2% pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘I was glad to find by your letter to Anne you were something better. I
always liked the Linds, & now I shall like them better than ever for their kindness
to you. I hope you will find your present lodging comfortable, & that you will
endeavour to keep up your spirits, after a storm comes a calm, &, God knows,
you have had storm enough, & Surely the sun must shine sometimes; but I am
writing a parcel of nonsense, you will say, but Anne calls out, “Mother, write to my
lady, she likes to hear from us.” Poor thing, she is too ill to write herself, as her
liver complaint is very bad. Mr. Steele was apprehensive of an abscess being
formed ; we arc now rubbing in mercury, and we hope the knob is swelling &
Softer, but it makes her very unwell. I am glad you are such good friends with the
Duke. I hope you may continue so to his life's end, for, depend upon it, who
ever is most in favour then will have the largest legacy. All the world dies
around him, but he stands alone, whenever he does go it will be suddenly. I
hear Mr. Johnson has left Mrs. Yonge a hundred a year, but the bulk of his
fortune to the Johnsons, children of his brother, who died in India, not more than
fourteen thousand pounds, if so much, as he had sunk part for an annuity. Mrs.
Girdlestone & her daughters are here, and desire their love, as does my son to
you, Horatia, and the Connors. He goes to Cambridge very soon ; he talks of
being in town at Easter, but before then I hope you will be with me. Mr. Bolton
& the girls beg to be kindly remembered to you. We had a letter from Lady
Bolton last week, she has lodgings at the Cove. Sº Wm was to sail again in a few
days.”
994. A. L. S. from Miss Anne N. Bolton to the same. Dated Cranwich,
Tebruary 18th, 1810. 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘Thank you for your kind letter, which was a great comfort both to my mother
and myself, as we were very anxious to see your handwriting. Susanna had a
letter from Mrs. Pierson this morning, in which she says she has seen you, and is
coming to stay with you a week (and a week next month). Did you not think
Caroline improved? Suppose Horatia was pleased to see her; they will be good
friends, no doubt. Give my love to Horatia, beg her to write to me, or I shall be
very much hurt, as Caroline wrote to Susanna to-day. How do you like your
lodgings Hope they will suit you, being so near the Duke will be a great
comfort ; indeed, my dear Lady, I hope we shall soon meet, though Norfolk is not
very gay, yet we will do everything in our power to make it so to you and yours.
You will find us in the same house, and everything the same as you left it, except,
indeed, we may have got a new sett of hens and geese, an additional cow or horse.
The only difference will be in us, ſor instead of regret we shall feel joy. Perhaps
I shall be well as I go on with the same stuff, enough of my stuff. Will you
enquire of Captain Gooch, or some of the East Indian Directors, if they have
heard or seen anything from the Carmatic, the ship that Willº Girdlestone whent
out in, as my aunt has not yet heard from him. She is (as you may suppose)
very anxious about him, as there are two or three ships lately come from Bengal.
Pray, my dear Lady, send a note, or speak to Capt. Gooch immediately, and write
to me as soon as you hear. Perhaps they can tell you when we may expect to
hear from him ; my poor aunt and Anne fret themselves to death. You, I fear,
have a fellow feeling for them. You will not fail to inquire directly. Pray, is it
true that Mrs. de Frize is gone off with Mr. Holding P I remember him at Mrs.
Lambert's ; he was then flirting with Miss Lind, now Mrs. Dennis. It is singular
that one of the Linds should be a Dennis. How is your Mrs. Dennis P You
know she was a great favourite of mine. Give my love to all those who inquire
after me. I forgot to say we heard from Kate yesterday. She does not like
Cove in the least, they are so dirty. She is with the Admiral twice a week; they
sit down to dinner by Steels' list.* I think I have written a long letter, which, I
hope, you will not fail to answer. My mother, with the whole party, send love to all.’
* It is, perhaps, scarcely necessary to note that Steele's Zist was the navy list of that period.
VOIL. II.
338 7"A/F AZAM/Z7 OAV AAWD [1810.
995. A. L. S. from Sir H. Fetherstonhaugh to the same. Dated Up
Park, “Monday, 19’ (February, I8IO). 2 pages 4to, with Super-
scription and Seal. [P.] -
‘I am very much pleased to find that you are fixed in a situation which has the
agreements you mention, & be assured the first place I visit after I get to London
will be No. 76 Piccadilly; but it will not be so soon as I would otherwise wish,
did not business engagements detain me here longer than I expected. I must
wait to receive a party chez moſſ the end of next month, then, chemin faisanſ, I
must pay a visit for a week or ten days, which will make it the middle of April
before I take you by the hand. We have a deep Snow at present, of all weathers
the most disagreeable, and I know of no place worse in it than London, unless
you make up your mind not to go out at all. Have you music often ? Do you go
out, or how do you pass your time P No one better deserves to be happy. You
have resources within yourself which no one can deprive you of, & which will
better administer comfort and restore you to cheerfulness than all the extraneous
gifts of fortune. Have you got your young &/ēves with you again P Napoleon
will soon dispose of the Peninsular, which anyone of common sense might have
foreseen, yet our wise Government is subsidising a Portuguese army. Que//e ſolie
&ommanfe A Pray continue to write, you may always find something interesting to
say, whereas my letters must always partake of the dulness of a country gentle-
IIla.11.
“I will order some gibier under the rose to be sent to-morrow, as the time is
past the long fails must not appear.
‘Let me know they come safe.’
996. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated Cranwich, “Monday,
noon' (April 9th, 18 IO). 2 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘How are you in the midst of this uproar & mob P. Whenever we think or
read of Burdett,” we speak of you. How uncomfortable you must be Do leave it
all & come to us; we shall be so happy to see you & all your party; it will be
a change of scene for you at least. Anne, I hope, is better ; she wrote to Sarah
Connor to enquire after you, as we were uneasy; you do not write one line to us.
Mrs. Girdlestone & her daughter leave us to-morrow; they beg to be remembered
to you. Henry is coming to take Mr. Partridge's curacies next May; the poor
man, I doubt, will live but a short time ; he is going to Cheltenham I fear for the
last time.
‘The great Capt. Manby is married, and lives in lodgings in Northwold with
only one servant, Cook & butler, till his own cottage, wº he has purchased, is
repaired. As to the Swaffham people, I very seldom see them ; but I hear the
Archdeacon, his lady, & his daughters, are going into Devonshire; the beauty,
Mary Anne Mercer, is married to a clergyman, & Miss Dalton is married, &
many more marriages are on the faſis, which I shall tell you of when I have the
pleasure of seeing you here, which I hope you will fix an early week for. Give
all our loves to dear Horatia ; tell her all the tea things are in order for her; all
my family join in kind love to you.’
997. A. L. S. from Mrs. Pierson to the same. Dated Cranwich, “Sun-
day morning' (May 19th, 1810). With A. L. S. attached from
Mrs. Bolton to the same. 34 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘I went yesterday as far as Castleacre on my return home, expecting to be
met by my father ; but from some mistake I was disappointed and obliged to
return. I called on Miss Langford at Swaffham, who told me she heard you
were very ill. I trust her information is incorrect, yet I cannot be easy till I hear
* Sir Francis Burdett, 1770–1844, a well-known politician, M.P. for Middlesex from 1807
to 1837. Just before the date of the letter an attempt had been made to convey him to the
Tower for contempt, a proceeding which gave rise to such disorders that it was found necessary
to read the Riot Act; nor did the military succeed in arresting him until the 9th of April.
1810.] AVAE/CSOAV PAPEA’.S. & 339
from yourself; therefore, if you have not already written, pray let me have a letter
from you on my arrival at Brancaster, which will be on Tuesday next ; if not, you
will occasion me the greatest uneasiness on your account. I found all well at my
arrival here except Anne, & she is, I am happy to say, much better than when I
came, tho' still far from well. Mrs. Girdlestone has at last received letters from
William Girdlestone down to the fifth of October ; he writes in as good spirits as
we could expect, and my aunt is made quite comfortable on his account. To-day
the ladies are going to pay the bride's visit to Captain & Mrs. Manby at the
JLodge, as they denominate their lodgings; I shall remain at home with Anne, as
I have had enough of travelling lately.
‘Our chaise is just arrived to take me home to-morrow. I find all are well at
Brancaster, though my dº mother has had a very serious billious attack. We had
a letter from Lady Bolton yesterday, written after my brother sailed ; she has
been ill with a fever, but is recovering fast ; she says their society is much
improved by the addition of Mrs. Tobyn and Miss Duff, & a Mrs. Jones and her
sister, Miss Palmer, all within a few doors of her. Emma thinks the brogue so
very pretty, that her mother cannot prevent her acquiring it ; she will return to us
a compleat Irish girl ; her father writes she is the admiration of all at Cove. I
hope you have before this disposed of your house at Richmond, and are thinking
of coming into the country; it will soon be very pleasant, tho' at present I am too
great a sufferer from the cold to enjoy it much. Anne will add a few lines, she
says. Caroline joins me in best love to your Ladyship and Our dear Horatia.
How goes on Miss Lind’s love affairs P Remember me to her & Mrs. Lind. I
think I deserve a long letter from you in return for my two very stupid ones; but
I have complied with your request, altho' I had but little to inform you of. Write
as Soon as you can, & believe me,’ &c.
(LETTER FROM MRS. BOLTON.)
‘The sun shines bright, & Anne is recovering after 3 months' confinement ; do
come to us, who will be happy to embrace you & dear Horatia. Bring as many
of your family as is convenient ; do, my dear friend, fix your time for coming. I
have much to hear & much to tell. Anne would have written if Mrs. Pierson had
not ; she has been for the latter part dangerously ill ; she now gets out in the
carriage. We all join in kind love & regards. Yours,’ &c.
998. A.L.S. from Mr.William Nelson to the same Dated Monday, July
23rd, I8 Io. 2 pages 4to, with SuperScription and Seal. [P.
‘It is a trying case for me to presume to trouble your Ladyship with another
letter. It is at the request of James Hicks, Esq., brother of Captain Hicks, who
had the command of a ship in His Majesty's Service. Both James Hicks, Esq.,
and Captain Thomas Hicks was intimately acquainted with that noble and
glorious Lord Nelson, who was the pride of this country. At the time I did
myself the pleasure of leaving a letter for your Ladyship, I flattered myself with
the pleasing hopes confer'd on me of seeing your Ladyship, but was not in town.
I live at Bethnal Green, five miles from Piccadilly ; I attended four days
following, but was not so fortunate as to find your Ladyship in town till last
Saturday, when your servant told me that you had company with you. I beg'd
him to acquaint your Ladyship that I would wait at Mrs. Bridgman a few hours,
which I did ; on enquiry of your servant if your Ladyship was disengaged, he
told me that you was ill, & could not see company. It was a sensible mortifica-
tion to hear of your sudden indisposition ; I beg'd my respectful compliments,
wish’d you a speedy recovery, and I would do myself the honor to call again. I
hope I have not incur'd your Ladyship's displeasure in attempting to see you in
my mean, miserable situation ; you might take offence, of which, if that was the
case, I must, upon mature deliberation, confess myself to be guilty of an error,
which I trust you will have the goodness to overlook. Poverty is certainly an
enemy to virtue and polite manners, and sometimes it is the fate of persons such
as myself to fall a victim to and become so oppressed as never to be able
to overcome distress. Yet as I am conscious of never having had in my
mind the least intention of giving your Ladyship offence, I entertain a hope that
340 . 7TH/A2 AAA/ZZ TO/V AAV/O [1810.
you will not hide your face from me or suffer me to go empty away; and that I
may not be looked upon to be an impostor, permit me to relate to your Ladyship
that I am in the greatest want of almost every necessary of life. It is the greatest
distress that urged me to appeal to your tender feelings and humanity. Should
your Ladyship deem this a censurable liberty from an individual and perfect
stranger to your Ladyship, I shall bend with humble submission to your
Correction, still presuming on your Ladyship's forgiveness, being impelled by the
irresistable motive of severe want and distress. Anything, ever so trifling, will be
truly acceptable to one who begs leave to Solicit your pardon for thus presuming ;
and give me leave to subscribe myself,’ &c.
‘P.S.–If I have not the honor to be admitted into your presence, whatever
trifle you’l be pleased to bestow on me you will be pleased to give it to Mrs
Bridgmans for me, as I told her I had the honor to be related to Lord Nelson.
Mrs. Bridgman said that you were a well-disposed, humane, good lady as lives,
and if she gave her anything for me I should be sure to receive it.’
999. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated Cranwich, “Sunday,
noon (September 9th, 1810). 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription.
[P.
“A letter from your fair hand is always acceptable to me. I think the time
very long since you wrote to me. (Except coming to me) I think you have done
the wisest & the best thing you could do : change of scene, & the society of kind
friends. I wish I could peep in upon you all ; the spirit is willing, but the body
is weak. But I have been to Swaffham for 3 or 4 days, & to as many plays, to
Swaffham, & then to Saham to make the lying-in visit, when, lo & behold, I
might had I waited a little longer, I might have made two, for the lady was very
large. Robert is likely to have a large family, but our visit was not very cheerful,
as we received intelligence that poor little Wim Taylor was at death's door, but I
have not heard this week, which I hope a good sign. You ask for a picnic letter.
My Companion, Anne, is at Brancaster; Henry came home yesterday, all well. You
ask me, my dear Lady, when they will be married—when they have any thing to
live upon. A little will suffice, but that little they must have ; but where to look
for preferment I know not. My interest is buried in our dear & lamented friend
and brother. Now we talk of interest, may I ask you, my dear friend, a question
—is it in your power to get a young man a cadet to the East Indies. It is ſor a
godson of mine, one of Mrs. Sam Bolton's sons ; either of the Settlements will do.
Try your influence with Mr. Matcham ; perhaps he knows one of the directors.
Y” friend Capt. Gooch is likely to oblige you. In doing this you will much oblige
me. We are in dayly expectation of hearing Lady Bolton's safe arrival at
Plymouth in time for her to get home, as she expects to be confined in Octº or
November. I shall be glad to have her safe at home. Eliza Yonge is shortly to
be married to Mr. De Legnum, a young clergyman of good preferment & good
fortune. Mr. Henry Day & Miss Dugmore—so much for weddings. Births:
Mrs. Guyon a healthy baby. Went the other evening to see Guyon perform
Glenalvon in Douglas. What his performance is I leave you to judge from what
you have seen. Mr. Wilbraham is going to quit Swaffham. My son is returned
home from his tour into Yorkshire ; he wrote to you from there. Susanna desires
her kind love; she says were she to write volumes she could only say that. Accept
& distribute all our kind regards to self and circle. When Emma returns she
shall write to Horatia ; she is a famous letter inditer, tho’ no pen woman. Where
is Mrs. Nelson to be found 2 The time is come for a goose.”
1000. A. L. S. from Miss Sarah Connor to the same. Dated September
IOth, 181O. 34 pages 4to, with Superscription and Seal. [P.]
“Both of your's I got to day, and will act according to your last, which I told
Mrs. Domier. She seemed quite disapointed. For my own part, I cannot see
why she should, except that I believe them to be very poor indeed. I am has
much surprised has you are to think that a hundred pounds should be owing in a
1810.] NELSON PAPERS. 341
few weeks. I am afraid that you have been paying rent for two good months
before you took possesion of your apartments. If so, I am sorry, for that is
money all gone for nothing. No one will do it towards you—that is the way of
this selfish world. The Duke sent to me for to know by what coach I sent
parcels to you, which I sent to him, so I suppose he is going to send you some-
thing. Saturday I went to the play with Mrs. Billington, who, with Mrs. Bianchi,
desires their love, and yesterday dined at Hammersmith and sleept there ; came
home this morning. Mrs. Francis and her husband came yesterday from Merton
to fetch the parrots, which went quite well and safe. You must excuse my
freedom in the remark I am about to make, namely, in your being obliged to pay
for the board when all will be away, except only servants, when I sett off. That
has fretted me staying in town, as I thought it made you pay the same has when
all was at home, but find that my absence nor yours makes no difference. This
alters the plan of cheapness greatly in my opinion, for there never has been
extravagant dinners, but good plain joints for you. But you, dearest Lady
Hamilton, must be the best judge. If you think it right to consent to this
arrangement, it must, I must candidly own I do not nor whould not have this to
vex you, it has me, but not knowing what Mrs. Domier and you agreed upon, in
that case I am obliged to submit it to you. I hope to join you soon. With love
to all I remain,’ &c.
‘Mrs. D. gave me leave to read the letter.”
1001. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated ‘Monday,
September 17th ' (I8IO). 3.} pages 4to., with Superscription and
Seal. [P.]
‘Your two last letters I got, and thank you for them. I found the codicils and
took them to Lord Herdly,” but did not see him. I am almost ashamed to write
the old story to you again. It is now 3 o'clock and no Mr. Goldsmid is come,
nor do I look for him now to-day, so when I shall get to you God knows. Their's
one czcuse for him—the clerk told me the other day that it was feared he should
lose a large sum of money. It would not ruin him has he was so rich, but that
the amount was large. I hope it may turn out better than he expects. He is a
good man ; it’s a pity he should suffer. The enclosed is, has you will find, from
Mrs. Domier. It’s true she is Cunning, and you are right in keeping Staunch to
your plans, but, I think, has you do, she must gaine from you. She wants the
weeks that we are all away to be paid the same, and that, she says, will make up
for the pound a-day not being enough when all is at home. What do you mean
to do about coals f Has the weather is getting cold you will want fires when you
come home. They are sixty pounds I shilling now, and will soon get to seventy.
The worst of it is that their is not a cellar for us, but she talks of giving up the
wine-cellar; that you, I daresay, whould not like that she should. Still, when she
does offer, for convenience take it ; you pay for all, it's no favor. Mrs. Dillon
found out that you was from home, wrote me a letter dated from Sloane Square
to come and dine with her has yesterday, but I did not go, for that would be
renewing the aquaintance againe. The Captain has got a ship and has sailed—
that, I am glad of, and you will be glad to hear of it. Still, I think he might
have called upon you before he went, has you was very kind to him. I suppose
he was led astray by his wife's lies. Love to Horatia, and tell her I am obliged
to her for writing to me, and I will answer herself.”
1002. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to the same. Dated October 29th,
I8IO. 3 pages 4to, with Superscription. [P.]
‘Many thanks, my dear Lady, for your kind letter, which should have been
acknowledged before this, but I was prevented by the illness of poor Kate. She
has suffered very severely since you left us with a bilious complaint, attended with
violent pain in the bowels. She is now, thank God quite recovered, and getting
up her strength again. As you say nothing of your own health, I hope you have
* Apparently Sampson Gideon, Lord Eardley, 1744–1824.
342 THE HAM/ZTO/V AAWD [1810.
no return of your old complaints, & that the Sussex air has quite removed them.
The weather is now so cold that I think you need (not) be alarmed at the want of
air in Dover Street, where I suppose you are now settled. I was very happy to
receive a few lines from Lady Bolton, & that she gave so good an account of her
health. I think she seems to be all the better for exerting herself and leaving her
mother's apron Strings, or rather Susanna's.
‘We have just recollected this is dear Horatia's birthday.” God grant you and
she may live to see many of them. Pray kiss her for us all, with our kind love to
her. We this morning called upon the Pages with the intention of bringing them
to pass a few days with us, but she is so very much hurt by this sad event that
we could not prevail upon her to come to us at present. Whether they are to
remain at Tilgate we have not yet heard. She asked very kindly after you ; they
went immediately to Morden, and were with the family during the dreadful scene
of the first day, which, as you may suppose, has afflicted her health & Spirits
more than a short time will recover, as all her exertion was required at the
moment to assist the afflicted family. I suppose you have seen some of them
before this. I shall expect my weekly letter to-morrow, but cannot tax you with
a return one, as I really have not materials to interest you. When any extra-
ordinary event happens you will be sure to hear it. We all unite in every kind
wish to you.
‘Pray remember us to the Miss Connors.”
1003. A. L. S. from Emma Carew-F to the same. Dated ‘Sunday morn-
ing’ (1810). 3 pages 4to., with Superscription and Seal. [P.]
‘Mrs. Denis's mention of your name and the conversation she had with you,
have revived ideas in my mind which an absence of four years has not been able
to efface. It might have been happy for me to have forgotten the past, and to
have began a new life with new ideas ; but for my misfortune, my memory traces
back circumstances which have taught me too much, yet not quite all I could
have wished to have known—with you that resides, and ample reasons, no doubt,
you have for not imparting them to me. Had you felt yourself at liberty so to
have done, I might have become reconciled to my former situation and have been
relieved from the painful employment I now pursue. It was necessary as I then
stood, for I had nothing to support me but the affection I bore you ; on the other
hand, doubts and fears by turns oppressed me, and I determined to rely on my
own efforts rather Llian submit to abject dependance, without a permanent name
or acknowledged parents. That I should have taken such a step shews, at least,
that I have a mind misfortune has not subdued. That I should persevere in it is
what I owe to myself and to you, for it shall never be said that I avail myself of
your partiality or my own inclination, unless I learn my claim on you is greater
than you have hitherto acknowledged. But the time may come when the same
reasons may cease to operate, and then, with a heart filled with tenderness and
affection, will I shew you both my duty and attachment. In the meantime,
should Mrs. Denis's zeal and kindness not have over-rated your expressions
respecting me, and that you should really wish to see me, I may be believed in
saying that such a meeting would be one of the happiest moments of my life, but
for the reflection that it may also be the last, as I leave England in a few days,
and may, perhaps, never return to it again. I remain,’ &c.
1004. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton (with L. S. in Mrs. Bolton's writing
from Emma Bolton to Horatia) to the same. Dated ‘Friday
morning' (November 23rd, 1810). 23 pages 4to., with Super-
scription. [P.] -
“I should have written to you some time since, but expected to have received a
* It is to be presumed that Horatia's birthday had always been wrongly placed in order to
assist in the deception that she was not Lady Hamilton's daughter.
f Lady Hamilton's daughter by Captain Willett Payne, wide Vol. I., p. 85, et seq.
1810.] AVE/SOAV PAPAEA’.S. 343
Bramzah lock. Mr. Bolton wishes for it much ; when corn is in the barn we are
much disturbed on nights.
‘I am sorry to say we have a sick house. Poor Anne is always the patient.
She mounted a horse on Friday, and got a bad fall. When they went to take her
up she was black in the face ; they were fearfull she was dieing. However, they
got her home, and sent for Mr. Steele immediately. He bled her, & had her
carried to bed, where she has remained ever since, very weak and low, & full of
pain. The blow was on the soft part of her body and her head, but she is, I
hope, out of all danger. I hope by Xmas we shall all be well and happy to
receive you. Emma begs I will write for her to Horatia. Will all join in kindest
love to yoze. Lady Bolton begs I will say for her she would have written many
days since, but she has been confined in the sick room. You may suppose we
were all much alarm'd God bless you, my dearest friend, yours,’ &c.
(From EMMA BOLTON to HoRATIA.)
“I send my love to you, and am expecting every day to get some muslin lace,
ribbon & bobbin to make a cap for your doll. I cannot make it as I have not the
pattern of your doll, but will make for you when you come at Xmas, if can be in
a retired room, that no-one may take the pattern. I hope you will come as I will
prepare a little present for you. My love to Lady Hamilton. Your,’ &c.
1005. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to the same. Dated ‘Monday night’
(December 4th, 1810). 24 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“I was very glad to receive a letter from you, my dear Lady, as it was three
weeks since you wrote. We began to be afraid it was illness that prevented your
writing, but I hope you have not had any return of your complaint. I had a
letter from Mrs. Bolton on Saturday. She says Lady B. is getting well, & she
thinks is growing fat. Very likely she may be better after this than she has been
for years. Poor Anne is always ill. This is a sad accident, & will prevent her
from riding, which is unlucky, as the exercise seemed to agree with her. Your
letter on Saturday was truly melancholy. Poor Bianchi’s fate is much to be
lamented. I never saw him, but Mr. M. regrets him much. What could
be the reason of his committing this rash act? How unfortunate he did not
accompany her to Bath. She can never forgive herself for leaving him alone.
It will be a dreadful home for her to return to. I am glad to hear dear Horatia is
well. As to her being attentive to her studies and your kind advice, I am sure
there is no doubt of Our young folks are all dancing, and Horace is as lively as
any of them. He very often talks of Mother Law, & is always delighted when a
letter comes from you. We had Mr. Sheldrake down since you left us. He
thinks his patient as much improved, or more so than he could have expected
from the time, & he has no doubt but he will be quite straight. Hor. begs I will
not forget his love. I am sorry to hear poor Blindy is so indifferent. She suffers
much in this world. I think her greatest comfort is your kindness to her. Pray
remember us to her. With our best love to dear Horatia and the Miss Conners,
I remain,’ &c. -
1006. A. L. S. from Miss Anne N. Bolton to the same. Dated Cranwich,
December 6th, 18 IO. 24 pages 4to, with SuperScription. [P.]
‘I yesterday received the gown and brooch, for which I hope you will
be convinced I am thankfull. The gown I understand is from Horatia,
therefore must trouble you to kiss her, and return my best thanks to her for so
very pretty a dress, and that I hope she will come and see me in it, and then I
shall not thank by proxy. To yourself, my dear Lady, it is useless for me to
repeat what I have so often said before ; indeed I think when you make presents
you ought to coin words to thank you in, for you, who give so many, and of
course, receive so many thanks, must be tired of hearing the same thing so
many times over. Z shall not say anything, but hope that I shall all my life shew
you the sincere gratitude I do, and ought to feel. You did not mention in your
letter having received one from Lady Bolton in the parcel, or my mother's wig
344 THE HAMILTON AAWD [1810.
which we also sent. Will write or ask Sarah to let us know whether you have or
not ? as we fear the parcel was opened on the road. My father is now at Bran-
caster, so I cannot thank and kiss him till he returns, but you [had] better come
and do it yourselfe. I was disappointed that you did not mention coming in your
last; the next, I hope, will fix the day. I am happy Horatia is in such good
luck. Hope it will continue. I do not know Lord Powers. Did I ever see him P
I think he must be a good sort of man. I see by the papers the King is better.
I hardly believe it. I also see the Princess Mary is ill. It is to be hoped she
will not die. How is Mrs. Denis P I beg you will give my love to her when you see
her, and to aunt Middy. Beg her to kiss her neice for me. I suppose she is
head nurse. Remember me to Mr. & Mrs. Lind. Hope the party went off with
&c/aſſ, that the game proved good. It is in vain for me to try to find any news to
fill this dull sheet, for I have not been out of Cranwich this three months. I
expect to take a trip into Suffolk with my father & mother for a week or ten
days, from which trip I promise much pleasure, particularly on my return, when I
expect to find yourselfe and all your party. Cap" Langford is in this part of the
world. He dines with us this week. His sister is as chatty as ever, and not
likely to be married yet. Mr. Rolfe has got a boy, and Mrs. R. is as well as can
be expected. Tell Horatia she must come and see my bird, who is now sitting
on the table, and now and then on the end of the pen. He will be proud to perch
on her little fingers. I have now nothing more to say to persuade you to come.
Lady B. sends her best love. My mother & Susanna do the same. I beg you
will give mine to bothe the Miss Connors. Shall be happy to see them. Kiss
Horatia for myselfe and Emma, who is counting the days, nay, hours till she sees
her, as is also your,’ &c. .
1007. A. L. S. from Lady Bolton to the same. Dated Cranwich,
December 13th, 181O. 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“I was very sorry to find from Sarah's last letter to Anne, you were unwell
with a bilious attack, and I fear, from my not hearing from you, it still Continues.
I hope you will be recovered before you set out on your journey, which will be,
I hope, in ten days, at farthest. Let me hear from you how you arrange your
plans. My father, mother, and Anne went on Tuesday into Suffolk for a week.
‘I hope the change will be of service to Anne. She is grown very thin since
her fall from her horse. How do you go, and does the Madame Domier starve
you as much f I hope if she does, you will give her a gentle hint, for I should be
very sorry to see you grow any thinner than you were when I saw you in Town.
Tell Horatia her cousin Emma has written two or three letters to her lately, and
is impatient for an answer, as she thinks they were sent by the post. They were
so long, I had not patience to copy them, but the principal part of the Contents
were love, kisses, and wishes for her company at Cranwich, together with a long
history of what amusements they were to have, when here. She is quite as
impatient to see you as her mamma. Eliza is gone to make a visit at Wells, so
that our party at present is very small, only Susanna, Henry and myself.
However, we continue to amuse ourselves very well with working & reading.
Will you be so good as to tell Mary Arbour I desired her friends at Mund-
ford to bring her little boy every fine Sunday, that I might see how they go on
with him, but they have brought him but once. I have very little news. Mary
Sharpen of Swaffham, sister to Harriet, is married to a clergyman, a very good
match for her. Mary Anne Mercier who married last year a Mr. Day, has just
got a little girl. Poor thing, she has got a very bad husband, so mean, he almost
starves her. Eliza Yonge is to be married in the Spring. This is all the Swaffham
news I have heard. Mrs. Manby expects to be confined every day. The captain
is very domestic and lives very retired. Susanna unites in love to you and
Horatia, & the Miss Connors. Yours,’ &c.
1008. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated Xmas Day, I8 IO.
I} pages 4to.
“Shall I say I congratulate you or condole with you on the death of the poor
1810–1 1.] AVAEZSOAV PAA’AºA'.S. 345
Duke ; I hope you will be a great gainer; a loss I am sure he was to you, but we,
alas, well know what the loss of friends are, but a rich sorrow better than a poor
one. We long to hear what he has left you ; God bless you with it. You would
Smile to hear us talk of you ; Mr. Bolton wishes to have a bet on the sum ; Anne
dances ; Tom says he is as nervous as my Lady to hear the contents; Susanna
says she is low for fear it should not be so much as we all wish ; as to Lady
Bolton and myself, we are full of hopes that both you and Horatia will have
a good legacy.
“We shall be truly happy to see you as soon as you can conveniently leave
town, which I hope will be as soon after the funeral as you can ; it will change
the Scene at any rate, & we will endeavour to make Cranwich as cheerful as we
Can. Bring the Miss Conners with you, dear Horatia of course. I cannot write
upon any other occasion. We all unite in kind regards, & believe me,’ &c.
1009. A. L. S. from Sir H. Fetherstonhaugh to the same. Dated Up
Park, December 30th, I8 IO. 24 pages 4to., with SuperScription
and Seal. -
“Many thanks for your kind communication about the old Duke's will as far
as you are concerned ; if you had been remembered more largely, I should have
been still better pleased, but we both know him to have been a little capricious
throughout. Thomas made me acquainted with his mite out of Such a mass of
wealth, which I trust, however, will make him comfortable, for he deserves to be.
My intelligence announces that the K– is not likely to AEve long ; in his state
it seems hardly desirable that he should, & a regency, especially with restrictions,
is never a strong government. We so often are told of our perilous situation, that
I am not much alarmed. No change for the better in point of climate would
induce me to change my native abode, for I have seen enough of other countries
to feel the value of this. The utmost extent of my wishes is to re-visit Paris, but
that liberty seems at a most frightful distance. Notwithstanding the bad weather
lately, we had two ladies who attended us through all the battues here, & made an
excellent fight of it througll all the extremities of wet & deep ground. I don’t
think this would exactly suit you, but I shall have great pleasure in your taking
a view of old Up Park dams /a belle Saison, when even here it may be passable.
Be assured, if the envois of giðier are acceptable, & you receive them as they are
77teamſ, je sui's enchazzfé. You never told me whether you got any venison last
summer. Pray do in your next, as sometimes things never reach their destination,
& when I know it, I take measures accordingly. Poréez-vous foujours àieze, &
believe me at all times,’ &c.
1010. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to the same. Dated ‘Tuesday night’
(January 2nd, I8 II). 2 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
“We rejoice most heartily that you have got the £500 per annum, which
certainly is a most handsome addition to your income, but, indeed, you must not
be too liberal to others. It is not so large a legacy as we could have wished, but
it might have been worse, &, I trust, with economy it will enable you to live
comfortably. We feel so much interested, my dear Lady, in everything that concerns
you, that you must forgive me if I say more on the subject of your liberal disposi-
tion than I ought to. I hope Miss Connor's legacy is secure, upon which we
sincerely congratulate her. We shall think of you on Twelfth day, without being
reminded of your present of a cake. I have ordered one from Horsham. As
Soon as you can make it convenient to leave town, we shall be happy to see
you. If anything more should turn up in your favour, I am sure you will
let us know. I tremble when I think you might have lost all. We are all
well, & unite in affect” love and best wishes to you, dear Horatia, and the Miss
Connor's.
“Horace begs his love to Mother Law ; he talks of you every day, and is
delighted when he sees your letters come.’
346 THE HAM/Z TO/V AAWD [181 I.
1011. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated ‘Cranwich,
Sunday’ (January 13th, 1811). 2% pages 4to., with SuperScription.
[P.]
‘Your letter yesterday was indeed an agreable surprise, for altho' I know what
your goodness would endeavour to do for us, I had no idea you had set anything
on foot. Now I will answer you truly. Mr. Bolton thinks at his time of life he
should not be willing to be separated from his family & connections, and I would
say, my wish by removal is to get nearer you & my friends. Was he to go abroad
he would lose a leasehold estate, which brings him in near 4200 year, therefore
that is another reason. Perhaps, you will say, beggars should not be choosers.
Anything you can get us in England will be very acceptable, and we shall ever
remember your kindness. I am in great distress at this time about my dear
Kate, who is on her road home. Mr. Bolton brought her in a post-chaise as far
as Swaffham yesterday, where she was then obliged to go to bed. Her sister
went to meet her in order to support her home. She is in such a weak state that
she can scarce bear the motion of a carriage. She has no particular complaint
but weakness. Mr. Girdlestone says if she does not get strength soon, he will
not answer for her. Bath is recommended. I am now going to write to Mrs.
Matcham to ask her to take her and her nurse Susanna in, or procure lodgings
near her.’
1012. A. L. S. from the same to the same. No date (January 17th, 1811).
2 pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘How are you, my dear Lady—well, I liope, and comfortable P Tell Sarah
Connor I rejoice with her on her legacy, which I was much pleased ; but I did
hope yours would have been double, but from such an uncertain being, it is well
it was so much, & long may you live to enjoy it. I hope in another month the
weather & roads will be good, & we shall have the happiness of seeing you.
However, come when you will, you will make us truly happy. Lady Bolton &
Emma leaves us to-morrow for Brancaster, and then I fear Sº Wm will come for
her, if his ship comes into dock for any time.
‘Did you receive a turkey Mr. Bolton sent you from Norwich last Saturday
week? Did you hear Lady Charlotte had miscarried, to the great disappointment
of Lord Bridport.* I know nothing of Swaffham as we seldom go there, not even
to balls. Eliza is not at home, and Anne, when well, which is not often the case,
do not like Swaffham balls. You say when does she marry P. When they have
something to make the pot boil, which, you know, is very necessary. A living of
2 or 3 hundred a year they would be content with, but where to get it is the thing.
Emma often writes to her cousin Horatia and wonders the post brings no letters
from her. Give our kind love to her yourself, and remember us to Miss Connor.’
1013. A. L. S. from Mr. Twiss f to the same. Dated 95 Charlotte
Street, Fitzroy Square, January 20th, 18 II. 5 pages 4to., with
Superscription and Seal. [P.]
‘I am about to make a very daring request, & therefore I ought to begin with
an apology, but, as I am sure that if your kindness does not provide me with an
excuse I shall find none in my own mind, I want you to do me the greatest and
most serious favour in the world.
“When the last Administration came into power, Lord Erskine the Chancellor,
on the application of Mrs. Siddons f who, you know, is my aunt, & has always
* Samuel Hood, 2nd Baron Bridport, 1788–1868, had married Lady Charlotte Nelson in 1810.
+ Horace Twiss, 1787–1849, a well-known lawyer, son of Mrs. Siddons' sister, Frances
Remble. He was called to the bar in 181 I, and became a K.C. in 1827. In 1828 he was
appointed Under-Secretary for the Colonies. Finding his practice at the bar rather inadequate,
he accepted a post on the Times, which he relinquished in 1844, on being made Vice-Chancellor
of the Duchy of Lancaster.
† Sarah Siddons, 1755–1831, the eminent tragic actress, who made her first appearance in
London in 1775 in the character of Portia, and her last in 1812 as Lady Macbeth.
181 I.] AVAE/LSOAV PAPA.R.S. 347
interested herself most warmly in my behalf, promised me positively that after the
expiration of two years from that time he would make me a Commissioner of
Bankruptcy. The place is worth from an hundred and fifty to two hundred
pound a year, & to a young lawyer is further valuable, inasmuch as it introduces
him to connections & practice. On the accession of the present ministers, my
hopes fell, of course, to the ground, & the circumstances of my father's family,
which, in consequence of several misfortunes, have been much reduced, made the
disappointment particularly distressing to me.
‘My poor friend, Charles Runnington, whom you may remember to have met
at Mrs. Richard Wilson's, held one of these Commissionerships. He has been
dead for Several weeks, & yet his place has not been given away. Now I come
to the favour which I am venturing to solicit from you. Lord Abercorn, I know,
has great weight with the present Administration, & I apprehend that nothing
would be refused to his application. Can you, without pain to yourself, intreat
his Lordship's interference in my favour? I am in hopes that he would not resist
a recommendation from your Ladyship. -
“If you feel any reluctance, or even delicacy, about this, pray, dear Lady, burn
my letter and forgive my presumption ; if, on the other hand, you feel an inclina-
tion to do me this great and essential service, let me beseech you not to lose an
hour in writing or speaking to the Marquis of Abercorn. I should hope that
Lord Erskine's promise will be a voucher to the Lord Chancellor that I am not
an improper person, & I am sure my friend Wilson, who has the honour of being
well known to Lord Eldon, will give any future testimonial which his Lordship may
think necessary of my character in general, and if I may venture to say so much,
of my sufficiency in point of talent for the office to which I aspire. I shall be
called to the bar in Easter term ; it is material that the Lord Chancellor should
know this, because the office is usually confined to young barristers.
‘I would have waited upon you myself to make this petition, but I did not
learn till to-night that the place is vacant. I am obliged to leave town early
to-morrow morning. I shall be back again on the I* of February, but if you
should be able to do anything for me in the meantime, I am bold enough to
flatter myself that you will not think it too much trouble to write me a few lines,
directed to me at Francis Twiss's, Esqr., Camden Place, Bath. Once more, dear
Lady Hamilton, forgive the liberty I am taking, & believe me always,’ &c.
1014. A. L. S. from Lord Mansfield to the same. Dated ‘Great
Cumberland Street, Monday’ (early in 1811). 2 pages 8vo.
‘I hope there is this time no delay, & that the steward has paid in the quarter
for your jointure, for which Mr. Greville gave him the most positive directions,
if so, there is no doubt of Mr. Coutts letting you have it without my writing, and
if it is not paid in you IIlust write to the steward, as we have done everything
towards making him pay regularly. Allow me to add, that I hope you never
anticipate the quarter you eafect to become due, so as to occasion any pressing
demand, as I am afraid Mr. Coutts might think it impertinent in me to trouble
him again on the same subject; besides that, I am sure Mr. Coutts would tell
you that, in fact, it could do you no good. Excuse my saying thus much, & adding
a word of advice—that you should be catazzotzs not to increase your expenditure
till your affairs are settled, or your creditors will become very troublesome from
the apprehension that you will spend the legacy” bequeathed to you, without
their reaping the advantage they expect of being first Zaza. I am,’ &c.
1015. A. L. S. from Miss Matcham to the same. Dated Ashfold
Lodge, February 28th (1811). I} pages 4to., with Super-
scription. [P.]
‘On Sunday we received a short letter from you, in which you promised to
* This, no doubt, refers to the Duke of Queensberry's legacy, which, however, Lady
Hamilton never received.
348 7THE A/AM/Z 7 OAV A/VD [1811.
favor us with a longer one on Tuesday. We have every day been anxiously
expecting it, but are still disappointed, and are fearful it is illness which prevents
your writing, as in general you are very punctual. You will be conferring a favour
on us if you will put one line in the post on receipt of this, or, if you are unable to
do it yourself, we shall be obliged to any of your party to inform us of the occasion
of your silence. Mama, I am happy to say, continues quite as well as we would
expect, and the child is very well. I sent a letter to my aunt the same day I
wrote to you, and have not received an answer yet. What the reason is we
have no idea, but are fearful it either miscarried or some of the party are ill. It
is now some months since any of us have had a line from them. Perhaps you
can give us some information respecting them P Do let us have a line by return
of post.’
1016. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated ‘Cranwich,
Thursday noon, March Ist, I81 I. 3 pages 4to., with Super-
Scription. [P.]
‘Sir Wim Bolton had left Norfolk before your letter arrived. We sent it down
to Plymouth, but, of course, you have seen him, as he said he should call on you ;
therefore you have heard from him how we go on, amongst other things, that
Anne has declined marrying Mr. Girdlestone. At the first she refused him, but
he wished for leave to try his fortune with her, but it would not do. She is gone
to Brancaster, & he is with us for a short time. In May he gives up his curacy
in this part of the world. Poor Blindy went off rather suddenly. I hope she was
well taken care of in her last moments. She had an old servant of Mr. Snebbury
whom she had known for years. Whenever you go there or see the woman, will
you procure me a small picture of poor Maurice ; it is quite a daub, & of no value
to anyone else. You will see we opened yº letter, when I tell you Mr. Bolton has
taken your hint & written to Mr. Rose yesterday. Mr. Rose, I am sure, is our
friend, but I fear [promises PI more than he can Žrocure. We are equally
indebted to him. You, no doubt, have heard my dear sister% is safe in bed with
a fine boy—no want of heirs to the name of Nelson, thank God . We have
had a marriage at Swaffham of Eliza Yonge. All her sisters went to church
with her. Sad crying wedding, but they say she is so happy. Remember the
year is advancing very fast, and with the fine weather I hope you will come. We
shall be truly happy to see you all. Have you [heard] Capt. Robinson, of Rother-
ham, is dead f We all unite in kindest love to you & dear Horatia.
“We are expecting the Taylors next week. Send us word the age of
the Miss Morgan. I think fifty you told me, & our young man must please
his eye as well as his pocket. Capt. Manby has got a daughter; he seems
very happy.”
1017. A. L. S. from Sir William Bolton to the same. Dated Plymouth
Dock, March IIth (18 II). 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription.
[P.]
‘Richard arrived safe & sound last night. He met with a trifling misfortune
on the road, owing to Mr. Newcombe's suffering the coach to set off without pay-
ing for the carriage of his luggage ; I allude to his being under the necessity of
borrowing a few shillings of a brother sailor to defray his way down. It seems
also that he lost some money at the Mermaid Inn, where the coach stopped the
first night, at about eleven o'clock, to supper. He gave the maid a pound note,
out of which she was to have brought him back sixteen shillings; the coach going
on in a hurry, Richard could not find the maid again before he went off.
He does not know the name of the place, but I think there is an inn of that name
at Hounslow; at any rate, it can easily be learnt at ye coach office in town.
None of the coachmen from this place go beyond Exeter. Richard is going
* This sister was Mrs. Matcham, whose third son, Nelson, a barrister-at-law, was born in
1811, and died in 1886.
1811.] AWEZSOAV PAPERS. 349
afloat this beautiful morning to visit his ship ; the fineness of the weather will, I
think, confirm him in his predilection for the service. First impressions, your
Ladyship well knows, go a great way. I look upon any assurances on my part of
friendship to our young friend to be superfluous; my long acquaintanceship with
your Ladyship, & the thorough knowledge of your goodness of heart, would,
independently of my admiration for the memory of our dear Lord, make me ever
yours. I cannot reply to anything your Ladyship may have Said in your letter, as
Richard has not yet opened his trunks. I thought he had better defer doing that
till he got them safe on board, and till then, your letter is in darkness. I have
just heard from my mother ; she, and all my friends at Brancaster are well. Tom
Bolton and my aunt are returned to Cranwich. A brigg arrived from Lisbon
yesterday, after a week's passage ; an officer came in her with despatches for the
Horse Guards—no news has transpired here. Dr. Beatty begs his respects to
your Ladyship ; he has heard from Hardy, who, it seems, is coming home for a
time on leave. I hear Captain Seymour is married to Miss Berkley. I am
without other news.’ -
1018. Doc. S. ‘Carlo Rovedino.' Dated London, May 13th, 1811.
# page oblong. [P.]
‘A, ISO Os. Od.
‘Two months after date, please to pay to my order One hundred and
Fifty pounds for value received.
‘(Signed) CARLO ROVEDINO.
‘Lady Hamilton, No. 16 Dover Street.’
(Endorsed) “Accepted & payable at Messrs. Coutts & Co.
(Signed) * EMMA HAMILTON.”
1019. Doc. S. ‘Carlo Rovedino.” Dated London, May 14th, 181 I.
# page oblong. [P.]
‘A. I 50 os. Od.
‘Two months after date, please to pay to my order One hundred and
Fifty pounds for value received.
‘(Signed) CARLO ROVEDINO.
‘Lady Hamilton, No. 16 Dover Street.’
(Endorsed) “Accepted & payable at Messrs. Coutts & Co., Strand,
‘(Signed) EMMA HAMILTON.”
1020. Doc. S. ‘Emma Hamilton.’ Dated May 14th, 181 I. I page
folio.
A warrant of attorney to Messrs. Dixon and Leach to secure the payment
of the two bills above. -
1021. A. L. S. from Mr. Matcham to Lady Hamilton. Dated April
I 5th, 181 I. I page 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘It is very fortunate that you applied to me at this instant ; had you applied
five days ago, I had not a hundred to lend, but having received seven hundred
pounds three days since to be invested in the funds for Mrs. M. & the children,
Mrs. M. has consented to withold one hundred pounds of that sum for you. I
know you will repay it as soon as you can, but do not mention my having lent
you any money. I wish not the trustees to be acquainted with it. The Earl &
Lady Nelson, Lady Charlotte, and Mr. Hood” are with us. Do let us see you,
and Horatia, and your cousin soon. God bless you.
‘Inclosed is the order on my banker. Pray write us a line on the receipt of
this letter, that we may be satisfied of its safe arrival.’ -
35o 7 HE A/A M/Z 7TO/W AAVD [1811,
1022. A. L. S. from Miss Anne N. Bolton to the same. Dated Wells,
June 17th, 181 I. 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P]
‘You will, I hope, excuse my troubling her with this, but not hearing from you
for more than a month since, I was fearful you had quite forgot me. I was certain
you had not been ill, as my mother had heard from you. It gave me great
pleasure to find from her that you intend coming to Cranwich this month. If you
could for one moment fancy the pleasure you will give us all, myself in
particular, I am convinced you would not this time put off this so long
promised visit. I must now beg you will favour me with a letter soon. I
shall be quite satisfied if you only say you shall come down soon, and that you
will not put it off. I long very much to see dear Horatia ; hope she has not
forgot her cousin Anne, who is, I must tell, very full of courage. I was seized, on
Saturday evening, with a very bad toothache, which I thought I might avoid by
having it out, so up I go to my aunt and say to her, “Aunt, I will have this tooth
out.” She looks at me with wonder. I then said, “Aunt, will you hold my head
for me?” She hummed and hah'd, and said she thought it might be in my face,
and that I had “better stop till the next day,” to which I agreed; but, however,
it still ached, and so it did all that night. So the next morning I again said I
would have it out, and at last she made up her mind to send for the doctor. He
came. I sat down in a moment, and it was out in a minute ; it broke a little,
which gave me a good sharp twinge. He said he thought I had great courage.
I found out afterwards that my aunt was too nervous the night before. She was
fearful I should faint, but I was a little better than that, though not much. You
see how ready we are to write in our own praise, but you must excuse me, as the
gum is not yet healed, and I promise you shall not hear any more of it this time.
I find by the papers that the Prince is going to give a grand fête. Hope you will
write me a full account, and soon, as I shall go to the post every day till I hear
from you. I also hope you will mention some day for your coming into Norfolk.
I before told you with what pleasure I shall go to meet you. The country—even
this charming county—is now pleasant. I suppose you have heard that we leave
Cranwich this year. We have not yet heard of a house ; hope we soon shall, as I
fear my poor mother will not be happy till then, except, indeed, you come and
cheer her a little. I had, the other day, a few lines from Emma ; she writes very
well when you come to consider she has only begun this last two months. I must
say I did not expect to see her writing so soon. How pleased she will be to see
Horatia ; she used often to talk to me about her, and tell me what fun they used
to have in bed of a morning. Do you remember Mrs. Bloom, of this place? She
is in a very bad way indeed. She has been at Death's door for some time. This
is an unhealthy place. Miss Smith, whom you remember seeing here, is now
returned from a visit in ill-health. Eliza is now at Brancaster; all the rest of the
family are at home. George Matcham has been to Cranwich ; what a wonder
Mrs. Peirson was looking out for a letter from you when I left Brancaster, which
was five weeks ago. Pray write to me first, as this is my second letter, and I
have written a very long one. True, very little in it, but that is not my fault, as I
would write news if I could get any. I only wish you, my dear Lady, would have
as good an inclination to write as I have. Pray give my love to the Linds if you
see them. My aunt and Anne beg to be kindly remembered to you and Horatia,
to whom pray give a kiss for me; hope I shall soon be able to give it myself. I
must now beg Horatia will give one to you for me, who hopes you will ever
consider her as, yours,’ &c.
1023. 821. A. L. S. from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated July 17th
(1811). I page 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘The enclosed letter from Mr. Girdlestone was received this morning. Anne
is arrived at home in order to meet you, but am sorry to say by no means well ;
her side is very troublesome, but I hope your company will cheer us all. We
have not yet found a situation to our mind. Sophia Langford has been staying
with us for the last fortnight ; plenty of chat you may be sure. Cap" Langford
not got a ship yet. I hope your engagements are nearly at an end, and that we
1811.] AVAEZSOAV PAPERS. 35I
shall soon meet. Mrs. Cordran has just got a fine little girl. Emma is delighted
with the thoughts of seeing Horatia. All this party join in kind love to you.’
1024. A. L. S. from Cecilia Connor to the same. Dated Manly Place,
Kensington Common, July 26th (1811), 3 pages 4to., with
Superscription. [P.]
“I take the liberty once more to address your Ladyship concerning the Sum of
thirty guineas for teaching Miss Horatia Nelson, for which I had a voucher
signed by your Ladyship.
‘I merely mention this latter circumstance as a proof of your Ladyship's
acknowledgements—by no means upon the ground of dispute, but as my qualifi-
cation of appeal to your Ladyship in the present instance. My future wellfare
constrains me to renew the solicitation, having a situation of advantage Submitted
to me which I must be compelled, with grief, to resign unless your Ladyship
supports my views by affording me, on account, the sum of ten pounds between
this & next Monday—the time limited to consider the proposal.
‘This is the last resource I have. Being denied a character from your Lady-
ship, obliges me to give up the thought of applying any longer for a preparatory
governess, which I had the honor of attending on dear Horatia. Excuse, dear
Lady Hamilton, this familiar term, but it is what I most sincerely feel for you both.
Could I forget for a moment the many obligations me and my family owe to your
Ladyship, I hope God will forget me, and He is now the only friend I have.
‘Time will bring forth everything, & then I think your Ladyship will find you
have been misinformed in many circumstances concerning me. Let me, dear
Lady Hamilton, intreat a favourable answer, as it will release my mind greatly.
Would that it could relieve my heart from the sorrow that I feel at being deprived
of a friend & guardian like you !’
1025. A. L. S. from Mr. T. Coxe to the same. Dated Clarence Place,
September 18th, 181 I. 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘Your attention and kindness to me at Brighton and Ashford Lodge is not only
the continuance of favour shown at Naples and Sicily, but so flattering that I fear
for myself lest unable to discharge so many debts. I may be ranked among many
you have met with as bankrupt in gratitude. The warmest wishes are present for
your health, happiness, and honor, to contribute to either of which how glad
should I be if the ability was equal to the desire.
“I pray God’s blessing on your charming charge, and trust she will repay
your maternal care and attention with filial piety and love.
‘Your message to Mrs. Cowell and Lady Perrin I delivered to the former,
from whom, and Mr. C., I had, during my absence, received a venison dinner
invitation. The Pam ticket at Walker's I prayed Mrs. Cowell to enquire after.
Aznáre mous, I have made a sad hole in my manners, nor do I deserve forgiveness.
Yesterday they did me the honour of a call, and tho’ Mrs. Cowell was to leave in
the evening, I did not admit them ; nay, worse, went out in my robe de chambre,
and inhospitably and ungratefully drove them from my door. My Mrs. upper-
most had used me Sadly, and continued to derange me to the utmost of her
spiteful ability. Now, will you, dear Lady H., for your own credit sake (as you
recommend me), strive to heal the breach. Charity is your characteristic, and
prudence here requires it. Your friend was married on Saturday, and after
breakfast they stept into a coach and four with white favours, doppo correvano
due poste e quando avevano pranzate correvano due altre poste, in ritorno a
Brighton, dove Cenate, lasciamo felicissima notte riposare in letto, si non poco
perturbate pensando a la cometa e sua coda magnifica. Mr. Prischell desires
his best respects; he talks of Cheltenham and Harrogate, and many are the
enquiries after the splendid meteor that so lately cast its brilliant light on this
place, and suddenly disappeared, to the regret of all. When will it appear again f
is the general question. Excuse this paper and packthread, and which my sight
w" render troublesome to correct or write over again. And with a kiss to
Horatia, believe me, dear Lady H., much yours,’ &c.
352 - 7"AZ AAAZZZ 7'OAV AAV/D [1811.
1026. A. L. S. from Mrs. Pierson to the same with A. L. S. attached
from Mrs. Bolton to the same. Dated Cranwich, September
18th, 181 I. 3% pages with SuperScription. -
“If it is true, as I am told, that you were hurt at not receiving a letter from me
during your visit here, I am sorry I did not write, for I was experiencing so
painful a sensation at the idea of being neglected by you, that I should rather
have overlooked your long silence than have given you such a one. I am far
from saying this in a spirit of recrimination ; I really did not imagine you could
expect a letter from me at such a moment of distress as Caroline's illness
occasioned me, and I was in expectation of a line of congratulation from you at
her recovery. It was not till my arrival here that I gave up my hopes of seeing
you, as I flattered myself you would have been prevailed on to lengthen your visit
for a few days, and I came here as soon as Caroline could be removed, which was
not ten days after your departure. Poor Anne has been ill and confined to her
bed ever since I came ; her complaint is highly nervous and hysterical. The last
three days she has been able to sit up a few hours, but she is still in so weak a
state as scarcely to be able to go across the room. She knows I am writing to
you, and sends her best love to you and Horatia, and is sorry she is unable to
write to you. I hope she will soon get into the air again, as I (think) that will
more conduce to her restoration than all the medicine she takes, which is no
small quantity. Becca is returned from her excursion improved in health, she
says, but looking wretchedly thin. She returns with me to Brancaster to-morrow
sennight ; perhaps, before that time I shall have the pleasure of hearing from
you. I am sorry I shall be in town at the time you intend visitting Braddenham,
as I should have been happy to have been of the wedding party. Henry has
taken a house at Litcham of Major Wilson ; it was his hunting box and is ready
furnished, which is a pleasant thing for them, & what is still better, it is only
seven miles from Braddenham. I have not seen either of the new habitations,
Anne has been so ill I would not leave her a day. Henry has been at an auction
the two last days, and has made Some good purchases.
‘We have been high busy packing up ever since I arrived. They tell me
there is much wanted to be done to make Braddenham fit for their reception, but
nothing is yet begun to be done. We heard from Sir William so late as the 24
of this month. He was in excellent health & spirits, and expected to sail in the
evening ; he hopes to be relieved from his disagreeable station after his cruize.
Unfortunately, Admiral Thornborough has a scarcity of frigates. I hear Horatia
is as amiable as ever ; give her a kiss & love from Caroline & me. I think bust
an excellent likeness and very well done. I heard from Brancaster yesterday,
my father is better for the exercise of shooting. Tom has been particularly suc-
cessful this season; he remains at Brancaster till the bustle of removing is over.
I have scribbled you all the news I can afford you, and shall hope for some from
you in return, Be assured of my sincere affection and that I remain,’ &c.
(LETTER FROM MRS. BOLTON.)
‘I am requested by Mr. Bolton to inform you that lie has seen Bob. Nelson &
has seen an account of his debts. He has advanced him one hundred p", & as
you kindly promised to do something for him, if you could do the same it would
raise a deserving man from distress & enable him to get forward in the world.
You, I hope, would one day get repaid in money as well as thanks. It is needless
to urge you, who are always willing to assist the distressed, as to recollect this
man, had my dear brother been living, would never have wanted a friend. To
add more is unnecessary to you. Mrs. Pierson has told you of all the invalids of
this family. Hope all will be well to receive you at Xmas. Believe me,’ &c.
1027. A. L. S. from Sir R. Puleston” to the same. Dated Emral,
Wrexham, September 25th, I81 I. 4 pages 4to. [P.]
‘It is impossible to express how very much obliged I feel by your Ladyship's
* Sir Richard Price Puleston, 1765–1840, only son of F. R. Price, Esq., and Miss Anne
Puleston. He inherited the estates of his mother's family, assumed the name of Puleston
(according to Burke) in 1812, and was created a Baronet in 1813.
181 I.] AVELSOAV PAPERS. 353
kind and flattering reply. Believe me, I take a warm interest in your welfare,
and am really shocked and ashamed of the conduct of Government towards one
to whom they must know & feel themselves so much indebted for her eminent
services to one of our most successful fleets commanded by the most illustrious
of our naval heroes, whose name ought, & will—nay, must—be ever dear to all
who love their country. I feel I am getting astride my hobby horse now, for it is
a subject on which I am absolutely an enthusiast, having been a sailor myself in
my very early days under the late Lord Mulgrave,” of whose name I rejoice to see
our immortal Nelson speaks so highly. It is now time to dismount, lest you
should think me too far gone. -
‘Many thousand thanks for your kind invitation to your fairy falace in Bond
Street, where I shall be most happy to pay my earliest respects when I get to
town, but that, I grieve to think, will scarcely be before the Spring. How soon
do you return there P I presume to ask this question in case any unforeseen
event should take me up sooner than I intend at present.
‘How delighted I shall be next year to escort you & ramble with you over
your almost native mountains, &, to tell you, which is true, that we haze meå Öefore,
but it is many years since, & the impression you then made, tho’ I had not the
happiness of your acquaintance much as I then wished for it. I most truly &
sincerely wish you a speedy & decisive victory over your present disagreement &
that your enemies, such you have, may turn their hearts; in short, that all the
world may as sensibly feel your merits as I do, & as sincerely wish you well.
“Whenever you have leisure & inclination to throw away ten minutes it will
ever delight me to hear from you.’
1028. A. L. S. from Mr. Thomas Bolton to the same. Dated Braden-
ham, November 22nd, I8II. I page 4to., with Superscription.
[P.]
“By to-day’s coach, which sets up at the White Horse, Fetter Lane, I am
happy to inform you we have sent a basket of game, which contains two brace
of birds, a pheasant, & also a hare, which we could not anyhow get into the
basket. Should you ever wish me to send any game to any of your acquaintances,
I shall always have great pleasure in sending it. My father desires me to give
his love, & says he hopes you will make one of the family on his birthday,
the eleventh of December. Poor Anne is now tormented with the toothache,
sends her love, and hopes to be able to write to you on Sunday. The chintz
is not yet arrived at Bradenham, but, as Cordran goes to Swaffham to-day,
expect he will find it at Mrs. Woor's. Emma is every day wishing for her cousin
Horatia’s arrival, sends her love, and wishes the day was arrived. All unite
with me in love to Horatia & yourself.”
1029. A. L. S. from Miss Anne N. Bolton to the same. Dated Braden-
ham, November 24th, 181 I. 2 pages 4to., with SuperScription.
‘I have enquired of my father, as you requested, about the road from Barton
Mills, which is as follows: From Barton Mills to Thetford (the George Inn),
from that to the George Inn at Wotton, from Wotton to Bradenham Hall. Your
things you must send by the same coaches and waggons as you used to do when
we lived at Cranwich, directed Thos. Bolton, Bradenham, near Shipdham, Norfolk,
to be left at Swaffham. I hope I have now given you a full & true account of the
roads and coaches. I am sorry to inform you that our man did go to Mrs.
Woor and that she had not received any parcel from London. We suppose
the people you desired to send it forgot it. I hope you will not forget your
promise of the 8th of next month, as we are all of us wishing for your company.
My dear cousin Horatia I am sure will remind you of it, as I flatter my selfe
* Constantine John Phipps, 1st Baron Mulgrave, 1746–1792. A Captain in the Navy, who
afterwards filled several high official posts, and was created a peer in 1790. His Voyage to the
AVorth Pole was published in 1775.
VOL. II. A. A
354 THE HAM/Z TON AAWD [1811.
she will be as happy to see us as we shall her. Emma is often talking about her
and wishing for her. You have by this time received Tom's letter, and my
father's message to you, which I hope you will comply with. You must case yourself
in flannel before you come here. I can assure you it is very cold 2ndeed, though
we keep good fires, as you know to your cost, for I fear we often burnt you out.
Tom told you how I was tormented with the toothache ; I have had it ever since,
and am now enduring that agreeable pain, so if my letter is stupid, you must think it
is that masty footh. You will, I think, now say that I mostly have some ache or
pain when I write to you. How so P. Because your letters are always the same.
So you must only be a little indulgent ; try to read them ; when you have done
give a good stretch, and throw it into the fire. When you favoured us with your
company last at Cranwich, you remember meeting the Miss Woodhorps ; they
are invited to come to the wedding. You offered to bring Sarah down with you, for
which she felt very grateful, & accepted it in case she could come, and if you
come down in your coach, which you talked then of doing. We heard from her
yesterday; she mentioned her having hopes of getting leave, and wishing to
know if you could favour her with a place in your coach. If you can, I hope
you will write me word, as she will not ask leave to come till she hears from
you, for coming by the coach is so very expensive that it is more than she can spare
out of the small sum she has per year. I shall hope to hear from you this
week. My father, mother, sisters, and brother, not forgetting Emma, desire me
to give their loves to you & Horatia, and hope soon to see you both at
Bradenham. God bless you both, my dear Lady, and may you ever bee in
health & happy is the sincere wish of, &c.’
1030. A. L. S. from Sir H. Fetherstonhaugh to the same. Dated “Sun-
day’ (December, 1811). 4 pages 4to. [P.]
‘I hope you received my last envoi in due time for the purpose, & that you
will also find half-a-doz. I have directed to be sent not much amiss. This more
substantial form of correspondence is better than any stupid letters I could send
you from hence, where my life is so uniform, & can afford but little of interest to
others; but you will be glad to hear that I am &zen portazzi, enjoying the amuse-
ments & resources of a place to which I have always been so partial, without one
wish to see more of the grand monde than comes to me. I have had a pretty good
taste of it in my time, & I flatter myself not without fully appreciating its value.
You have been a long while silent, which I regret, as I am always happy to hear
what is doing & where you are. Notwithstanding all your partiality for a warm
climate, Sicily would hardly be a pleasant sºjour just now. What are you going
to do, and what is the real state of facts, for I conclude you still have high
correspondence there P After the finest weather I ever remember at this season
of the year for three weeks, we are now in a constant hurricane, which will last
till some hard frost sets in. I conclude you are now fixed in London for what is
called the season, and enjoying the society of a few you like, which is more to
the purpose than all the grand & heterogeneous compositions which many are
condemned to. I had promised a visit to Paget at Beaudesert this time, but when
it comes to the point I cannot leave the comforts of home for so long a winter
journey, so have sent my excuses, & shall be stationary here, at 57 27 ſºy a £as
grand ma/ de se temir tranguille. I suppose you see a good deal of the Duchess
of Devonshire. The young Duke” has a pretty good game before him if he
plays it well. What do you think of him f : If you feel so disposed, you can not
fail to write something interesting or amusing at least from London, So I shall
expect the pleasure of a billet now and then.’
1031. A. L. S. from Miss Anne N. Bolton to the same. Dated Braden-
ham, December 8th, 181 I. 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription.
‘We felt very much disappointed to find you could not be here on my father's
* William Spencer, 6th Duke of Devonshire, 1790–1858, eldest son of the 5th Duke, whom
he succeeded in July, I81 I.
1811–12.] AVAE/LSOAV AAA’AZA'.S. - 355
birthday. I fear the snow alarmed you ; but you need not fear the Norfolk
roads, for they are known to be good, and there is a coach comes from London
every day, therefore the road is never stopped up. My father says it is a good
road all the way. You will come from Wotton to Shipdham, from that to
Bradenham. I [hope] you will not give us such another disappointment, as we
shall be quite done up. We had a letter from Miss Woodhorp yesterday ; she
intends calling upon you before she leaves town. Pray give all our loves to
Horatia ; tell her we shall look out for you & her the middle of this week. Hope
you will not fail in your promise this time. Believe me,’ &c.
‘P.S.–My mother sends her love ; she hopes to see you very soon. My
father sends his love also ; he says you must come soon.’
1032. A. L. S. from Sir Richard Puleston to the same. Dated Emral,
Wrexham, December 16th (1811). 3 pages 4to., with Superscrip-
tion and Seal. [P.]
‘Many thanks to you, dear Lady Hamilton, for your kind letter. Believe me,
it ever gives me sincere pleasure to be honoured by your correspondence, and
trust me when I say it is impossible that any one can take a warmer interest in
your welfare than I do. I really look upon you as a national blessing, and shame
fall on those who have so cruelly neglected to recompense your highly eminent
Services. The ever-glorious Nelson has taught me to estimate your merits, and I
feel, as one among millions, your bequeathed Guardian and Protector. Would I
had the power, as I have the wish, to serve you. I am really grieved, tho’ not
Surprised, that you, who have so long enjoyed the heavenly climate of Italy,
should be doomed to feel the wintry rigours of this ungenial clime, especially the
thick and spirit-depressing atmosphere of London. You say you envy me the
clear, Salubrious air of our mountains. Then why not come and breathe its fresh-
ness P for though it bites, it invigorates, and there is no demon in its tooth. If I
thought there was a probability of succeeding I would say much more on the
subject, nay, I would come and enforce it with what little eloquence I possess ;
the subject would inspire you with more than my usual share. I have taken the
liberty to send you and your inestimable charge a trifling Salopian régale. Re-
gard it as an humble offering of friendship and gratitude, and tho' you may laugh
at, do not despise the donation, for the donor’s sake, who is, and ever will be,
sincerely and affectly yours,’ &c.
1033. A. L. S. from Lady Hamilton to Mrs. Jewett. No date (1812).
. 2 pages 8vo., with Superscription. [P.]
‘Do, my dear Mºs Jewett, ease my mind about my dear Mº Russell. I write
from bed, as I am not very well, or should have been with you this morning. I
have not slept for thinking of the sufferings of this incomparable woman. Pray,
pray write me a line, and give my love to her & M." Russell. You shall see either
me or some of my family to-day. God bless you and yours, prays your,’ &c.
‘How delighted they were on Sunday with His Royal Highness, and how well
he was. If Russell is at home, tell him to write me a line.’
1034. A. L. S. from Sir William Bolton to Lady Hamilton. Dated
Plymouth, January 19th, 1812. 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription.
[P.]
* Many, many thanks for your kindness in asking the Duke of Sussex to in-
terest himself for poor Horace. You will excuse my troubling you again on the
subject, but as there are studentships endowed by Mr. Tancred, of different kinds,
and at different colleges, I beg you to remark that it is a medical studentship at
Caius College that I wish to obtain. I ought to make you acquainted with the
prospect of affairs. Lord Hood you are acquainted, has promised condition-
356 7THA2 AIA/M/Z 7TO/V A/V/D [1812.
ally, that is, if present at the time. Dr Davy,” to whom application was made for
me by Mr. Cohn, answered that he was engaged to two young gentlemen, but as
he had great reason to suppose he should not be called upon by them, he would
have the greatest pleasure in voting for his friend ; D* Fisher, the Master of y”
Charter House is engaged for the two next vacancies at Caius ; therefore these
now remain : the Governor of Chelsea, the President of the College of Physicians,
and the Treasurer of Lincoln's Inn, whose name I have not yet been able to learn,
and Dr. Brown, the Master of Christ's College. If by any means you can ensure an
early application to any of these gentlemen, that is, any that live in London, I
shall be obliged, as now the thing is broached, unless it is followed up with others,
it will be a considerable hazard that those who may be upon a similar pursuit
may be beforehand, & engage the votes. Your Ladyship will excuse the earnest-
ness with which I write in favour of a son. If the Duke of York dislikes to ask
perhaps an early application in any other manner, if immediately made, may have
greater effect than even a tardy one of so great force. It is very frequently a first
application is successful.”
1035. A. L. S. from Mr. Matcham to the same. Dated February
23rd, 1812. I} pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘I have this moment received a letter from D" Lawrence urging me to lose no
time in desiring you to speak to M* Rose. D* Lawrence lives at Nº. 5 Junction
Place, Harrow Road. Pray write a line to him to see him as soon as you can.
The D* wishes you to give him a note for Mr Rose ; he will explain to you the
business. I believe you are not acquainted with Mr York, but Mr Rose will
perhaps give the D* a note to him. On referring to the Dº's letter, I find he says
he will call on you on Tuesday at 2 o'clock. I hope you can make it convenient
to see him.
‘Kitty will write to you in two or three days. I was so anxious to communi-
cate my friend’s intention of calling on you that I would not wait. If you wish
for country air, will you not bring Horatia down f Our rooms are disengaged.
God bless you both is the wish of us all.
‘Pray write me a line as soon as you have seen the Dº.’
1036. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated February 28th, 1812.
I} pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘The Doctor writes me you have interested yourself in writing to M* Rose to
procure him an interview. I have no wish for any pecuniary remuneration, but I
have the pride of claiming the merit of the first suggestion. Do pray send me a
line when you have procured M* Rose's permission.
“The natural small-pox prevails at Handcross. We are therefore going to
inoculate our younger children on Monday or Tuesday next, but hope the previous
vaccination will secure them ; but you know there is not an universal reliance
On 11.
“If the small-pox doth not take on our children, cannot you and Horatia come
to us for a little change of air P The Bay is not half finished, but you may judge
from its present appearance of the ultimate effect. We flatter ourselves it will be
a great additional beauty. Had I been aware of the time and expense I should
never have dared to undertake it. Still, I look upon as increasing the value of
the farm. God bless you both is our ardent wish.’
1037. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated March 5th, I812.
I} pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
“My friend D* Lawrence writes me I ought to lose no time, but I fear I have
requested of you what might not be altogether pleasant. Do pray let me know if
you think I should better apply to Some gentleman who may be acquainted with
* Martin Davy, 1763–1839, a physician and master of Caius College, Cambridge. He took
orders in 1811, and became prebendary of Chichester.
1812.] AVE/SOAV PAPAEA’.S. 357
Mr. Rose. I really should be very sorry to put you to the least inconvenience, or
rather to require you to do what you may think had better have been committed
to the attention of some gentleman. Your acquaintance with Mr. Rose, and his
kind attention to our family, was my motive for applying to you. Let me beg of
you to write me a line by return of post if you think my application should be
elsewhere. I know the kindness of your heart, and I shall certainly be sorry if
there is the least impropriety in what I have requested ; but do not, my dear
lady, omit writing me one line by return of Żost, as any delay would be bad, &
I have in view another person who I think would be the means of obtaining an
interview with the doctor.
“We are all well, & unite in best love to you and dear Horatia.”
1038. A. L. S. from Mrs. and Miss Matcham to the same. Dated
‘Thursday morning’ (August 6th, 1812). 3 pages 4to., with
Superscription. [P.]
‘The reason you have not heard from us is that we have been expecting to
hear how you have arranged your summer excursion, & that you would fix the
time for coming to us. Next week the Earl coming for a few days; after that we
expect Mrs. Lawrence & her daughters, but I suppose their stay will not be long.
When they have left us we shall expect the happiness of seeing you and dear
Horatia. Do let me know your plans by George, who is passing through London
on his return home. We are looking forward with much pleasure to seeing you
both, & Zong to hear of all your proceedings. God grant they may turn out as
well as we wish them. The idle girl Kate shall write & answer for herself, only
attribute our not writing to anything but want of affection towards you and dear
Horatia, to whom pray give our best love, and accept the same.’
(FROM MISS MATCHAM.)
‘We are looking forward with great pleasure to our annual meeting at Ashfold,
and hope it is now drawing very near when we shall talk over the occurrences of
the year. I am Sorry to give you the information of a turnpike being placed in
the middle of Handcross Lane, which is a great annoyance. Tell Horatia Gen!
Blake has been down, and still exhibits the fashionable hat. I hope, my dear
Lady, to have some lessons in singing from you, and if you have any new songs or
£reſſy EASY tunes for the harp, ask Horatia to make a collection for me, as I
have not had any this year waiting for you. We hope the fine weather is only
waiting for your arrival to show the beauties of Ashfold. I read a letter from
Lady Bolton a short time ago. They appear to be very gay in Norfolk. She
was then at Brancaster. Tom & Sir Wm were going to the Swaffham races. He
& my aunt intended going to a few plays. Mr. Bolton has bought a farm, which
occupies him from morning to night, so that I hope he is recovered from the rheu-
matism. Let me have a letter from you soon. With our united love to Horatia.’
1039. A. L. S. from Miss Matcham to the same. Dated ‘Sunday night'
(August 23rd, 1812). If pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘You would have heard from me before this had I not wished to defer writing till
our house was once more free from visitors, which is now the case. The Earl
left on Saturday week, and returned to his lady in town. Since his departure we
have received a letter from Mrs. Lawrence declining visiting Ashfold for the
present ; I am therefore commissioned, both by papa & mama, to say they shall
be most happy to see Horatia & yourself as soon as it is convenient. There is a
lady who has promised to come this autumn, but they will not write to her till
after we have had the pleasure of your company. I shall reserve all the news for
our evenings' amusement. The children are looking forward to the time when
Horatia will form one of their party with great joy. The country is now very
pleasant, and I hope the Sun will shine upon us when you come, for it has been a
great stranger all the summer. We shall be happy to have a line as Soon as you
can fix your plans.
“In the meantime, with our united love to Horatia.’
358 THE A/AM/ZTOW AND [1812–13.
1040. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated Ashfold Lodge,
September 8th, 1812. I page 4to., with SuperScription and
Seal. [P.]
‘We have been anxiously expecting to have a line from you every day, &
began to be fearful it is indisposition which prevents you writing. . We were in
hopes you would have been at Ashfold by this time, as the partridge season is
arrived. I am desired to request one line, letting us know how you are, & when
we may expect to have the pleasure of seeing yourself & Horatia here. All unite
in best love.’
1041. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated ‘Friday night’
(January Ist, 1813).
‘We are sorry to find our dear Horatia has had the whooping-cough so
severely; but I trust the worst is over. The best thing you can do for her is to
change the air. Come down to us, where you will be quiet and, I hope, happy.
As to medical advice, I do not think it necessary in this complaint. We have
not even applied to our Apothecary. Susanna had it bad. We took her one
day to Horsham, and we found the ride gave a turn to the disorder, for the
cough has not been so violent since. They are all now, thank God, quite well,
except with violent exercise they sometimes have a fit of coughing. I am glad
to find you are bringing your affairs to a conclusion. I need not say that none
of your friends will rejoice more than we shall to hear that they turn out to your
Satisfaction. Do, my dear Lady, let us hear ſron you soon ; we are very anxious
to know how our dear little girl is, to whom we all beg our love, and not for-
getting to wish her and you many, many happy returns of this season, likewise
our best wishes to Miss Weatley.’
1042. A. L. S. from Lady Hamilton to James Perry.* Dated 12 Temple
Place, January 3rd, I 813. 24 pages 4to., with Superscription and
Seal.
‘Will you have the goodness to see my old Dame Francis, as you was so good
to say to me once at any time for the present existing and unhappy circumstances
you wou'd befriend me, &, if you cou’d, at your conveneance, call on me to aid
me by your advice as before? My friends come to town to-morrow for the season,
when I must see what can be done, so that I shall not remain here, for I am so
truly unhappy & wretched, & have been ill ever since I had the pleasure of seeing
you on dear Horatia’s birthday,t that I have not had either spirits or energy to
write to you. You that loved Sir William & Nelson, & feel that I have deserved
from my country some tribute of remuneration, will aid by your counsel your ever
affectionate and gratefull,’ &c.
1043. A. L. S. from the same to the Abbé Campbell. Dated ‘Ten
o'clock’ (1813). 24 pages 4to., with Superscription.
‘Perhaps, my dear friend, you have done right in going away without saying
good-bye ; but my heart feils much more than you think it does. You was
beloved and honor’d by my husband, Nelson, & myself; knew me in all my
former splendours ; you I look on as a dear, dear friend and relation. You are
going amongst friends who love you ; but rest assured none reveres you nor
loves more than your ever,’ &c.
... ‘P.S.–Poor Horatia was so broken-hearted at not seeing you. Tell dear
Mr. Tegart to call on me, for I do indeed feil truly forlorn and friendless. God
bless you, as glorious Nelson said. Amen, amen, amen.’
* James Perry, 17 56-1811, a London journalist of Scotch birth, who came to London in I777,
and eventually became sole editor and proprietor of the Morning Chronicle.
f See Letter No. IOO4, where the date of Horatia’s birth is also wrongly given.
1813.] AVAEZSOAV AAAAA’.S. 359
1044. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to Lady Hamilton. Dated “Monday
night,’ January 25th, 1813. 3 pages 4to., with SuperScription
and Seal.
‘Your letter has made us very uneasy respecting the health of our dear
Horatia. God grant she is still doing well; this is very severe weather, and we
have nothing but coughing all over the house. My good man is far from well;
his cough is very bad. Do give our best love to our dear girl, and tell her we
hope, as soon as the doctors will allow her to change the air, her uncle will go in
the coach as far as Reigate, take a postchaise from thence, which will give our
horses time to rest, and she will be at Ashfold Lodge before dark. I need not
say, my dear Lady, what happiness it would be to us to see you with her, but if
you cannot manage to come, we will endeavour to supply your place. You know
she is one of our children, & while we have a loaf for them she shall share it, &
with it our best affections. We have a fine snow scene, & not able to stir out of
the house either in the carriage or on foot ; not a soul has been near us for 3
weeks. I was to have had a little dance on Twelfthday, and had prepared my
Ballroom, which was my two nurserys, & Mrs. Nelson was to have been sent into
another room ; but, alas ! the snow prevented all our mirth, and it ended in the
delight of Mrs. Knowlys’ company & her sons. Tell Horatia we shall reserve
all the balls for Mother Law to preside at. The potatoes are at the Elephant
& Castle, directed to you, & to be left till called for ; they are packed in two
hampers, and sent by Knowlys' waggon from Handcross the 3. of January. Do
send as soon as you receive this ; as soon as the frost is gone, more shall be sent.
We shall be glad to get a line from you ; our anxiety is great about both. May
God bless you is our prayer.’
1045. Document. No date (March, 1813.) 4 pages folio. [P.]
* “The Memorial of Dame Emma Hamilton, widow of his Excellency, the
late Sir William Hamilton, K.B., your Majesty's most faithful Ambassador
at the Court of Naples.
“Humbly sheweth,
‘That her late husband, Sir William Hamilton, in his liberal and munificent
discharge of his honourable duties of that elevated situation, to which he was
exalted by the goodness of your most gracious Majesty, had so considerably
encumbered his private fortune that he was incapable of making a sufficient
provision for your Majesty’s Memorialist to maintain, after his decease, the rank
to which he had indulgently raised her, and which it was her constant study as
much as possible to merit, by anxiously entering into all her husband’s zealous
and enlarged views of diplomatic devotion to the true interests of our dear
country, and the beloved Sovereign who had thus benignantly vouchsafed to
honour him.
‘That it was the good fortune of your Majesty's Memorialist to acquire the
confidential friendship of that great and august Princess, the Queen of Naples,
your Majesty's most faithful and ardently attached Ally, at a period of peculiar
peril, and when her august Consort, the Sovereign of the Two Sicilies, was
unhappily constrained to profess a neutrality but little accordant with the feelings
of his own excellent heart: by which means your Majesty's Memorialist, among
many inferior services, had an opportunity of obtaining, and actually did obtain,
the King of Spain's letter to the King of Naples, expressive of his intention to
declare war against England. This important document your Majesty's
Memorialist delivered to her husband, Sir William Hamilton, who immediately
transmitted it to your Majesty's Ministers.
‘That your Majesty’s Memorialist, on a subsequent occasion, by means of the
same confidential communication with that great and good woman, the Queen of
Naples, had the unspeakable felicity of procuring a secret order for victualling and
watering, at the port of Syracuse, the fleet of your most gracious Majesty, under
the command of Admiral Nelson ; by which means, that heroic man, the pride
* No attention was ever paid to this petition.
360 THAE HAM/Z TOW A WD | 1813.
and glory of his King and country, was enabled to proceed the second time for
Egypt, with a promptness and celerity which certainly hastened the glorious Battle
of the Nile, and occasioned his good and grateful heart to admit your humble
Memorialist, as well as the Queen of Naples, to a participation in the honour of
that important victory.
‘That during the long blockade of Malta, your Majesty's humble Memorialist
is well known, by all Europe, to have contributed her best assistance, as well as
influence, in furnishing and procuring various necessaries for the distressed natives,
that they might thus be animated and encouraged to resist as well the artifices as
the arms of the enemy, and thereby prevent that important fortress from fatally
falling under the entire domination of the French : services with which the
Emperor of all the Russias, as your Majesty's Ally, and Grand Master of Malta,
was so perfectly satisfied, that he actually transmitted to your Majesty's humble
Memorialist, soon after the surrender of that island, the title and insignia of Lady
of Malta, of the honourable order of the Petit Croix, accompanied by a cross
of that order, and a very flattering letter signed by his Imperial Majesty’s own
hand.
‘That, in short, your Majesty's Memorialist, on all occasions—of which she
possesses innumerable proofs, under the hands of Sovereign Powers in amity with
your Majesty, as well as of the most exalted public and private characters of the
age—has endeavoured to merit the regard of her King and country, by fostering
every principle which might tend to promote their honour and welfare, as far as
it was possible for her influence to accomplish this primary desire of her heart. In
the Royal British Navy, your Majesty's Memorialist humbly presumes, where
sincerity as well as valour is always pre-eminently found, the zeal and attach-
ments to its glory which she has at all times peculiarly manifested, is a theme on
which it may not become your Majesty's Memorialist to enlarge, but which
many of the most illustrious characters by whom it has ever been graced, your
Memorialist may be permitted proudly to assert, have generously acknowledged,
promulged, and applauded, in every part of the world where the British flag is
triumphantly borne.
‘That the solemn recognition of such services, by that immortal man, the late
Lord Viscount Nelson, and his pathetic call for their kind remuneration, at the
moment when he was about to commence his last and fatal conflict with the
enemies of his King and country, in whose battle, at the moment of victory, he
so gloriously fell, bequeathing to the generosity of your Majesty and his country
the future fortunes of your humble Memorialist, 111ust aſſord an everlasting proof
that she is not altogether unworthy of being enabled, by the condescending bounty
of your Majesty, with the generous concurrence of her country, to maintain that
rank and dignity which she derived from the affections of a beloved husband, and
which, it is humbly presumed, your Majesty's Memorialist has not, in any single
instance, ever disgraced or abused.
“And your Majesty's most humble Memorialist, as in duty she is bound to do,
shall ever ardently pray,’ &c.
1046. Doc. S. ‘Emma Hamilton.” No date (March, 1813). 23 pages
folio. •
‘In September, 1791, I went with my husband thro’ France to Naples. At
Paris I waited on the Queen, then at the Thuilleries, who entrusted me with the
last letter she wrote to her sister, the Queen of Naples, this led to an ascendency
in Her Majesty's esteem that I never after fail'd to exert in favor of every British
Interest.
“In the year 1793, when Lord Hood had taken possession of Toulon, and Sir
John Jervis was employ'd upon the reduction of Corsica, the latter kept writing to
me for everything he wanted, which I procur'd to be promptly provided him ; and
as his letters to me prove had considerably facilitated the reduction of that
island. I had by this time the King induced thro' my influence with the Queen,
to become so zealous in the good cause that both would often say, “I had de-
Bourboniz'd them and made them all English.”
1813.] - AVAEZSOAV PAPERS. 361
‘By unceasing cultivation of this influence, and no less watchfulness to turn it
to my country's good, it happen'd that I discover'd a courier had brought the
King of Naples a private letter from the King of Spain; I prevail'd on the Queen
to take it from his pocket unseen ; we found it to contain the King of Spain's
resolution to withdraw from the Coalition, and join the French against England.
My husband at this time lay dangerously ill; I prevail'd on the Queen to allow
my taking a copy, with which I immediately dispatch'd a messenger to my Lord
Grenville, taking all the necessary precautions; for his safe arrival then became
very difficult, and altogether cost me about 400/, paid out of my private purse.
“I shall not detain by detailing the many less important, altho' useful matters
to which my influence and activity had given effect from this time until 1798, but
merely observe that no exertion of mine was wanting to forward every object
sought, and in which I was always successful, particularly in providing for the
wants of our brave fleets in those seas, altho' at this time French ascendency
and revolutionary ideas had arrived at such a height in Naples as made it danger-
ous for the British Minister to go to Court.
‘It was at this awful period, in June, 1798, about three days after the French
Fleet passed by for Malta, Sir William and myself were awaken’d at six o'clock
in the morning, by Captain Trowbridge with a letter from Sir Horatio Nelson,
then with his fleet lying off the bay near to Capree, requesting that the Am-
bassador would procure him permission to enter with his fleet into Naples, or any
of the Sicilian ports to provision, water, &c., as otherwise he must run for
Gibraltar, being in urgent want, and that consequently he would be oblig'd to give
over all further pursuit of the French fleet, which he miss'd at Egypt on account
of their having put into Malta.
“At this time Naples had made peace with France by desire of our Court.
Le Comte La Michelle” was French Ambassador; one of the stipulations was,
“that no more than two English ships of war should enter into any of the
Neapolitan or Sicilian ports " However, Sir William call’d up General Acton the
Minister, who immediately conven’d a Council, the King present; this was about
half-past six ; I went to the Queen, who received me in her bed ; I told her
Majesty, that now depended on her the safety of the two Sicilies ; should the
Council decide on negative or half measures as /ſear'd they must do; I told her
the Sicilies must be lost, if Nelson was not supplied, and thereby enabled to follow
the great French force, that had gone by in that direction, but a few days before ;
nothing could exceed the alarm, with which this communication inspir'd her, she
said the King was in Council, and would decide with his Ministers ; I pray'd and
implor’d her on my knees; she could not withstand my entreaties and arguments.
I brought her pen, ink, and paper to the bed, I dictated, and she wrote a positive
order directed “to all Governors of the two Sicilies, to receive with hospitality the
British fleet to water, victual, and aid them ; ” in every way this order I was well
aware, as was the fact, would be more respected, than even that of the King. At
eight o'clock, the Council broke up, I was call'd to attend Captain Trowbridge,
and my husband to our house. The faces of the King, of Acton, and Sir William,
too plainly told the determination that they could not then break with France.
On our way home I said I had anticipated the reste// and provided against it :
that while they were in Council, I had been with the Queen, and had not implor’d
her in vain, producing the order to their astonishment and delight, they embraced
me with patriotic joy. It will, said the gallant Trowbridge, cheer to extacy your
valiant friend Nelson; we shall now be able to pursue and conquer, otherwise we
must have gone for Gibraltar.
‘Sir William wrote to Nelson the decision of the Council, but said, “You will
receive from Emma herself what will do the business and procure all your wants!”
I enclosed the order to the Admiral, praying that the Queen may be as little
committed in the use of it as the glory and service of the country would admit of.
‘The Admiral’s reply in my hands says, “That he received the precious order,
and that if he gain’d a battle it should be called maine and the Queen's, for to yo: I
will owe my success ; without this our returning to Gibraltar was decided on, but
* J. P. La Combe de Saint-Michel, 1740–1812, a French General, Member of the Convention,
and Ambassador at Naples in 1799.
362
7A7A. AAAM/Z 7'OAV AAVD [1813.
I will now come back to you cover'd with laurels or crown'd with cypress. The
former I had the glory to witness after his destruction of the French fleet at
Aboukir, where he found them, after his having been water'd, provision'd, and
refresh’d by virtue of the order I had so procured him.
‘Here I may be allow'd to ask what sum would this country or its Government
have given before that battle for its attainment, and what less should be given for
that instrument which led to it, and without which all hope, all opportunity of
success, must have been abandon'd? On the 20th September, Nelson return'd to
Naples after his glorious victory; I had then inspir'd the Queen with such devotion
to our cause, that every desire was granted for the repair of the ships, taking care
of the wounded, and general supply of the fleet. And I appeal to every officer,
nay, seaman of that conquering fleet, to testify what they witness'd of my un-
ceasing solicitude and indefatigable exertions, to reward their valour by every
comfort I could procure them, and above all, to their beloved sick and wounded
chief, whose invaluable friendship I ever after had ; who to the hour of his
death did always say, he could not have surviv'd but for the manner I cheer'd,
nurs'd, and attended him, at that time.
‘The sore evidence that Nelson had now given the French of my influence at
the Neapolitan Gourt urged their Ambassador to sharp complaints for a breach
of bad faith in supplying the British fleet at Syracuse contrary to treaty.
“At this juncture while I found the Court flush’d with our victory of the Nile,
I suggested to the Queen the benefits and honor that would result by breaking
boldly with the French, and to dismiss their Ambassador altogether, and then
raise an army to oppose their threats of invasion.
‘The Queen delighted with the proposal, open'd it to the King as I did to Sir
William and to Nelson ; the Minister Acton was brought into the measure, and
it was resolv’d on in Council accordingly; in consequence, and totally unexpected
to himself, the French Ambassador and his suite were sent off at 24 hours’ notice.
‘An army of 35,000 men was raised in nearly a month, they march'd from
St. Germains under command of General Mack ; the King himself in the ranks
on the 21st November, against a scatter'd and inferior French force; yet so
rapidly was this army destroy'd as to oblige our embarkation at Naples by that
day month.
‘The point of policy with the Court was then “whether they should put them-
selves entirely under the French, or fly to Sicily under our protection. The many
difficulties of getting away, and the uncertainty how a flying Court would be
received thcre, were strong inducements to abide all consequences at Naples. I.
urged and pleaded the necessity and safety of their coming away ; the Queen
was almost always with me, and as the French advanced, I placed the horror of
their approach full before her eyes; and at length prevail’d in deciding this
important measure, for the King was soon brought over to our side : The
difficulties were yet many, and of the most dangerous complexion, the growth of
French principles, and rapid march of their army upon the capital made it too
hazardous to trust the Neapolitans with the plan of getting away the Royal
Family, the Court & treasures.
‘I however began the work myself and gradually removed all the jewels, and
then 36 barrels of gold to our house, these I mark’d as Stores for AWe/son, being
obliged to use every device to prevent the attendants having any idea of our
proceedings; by many such stratagems I got those treasures embark'd, and this
point gain'd, the King's resolution of coming off was strengthen’d ; the Queen I
was sure of. The immortal Nelson testify'd that, all this would never have been
effected but for my management and exertions; in his letter to Lord St. Vincent
or Lord Spencer, he says on this occasion, “Lady Hamilton seem'd to be an
angel dropt from heaven for the preservation of the Royal Family”
“They were indeed unquestionably dear to me; but made entirely so by their
perpetual acquiescence to all my wishes in favor of my country.
‘Here I humbly submit if it is not to my efforts in thus getting away this
Royal Family, Court and treasures from the French grasp, that Sicily has been
preserv'd from that power. When the many, I may say the hair breadth risks
we ran in our escapes are consider'd, it must be obvious that to cover or colour
our proceedings, that we were compel'd to abandon our houses, and all our
1813.] AVAEZSOAV PAPERS. 363
valuables as they stood without venturing to remove a single article: My own
private property thus left to effect this great purpose was little if any short of
90OO/., and Sir William's not less than 30,000/., which sum had he to bequeath
might naturally have been will'd to me in whole or in part.
“To shew the caution and secrecy that was necessarily used in thus getting
away, I had on the night of our embarkation to attend the party given by the
Kilim Effendi, who was sent by the Grand Seignior to Naples to present Nelson
with the Shahlerih or Plume of Triumph I had to steal from the party, leaving
our carriages and equipages waiting at his house, and in about fifteen minutes to
be at my post, where it was my task to conduct the Royal Family thro’ the Sub-
terranean passage to Nelson's boats by that moment waiting for us on the shore.
The season for this voyage was extremely hazardous, and our miraculous preser-
vation is recorded by the Admiral upon our arrival at Palermo.
“When, in 1799, Lord Keith miss'd the French squadron, and Nelson
sail'd in quest of them from Palermo, he left me directions to open all letters
and dispatches for him, and to act in his behalf to the best in my power, governing
myself by events.
‘Sir Alexander Ball was at this time in possession of a part of the Island of
Malta, residing at St Antonio—the French possessed La Valeta.
‘Sir Alexander sent six natives of Malta deputies to Nelson at Palermo for a
supply of grain, their necessity being so great for provisions that the inhabitants
were ready to join any sortie the French may attempt, in the hope of getting
reliev’d.
“I receiv'd the deputies, open'd their dispatches, and without hesitation I went
down to the port to try what could be done. I found lying there several vessels
loaded with corn for Ragusa. Immediately purchased the cargoes, and engaged
the vessels to go with their loading and the deputies to Malta ; this service Sir
Alexander Ball in his letters to me, as well as to Lord Nelson, plainly states to
be, “the means whereby he was enabled to preserve that important island.” I
had to borrow a considerable sum on this occasion, which I since repaid, and
with my own private money thus expended was nothing short of £5000, a Shilling
of which, nor yet ye interest, have I ever yet received.
‘The Emperor Paul, the Grand Master, on hearing of this affair, wrote me a
letter in his own hand, conferring on me the cross of the order, saying, “that I
not only saved the island, but that I was the link that kept together the opponents
of the common foe l’ and I was accordingly invested with the order, with the
usual ceremonies, along with Sir Alex" Ball. The Emperor, to shew yet further
the value of this service, sent to Lord Whitworth,” then Ambassador at
Petersburg, requesting “ that this honor might be register'd in the King's College
of Arms in my native country.”
“Upon the retaking of Naples in 1799, Nelson brought us back there, except
the Queen. Sir William was yet so ill and feeble as to be unfit for business, and
yet less for the active bustle that those times required. From the beginning of
June until the middle of August, I was not only interpreter but Secretary, both to
his Secretary and to Nelson. I wrote for them from morning until night, trans-
lating whole papers and documents in various languages, that they neither could
do themselves or procure any one proper to be entrusted with documents of so
secret and confidential a nature. I had also to manage and controul the two
households we were obliged to maintain at Palermo and Naples. And the
numerous letters of Her Majesty to me at this period, will prove the manner in
which I conducted all these occupations, and the favorable light in which my
attending to the public cause was then considered. At this time in particular,
but, in fact, for the fourteen years that I was Ambassador's wife at this Court, I
might have exercised an economy that would have secured me provision for life;
but such calculations I would have thought a criminal prudence under the
circumstances in which I was placed. My sole view was to maintain the dignity
of our royal and beloved master, to advance his interests and wishes, and to
* Charles, Earl Whitworth, 1752–1825, a well-known diplomatist, Ambassador to Russia
from 1788 to 1800. He was created a Baron in 1800, a Viscount in 1813, when he went as
Viceroy to Ireland, and an Earl in 1815.
364
7HE HAM/zzow Awp [1813.
sooth and alleviate the toils of his brave, loyal seamen in a distant clime, in place
of hoarding at such times and occasions. It was my sole pride, my glory, my
ambition, thus to have expended what private friendship had bestow'd for my
own immediate comforts and use, as I have already shewn, or if further proofs be
needed, I appeal to His Royal Highness the Duke of Sussex, to all the nobility,
Commanders, nay, to every Briton that witness'd my unceasing zeal and efforts
for their comfort and the public good while at the Courts of Naples and Palermo.
“When Sir William was recall’d from his Embassy at Palermo in 1800, the
Queen determin’d to travel with us as far as Vienna to see her daughter, then
Empress of Germany ; Nelson also accompanied us. His Lordship and Sir
William were present at my parting with the Queen. At that affecting moment
her Majesty put into my hands a paper, saying it was the conveyance of a
thousand pounds a year that she had fixed to invest for me in the hands of Friez,
the Government Bank at Vienna, this, she said, “least by any possibility I should
not be suitably compensated for the services I had rendered, the monies I had
generously expended, and the losses I had so voluntarily sustained for the benefit
of her nation and my own l’’
‘As I then stood I thought the acceptance of such a reward from the Queen,
circumstanced as she was, unworthy a British heart. With every expression of
respect and gratitude to Her Majesty, I destroyed the instrument, saying,
“England was ever just, and to her faithful servants generous ſ” and “that I
would feel it unworthy to my own beloved magnanimous Sovereign to accept of
meed or reward from any other hand.”
“On our arrival in England, I did not cease my efforts to serve the country,
and, I trust, effectually. It was in consequence of my earnest entreaties that
Lord Nelson consented in 1801 to go to thc attack of Copenhagen, second in
command under Admiral Parker. Had he not been there, Government must be
sensible how very different would have been the result of that memorable engage-
ment. Again, in 1805, by my representations and entreaties, somewhat against
his own notions and presentiments, I prevail'd on him to offer himself to command
the fleet then equipping to go against the combined fleets at Cadiz, which
terminated in his last glorious, but fatal victory of Trafalgar ! If, then, either or
both these battles were gained by his superior zeal, vigilance, skill, and valour, I
have proof that he would never have been at the one or the other but at my
instance.
‘It was long after our return to England that Sir William was paid by
Government, in which time I sold my jewels at a heavy loss for his support,
He went on to the end of life in the full conviction that his pension would be
continued to me, to a Żersozz who had gain’d so many points for the country and
for her fleets, which, he would say, was impossible for him or any man to have
gain'd. In this expectation he was yet more confirmed by the language of his
inseparable friend, Nelson, who ever would keep telling him, and, indeed, all the
world, that the battle of the Nile was Emma’s, not his, and also assuring Sir
William that he had Mr. Pitt's solemn unequivocal pledge of honor that suitable
provision should be made for me, and in corroboration of this fact I affeal to the
living testimony of Sir Walter Farquhar, to whom that great statesman on his
dying bed confirm'd those promises he had made Lord Nelson on my behalf, with
his dying request that they may be fulfill’d by his successors.
“And I also appeal to Messrs Canning and Rose, to state if, on behalf of Govern-
ment, they had not reassured his Lordship on their taking leave of him on board
the Victory at Portsmouth, the 14h Sept., 1805, on his last sailing, “that the
promises made by Mº Pitt in my favor should be fully realized.”
“A disposition more avaricious and less love of country, than has been evinced
by mine, might well have been buoy’d up by so many flattering pretensions and
assurances of public remuneration with gratitude, and in proportion as Sir
William felt their force, as well as his unalterable faith in the justice of the
country, so in proportion was his provision for me lessen'd, so that my title to
public reward has thus caused me the loss of private fortune, that without such
claims would have been left me by my husband, who in his latter moments, in
deputing Mr Greville to deliver the Order of the Bath to the King, desired he
would tell His Majesty that he died in the confident hope that his pension would
be continued to me for my zeal and services.
1813.] AVE/SOAV PAPERS. 365
‘Time has gone on. Thinking that my case could not be overlook'd, I have
felt easy; had the curtail'd provision left me by Sir William, under the conviction
of its being an ample one by the country, has diminish’d without a semblance of
extravagance, and now find myself in embarrassments that imperiously press on
me to look for remuneration for those services, expenditures, and losses, that I
have recited, and not alone for immediate support, but as well for payment of that
support for the time past that I have been waiting in just expectation.
“In that expectation being liberally realised I can have nothing but implicit
confidence, “as our august Prince was well acquainted with it by Lord Nelson
himself, and fully coincided in its justice.” -
“It may be here expected of me to state why the codicil to Lord Nelson's
will, bequeathing my services to the justice of the country, was not produced with
the will itself.
“When Captain Blackwood brought it home, he gave it to the present Earl
Nelson, who with his wife and family were then with me, and had, indeed, been
living with me many months. To their son I was a mother, and their daughter,
Lady Charlotte, had been exclusively under my care for six years. The Earl,
afraid I should be provided for in the sum that Parliament was expected to grant
to uphold the hero's name and family, kept the codicil in his pocket until the day
A 200,000 was voted for that purpose. On that day he dined with me in Clarges
Street. Hearing at table what was done, he took the codicil ozzá, threw it to me,
and said with a very coarse expression, “that I might now do as I pleas'd with
it.” I had it registered the next day at Doctors’ Commons where it rests for the
national redemption.
‘The enthusiastic love of country, the bustle and promptitude necessary on
the various occasions recited, springing from an ardent mind, could ill afford
time for entertaining ideas of parsimony or precision of accounts when such
interests were at stake—public interests, interests of vital importance.
‘I may, however, without fear of exaggeration affirm that my private funds in
monies expended and losses sustained, have suffer'd a diminution of full £20,000.
Had I hoarded these sums that I must be permitted to say, I generously expended
for the honor and advantage of the country, I might at this hour have a compe-
tence independant of any remuneration for the services I have quoted, and which
I have no doubt the country would wish me to enjoy.”
1047. A. L. S. from Lady Hamilton to Horatia, Dated “April 18th
(Easter Sunday), 1813. 4 pages 4to. [P.]
‘Listen to a kind, good mother, who has ever been to you affectionate, truly
kind, and who has neither spared pains nor expense to make you the most
amiable and most accomplish’d of your sex. Ah, Horatia if you had grown up
as I wish’d you, what a joy, what a comfort might you have been to me ! for I
have been constant to you, and willingly pleased for every manifestation you
shew'd to learn and profitt of my lessons, and I have ever been most willing to
overlook injuries. But now 'tis for myself I speak & write. Look into yourself
well, correct yourself of your errors, your caprices, your nonsensical follies, for
by your inattention you have forfeited all claims to my future kindness. I have
weathered many a storm for your sake, but these frequent blows have kill'd me.
Listen, then, from a mother who speaks from the dead | Reform your conduct,
or you will be detested by all the world, & when you shall no longer have my
fostering arm to sheild you, whoe betide you! you will sink to nothing. Be
good, be honourable, tell not falsehoods, be not capricious, follow the advice of the
mother whom I shall place you in at school, for a governess must act as mother.
I grieve & lament to see the increasing strength of your turbulent passions; I
weep & pray you may not be totally lost; my fervent prayers are offered up to
God for you; I hope you will yet become sensible of your eternal wellfare. I
shall go join your father & my blessed mother, & may you on your death-bed have
as little to reproach yourself as your once affectionate mother has, for I can glorify,
& Say I was a good child. Cazz AZoraža Me/son say so 2 I am 2/m/a/Ay to say
you CANNOT. No answer to this P I shall to-morrow look out for a school, for
your sake & to save you, that you may bless the memory of an injured mother.
*P.S. —Look on me now as gone from this world.’
366 THE HAMILTO/W A/VD [1813.
1048. A. L. S. from Miss Matcham to Lady Hamilton. Dated ‘Sunday
morning’ (May 9th, 1813). I; page 4to., with SuperScription.
[P.]
‘It was our intention to have paid you a visit unexpectedly on Tuesday
morning, mama and papa having written to the Earl to say they would spend
two nights in Portman Square ; but the alarming account we received from Tom
yesterday of my poor aunt” has altered our plans for the present. To day we
have no letter, & therefore hope she is not worse ; but, at any rate, I write this
to entreat you to let me hear from you by return of post, whether you have a letter
from Bradenham or not. Mrs. Girdlestone is staying with them, but says there
is very little hope of her recovering, and, unless the medicine she is now taking
produces some wonderful change, all their hopes are gone. Sir Wm & Lady
Bolton were sent for from Suffolk. I am sure you will feel for us too much to let
us remain in an uncertainty, therefore, my dear Lady, with the hope of hearing
from you on Tuesday,’ &c.
‘P.S.–If you cannot write yourself, let Horatia or Miss Wheatly give us one
line by return of post.”
1049. A. L. S. from Mrs. Matcham to the same. Dated ‘Wednesday
morning' (May 19th, 1813). 2 pages 4to., with Superscrip-
tion. [P.]
‘We were truly mortified to find you from home the three times we called,
& we fully intended to have seen you the morning we left town ; but we were
obliged to set off early on accº of coming with our own horses. We would have
staid a day longer on purpose to have taken a peep at you, but, to say the truth,
Our money was all gone, & we were obliged to borrow of our bankers ; but, how-
ever, one expense we must incur, as I am afraid we must go to Bradenham to see
my dear sister, if she makes a point of seeing us. In that case, we shall cer-
tainly see you in passing through town, as we shall not sleep there. I am sorry
to Say the accº from Bradenham are by no means flattering to-day. I much
fear she will never recover ; but we must look forward with hope, & try to
make her as happy as we can. God bless you and dear Horatia, and believe us,
at all times, yours affectly,’ &c.
1050. A. L. S. from Lady Bolton to the same. Dated Bradenham,
September 2nd, I813. 3 pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘I have long wished to write to you, but the reflection of the severe loss we
have sustained, which writing to any of my friends brings with fresh force to my
mind, have prevented me, yet I must write for the first time, and the longer I
delay it, the worse it will be, for at present she is always in our thoughts. Our
house appears so melancholy, we miss her everywhere. She was always in the
way to hear our little distresses, and to relieve them if in her power, if not, to
sympathise with us. What a void has her death made in our once cheerful circle.
Time alone can lessen our grief. Our dear invalid f continues much the same as
when she wrote last. We have had Ashley Cooper's i advice, but have not acted
on it long enough at present to know whether she will receive any benefit from it.
I am sorry to say, within this last week she has been ill, independent of her knee.
Whether this proceeds from weakness occasioned from being confined so long to
her bed, or from a cold caught this changeable weather, I cannot tell.
“Eliza is not yet confined, but she expects very soon ; poor thing, to add to
her other complaints, she has been tormented with the toothache for this last
* Mrs. Bolton, who died July 13th.
+ Miss Anne Bolton.
# Sir Astley Paston Cooper, 1768–1841, one of the best-known surgeons of his day. In
1820 he attended George IV., who created him a Baronet, in 1827 he was President of the
College of Surgeons, and in 1828 was appointed surgeon to William IV.
1813.] AVEZSOAV PAPERS. 367
week. You know she has great courage, and two days ago she had it drawn.
She has been better since, but she still suffers from pain in the face, and it is
much swelled, but I hope now she will soon get the better of it. Emma has
been at Brancaster for near three months, the first time I ever was parted from
her for so long a time. She came home about ten days ago; such a happy
meeting. Tell Horatia she was quite delighted with her new sister, and is so
fond of nursing her. Little Mary Anne grows very nicely. She is a small child.
but fat. Not at all like Emma, I think, but very much like Sir William. She is
a great amusement to all the party. Even poor Anne will have her carried and
put into her arms for a short time every day. Emma sends many loves and
kisses to her cousin Horatia. She often speaks of cousin Horatia. She will
write one day to her soon, but she must wait till I am well enough to attend to
her. I hope when you write you will be able to give me good accounts of your
own health. , You have been an invalid for a long time. I trust now you will find
your health improve rapidly. , Sir William has been and is very busy at Deptford.
Not a moment to spare, and he says with all his pains they make very little
progress. I conclude you have not seen him lately, as he has not been in town
for some time. Anne sends love and kisses to you. I think she thinks and
speaks often of you, both. I had a letter from Ashfold this morning. All well
there. Let us hear from you soon. All unite in love to you and Horatia.’
1051. A. L. S. from Lady Hamilton to Horatia. Dated October 31st,
1813. 4 pages 8vo. [P.]
* Horatia, Your conduct is so bad, your falsehoods so dreadfull, your cruel
treatment to me such that I cannot live under these afflicting circumstances ; my
poor heart is broken. If my poor mother was living to take my part, broken as I
am with greif and ill-health, I should be happy to breathe my last in her arms.
I thank you for what you have done to-day. You have helped me on nearer to
God, and may God forgive you. In two days all will be arranged for your future
establishment, and on Tuesday at 12, Col. & Mrs. Smith, Trickey, Mr. and Mrs.
Denis, Dr. Norton will be here to hear all. Every servant shall be put on their
Oath, as I shall send for Nany at Richmond—Mr. Slop, Mrs. Sice, Anne Deane—
and get letters from the Boltons and Matchams to confront you, & tell the
truth if I have used you ill; but the all-seeing eye of God knows my innocence.
It is therefore my command that you do not speak to me till Tuesday, & if to-day
you do speak to me, I will that moment let Col. & Mrs. Clive into all your
barbarous Scenes on my person, life and honnor.”
1052. A. L. S. from Miss and Mr. Matcham to Lady Hamilton. Dated
November 2 Ist, 1813. 44 pages 4to., with SuperScription. [P.]
‘Mama only received your letter, dated 23rd October, yesterday, which I hope
will account to you for my not writing before. We have sent Horatia two or
three letters since the date of your’s, which must have made it appear still more
extraordinary, but we were most happy to find you are better and can take an
airing in the carriage. Mama has not been at all well for some time, but we
hope in a short time to see her regain her usual spirits and strength. You know
this is not the most pleasant time of year, and the loss we have all had in one of
the best of aunts cannot so soon be forgot. I have not heard from Bradenham
these two months, but their situation is to be lamented. Poor Eliza losing the
baby was a great grief, tho' we must all rejoice at her own life having been spared.
Do you know how Lady Bolton is P. When you write, say we are anxious to hear
from them. As to news, my dear Lady, it is a scarce commodity in these parts.
Eliza wrote Horatia an account of our Salisbury trip, and M** Hemming and her
Smart son's unexpected visit. He appears a very steady, well-informed young
man, of course, anxious to join Lord Wellington again. We had staying with us
when they arrived, Chaº Wesley, with his old mother and sister. He enquired
kindly after you. We have seen but little of our neighbours this Summer. The
Knowlys have been enlarging their house, and made it much more comfortable.
368
7"HE A/AM/Z 7'OAV AAV/D [1813–14.
She is now a constant resident here, but last week went to town on account of
her husband being unwell, but he soon found himself able to manage without her;
she is, therefore, returned again. The Pilfolds are gone to live at a village three
miles from Cuckfield, and have got a very nice house, but, in my opinion, it is a
very dull village. The Sargesons are going on much as usual. Tell Horatia they
do say both the Col. and old lady visited the place last Xmas, and the latter sang
most beautifully. Poor Mºs Dart is greatly afflicted, having lately received the
melancholy account of her daughter's death. We saw her, a short time before, at
Brighton, where she was waiting the arrival of the fleet, and I think her mind
was nearly prepared for the worst. We have not heard from M** Harrison for
some months, but her nephew, young Blanckley, brought home Joseph's sword,
which I hope will be the means of making him known. I think the old lady must
be in high spirits upon the occasion.
“With respect to the potatoes, papa has a great abundance, and if you can
tell us what waggon to send them by, you can have as many as you wish for, or
any other article the farm produces for which you may have a desire. Write as
soon as possible, and let us know how to send them. It is always a pleasure to
hear from you and Horatia, to whom all her cousins unite in kind remembrances.
Your god-son is quite the delight of the house, and grown tall and stout ; son-in-
law is much improved and sends his best love. Papa, I believe, wrote an account
of us all in the box which contained Horatia's hat, which we were happy to hear
she liked. Mama would have written to you, but is unable at present. I hope in
my next letter to say she is recovered. Miss Owens is looking forwards to the
time of her enjoyments in town, when I shall be fully employed in keeping school,
but Harriet and Horatia are grown such great girls that my assistance will not be
wanted much longer. We shall not see you this winter-time I Suppose, but at
any rate write soon, & believe me,’ &c.
(FROM MR. MATCHAM.)
‘Movº 21 *, 1813.−Pray let us know the carrier's name of the waggon which
passes your house. We will supply you with potatoes all the winter, and send
you a turkey by the first opportunity. If you find it impossible to pay us a visit,
Mrs M. and I shall be tempted to go to Temple Place before the close of the
winter and pass a day with you. We have been always sensible of the ingratitude
you have met with, but is it not better to be wholly freed from any attention of
that man, who is insensible to everything but what immediately appertains to his
own intercst? Write as soon asever you can, and give directions for anything
our farm can Supply,’ &c.
1053. A. L. S. from Miss and Mr. Matcham to the same. No date
(April 18th, 1814). 3% pages 4to., with Superscription. [P.]
‘I only waited till George returned to thank you for the letter mama received,
in which we were happy to find yourself & dear Horatia were so well. What a
winter we have had ; but, thank God, we have suffered very little from its severity.
Our country begins to look very pretty. I wish we could have you with us; Papa
says he would send the carriage to meet you anywhere. This news has given us
all new life. What glorious intelligence it is. All the world are flocking abroad
to more genial climates. We have not had a letter from Bradenham this five
weeks. I am afraid we must conclude Anne is not better.
‘Mrs. Peirson and Charlotte have gone to town. Pray remember us to them
if they are. We dined last week at Mrs. Knowlys", and met the whole family,
who are come down for the Easter holiday’s. This is the only visit we have paid
since last November, so you must not expect much variety in my letters. We
talk of going Soon to Brighton, and intend inquiring after the health of our old
acquaintance, Mr. Coxe, who did say he would call upon you when he went to
town. I have had two friends talking the whole time this scrawl has been writing.
I must beg you will forgive my sending it to the post, which I do not like to pass
another day without writing to my dear Lady Hamilton. Ask Horatia to write
& tell me all the news, and whether our Norfolk friends are arrived.
“With the united love of all.’ -
1814.] AWEZSOAV PAPERS. 369
(FROM MR. MATCHAM.)
‘We are all anxious, my dear Lady Hamilton, to see you at Ashfold. The
summons to Mrs. M. and myself to escort you and dear Horatia to this place
would be most grateful to us. You have heard of the Earl's conduct; he has
been as inimical to the whole family as his present means allowed. But, I have
no doubt, the principal train of his thoughts are directed to injure as much as
possible those who were loved by his brother, the good & noble Lord. When our
house is free of visitors, Mr. M. & myself purpose going as far as your house, and
staying with you a few hours. We shall not go into London, our only object will
be to see you & talk over our future destination. The dear beautiful Ashfold is
offered for sale. My other planted property I shall not dispose of, as it will
be of no further expense to me, and may in time prove an advantage to my family.
You will consely infer that we seek another country. We do ; but where, I cannot
determine till I have some conversation with my travelled friends. Write us
frequently. I offer a joint wish that we may all settle abroad in some city, town,
or village,’ &c.
1054. A. L. S. from Lady Hamilton to (James Perry). Dated 12 Temple
Place, April 22nd, I814. 4 pages 4to,
“To my great surprise I saw yesterday in the Herald that Lord Nelson's
letters to me were published. I have not seen the book, but I give you my
honour that I know nothing of these letters. I have been now nine months in
Temple Place, & allmost all the time I have been very ill with a bilious
complaint, brought on by fretting & anxiety, & lately I have kept my bed for
near twelve weeks, nor have I seen any person except Dr. Watson & Mr. Tegart,
who have attended me with kindness & attention, & to whoes care I owe my life.
About four years ago my house in Dover Street was on fire, & I was going into
Sussex for 3 months, & I left part of my papers in a case with a person to whom
I thought I cou’d depend on. Weather this person has made use of any of these
papers, or weather they are the invention of a vile, mercenary wretch, I know not,
but you will oblige me much by contradicting these falsehoods, and you will
much gratify your gratefull,’ &c.
* P.S.—If I had not been so ill, I shou’d have answer'd the Poet Laureate’s”
falsehoods, which they tell me he has publish’d in an abridgment of the life of
the good & glorious Lord Nelson ; but this I will do & prove, that all he has said
relating to the affair of Carraciola is false. But Nelson, Sir William, & myself,
did too much for the good cause not to make enimys amongst those who wish’d
to abolish royalty & level every one who thought and acted right. I am now
suffering for having been too generous, for I might have been rich if I had only
thought of myself & not of my country. I have now given all up to pay my debts,
not having ever received one farthing from Government, neither as the widow of
a minister who served 37 years, and for the last ten years my indefatigable pains
and the procuring of the letters for the supplying of the fleet before the glorious
Battle of the Nile, which was the first death-blow to the French and again revived
dear old England at a moment of dispondency. Yet all this has hitherto been
neglected, nor have my great and glorious friend's wishes in the moment of death
& victory been listened to. God bless you, my dear sir, my heart is too full to
say more.’
1055. A. L. S. from the same to Hon. R. F. Greville. Dated ‘Common
of St. Pierre, 2 miles from Calais. Direct for me chez Desin,
September 21” (1814). Ił page folio, with Superscription and
Seal. [H.] -
‘You know that my jointure of eight hundred pounds a year has been now for
a long time accumulating. If I was to die, I should have left that money away,
for the annuitants have no right to have it, nor can they claim it, for I was most
* Southey's Life of AWelson was published in 1813.
VOL. II. B B
370 THE HAMILTON AND [1814–15.
dreadfully imposed upon for my good nature, in being bail for a person whom I
thought honorable. When I came away I came with honor, as Mr. Alderman
Smith can inform you, but mine own innocence keeps me up, and I despise all
false accusations and aspersions. I have given up everything to pay just debts,
but annuitants never will. Now, sir, let me entreat you to send me a hundred
pounds, for I understand you have the money. I live very quiet in a farm house,
and my health is now quite established. Let me, sir, beg this favour to your,’ &c.
‘P.S.—Sir Wm Scott writes me there is some hopes to my irresistible claims—
such are his words.
‘The best meat here five pence a pound, 2 quarts of new Inilk 2 pence, fowls
13 pence, a couple ducks the same. We bought 2 fine turkeys for four shillings,
an excellent turbot for half-a-crown, fresh from the sea, partridges five pence the
couple, good Bordeaux wine, white & red for fiveteen pence the bottle, but there
are some for ten sous, halfpence.
“L” Cathcart past 3 days ago. Horatia improving in person & education every
day. She speaks French like a French girl, Italian, German, English,’ &c.”
1056. A. L. S. from Mr. H. Lloyd to the same. Dated II Chapel
Place, Cavendish Square, December 13th, 1814. I page 4to.,
with Superscription and Seal. [H.]
‘I inclose a letter to Lady Hamilton written by my client on the subject of
her Ladyship giving a recº, which I shall be obliged that you will forward to her
Ladyship. I have the honour to be,’ &c.t
1057. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated II Chapel Place,
Cavendish Square, January 19th, 1815. I page 4to., with Super-
Scription and Seal. [H]
‘My client has never recd any answer from Lady Hamilton, consequently the
suit must proceed. To that effect I have written to Messrs. Vizard & Co. to put
in your ans".
‘I have the honour to be,’ &c.;
* An A. copy of Mr. Greville's answer is written on the back of the above letter ; it is
as follows:— ‘Gt Cumberland Street,
‘Oxford St, Sept. 27th, 1814.
‘Madam,_Your letter of Sept. 21st I received only by yesterday's post, & I reply to it
without delay. It is now some time since the regular payments from me of your annuity of eight
hundred pounds a year were very unexpectedly interrupted by a notice addressed to me by profes-
sional persons, & on the ground that you had made over the greater part of the same for £ecºndary
considerations received by you, & in consequence warning me not to continue the pay” of your
annuity otherwise than to them to the extent of these claims.
* Not hearing from you in the long intermediate time which followed respects your not
receiving your payts as usual, I could scarce doubt the unpleasant statements I had received.
Still, I have demurred making any payts where called on, and under existing circumstances I
must not venture to make payments in any direction until this mysterious business is made
clear to me, and whereby my acts by legal authority may be rendered perfectly Secure to me.
‘This done, of course I shall pay arrears & continue all future payments whenezer they shal!
Že due, with the same precision & punctuality as has hitherto always been maintained & which
were attended to to the day, until they were thus interrupted. But now my own security requires
that I should clearly know how this mysterious business actually stands, e'er I shall deem it
prudent or safe for me to stir a step in a case where I am resolved not to act on doubtful reports.
I remain,’ &c.
+ On the same sheet is a copy of Mr. Greville's reply:—
* (Copy of my answer.)
‘Brighton, December 14th, 1814.—Your's of yesterday's date I have received by post this
day, forwarded from my house in town, where it was directed.
‘Its inclosure, directed for the Honblº Lady Hamilton from your client, I have, according to
your wish, forwarded to her from hence p" post. I am,’ &c. -
it On the back of the above letter is the following A. copy of Mr. Greville's answer :-
* (Copy of my answer to Mr. Lloyd.)
‘Mr. Greville presents his compliments to Mr. Lloyd. He received his letter of the 19th
1815.] AVEZSO/V AAA’AA’.S. 37 I
1058. A. Copy of A. L. S. from Hon. R. F. Greville to Mr. H. Lloyd.
Dated Gt. Cumberland Street, Oxford Street, January 24th, 1815.
I page 8vo., with Superscription. [H.]
‘I have to request you will call on Mr. Jones, No. 2 Zincoln's Inn, respects
my answer to the bill in Chancery of your client, I am,’ &c.
1059. Copy of L. S. (in French, partly autograph) from the same to
the Prefect of the Department of Calais. Dated ‘Londres, ce
25 Janvier’ (1815). 3 pages 4to, with endorsement. [H]
“Il a paru dans notre gazette (Morning Post) du 25 du courant l'article suivant,
tiré de la gazette de France du 20 de ce mois:
‘Calais, 17 Janvier.—“The celebrated Emma, widow of Sir William Hamilton,
dźed here yesterday,” &c. &c.
“Il est aussi fait mention dans le même article que d'après les dernières
volontés de la dite Lady Hamilton, son Corps sera transporte en Angleterre.
“Maintenant, monsieur, je réclame de votre complaisance de vouloir bien me
rendre le service de prendre, ou de faire prendre, dans votre dp" des informations
a ce Sujet ; car il est urgent pour moi d'avoir la certitude du décès de Lady
Ha , puisqu’elle recevoit Sur ma terre une pension viagère.
‘Je Sollicite de vous, monsieur, une prompte réponse, et vous demande pardon
d’avance de la peine que Cela vous causera.
‘J’ai l'honneur d'être,’ &c.
At the bottom of the letter Mr. Greville has written as follows:—
‘Received an answer on Tuesday evens, Janry 31st, from Calais, signed “L.
Michaud, Maire de Calais, Chevalier de la Légion d'honneur,” stating that Lady
Hamilton died at Calais on the I 5th of Janºy.
‘Wrote on Tuesday evening the following note to Mr. Lloyd :—
‘Gt. Cumberland St.
‘Jan’ſ 31st, I815.
‘Mr. Greville presents his compliments to Mr. Lloyd and thanks him for his
communication of yesterday.
“He has this evens received a letter from the Mayor of Calais, to whom he
has wrote lately requesting information respecting the reports of Lady Hamilton's
death, & by which letter it appears that Zady AZamzz/fore died at Calazs on the
I 5th Žns?.’
1060. A. L. S. from Mr. John Jones to the Hon. R. F. Greville. Dated
Lincoln's Inn, January 26th, 1815. I page 4to., with Superscrip-
tion and Seal. [H.]
‘I have received information this morning, upon which I can rely, that Lady
Hamilton is certainly dead, and was buried on Friday last.
“I understand that she died in extreme poverty.
‘I have not seen or heard from Mr. Vizard, and am,’ &c.
1061. A. L. S. from Mr. H. Lloyd to the same. Dated II Chapel Place,
January 26th, I815. I page 8vo., with SuperScription and
Seal. [H]
“In reply to your last favour I beg leave to suggest that the death of Lady
inst. late last night. He will immediately give instructions for the answer to the bill in Chancery
to be prepared & send in without delay.
* Gt. Cumberland St., Oxford St.
‘Jan’y 21st, 1815.’
372 - THE HAMILTON AAVD [1815.
Hamilton may, perhaps, terminate any further litigation on the subject, & which
greatly rests with yourself. I shall, therefore, be happy to attend you on Monday,
or any other day, at # past 12, that may be conv", to propose an arrangement of
the funds without legal decisions, if possible, & with security to yourself. I have
the honour to be,’ &c."
l662. A. Doc. S. ‘Henry Cadogan.’ j page 4to., oblong. [P.]
‘Funeral expenses of the late Lady Emma Hamilton, as paid by me, Henry
Cadogan, at Calais in France, Janº, I815 —
‘An oak coffin, casked, church expenses, priests, candles,
burial-ground, men sitting up, dressing the body,
spirits, &c. &c. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... Á28 Io o'
1063. A. L. S. from Mr. H. Lloyd to Hon. R. F. Greville. Dated ‘ I I
Chapel Place, Monday, 3 o'clock’ (January 30th, 1815). I page
4to., with Superscription and Seal. [H.]
‘I have this inst. received a letter from Calais stating that Lady Hamilton
died there on the 15th, and was buried on the 21st. I am,' &c.
1064. A. Doc. S. ‘Henry Cadogan.’ + page 4to., oblong. [P.]
“Rec", Febºy 4th, 1815, of J. J. Smith, Esq., the sum of twenty-eight pounds
ten shillings, being the amount of funeral expences for the late Lady Emma
Hamilton, at Calais, in France, as paid by me.
(Signed) HENRY CADOGAN.
‘A 28 Io o'
1065. A. L. S. from Mr. H. Lloyd to Hon. R. F. Greville. Dated 11
Chapel Place, February 8th, 1815. I page 4to., with Super-
scription and Seal. [H]
‘I have applied to Mr. Jones, & had his reply stating, with the concurrence of
the representatives of Lady Hamilton, that he apprehended you may pay my
client his demand, which I shall endeavour to obtain. If you shū hear where
Lady Hamilton was born or any of her relations reside, I shall feel indebted for
such information. I shall be obliged if you will desire Mr. Jones either to let me
have the loan of the Calais letter for a few hours or shew it to Mr. Parke, Secy to
the Pelican Life Office. Your immediate communication to Mr. Jones on the
above subject I shall likewise esteem a favour. I have the honour to be,’ &c.
‘P.S.—I intend calling on Mr. Jones to-morrow.’
1066. A. L. S. from the same to the same. Dated II Chapel Place,
Cavendish Square, February 8th, 1815. 2 pages 4to, with
Superscription and Seal. [H]
“I trust you will excuse the liberty I am about to take in addressing this letter
to you for the purpose of requesting the loan of the letter that you recº from
Calais, in order to prove to the Directors of the Pelican Insurance Office that
Lady Hamilton died at Calais & was buried there—at which office my client
insured the life of Lady Hamilton. I have submitted the letter that I recº from
* With the above is the following A. copy of Mr. Greville’s answer :-
“In answer to Mr. Lloyd's note of the 26th inst., Mr. Greville desires to intimate that he
will be at home on Monday next, the 30th inst., at half past twelve o'clock, & ready to receive
Mr. Lloyd at that time.
“Mr. G. has hitherto received no other information of Lady Hamilton’s death than through
the channel of the public newspapers.
* No. I Gt. Cumberland St.
“Saturday, Janly 29th, 1815.”
1815–29.] AVAZZ,SOAV PAA’AA’.S. 373
Calais to the Directors of the above office, as also your favour communicating the
death of Lady Hamilton thro' the Mayor of Calais. He being an official person,
the Directors have requested a sight of his letter as a voucher authorising them
to pay my client the amount of his insurance. Your compliance to my request
will be esteemed an obligation by myself and client, & I shall feel obliged if you
will have kindness to send it p” bearer, or I will wait on you any hour that may
be convenient for the said letter, as the board sits to-morrow, & agº" that time am
anxious to have the letter. I have the honour to be,’ &c.
‘P.S.–I will take great care of the letter, & return it to you on Friday next
} %
1067. A. L. S. from Horatia Nelson (Mrs. Ward) to Mr. Griffin. Dated
Bircham Newton, November 3rd (1829). I page 4to., with
Superscription and Seal. [P.]
‘As I was from home at the time it arrived, I did not receive your letter till
last week. I am Sorry it is utterly out of my power to assist your son, as I have
no interest whatever in any quarter ; and, to candidly confess the truth, had I
any, I should be obliged to reserve it for my own family, as I have many children
and a small income. In the hope that your applications may be successful
elsewhere, I remain,’ &c.
* With the above is the following A. copy of Mr. Greville's answer:-
* (Copy of my answer to this letter.)
“Gt. Cumberland St.
‘Febry 9th, 1815.
‘The letter, respecting which you make enquiry, is in the hands of Mr. Jones, No. 2
Lincoln's Inn.
“All references on the subject must be made to him. I have not heard that you have, as yet,
seen Mr. Jones. I am,’ &c.
375
APPEND IX A.
A. Accounts of ‘Emma Hart’ at Edgware Row. Dated between
I7 pages 4to.
October 27th, 1784.
October 27th, 1784, and February 21st, 1785.
* EMMA HART.
1784.
27th Oct.
25
99
28th
29th
92
59
3oth
92
22
92
3 Ist
55
Ist N
OV.
THE DAY ACCOUNT BOOK.
- • Money Paid, &c.
. Baker's Bill, one week ... ...
Butter Bill, one week...
... Butcher
. Wood e
Pidgeons tº e º
Mold Candles ...
. Gloves ...
Letters ...
Coach ...
Apples ...
Poor Man
º Mangle ...
Tea
Suger
Butcher...
. Scotch Gaize
. Porter
Eggs tº º
Magazines tº º
Cotton & Needles
Coach
º Baker's Hill
Butter Bill
Milk
Gardener
... Butcher... © tº e
... I Sack of Coals
Oysters...
Porter
E
& © tº 88S. . . . . . . . .
... Handkerchiefs ...
Stockings tº e º
Mrs. Hackwood
Widgeings
Coals
Muton ...
Fowl ...
Coals
Oysters...
Muton ...
Candles
Mold Candles º
... Starch ... ... ... . . . ...
Ä
O
I
I
:
#
I
i
#
[H.]
376
[1784.
7 HE A/AM/Z 7'OAV AAV/O
tº Q q.
£
O
Blue ... tº º º ſº º ve tº tº e tº e º
Soap ... tº e e tº ſº tº tº e º tº e º
A Pint of Porter
2 Rabbits
Beef Stakes
Coals ...
Butter Bill
Baker's Bill
Milk
Gardener Ú º º tº º º tº e
Wrighting Paper, Wax, &c. ...
Coach ... tº e º © º º tº e ge
A Fowl ...
Black Lead
Pins & Thread
Porter ...
Eggs ...
A Fowl ...
Chees
Coals
Tea tº e a
Coals ...
Wood
Porter
Brick Dust
Nurse
Coach ...
Porter
Dimity Handkerchifs, &c., &c.
Baker ... tº e e & © º tº e º
Butter ... gº
Fish, &c.
Fowls
Coals
Porter
Cheese ...
Fowls
Meat ... tº º, tº
Beef & Mutton
Coach ...
Coals
Wood
Vinegar...
Rabbitt...
Coals
|Fowls
Porter ...
Tea gº tº &
Baker’s Bill
Butter Bill e gº tº º
Meat ... tº ſº º © e e e e s
Oil tº º ſº.
Coach ...
Fowls © tº ºt
Scowering paper
Letters ... tº gº
Brickdust tº e tº tº º º
Brush ... tº e G tº gº º tº e º
Segers ... © C & tº a tº e e º
Meat ... tº e & º e º º º º tº e gº tº tº e
Coach * e e • . . . • * * * * * * * * • * *
I
I
I
I
I
#
#
#
1784.]
377
AVELSO/W PAPERS.
29th Nov. ...
3Oth ,
3ISt ,
Ist Dec.
2nd ,
}} 22
99 35
3rd 53
22 23
4th ,
99 32
29 33
5th ,
72 29
22 33
93 79
33 33
6th ,
22 }}
7th ,
25 92
25 23
35 }}
25 }}
39 }}
25 35
8th ,
93 }}
9th ,
23 }}
Ioth o
}} }}
39 25
I Ith ,
}} 39
95 75
12th ,
29 53
I3th ,
25 25
22 92
23 22
39 35
92 33
99 29
29 37
I4th ,
39 33
25 53
I5th ,
39 33
I6th ,
95 33
I7th ,
92 23
25 33
55 33
I8th ,
I9th ,
• a º
Baker’s Bill
Butter Bill
Milk
Gardener
Candles
Coach ...
Fowls
Soap
Blue
Coach
Lamb ... tº gº tº e - e.
Powder, Pomatum, &c.
Orranges tº e -
Tea
Mrs. Jones
Butcher
Coach
Baker
Butter Man
Gardener
Milk
Vinegar...
Saycepan
Wood ... tº ſº tº
Kitchen Candles
Pork ... tº e 2
Needles
Eggs ...
Muffins, &c.
Meat ...
A Fowl ...
Barly
Bird
Beef
Flanel ... tº º º
Scrubbing Brush
Fowls ... tº & Cº.
Veal ...
Blacklead
Mustard e -
Scowering Paper
Paid Nelly
Paid Molly
Baker's Bill
Butter Bill
Milk
Gardener
Pins ...
Muffins...
Table Číoaths, fusters, &c., &c.
Meat
Fowls
Lamb ...
Apples ...
Porter ...
Oysters...
Fish
Tea - tº º º
Scowering Papper
Milkman © tº ſº tº e e tº dº ſº
Baker's Bill . . . . c 9 @ • * e
#,
O
:J-- -
I
I
##
i
#
I
%
I
:
º
:
}
I
i
#
#
#
I
#
378
[1784–85.
THE HAM/Z TO/V AAVD
19th Dec. ...
20th º
95 32
35 39
2 ISt 2,
25 99
22nd ,
99 35
23rd ,
92 99
55 33
25th ,
9) 39
55 99
99 35
26th ,
-55 52
27th ,
53 35
28th ,
59 29
53 92
93 35
29th ,
2? 32
22 33
25 59
35 99
22 99
35 25
3Oth ,
25 }}
39 25
55 39
33 99
3 Ist 3,
22 93
1785.
Ist Jan.
33 25
25 25
99 25
2nd ,
39 35
35 32
33 99
3rd ,
25 39
» 99
4th 33
» :)
93 25
5th ,
90 19
35 92
6th ,
99 99
9) 92
39 3?
99 39
7th o
Butter Bill, Pork, &c....
... , Gardener tº º º tº e º
... A Leg of Mutton
Oatmail ...
Muffins ...
... Oil tº e º tº º ſº tº º e
. . Soap, Starch, &c, &c.
Meat ... tº a º tº gº º
Mr. Fry
... Fowls
. . .Orranges
Letters ...
Beef
Pork
Coach . ...
Wood
Meat ...
Thread, &c.
Suggar ...
Fowls
Padrole ...
Mangle ...
Musling
Edgeing
Brewer ...
Mutton ...
Oil
Baker .. . . . . . .
Butter, &c., &c.
Milk . ... . ...
Orranges
Candles
Wood. ...
Paper
º Birch Broom. º
|M11ffins ...
Bell Man
Butcher's Boy ...
Candles tº G
Milk & ſº
... Lace
. . Vinegar
soulf ... ... ...
Muffins
Baccon ...
º Apples ... º
... Wrighting Pape
Magazines
... Foºls
... . . Muffins
... Snuf ...
Bell Man
Mangle
Paper ... . . . ... • e s , ; , e. e. e.
Wood ... . ... ... ... ..., ...
Suggar ... . ... * * * * : ; ,
Meat ... e e s . . e º e
Baker's Bill ... tº º º
Butter Bill, Pork, &c.
Candles . ... tº º º
2 x 3 e º s
4
O
e e o . . .
• * * : * >
I
º
}
l
I
:
}
3
#
I
:
9
!
#.
I
NELSON PAPERS.
379
7th Jan
33 3)
8th ,
25 95
55 22
9th ,
33 99
3% 29
95 39
Ioth ,
35 32
IIth ,
99 92
I2th ,
55 32
35 32
I3th ,
I4th
35 25
I5th ,
25 22
55 52
I6th ,
23 55
33 92
I7th ,
25 55
95 35
18th ,
55 92
2 25
I9th ,
25 53
20th ,
2 ISt 2,
35 35
22nd ,
33 95
99 35
93 35
35 92
23rd ,
95 55
52 35
33 33
24th ,
25 92
25 35
25 25
25th ,
22 32
33 92
25 33
26th ,
25 95
57 9)
35 35
3) 39
55 35
27th ,
... Starch, &c. . . ...
. . Milk . . ... . ...
... Coach ...
. Blue
. . Meat: '...
Fowls ...
... Wood ...
... Mr. Birks
... Coach ...
. . Matches
Muffins
... • Paid N. for Muffins ...
... Bell Man . . . . . . . ...
... • Post Man •
. . Meat ...
Lamp Oil
Muffins ...
Candles
Fowls
... A Leg of Mutton
A Quarter of Tea
The Brown Sugger ...
Coach ... ſº tº § • * =
Baker’s Bill
. Butter, &c.
. . Gardener
Milk
º: Muffins
Beef
Fowls
Muffins ... & ſº • * *
Chimmey Sweeper ...
Coach ... tº e º -
Wood ...
Muffins
Meat ... . ... • * * tº ſº tº
A Leg of Mutton & Stakes ...
º Fowls ... tº e
Grots, Oatmail, Pins, &c. ...
Muffins ... . ... • * * * *
Half a Pound of Tea ...
Trencher Dish, &c.
Nutmeg, spice, &c.
... . Muffing...' ..
Candles
Baker
. . Butter Man
. . Gardener
Milk ... . . . ...
Soap, Starch, &c.
Paid the Brewer
Coach ... * > *
Meat ... . ... . . ...
Scowering Paper, &c.
... Blackiead
Wood
Coals. ...
Muffins
Brick Dust
Eggs
... 2 Orranges ...
£
I
I
I
I
I
I
380
[1785.
7THE HAM/Z 7'OAV AAVO
27th Jan.
28th
5
6th
55
7th
}}
}}
8th
}}
9th
39
Ioth
95
I Ith
35
I2th
33
Coach ... © º ºs © & O & G & tº e º © Q &
Lamp Oil tº e º © e e 0 e º tº e > 2 & 3
Gown © tº e tº e G © e e e e e
Baker’s Bill
Butter Bill
Gardener
Milk
Coach
Wood
Candles
Meat
Muffins... e e e © º e
Fowles ... tº e e Q & ©
Lamp Oil
Apples, 2
Mutton, a Leg
Parsley
Coach ... tº º e
Birch Broom ...
2 Fowls • . . . . . . tº e e
Miss Harkwood, Coach, &c.
Orranges, Muffins © º e
Baker’s Bill
Butter ...
Candles
Coach ...
Gardener
Milk ...
Black Lead
Meat
Fowls ... tº e ºs • * * * * * tº tº º ©
Pin, Thread, &c. tº e - tº e - tº e C tº e e
Beer ... e & e e - e. tº e - tº a Q
Lamp Oil tº e ſe
Soap, Starch, &c.
Wood ... tº º º
A Leg of Mutton
Sugger ... tº e e e - e. tº º ºs tº e ºs o
Baker's Bill, for Bread tº e & e e ºs • * *
Coach ... © e e Q - e. tº e e tº e e tº º 0
Butter ... tº e G º e e
Muffins, Paid to Nancy
Mopp ... Q & e © tº Q tº º e tº º & Q & Q
Orranges tº º º tº a º tº e º tº & © © tº c
Milk
Fowls
º Coach
Paper
Magazines
Eggs
Wood ...
Brick Dust
Apples ... tº tº e tº º º
Beef Stakes, Mutton, &c.
Beer ... © tº e © e º
Porter at different times
Oil & Mustard ©
Pepper ... tº e º © e Q º e C
Cotton for Mending Stockings
Apples ... © º º tº º º
Kitchings' Candies ... * @ e º
4.
O
I
I
I
I
#
#
#
#
1784–85.]
381
AVE/CSOAV PAPAERS.
I9th Feb. ...
55 53
33
2 ISt ,
Brown Sugger
A Nutmeg
Meat
Coach º:
Baker’s Bill
Gauze
Butter Bill
MONEY RECEIVED FROM OCTOBER 27, 1784.
27th Oct. ... Received
, , ... Received
29th , Received
I Ith Nov. ... Received
39 y 3 Received
I3th , Received
I6th , Received
2Oth , Received
29th , Received
3rd Dec. Received
55 33 Received
8th , Received
I Ith , Received
I3th , Received
I6th , Received
2Oth , Received
9th Jan. Received
2Oth , Received
29th , Received
7th Feb. Received
,, , ... Received
Paid Molly Dring
Paid Nelly Gray
The Thirteenth of Decemb
Molly Lunn came here the 13th of December, 1784.
Ann Murphy came here the 13th of December, 1784.
A.
O
i
.
I
I
I
:
l
382 THE HAM/Z7 OAV A/VD [1792–95.
A. F. F. E. N
VARIOUS ACCOUNTS OF NELSON WITH HIS AGENTS,
D7. CAPTAIN HORATIO NELSON in Account
I792. - - - - A. s. d.
IIth Sept.... To Balance from last Account ... tº e e 6 3 Io
Ist Oct. To paid W. Lally for Newspapers to Michº I IO O
23rd , ... To paid W* Barber, Grocer & Stamp ... Q Q & º “e e e e º 5 O 6
9th Nov. ... To purchased # Irish Lotty Tick", No. 13868, & Registerg ... I I8 O
22nd , To Cash John Tulloh for Wine, &c., for the Revd Mr. Nelson 6 I5 O
I793. -
5th Jan. To Cash & Stamp... e e e ſº tº º tº º º & © tº 3O O 4
8th ,, ... To paid W. Latty for Newspapers to Xmas last I IO O
I4th Feb.... To Cash and Stamp ... e. e. tº e - tº e º tº e o 5 I O 4
9th March... To Bank Notes sent Mrs. Nelson e e 50 O O
I3th , To Cash to Arnold Lasebeck ‘P order ... 2O 6 o
To Balance carried to New Account 486 3 9
£660 7 9
14th March To Cash paid W. Barber & Stamp ... tº º o © tº e • * * : * ~ * 2 2
25 }} To Cash paid Captain Horo Nelson & Revd Wm. Nelson, value in Accº. 600 o o
23rd , To paid his Bill to Win Proctor... • e - e - e. tº e e 3O O O
A639 2 2
- To Balance from the above Account . A. I 52 18 5
23rd March To paid his Bill to Wm. Proctor... 3O O O
28th 33 To Cash and Stamp © tº e º e a • * * 5O O 6
23rd April... To paid for Newspapers to 25th Feb. ... o IQ 6
17th May ... To paid his bill to N. Palmer ... e & tº 5o O O
18th June ... To paid Dº Thompson's Bill to A. Paxton 5 I O O
27th July ... To paid your Bill to Ja” Duff, Esq. ... tº º tº e º º I29 5 4
2nd Nov. ... To our Bill on De Visme & Cº to F. Nelson, and Stamp 2O o 6
I794. . -
Ioth April... To Cash paid Jams Gayland ‘P order & Stamp 8 4 2
9th May ... To paid F. Dollman for a Hall ... tº e ºs - e. e. tº e º I IQ O
3rd July To our Bill on John Swaffield to Nelson, & Stamp 2O o 6
29th Aug. ... To paid Thos Withers's Bill to T. Pollard, & charges IO I 3 O
19th Dec.... To Cash paid Capt" W. Wolseley, & Stamp ... ©. e. e. 35 O 4
I795.
1st Jan. ... To paid your Bill to Tho" Pollard IOO O O
2nd April ... To ditto to do. I5O O O
8th June ... To ditto to Lº Jnº Gibson 5O O O
I9th Aug. ... To ditto to Thos Fellows tº e - 50 O O
22nd Oct.... To Bill on ourselves to Revd S. Nelson, & Stamp 3O o 6
To paid part fees passing Accounts, Agamemnon 2 IQ 6
12th Sept.... To Interest on this Account at 5 tº ct. ... 2 I4 8
To paid postage ... & º ºs - - - I 6 Io
1793–95.]
AVE/LSO/V PAPERS. 383
*** *-* *-*** * * *-*-*****- : *-* -* --4-- . .
AND A. MEMORANDA REFERRING TO ACCOUNTS. [P.]
Current zwith MESSRS. MARSH & CREED. Cr.
I793. A. S. d. A. s. d.
Ioth Jan. ... By Interest on 3ool. 5 iP C* to 5th Jan., 1793 ... 7 Io o
Commºn tº e ſº tº gº & tº e G © e e O 2 O
am=msº-º-º-º-º: 7 8 o
9th Jan. ... . By Cash of Messrs. Gurney & Cº.. ... ... ........ ... º. 3. .º ... ....... 600 Q o
12th March By Half-pay Ist July & 31st Dec., 1792 tº º º tº gº tº 54 IO O
- Commºn tº e ſº tº tº º * - ſº I 7 6
Postage O 2 9 I IO 3
- --- - 52 I9 9
£660 7 9
By Balance from the above Account . A 486 3 9
By Balance carried to New Account I 52 I8 5
£639 2 2
12th July ... By Int" on 30Ol. 5 “P C* to 5th July, '93 A 7 IO O
Commºn © º º © tº e { } @ O 2 O
* : * ~ * : - - - —— A7 8 O
I6th Oct. ... By Half-pay Ist & 31st Jan., 1793 8 17 6
Comm” {_* tº gº tº e tº - O 4 6 . . * * * * * *
I794. - - - 8 I 3 O
I Ith Jan. ... By Int" on 3ool. 5 tº Cº to 5th Jan., 1794 7 Io O
IIth July ... By Int" on 3ool. 5 “P Cº to 5th July ... 7 Io o
I795. - - -
9th Jan. By Int" on 3ool. 5 “P Cº to 5th Jan., '95 7 Io o
• * * - - 22 I O O
Colliſiºn 5 9 º
- 22 4 3
20th Jan. ... By G. Milthorp's Bill on Ransom & Cº 5O O O
2nd Feb. ... By PhP Ritches's Bill on Down & Co ... 5O O O
9th July By Thos Pollard's Bill on S. Lightfoot 5OO O O
IIth , By Int" on 300/.5 “P Cº to 5th July, '95 7 Io o
. 607 Io o
Commºn e 7 I2 O
— 599 I 8 O
24th Aug. ... By your Pay as Coln" of Marines, Ist June & 31st
Aug., 1795 ... tº e ºs tº ſº tº tº e ſº tº ſº º ... I 38 O O
Paid for Commiss” ... A 1 O IO O
Entg. Letter Atty O 3 6
Commiss” I I4 6 I2 8 O
I25 I2 O
384 THE HAMILTON AND [1796–97.
D?". CAPTAIN HORATIO NELSON 27. Account
- . A. S. d.
[Brought forward]
1796.
31st Jan. ... To Balance carried to New Account I 55 I 5 O
Á1,152 17 9
1796. -
5th April ... To paid your Bill to Thos Pollard ... e e sº * > * * G º º ... A roo o o
I9th , To Bank Post Bills sent Mrs. Nelson ... ... tº ſº tº tº º º ... IOO O O
,, ,, ... To paid your Subscript" to Navy Society * tº e tº e º tº gº tº © tº gº 3 3 O
Ioth May ... To paid your Bill to M. M. Fellows ... tº tº tº tº º º º 3O O O
To paid the remainder of usual fees passing Accounts,
A gamemnon tº e G tº º e tº e e tº e º ... A8 O 6
Fees Certifying Surg's Necessaries... O IO O
, reports Purser's Certifte Imperfect o 2 6
, Certificate of Commission ... & e & e e d' o 2 6
- 8 15 6.
To paid postage tº º º a e e tº º tº tº tº º tº g tº tº ſº º tº e º O 3 9
To Balance carried to New Account ... tº gº tº tº tº º & © tº . . . . 574 3 O
A816 5 3
3rd Aug. ... To paid your Bill to Revd Nelson ... * & ſº © tº º tº tº tº ... 4 IOO o o
Ist Sept. ... To ditto to Jos. Brame tº e ºs tº e C © & © * & E. tº tº e 5O O O
, , ... To ditto to Heath & Co tº º º tº tº º © tº º tº E tº tº e tº 5o O O
22nd Oct. ... To ditto to do © º º © e e tº tº tº ſº tº tº º º 44 II 4
IO O O


99 95 tº tº ſº
I6th Nov. ...
22nd ,
I797.
I6th Jan. ...
I2th March
27th 93
25th 92
29th 29
To paid L. Remour's Bill to yourself . tº º e tº tº tº tº gº tº G - e.
To paid C. Cox one year's Subscript” to the Marine Widows’ Fund,
to 3oth June, 1796 ... • * * tº IO O O
To paid your Bill to Heath & Co ... º e - © º e tº º tº º º 5O O O
To ditto to Turnbull & Co ... tº º º tº e G tº gº º tº e > 5O IO O
To ditto to Han. Sidman ... tº ſº o tº tº tº § tº º tº g e IO IO O
To ditto to Hble. Fredk North tº tº º © tº wº • - - - - - 65 o o
To ditto L. Rumour's Bill to yourself ... tº tº º tº º º tº º º tº e tº IO O O
To paid your Bill to Rd Polhill ... tº tº º tº º ſº tº gº tº tº º º tº e e 6 o o
To paid postage dº º tº tº ſº. º tº ſº e tº gº tº tº º º tº ſº º © e º O I2 8
To Balance carried to New Account ... . 2,563 2 O

Á3,020 6 o
1795–97.] AVAE/SOAV PAPERS. 385
Current zwit/. MESSRS. MARSH & CREED. J)7.
I795. , - rº, A. s. d. A. s. d.
- [Brought forward] ... "
I2th Sept.... By John M*Arthur's Bill on De Vesme & Cº ... ... 248 3 9
IIth Nov. ... By your Pay as Coln" of Marines, 1st Sept. & 30th
Nov., 1795 ... tº e tº e e s e s • tº º º ... I36 Io o
I796. -
I3th Jan. ... By Int" on 3ool. 5 “P Cº to 5th Jan., '96 e e º ... 7 IO O
- 392 3 9
Commn © tº º- tº º º tº ſº º tº e e tº tº º 3 I 3
389 2 6
A, I, I52 I7 9
I796. .
31st Jan. ... By Balance from last Account ... gº tº tº tº º e tº s e © º ſº ... ÁI55 I5 O
I6th Feb.... By your pay as Coln' Marines, 1st & 31st Dec., 1795... A 46 IO O
,, , ... By ditto, Ist Jan. & 29th Feb., I796 e tº º º & Cº tº 90 O O
I36 Io o
Commºn tº º º © tº tº § º º tº e º & © tº I I4 3
*==== I34 I5 9
Ioth March By Agamemnon, his Wages, 31st Jan., 1793, & 30th
Jan., I795 e tº º tº gº tº tº ſº tº tº º º tº e e ... 485 I8 6
Compensation for Servants ... tº ſº tº tº e tº 46 I5 6
532 I4 O
Commºn • * * : * ~ * ... A 13 6 6
L. O. ... tº 9 & e e tº e º I I O I4 7 6
. 518 6 6
9th July ... By Int" on 3ool. 5 “P Cº to 5th July, '96 gº tº e tº ſº º 7 Io o
Commºn tº € $ tº gº º tº tº ge tº ſº º © º º O 2 O
*=º 7 8 O
A816 5 3
By Balance from the above Account ... e tº gº tº e º . A 574 3 O
28th Sept.... By your pay as Coln' Marines, 1st March & 30th
June, 1796 tº e & tº º º tº º e © tº º ... A 183 o O
Commºn tº tº º to e º Q & & tº º ſº is tº º 2 5 9
smºº-ºº-ººmsº I8O 14 3
I797.
14th Jan. ... By Int" on 30Ol. 5 “P Cº to 5th Jan., '97 to º ºn tº e ºs 7 Io o
Commºn tº tº º e e º tº £ tº $ tº a Q & tº O 2 O
smm mºst ºmg 7 8 o
24th , ... By your pay as Coln' Marines, Ist July & 31st Dec., 1796 276 O O
Arrears 1st June & dº tº e a & O tº tº e 84 8 6
25th , ... By Allowance for Stationary ... tº & ºn tº tº tº tº tº º I5 O O
375 8 G
Commºn tº º tº tº e º tº e is © tº e tº tº º 4 IS 9
- 37O I4 9
26th Feb. ... By Agamemnon, L. Remonier's Wages tº º & tº e ºs 7 5 II 6
Comma tº gº tº tº @ Q tº e tº . . . . . . I I& O
- tº - 73 I 3 6
6th March... By F. North's Bill on W. Hammond ... tº g ∈ to gº tº I6 o o
Commºn tº e e tº º º tº e ºs tº tº º tº ſe tº o I 6
- *=e I 5 18 6
I8th April... By J. Buckholm's Bill on Treasury ... 3 * * ... I,806 I4 O
Commºn gº & Cº. tº Q tº e tº º tº º º tº º º 9 O O
— I,797 IA. O
A3,02O 6 O
VOL. II. C C
386 THE HAMILTON AND [1797–99.
/D7. ADMIRAL SIR HORATIO NELSON, K.B., in
1797. A. s. d.
I9th April... To purchased 3,473/. 16s. 3d, 3 “P Cº Con*, at 51##' cº £1,784 I3 6
Brokée ... 6 º' e tº e & ... A4 6 Io
Comm” © e tº tº e > ... 8 I3 8 I3 O 6
- - I,797 I4 O
22nd May... To paid J. & J. Boydell for Prints tº e º e º e tº e Q e - © © e e 18 7 6
18th , ... To paid his Bill to Ed. Berry ... Q is º to tº Q e e Q tº @ º e Q & 37 IO O
18th June ... To ditto to do e - e. tº º G. tº e Q e e - tº 0 tº tº e C 9 I4 6
20th July ... To ditto to Isaac Coffin... tº º a tº ſe e • * * tº º e © e G 7o o o
2 Ist 2, ... To paid John Udney's Bill to L. Fenzi... tº gº tº e G & e - G tº e G 95 O O
27th , ... To paid Jass Halford for Geo. Purvis, your Prize Money for Santa
AWažo/za. tº º º & G & & G G tº $ tº tº ſº tº e - e. © º º ... 600 I4 O
18th April... To J. Buckholm's Bill on Treasury (for which you have
credit in a former Accº) ... ... tº e - ...A., I,806 I4 O
Commºn tº dº ſº 9 O O
- — I,797 IA o
35 ,, ... To Interest on ditto, for which you have credit in this Account I 9 7
I3th July ... To Int" on 3,473/. I6s. 3d, 3 “P Cº Con*, to 5th July,
1797, for which you have cred" on this Account... A52 2 O
Comma & © tº tº tº o tº e e tº º e tº e - O I3 O s
*- 5I 9 O
5th Aug. ... To paid Captº Geo. Cockburn's Bill to Scott & Co ... tº e tº tº e 3 4O O O
9th Sept. ... To paid W. Clark & Cº, Carrée of Dollars & Stamp ... tº e Q © º º 5 IO I
18th , ... To Cash ... e - e. - e. e. e º º tº e e tº e e e - c. tº e Q ... IOO O O
23rd Sept.... To paid A. Lasebeck, Taylor, & Stamp tº e º e & Cº. e - © tº e c 3I O 4
29th , ... To paid Chº Cox for Marine Widows’ Fund ... e e º tº e C. tº e e 6 8 2
6th Oct. ... To paid Peyton & Grenfell’s, & Stamp... tº e > tº e - - e º tº e tº 4 7 2
To paid extra fees passing accounts Agamemno tº e - tº º tº e - © I I3 6
To paid postage ... tº e º tº e tº tº tº e e - © e - - tº e C e e e I I7 3
To Balance carried to New Account ... e e Q e - © ... . . . . 2,247 I2 3
A 6,918 I 4
Ist Dec. ... To paid Marsh, Sibbald & Co ... tº e - e e e tº e º ... . . . Ä747 12 3
5th 2, ... To Purchased 2,117/. Ios, New 3 “P Cº, at 70; “P cº ...A. 1,498 2 8
Brokée ... tº º o tº e º © e G e & O c - e. 2 I2 IO
— 1,500 I5 6
1798. -
23rd Feb.... To Cash to W. Williams, & Stamp ... e e & tº e - 0 - 0 © & © I5 O 2
24th , ... To paid Voluntary Subscription Bank... tº e ſº tº e º tº e Q ... 638 I5 O
3rd March... To paid your Bill to Chaº Wilkinson ... tº e & tº gº tº e - 2 e - © 26 o o
25 ,, ... To ditto to Griffin & Adams ... e - © e tº e tº e º e e º 5o O O
2nd , ... To ditto to Lieut. M. Suckling ... ... tº C & © C & 4 7 O
6th , ... To dillo to Dearer tº e G tº º q tº e - à e e tº º E tº us tº 26 5 o
23rd , ... To paid W. & G. Bell's Bill to Chalmers & Co tº º º & © to © e Q 53 7 O
IIth May ... To Cash to Lady Nelson, & Stamp ... tº º º tº e - tº e º ... IOO I O
29th 2, ... To paid J. Udney's Bill to N. Escudier tº e - tº e e tº e - ... IOO O O
31st 2, ... To Bank Post Bills sent Lady Nelson ... tº º o tº e & © tº º . . . IOO O O
5th July ... To paid your Bill to J. Campbell tº º G e e e to tº Q © e º e e > 2O O O
I2th , ... To Bank Notes sent Lady Nelson * * * * tº e G e tº o - e. e. ... 200 O O
I6th , , ... To paid T. Pollard's Bill to Lubbuck & Co ... tº e e e e tº - e º 92 I2 O
2nd Aug. ... To paid A. Stanhope for Newspapers to 3oth June ... ... tº e e 2 I 5 O
25th Sept.... To paid Boydell & Co for Prints of Earl St Vincent's Victory tº e º 18 7 6
3rd Oct. ... To paid Fra" Wilson, Esq., Subscription for the benefit of the Kill'd
& Wounded at the Battle of the Nile ... tº tº e - e C IOO O O
I799.
8th Jan. ... To paid A. Stanhope for Newspapers to 31st Dec., 1798, & Stamp 5 IO 2
1797–98.1 AVEZSOAV PAPERS. 387
Acco2/72? Current zwith MESSRS. MARSH & CREED. Cr.
1797. - * : * > . . . . . . . - - - - - - - - - - - - A. s. d.
By Balance from the above Account ... tº º º e e e e s e ...{2,563 2 O
18th April... By Interest on J. Buckholm's Bill on Treasur I 9 7
20th May ... By Jams Ogle's Bill on Mackay & Co ... º e Q t e -
22nd June... By your pay as Coln' Marines, Ist Jan. & 28th Feb., I797 88 IO
13th July ... By Int" on 30O/. 5 “P C* to 5th July, 1797 © tº tº
25 3,473/. I6s. 3d, 3 P Cº to do tº º & tº tº º
By Flag pay, IOth Aug., I796, & I8th April, I797 ... 435 9
Compensatº for Servº tº e I29 7
79 I 3 6
Commºn tº e º tº Q tº tº o º e - e. tº e º 16 7 9
— 774 IS 9
20th July ... By your Prize Money St Matoſia tº º e e tº º Q & © tº e & ... 600 I4 O
3rd Nov. ... By your Flag pay, &c., 12th Aug., '96, & 3rd Sept., 1797 886 8 O
Abate Drawen for ... - e. e. tº e - ... 580 IO O
305 I8 O
Commn tº e tº tº e & tº e - • * * , e e e 7 I 3 O
— 298 5 O
19th April... By purchased 3,473/. I6s. 3d, 3 tº Cº. Con*, at 51; P Cº I,784 I3 6
Brokge ... ge e e º e G ... 44 6 Io
Commn tº e e tº e e © e Q 8 13 8 I3 o 6
I,797 I4
26th Nov. ... By Agamemnon, your Wages, Ist July, 1795, & IOth
June, I796 ... tº e º tº e tº Q & © tº e - ... 328 8 O
Servants e e - * c tº tº e e e - e. ... 576 5, 6
904 I3 6
Commºn te e ſº e tº dº © e º e - © e e º 22 I2 6
-* 882 I O
A 6,918 I 4
By Balance from the above Account © e - e e Q e e º ...#2,247 I2 3
I5th º ... By your Prize Money, San Joseph & © 2 tº º º ... A. IO2 I6 O
I798.
18th Jan. ... By Int" on 300/.5 “P C* to 5th Jan., '98 tº º º © e Q 7 Io o
IIo 6 o
Commn * * * tº a º - * * g a w ºn tº e 2 I 3 O
— IO7 I3 O
26th Feb. ... By your Prize Money, Virgin de la Regula. Ražhel &
Maria Joseph © º º e Q e 95 O O
1, 2, ... By ditto do Mahonesa. tº º º e - © ... I25 O O
22O O O
Commºn tº e º tº e Q tº e ºl © e e tº e º 5 IO O
- 2I4 IO O
15th March By your Arrears of Pay as Coln' Marines, 1st Jan. &
31st Dec., 1796 tº e e º e e º e e ... I 44 8 O
Commºn tº e e tº e e tº e e tº e º tº e - I 16 O
— I42 I2 O
23rd 3) By Cash Bank Notes ... tº e a - a - tº e - tº e e e e e ... 18O O O
4th April ... By Tho" Ramsay's Prize Money of Cook & Halford... tº tº gº tº º 'º 3 IS O
5th 2, ... By Half-pay, I4th Dec., 1797, & I5th March, 1798 ... 77 9 9
Commº to e Q a 9 & © e e © 9 e © e Q I I8 6
-E 75 II 3
388 7 HE HAM/Z 7 O/V AAWD [I799.
Dr. ADMIRAL SIR HORATIO NELSON, K.B., in
I799. - - A. s. d.
[Brought forward]
20th Feb.... To paid Weir & Brydon for Io Setts Proof Prints of the Battle of
the Nile tº º ve tº gº º tº ſº e tº e º tº e vº tº C & g & © & Cº º I5 I 5 O
19th March To paid your Annº Subscript" to Marine Society ... 4.2 2 O
35 99 To paid your Quota as Steward to dº ... gº tº º tº tº ſº 5 O
*º-sº ºm-º. 7 7 o'
20th , To paid your Bill to W. Yawkins tº e º tº º º tº e tº tº e º ... 40O O O
92 35 To ditto to ditto tº º c tº º tº ~ º e tº º ſº tº º º ... 527 I4 O
17th April... To ditto to John Tyson tº gº tº tº º º tº e º ſº tº º ... 35C O O
24th June ... To ditto to Jam" Sykes tº º º tº G & tº ſº tº tº e tº tº gº º 5o O O
6th July ... To paid A. Stanhope for Newspapers to 30th June, 1799 ... tº tº º 5 IO 2
I7th 2, ... To paid Mount & Davidson, & Stamp... tº is tº tº tº º tº º º tº º º 15 8 6
3rd Aug. ... To Cash e e º tº e Q tº gº tº © º tº tº º ºs 95 O O
, , ... To paid for your Commission Admty. ... tº ſº º tº º tº & © & & e º 2 I2 6
31st Oct. ... To purchased 1,000/. India Stock at 1943 “P C* ...A. 1,945 o o
Brok8e ... tº e º tº e C tº e tº tº ſº º tº º º I 5 O
— I,946 5 O
28th Oct. ... To Bank Notes sent Lady Nelson ... to º º tº gº tº tº e º ... 2CO O O
1st Nov. ... To Cash paid Messrs Marsh, Sibbald, & Co. ... tº e º e tº º ... 904 7 II
9) J3 ... To paid postage ... tº dº ſº tº e ºs tº e & tº dº º jº º º is o º tº gº tº o 17 I
To Balance carried to New Account ... © e & * G - tº e e ... 9,022 I4 3
A 17,344 19 o
11th Nov.... To Cash paid Mess's Marsh, Sibbald & Co ... tº 'º º tº e º ' ... 4.3OI o o
16th , ... To Cash to Maurice Nelson, Esq., & Stamp ... 0 & tº º º ... 500 O O
To Balance paid Mess's Marsh, Page & Creed tº º ſº tº tº ... 8,751 I4 3
£9,552 I4 3
1798–99.] AVE/SO/V PAPERS. 389
Account Current with MESSRs. MARSH & CREED. Cº.
1798. £ s. d.
[Brought forward]
28th April... By Agamemnon, Tho" Ramsay’s Prize Money, 2% pay-
ment, Caira & Censuer e e & tº º o e - tº tº Q
Ist May ... By ditto do for Assemia & Spartan ... © tº º I 4 O
I I4 II
Commºn tº e - to # e. tº e Q e tº 0 & © e. O I O
- I I 3 II
28th May ... By your Pension, I Ith Oct. to 25th Dec., 1797 tº dº º tº a º ... I 90 IQ O
I4th July ... By Int" on 30O/. 5 iſ Cº to 5th July, '98 4 & 9 tº º Gº 7 Io o
Commºn © e. e. • * * e s e tº a º © tº e O 2 O .
- 7 8 o
6th Oct. ... By Pension to 24th June, I798 ... © tº º e a tº tº e G © e e ... 462 IO O
17th Nov. ... By J. Tyson's Bill on Commºs Victug ... º º º e e Q © º º ... I 23 7 8
I799.
22nd Jan.... By Int" on 3ool. 5 (P. C* to 5th Jan., '99 e - - te e e
25th Feb. ... By your Pay as Comodore, 8th April & IIth Aug., 1796 63 o o
28th , ... By C. Ives's Bill on Harvey & Cº 2O O O
90 IO O
Comm” tº e - tº e a tº a tº tº a tº tº e º I I5 O
*- 88 I 5 o
9th March... By Pension, 1st Aug., 1798, to 5th Jan., 1799 ... ... 860 I6 6
- Entg Letter Atty e & s ... Ao 2 6
Stamp for Receipt O 2 4.
Fees ... * - ſº O IO O O I4 IO
86O I 8
27th , ... By your Flag Pay, 8th June & 30th Aug., 1798 ... I 88 5 9
- Commºn tº e º © tº e © tº G © e e 0 tº Q 4. I4. O
- I83 II 9
I8th April... By Pension to 25th Dec., 1798 ... © & 9 - C - tº º º © e tº ... 462 IO O
26th , ... By ditto to Lady Day, 1799 ... tº tº e - e. e. © e tº tº e tº ... 500 O O
I2th July ... By Int" on 30Ol. 5 “P Cº to 5th July, '99 e & 7 Io o
Commºn tº a tº © tº tº e sº e O 2 O
- - 7 8 o
3Oth 2, ... By Pension to Mids", 1799 tº º º © e e © tº & ſº tº & e e e ... 500 O O
I3th Aug. ... By ditto to ditto tº e - tº a e e - e. tº e ºs tº º e tº e tº ... 462 IO O
7th Sept. ... By Agamemnon, your Head Money for Z’Alcide ... 23 2 O
Commºn 0 - © tº gº º & © e e & 8 tº e G o II 6
- 22 Io 6
24th Oct. ... By Cash of East India Company tº º º - a - © e e e & e ... IO,OOO O O
3Oth 2, ... By Pension to Michaelmas, 1799 • a s tº e - tº e Q ſº a tº ... 50C O O
A 17,344 I.9 O
By Balance from the above Account ... e tº e tº e º e tº a ...{9,922 I4 3
19th March By T. A. Collier's Bill on Lady Collier tº º tº & e o © tº e * * * 3O O O
27th Nov. ... By Cash of Marsh, Page, & Creed * * * º º º * * * * * * ... 500 O O
Ä9,552 I4 3
390 7A/A2 AAA///Z7 OAV AAVZ) [1799–1800.
Dº. THE RT. HON. ADMIRAL HORATIO, LORD NELSON, K.B., 2m
I799. A. S. d.
19th Nov. ... To paid Willm. Nelson, P Rect ... tº º ºs † - © © e º tº e C ... 5OO O O
20th , ... To Thos Bolton's Bill to Sam! Lane, 26th Nov. e e - to e e . . . IOO O O
22nd , ... To ditto to Revd F. Barnes, 28th dº ... • * e tº e tº 62 Io o
23rd , ... To ditto to Revd Jnº Partridge, 29th do tº e e ... I37 IO O
,, , ... To I* Bill to John Tyson, 26th Dec. ... tº e e • * * tº s e ... 549 I 8
I6th , ... To Cash to Mr. Maurice Nelson © e e tº to º Q & © tº º º ... 500 O O
29th 2, ... To I* Bill to Abraham Gibbs, 1st Jan., 18OO ... e e tº tº tº e ... I7O O O
3rd Dec. ... To Bought 3,000Z. 5 “P Cº 1797 at 91% tº cº ... ...A. 2,752 Io o
Paid Broker ... tº e e tº 6 Q G. e. g. ... 3 I 5 O
— 2,756 5 O
» , ... To Bought 5,000Z. 3 (P. Cº. Cons at 62% “P cº ... . ... 3,137 Io o
Paid Broker ... tº te g tº º º tº e > • * * 6 5 O
~. *mmºn 3, I43 I 5 O
I3th 2, ... To I* Bill to Abraham Gibbs, 15th Jan. tº e º e - e. * g e ... 3OO O O
18th 2, ... To Bought + Lott. Tickº, Nº. 6346, 12156 (18/.), 23017, & 46419 (18/.),
at 4/. 2s. Od., Regisº 2s. tº ſe e tº * * # tº tº tº & tº & ſº tº º, a º I6 Io o
19th , ... To paid Mess's Lefevre & Cº, on Accº. Geo. Matcham, Esq., P Recº 500 o o
26th , ... To postage at times, 5s. 8d., Stamps for Recº, 6s. º & e tº e a e o II 8
To Balance carried to New Account ... ſº e C. e e - tº gº o ... I,349 8 II
£IO,085 I2 3
sº ... To Cash paid Marsh, Sibbald, & Co ... ſº tº e e - - e is tº ...A. 1,000 o o
I ŠOO. -
2nd Jan. ... To paid A. Stanhope for Newspapers to 31st Dec. '99 tº a e - e. e. 5 IO O
24th 2, ... To I* Bill to Abraham Gibbs, 26th Feb. e e ge tº tº º e e e ... 5CO O O
25th , ... To I* Bill to ditto 27th dº ... * * tº - E - 376 18 9
17th March To paid Ann Subscripta to Marine Society, P Rect ... tº dº sº - - - 2 2 O
24th 92 To I* Bill to Abraham Gibbs, 26th April ... e - © e is tº © tº e 6o o o
}} 3? To 2nd Bill to John Tyson do * * * tº tº ºn tº e e ... 500 O O
Q6th 39 To Commiss” on 1,000/. Received from Bn Tucker ... tº e º tº º a 25 O O
º To ditto On 877. I4s. 6d., Wages received tº º º tº e º tº º º 2 4 O
Ist April ... To paid Bunny & Gold for AWava/Chronicle to this date ... tº º º 2 3 6
4th . 2, ... To I* Bill to Abraham Gibbs, 7th May, tº º tº tº e ºr e & ſº ... 506 I3 O
7th May ... To paid R4 Clarke & Son for a Gold Sword, &c. tº e - tº a de ... I I4 I [ 3
26th May ... To I* Bill to Abraham Gibbs, 28th June tº a tº o º o e e e ... 500 O O
3rd June ... To I* Bill to John Tyson, 5th Aug. ... gº º o © tº tº tº º º ... 500 O O
26th 2, ... To I* Bill to Abraham Gibbs, 29th July tº e ſº tº º º tº º º ... 200 o O
,, , ... To I* Bill to ditto 29th do tº e tº tº a º e is º ... 3OO O O
, ,, ... To Cash paid Marsh, Sibbald, & Cº, P Rect ... 0 & - " is ſº tº ... 7OO O O
30th , ... To I* Bill to Abraham Gibbs, 2nd Aug. tº e º tº ſº e e e e ... 490 O O
» 2, ... To ditto to ditto 2nd do © e e © tº º e tº º ... 5 IO O O
7th.July ... To paid A. Stanhope for Newspapers to 5th inst ... e e e tº tº tº 5 I3 6
I4th , ... To I* Bill by Capta J. Nisbet to Murdoch & Co for Wine sent on
board the Thalia, 16th Aug. e e e tº e - tº e Q © tº 0 42 IO O
31st 2, ... To 1st Bill to John Tyson, 2nd Sept. ... tº tº º e - e. tº te tº ... 500 O O
6th Aug. ... To paid Chaº E. Cox remaining half Subscripta to the Proof Prints
of Battle of the Nile ... tº e © º º & e e e e º © º º I5 I
25th Sept.... To ſº Bill to jam. Anderson, 28th Oct. ... ... ... ... 156
2nd Oct. ... To Cash paid J. C. Cooke on Account of Duties on Baggage, &c.... 350
:
i
8th , ... To paid Bill to Hoffenheimer & Kerr ... . 260
» , ... To ditto to ditto tº e e tº G tº © tº e tº tº e * - e. e e tº ... 24O
IIth , ... To I* Bill to Alex Cormelati, 29th Oct. tº e de tº e tº te tº º ... IOO
21st 2, ... To paid John Jackson for over payment on Flag shares for 5 French
Prizes, Captured 18th June, 1799 ... © e - tº e e 48 3 5
A 8,007 4 5
1799–1800.] AVE/SO/V PAPERS. - 39 I
Account Current with MESSRS. MARSH, PAGE, & CREED, Cº.
I799. - A s. d.
I2th Nov. ... By Balance of Messrs. Marsh & Creed's Account ... tº dº e ... 8,751 I4 3
Ioth Dec. ... By Prize Money, Nile Captures... tº e e tº a tº ...A. 1,368 2 O
Commºn tº e 34 4. O
— , 1,333 I& O
A, Io,085 12 3
zºº. ... By Balance from the above Account ... tº e tº © tº º to tº º ...{ 1,349 8 II
I&OO. -
I7th Jan. ... By Exchequer Pension, to Xmas, '99 ... tº º º ... A500 o o
º Stamp ... tº º º tº e tº tº tº ſº e e is © tº e O 2 6
tº — 499 I7 6
,, , ... By Div". 3Ool. 5 “P Cº to Xmas, '99 ... tº e e tº e gº tº & e © tº go 7 Io o
28th , ... By Captain, Balance Wages & Compen”, Ist & IIth Aug., '96 ... I5 8 6
8th Feb. ... By ditto dº, I Ith June & 31st July, I796 ... tº dº ſº 33 IQ O
Compensatº dº tº ſº e tº º ºs tº e ſº tº tº tº 38 7 O
- 72 6 o
26th March By received of Benja Tucker, Esq., on Account of Prize Money for
Sundries © tº º tº e º . . . tº º º Q & ſº tº e e g a nº ... I,OOO O O
17th April... By Pension, “P Exchequer, to Lady, 1800 ſº º º ... 500 O O
Stamp ... tº e tº tº º º tº dº º tº ſº tº tº E tº o 2 6
- G {-º-º-º-º: 499 I7 6
I 5th , ... By Pension, to 25th Dec., '99 ... tº º ºs tº º º 462 IO O
28th May ... By Div" I,000/. India Stock to 5th Jan., 1800... tº º e § tº º tº a º 52 IO O
3Oth , ... By # Lotty Tick", N° 12:56, 23017, & 46419, Prizes 18l., each at 4/. 8s. I3 4 O
I Ith June ... By Prize Money of Alex" Davison, Esq. © tº ſº ... 746 I4 6
Commºn tº gº tº tº dº º © tº e tº ſº tº 18 13 6
— 728 I o
I4th , ... By ditto, Sundries, 18th June, 1799 ... tº tº º ... I92 I4 O
. Commºn tº e ſº tº gº tº tº C tº tº e º © tº 4. I6 6
* 187 I 7 6
I2th July ... By Pension, P Exchequer, to Midº, 1800, say to 5th June 500 O O
r Stamp ... tº gº º $º gº º ſº tº e © tº tº tº ſe e O 2 6
º — 499 I 7 6
9th July ... By Divd 3ool. 5 P. Cºs to Mids", 1800 ... © e g & ſº tº gº tº º tº e º 7 Io o
I9th Sept.... By Pension, to 24th June, 18OO ... tº º © tº e . . . . . . . 462 IO O
By Balance carried to New Account ... tº dº e tº a g tº º º ... 2, 148 I6 O
A 8,007 4 5
392 THE HAM/Z7 OAV AAVD
[1800–1.
J)7. THE RT. HON. ADMIRAL HORATIO, LORD NELSON, K.B., in
I8oo. A. s. d.
Ioth Oct. ... To Balance from last Account . 2,148 16 O
I6th , ... To paid 1st Bill to John Tyson ... - a tº e - e. 500 O O
3Oth , To Ist Bill to Ofenheimer & Hertz, 7th Nov. ... IOO O O
35 33 To Ist Bill to ditto 4th , ... 2OO O O
55 55 To Ist Bill to ditto 4th 3OO O O
31st ,, ... To I* Bill to H. G. Bassenge & Cº, 12th , IOO O O
7th Nov. ... To Ist Bill to ditto 12th , 5O O O
8th , ... To I* Bill to Roecke & Cº, I Ith Dec. ... 4OO O O
IOth , To I* Bill to H. G. Bassenge & Co IOO O O
I2th , To paid Draft to Willin Rultan ... e tº e 5O O O
I3th , To I* Bill to Roecke & Cº, 16th Dec. ... 4OO O O
I 5th , To paid Draft to Mr. Oliver ... º, º º 34 IO 9
I8th , To Ist Bill to Roecke & Co, 21st Dec. ... 90 O O
33 35 To Ist Bill to ditto 2 I St 2, ... • - © - - - tº gº & 418 2 O
7) )) To paid St Jas Esdaile & Co on Accº Rº Warmington & Cº... 287 6 o
22 S 3 To Interest at 5 iſ cº e tº t e e e e º e º e º º º tº º ſº 26 5 IO
23 Jy To Postage at times tº e - tº e º © tº º tº e Q e e - e s tº e e e I 3 6
A 5,206 4 I
I8th Nov. ... To Balance from the above Account ...A4,706 6 7
22nd , ... To Bank Power for Sale of 5,000/. Consols e e - © tº e & e tº e o II 6
33 33 To ditto do 3,000l. 5 (P. Cº 1797 tº tº Q tº e º tº e tº o II 6
Ist Dec. To paid Bill by John Coleman to Thornton & Cº ... tº e & tº e e 6 9 o
3rd , To paid Draft to Heries & Cº, Accº. Spen" Smith, Esq. 95 O O
9th , To Cash paid Marsh, Sibbald, & Co ... © tº e tº e - 85o O O
I7th , To paid Thos Spencer, & Stamp © a º 74 2 O
I8th , To paid Draft to Thos Allen ... e e s tº e - 95 O O
2Oth , To paid Bill on you by Ofenheimer & Hertz ... II3 IQ O
I8OI. -
5th Jan. To paid for Admºy Commission ... º e e tº º tº tº & O • - - - - - 5 7 6
7th , To paid Draft to Willm. Nelson ... º, º º to º º - C - & e º & E tº 5O O O
9th , To paid John Charnock Subscription to the Azog. AVaza/fs ... * * * 2 8 O
Ioth , To Cash ... e - tº tº e tº tº e & * * * - - - e e - tº e º ... 25O O O
32 35 To Letter of Attorney ... tº ſº ſº. tº º ſº tº a tº ë e b tº a tº tº e g O II 6
I3th , To paid Draft to Messrs Foxall & Fryer - - tº gº tº tº e e 2O O O
53 y 3 To Cash to Lady Nelson... s e tº a tº 4OO O O
26th , To paid Bill to John Teed tº e º 94 7 4
27th ,, ... To Cash supplied by Josh Swaffield 2OO O O
2nd Feb. ... To Cash paid John Lockyer e to • * * - e. e. tº tº º tº e º ... 25O O O
I4th , To Bought # English Lotty. Tickº, N° 295 IB, N° 93O8B, 42002 (18/.),
& 50416B, at 4/. IOs. 6d., & Regists © e e º e º tº e & e tº e I8 2 o
25th ,, ... To Cash paid Capt” Edwd T. Parker, P. G. Player 5o O O
17th March To paid Draft to Lady Hamilton º e & º e Q tº ſº tº IOO O O
To paid Bill on M., P., & C., tº Geo. Player ... tº tº º * * * * * * 3o 16 6
To paid Subscript" to Amicable Navy Society to 31st Dec., 18OI ... 4 4 O
4th May To Ist Bill to ‘Messrs Belfour & Co tº e ſº ... ... tº e tº ... I24 I5 4
7th , To Cash to Whitehead's & Co Account of Atwood & Cº, for the use
of Lady Nelson º tº s e tº e & © e e º tº o © e e ... 4OO O O
I4th , To paid Fee Admty, for your Commission as Commander-in-Chief 5 7 6
I 5th , To 1st Bill to Welsford & Co, 21st May e - 36 I4 7
13th June ... To Is" Bill to Fras Richardson, 26th June 26 6 O
,, , ... To Balance carried to New Account below 494 IG O
A 8,505 I5 IO
1800–1.] AWEZSOAV PAPERS. 393
y
Account Current with MESSRS. MARSH, PAGE, & CREED. Cr.
I8oo. A s. d.
IIth Nov ... By Exchequer Pension to 5th Sept., 1800 A 500 o o
Stamp ... tº e e tº a tº e e G O 2 6
— 499 I7 6
[ 8th , By Balance carried to New Account below 4,706 6 7
A 5,206 4 I
25th Nov. ... By Sold 5,000l. 3 P. Cº. Con*, at 64} {P ct ...A3,212 Io o
Paid Broker ... tº e Q tº e G 6 O
A3,206 5 o
39 y? By Sold 3,000l. 5 iP Cº, 1797, at 973 iſ cº . 2,928 I5 O -
Paid Broker ... tº e > © e - 3 I5 O
2,925 O O
I8ol.
5th Jan. By Cash received of Harries & Co tº e - © tº o º e e tº e Q º e tº 95 O O
9th , By Divº 3ool. 5 P. Cºs to Xmas, 1800 tº º o © tº Q e - © tº e o 7 Ie o
I3th , By Exchequer Pension to Xmas, 18OO ... 5OO O O
Stamp ... º tº © e e tº a o 2 6
- - *- 499 17 6
21st Feb. ... By Z’Aigle, Prize Money Santa Braag 356 O IO
Commºn e e º © e - tº e e 8 I 8 O
— 347 2 IO
27th , By received do from Mr. Birt 474 IO 6
Commºn e II 17 6
— 462 I3 O
I3th April... By Exchequer Pension to 5th April, 1801 5OO O O
Stamp ... e e is tº º º Q & © O 2 6
- 499 I7 6
25th , ... By Pension to 25th Dec., 18OO ... 462 IO O

A 8,505 I5 Io
394 7THE A/AM//Z7 OAV AAV/D [1801–2.
J)7. THE RT. HON. ADMIRAL HORATIO, VISCOUNT NELSON, K.B., Duke of
I8oſ. A. s. d.
17th June ... To I* Bill by Captn. Thos Foley to Solly & Co, 2nd July ... tº º º 66 7 6
2nd July ... To 2 Bank Post Bills, 5ol. each, sent to Lady Nelson tº E tº ... IOO O O
IIth , ... To paid Esdaile & Cº for Sundries supplied by
R. Warmington © ele tº º o © tº e tº e e A 50 IS O
,, , ... To ditto for Cash tº ditto... tº e e ... ... ... IO5 O O
— I 55 I5 O
17th , ... To Cash, “P Capta Edwd T. Parker ... © e ºs e e Q e e e ... 2CO O O
21st , ... To I* Bill to Belfour, Ellah, & Cº., 3rd Aug. ... tº e tº tº ſº gº ... IOO O O
24th , ... To paid Postage at times tº e Q e tº e © e ºs © e Q tº e > © e º I 9 IO
To Balance carried to New Account below ... tº º o ſº G tº ... 3,748 I6 2
44,372 8 6
31st July ... To Bank Post Bill sent Lady Nelson ... e ... Aſ IOO o o
7th Aug. ... To paid for Admty. Commission as Comm”-in-Chief of a Squad” on
a particular Service ... tº e e 0 - G © e e tº a º tº e G e & 9 5
24th , ... To paid John Salter for a Tea Urn, “P order ... tº a º e tº e © e e 65
29th ,, ... To paid Laneville & Cº for Wines, “P dº e - © e e e • * e tº e - 72
4th Sept. ... To paid Draft to Mr. Lawrence... © e Q tº e e 6 º' C. tº e tº ... IOO
,, , ... To Cash to Lady Nelson... tº C tº tº 0 ° © e C e e e © e tº ... 2CO
7th , ... To paid Subscript” at Lloyds' towards the Sufferers off Boulogne... 2O
14th , ... To Cash paid F. Oliver, “P order tº e º © e e & & tº tº tº ſº tº ſº tº 5O
,, , ... To paid Bill by Belfour & Cº to Brown & Cº ... e & © tº e º tº e e II
16th , ... To paid Bill to Geo. Lawrence ... & © tº tº º º & E & Q e ºs ... IOO
18th , ... To paid Skinner & Dyke, as a Deposit & part payment of 8,000/.
for an Estate at Merton - e. © e e • * * e e > © e e ... 800
21st , ... To paid Fras Oliver for use of the Farm, “P order ... tº e e ... 50C
I
:
:
22nd , ... To paid Bill to Thoº Cross e e e & © 6 tº e º tº e ∈ e & Cº. ... 37 I
,, , ... To Bill by Offenheimer & Cº to Harman & Cº, 2nd April ... ... 348
5th Oct. ... To paid your Bill to Minet & Cº tº º e & º is & ſº tº tº e > . . . 2CO
8th , ... To paid Booth & Haslewood, in part of Merton Estate, Furni-
ture, &c.,.. tº e - tº e - tº e Q © e e tº e e tº e c tº a º . 6,2OO
Stamp ... ºn & © & ſº tº tº gº tº tº º º © e º O
14th , ... To Bank Post Bill sent Lady Nelson ... tº e e º & © tº & e tº a c 5O
26th , ... To Cash © e - tº e º tº a s º e e e & © tº dº tº ... IOO
27th , ... To Draft to Mr. Lawrance © & e tº º a e s tº tº e º tº E tº tº e tº 5O
30th , ... To paid Will” Clark's Bill on you e - e. * * * e e e e a e tº e e 85 I
3rd Nov. ... To Cash to Lady Nelson... © E e © º e tº º e tº e c © & © ... I 5C
7th , ... To paid Draft to Burges & Cº ... © & e © s e e is de gº tº s tº e Q 23 I
9th , ... To paid Capt” John Conn for a Hhd. Wine ... • * > • * * * * * * 22
,, , ... To paid Draft to John Lothian ... © º º e G º e e e is tº tº tº º 52 I
IOth , ... To Cash ... • * * © & e © e e ... ... tº e tº e e tº ... IOO
,, , ... To paid Draft to W* Nichols ... e e e © tº e e tº gº tº e is o e e 5O
19th , ... To Cash, “P Thos Allen ... tº º º tº e e º e e © º º tº tº e ... IOO
28th , ... To paid Thos Botts’ Bill for Freight of Packages from Deal tº e ſº 7 I
7th Dec. ... To Cash ... tº ſº tº tº e e tº e e - e. e. * c is tº º ... 2CO
11th , ... To paid R. H. Westley for Stamps & Binding e e s e s e tº º º 9 I
2nd , ... To Cash paid Lady Nelson, Allowance to Mich", 18OI tº e > ... 2CO
12th , ... To paid Draft to John Slater ... © tº º tº e e e tº gº © tº e ... 2CI
19th , ... To Cash ... © e > tº e e we e e • • - - - • * * º e º . . . 2CO
21st , ... To paid Draft to Rob" Wright ... • e e tº a te © e e e e & tº º º 47
24th , ... To ditto to Willm. Nichols e - e. © e º e e is © a º ... I4O
,, ... To paid Mrs. S. Nelson, {} orde e e e tº e Q tº e e © c & ... I 50
33th . ... to Čash, ºf oliver "... ... ... ... ... ... ... 360
18O2. -
5th Jan. ... To Power for Sale I,000l. India Stock... ... ... © e º tº e G O I6 6
A, II,384 I2 2
1801–2.] AVEZSOAV PAPERS. 395
Bronté, &c., in Account Current with MESSRS. MARSH, PAGE, & CREED. Cº.
I8O1. A. s. d.
I3th June ... By Balance from the above Account tº e º tº tº º & ſº e ... 494 I6 O
3rd July ... By Prize Money of R4 Birt tº º º tº E tº * @ e ... A 204 4 6
Commºn tº e e º tº tº tº º º tº gº tº tº e . . 5 2 O
. — IQ9 2 6
8th , By received of Mr. John Jackson, Balance of Account tº e G ... 3, 17I 2 6
9th , By Divº 3ool. 5 P. Cts to Mids", 1801 tº º ſº tº e tº tº e º e e tº 7 Io o
3ISt 3, By Exchequer Pension to 5th Jul tº e º tº tº º ... 5OO O O
Stamp ... tº a º tº e is tº gº tº ſº tº º tº a tº O 2 6
— 499 I7 6
A 4,372 8 6
24th July ... By Balance from the above Account ... tº tº º tº e gº tº e G ...A3,748 I6 2
22nd Aug.... By Pension to 24th June, 18OI ... tº e ſº tº e ºs tº e tº tº e e ... 462 IO O
8th Oct. By Cash received of Marsh, Sibbald, & Cº ... e º 'º tº e > ... I, OOO O O
I3th 2, By Sold 3,580/. 5 |P Cº, 1797, at 99% “P cº tº ſº º ...ſ3,571 I o
Paid Broker ... tº º º tº tº º © e e tº tº º 4 9 6
3,566 II 6
23rd By Exchequer Pension to Ioth Oct., 1801 tº gº tº ... 5OO O O
Stamp ... tº gº ºn tº tº º * > * > O 2 6
º - — 499 I7 6
6th Nov. ... By Prize Money for Lima Convoy, “P J. Jackson ... 1,189 8 I
Commºn tº e ºs tº gº tº tº e º tº e. e. © tº e 29 I4 6 -
I, I 59 I 3 7
4th Dec. ... By Prize Money, Barcelona, Pirus Squadron, AWelson,
Dž/?gențe, Rheater, & Le A/azard ... © ... 263 I 6
22 22 By ditto, Channel Fleet ... tº e G tº e ºs tº a º tº e e 59 I 3
322 2 9
Commºn & © ºr º e º © a tº tº ſº º o ºn tº 8 I O
3I4 I 9
I8O2.
IIth Jan. ... By Exchequer Pension to 5th Jan., 1802 tº º º ... 500 O O
Stamp ... gº tº º e ſº ºn tº e ºs tº e º O 2 6
— 499 I7 6
5th , By Balance carried to New Account below ... to e º tº e ſº ... I 33 4 2
ŽII,384 12 2
-
396 THE HAM/ZTO/V AAWD [1802.
D7. THE RT, HON. ADMIRAL HORATIO, VISCOUNT NELSON, K.B., Duke of
I8O2. A. S. d.
5th Jan. ... To Balance from the above Account .... tº e º tº gº º is tº ſº ... I 33 4 2
,, . , ... To paid Lady Nelson her Quarterly Allow” to Xmas, 1801 ... 4OO O O
12th , ... To paid Draft to Mr. Halfhide ... tº gº tº tº e e & e ſº tº a tº & e & 23 2 O
I4th , ... To Cash ... tº º ſº © & © to e ºs tº a tº & ſº tº § - & * & & ... IOO O O
25th , ... To paid Draft to Geo. Philipps ... tº gº tº tº º ſº tº º º © & e º º 7 I o o
, , ... To Cash ... ë tº gº g is tº tº º tº tº º º tº º ſº. © e de tº tº º . . . IOO O O
26th , ... To paid Draft to John Tyson, Esq. ... tº e dº tº & º & º º ... 2,OOO O O
28th , ... To ditto to Robº Wright ... • . . . . . . tº a tº tº º º © tº ge I8 o o
30th , ... To ditto to John Salter ... tº e º * - © tº tº G tº tº º to tº e I7 3 O
1st Feb. ... To paid postage at times... ſº tº ſº tº e º © tº º tº & © tº e & tº º (º o 16 Io
To Balance carried to New Account below ... tº e tº tº gº & ... 809 5 6
1st Feb., 18O2. Errors Excepted, MARSH, PAGE, & CREED.
£3,672 II 6
D7, THE RIGHT HON. LORD VISCOUNT NELSON 272
I802. - A. s. d.
Feb. To paid Draft to Thos Varden ... tº e & tº ſº º {º & O e tº º ... IOO
2 . . .
» 4 ... To Do to Sir Wm. Hamilton ... tº º ſº tº & tº © & 9 tº e º 72
4 ... To Cash P Mr Jnº. Tyson... † tº ºn tº gº tº tº & C e a º tº a wº ... IOO
, 9 ... To paid Draft to Rob" Bunt ... tº tº g te e ſº tº dº tº tº e & tº ſº tº 2O
» II ... To Do to Thos Allen ... * * * tº e º tº e & tº e e tº º te 3O
, I2 ... To Cash ... tº º tº e e tº º ſº ſº tº e tº º tº ... IOO
,, 15 ... To paid Draft to Malcolm & Cº... tº e > tº º ſº tº º º tº e º tº º ºs 26 I
, I8 ... To Do to John Brydon ... tº e e tº tº º tº g tº ... ... 4O
3, 22 ... To Do to M.” Oliver tº € tº tº º º tº tº º tº e is e e º ... IOO
, 26 ... To T)o to Sir Wim Hamilton ... tº e ºs tº tº gº e g & tº e º 78 I
Mar. 4 ... To Do to Fras Oliver ... tº º ve tº º gº tº º ſº. tº es e ... IOO
, 6 ... To L)0 to Sir Wim Hamilton ... tº e ſº * & Cº. tº e & tº tº º 69 I
, 13 ... To repaid M. J. P. Runce, for Stationary, &c. tº tº ſº tº e ſº tº dº tº I8 I
2, 19 ... To Cash ... e º ºs tº º º & e º © a ge tº º ſº is a tº e & © ... IOO
April 2 ... To paid Draft to Wºº Jones tº tº º to gº º Q tº º tº $ tº * e º tº º º I9 I3 I
3, 5 ... To Do to Mr White tº º º & e e tº e e tº t e tº e ºn tº tº º 44
, 6 ... To Do to Bennett & Son * º o tº ſº º tº gº e tº a º tº º º 43
, 8 ... To Do to James Bowyer & I 17
, 13 ... To paid Lady Nelson her Quarterly Allow” to 5 ins" tº º ſº . . . 4OO
,, 14 ... To paid Draft to Thoº Spinks ... tº e º tº a º tº e tº tº gº º tº gº tº 45
, I4 ... To Cash ... tº ſº º & © & tº g º tº º q tº e º tº ſº º tº e º ... I OO
May 4 ... To paid Subscription to Navy Club at the Shakespeare ... {e º º 4
, Io ... To paid Draft to Mess" Halfhides tº e e tº tº . Q & tº º 2OO
To Balance in favour of Lord Nelson carrº to New Accot ... ... I 805
amºmºmºmºmºmº
Ä3734 I5 9
1802.] AVEZSO/V PAA’AºAeS. 397
Bronté, &c., 27. Account Current with MESSRS. MARSH, PAGE, & CREED. Cº.
I8O2. 3, d.
13th Jan. ... By Sold 1,000l. India Stock, at 212# iſ cº tº e º ...A.2,127 Io o
Private Transfer e ... A.I. 6 6
Paid Broker ... I 5 O 2 II 6
—£2,124 18 6
33 33 By Dividend 300!, 5 P. Cºs to Xmas, 1801 * - © tº e sº tº º dº 7 Io o
23rd , By Table Money as Command"-in-Chief, 24th July &
31st Dec., 1801 & e ºs to s 2 tº e > e - e. ... I6I O O
33 1? By Balance of Flag Pay & Compen", Table Money &
Stationary, 16th March, 1798, & I2th July, 18OO... I65 IO O
99 33 By ditto, ditto, 9th Jan. & 31st Dec., 18OI I, I99 6 O
I,525 16 O
Commn 38 3 O
I,487 I3 O
33 33 By Divid" I,000Z. India Stock to 5th Jan., 1802 52 IO O
£3,672 II 6
Account Current with MESSRS, MARSH, PAGE, & CREED. Cº.
18O2. A. s. d.
Feb. I By Balance {P Account rendered & & © tº º e tº e tº º e - ... 809 5 6
» I By Prize M9 P. B. Tucker, Proport” of Jean Annonettei 445 14 6
Commºn © tº e e p → tº e - tº e e tº 9 º' I 3 O
-*sº 44 II
Mar. I6 By Pension to 25th Dec., 1801 ... 9 * * tº ſº º ... 462 IO O
3, 19 By # Pay 13th July & 31st Dec., 18OO ... I48 I2 O
By D9 Ist & 8th Jan., 1801 .. 9 I7 6
I 58 9 6
Commºn 3 I9 O
* I54 IO 6
April 9 By received from Mess. Cook and Halford tº e - ... I 3O4 3 O
2, 13 By Exchequer Pension to 5th April, 1802 5OO O O -
Stamp & © & ſº tº º tº e a O 2 6
smºs- 499 I7 6
May I By Prize Money, P. B. Tucker, of Rº Birt 49 2 9
Commºn & is © tº a º tº e e I 4 6
sºsºm- 47 I8 3
;: IO By Flag Pay, Compens", & Table Money & © ... 422 II O
(2nd Jan. & IIth April, 1802) Commº... Io II 6
*- 4II 19 6
2^
_^_2^
Errors excepted. #3734 I5 9
London, 15th May, 1802.
MARSH, PAGE, & CREED.
398
7 HE HAM/Z TOW AAWD [1802.
D7. THE RIGHT HON, LORD VISCOUNT NELSON 272
I802. A. s. d.
May 18 To paid Dft. to Mr Brydon tº e O tº e e tº e Q tº e e tº e > e e > I4 I9 O
3, 22 TO Do to Thos Molyneux... tº tº a © e Q e c > tº e g ... I2O II O
2, 24 To Do to Sir Wm. Beechy... tº e e º e e e e e tº e > e e Q 36 I5 O
, 26 To Cash to Louis Remonier, for Balee of His Wages for the
Agamemnon ... tº º º tº e - tº a º © tº º © º e tº e e tº @ Q 53 I3 6
June 5 To paid Dft. to Brown & Whiteford ... tº º º tº e e tº º º © o º I4 7 6
TO Do Do tº e e tº e Q to e e tº tº gº tº e º 43 O. O
3: I'7 To Do to John Salter ... & o º e e e © tº tº tº e G tº e e 89 I3 O
July I To Do to Revd M. Comyn © º ºs e - e. 6 tº º tº e e tº e - 5O O O
3, 2 TO Do to John Woodman... iº e tº tº e Q tº e G O e Q tº º e 53 I5 IO
3, 9 TO Do to Robt. Wright ... © tº º tº - e. tº e e tº s e - e - 37 O O
» I3 To Cash ... tº e G © tº º © e e tº e e º º º tº º e tº e & ... 3OO O O
» I4 To paid Dft. to the Honble Revd Dr Nelson ... tº e G & Cº º & © tº 90 O O
2, 20 To Cash ... tº a tº e tº e © º o tº e e © tº º tº ſº º e - © ... IOO O O
To paid Lady Nelson her Allow” to 5th Inst... tº º tº tº º º ... 4OO O O
- To paid for 25 Maval Magazines at 2/6 e e o tº e ºs tº e e © e > 3 2 6
» 22 To Bank power ... tº º ºs & Cº - ... ... e e c tº e G º e e O I6 6
1, 29 To paid Bill to George Matcham, Esq." Q & Q tº e G tº º º ... 526 I3 4
To Bal” carried to Accot with Marsh & Creed tº e G tº e tº ... 4I3 I6 Io
£2348 4 o
D7. THE RIGHT HON. LORD VISCOUNT NELSON 272
I8o2. A. S. d.
Aug. 2 I To pº Bill by Thos Bolton to Edwd Slade, due 31st Aug. ... ... IOO O O
2: 31 To p" Bill to J. Watkins ... tº e - tº e > e e s , s e e tº 0 is e - e. 5O O O
Sept. 3 To D0 to Thos Weaver - G - e is tº © o e e e e & © Q & - © 2O O O
» 6 To paid Dft. to the Hon'ble Revd Dr Nelson ... tº us us tº gº tº . . . IOO Q O
» 9 TO Do to Fras White tº tº º tº º º tº º º tº e - ... IOG 5 4
To paid Bill to Wm Styles © e O tº e > tº e Q tº e gº tº º º ... IOO O O
3, IO To Cash ... tº e - tº e - tº e - tº ſº tº tº @ Q tº ſº o tº e e ... IOO O O
» I5 To paid Dft. to Thoº Sprinks ... to e ºs tº e e e e & e e ∈ ... IOO O. O
To Bal” in fav. of Lord Nelson ... tº e e e - e. tº e G • e : ... 200 I 6
4876 6 Io
A. s. d.
“In my Agent's hands, act º e e © tº e tº e G tº e > ... I IOO O O
Pension due tº e tº tº e e tº e - © to e tº e c e - e. ... 5OO O O
Overplus of last Pension e e - tº e e tº e º - a - ... IOO O O
To receive from Moe's Estate ... tº e ºs & s e tº - 9 . . . IOO O O
To receive from my Mother's Estºº ... * * * • * ~ . . . 2CO O O
D° from my Father's, at least ... tº a tº tº º e tº e e ... IOO O O
A22OO O O'
1802.] MELSON PAPERS. 399
Accozºne: Current zwith MESSRS. MARSH, PAGE, & CREED. C7.
I802. A s. d.
May 15 ... By Bal” of Accot ... • e e e e ſº - e. e. e - © º e - tº e - ... I 805 6 6
,, 22 ... By Z’Espiègle P. My, Aberdeen... tº e e e e > ... A8 7 O
By Do D° Hoop ... © & Cº. * a º tº dº tº 4 8 6
I2 I5 6
Commºn tº & G tº ſº tº tº ºn G. dº º º tº @ Q O 6 6
- *-* -sm- I2 9 O
June 2 ... By Marshal de Coãourg P. My, Bienvenue ... e - e. 4 I2 O
Commºn g e ºs e tº o © e Q e e - © e & O 2 6
& *- 4 9 6
,, 17 ... By Victory P. MW, 34 payº, I4th Feb., 1797 ... tº e - 7 12 6
Commºn tº ſe tº • - - - - - - - - e - © O 4 O
*-ºs-s 7 8 6
July IO ... By Excheq Pension to 5th July, 1802 ... e e e ... SOO O O
Stamp tº e C tº e Q tº e O tº e Q e e - o 2 6
- º —— 499 I7 6
, 13 ... By Div", 3OO!, 5 & Cº Annº, to Mids' 1802 ... • . . . . . . ... 7 IO O
,, 2O ... By Cruizer P. My, Harrieſ & Zondon Recaptures ... e e - e e e 8 9 6
By Marcissus Dº, Hope Do tº ſº º º e ∈ tº e - e e e tº e & tº a e I I 8 6
By Received for a Bank Power not executed ... e & Gº © º º e e e O I 5 O
Errors Excepted. A.2348 4 o
London, 31st July, I802. MARSH, PAGE, & CREED.
Account Current with MESSRS. MARSH, PAGE, & CREED. Cº.
I802. - - - A. s. d.
Aug. I ... By Bal” brot from the above Accot ... e - e. © a º a • * ... 413 I6 Io
, 23 ... By Pension to 24th June, 1802 ... tº e tº e e > e - e. tº a tº ... 426 IO O

A 876 6 Io
A. S. d.
‘20ool. 3 p" cent. Con”, supposed value tº 0 & © º e ... I48o O O
5oo to my Sister M*.
2OO to Mrs B.
IOO to Mr B. for Edm".
Ioo to my Father's Ex".
200 to Myself.
*-
I IOO 3.038ol, overplus.
I26/, 13s. 4d.
to be divided between Mrs Mm, M* Bolton, & myself.
Mrs Mm owes me Iooſ., which I paid M* B" by her desire.’
4OO - THE HAMILTON AND [180–.
Memo. left by Mr. Pollard relative to Prize AMoney, & " . Paid by him to
Fras. Wilson, Esq., AWavy Officer:
A. s. d.
For Fortuzza tº e e tº º º tº e ºs tº º tº tº gº º {} º º ... 769 I6 II
Madona del Grazzie e Consolazzone ... tº tº º tº º º ... 324 I8 IO
Volonța dz Džo ... e tº o tº ſe tº º e ºl tº e ºs tº º º ... I 50 2 5
Æozza Sorfe © tº e to º ſº tº e e © tº gº e º 'º tº º ſº tº º º 56. I9 7
Madona del Graggie e St. Antonzo di Padova tº º º ... 293 2 O
St. Giovannā, Venetian Lugger tº ſº º tº s # tº a º e is e 99 7 3
St. Peter and St. Paul, laden wº Corn, Hams, &c.... tº e tº 29 9 5
Sale of Sundry Articles... g tº ſº º tº tº º tº º is 35 2 O
A 1758 18 5
Sundry Charges by Pollard tº ſº tº ... I64 4 3
Paid to M Francis Wilson .. tº e C © º º tº tº ſº ... A 1594 I4 2
In M* Ogle's hands, for Fortuna 5 * tº ... A ſooo o o
In Mess” Marsh & Creed's hands ... ... 2COO O O
— 3OOO o O
44594 I4 2
Goods left in the Grand Duke's Warehouse belonging to
the above Prizes, value ... ... (Leg" Currency) f. I I,553
Securities taken at Leghorn for other parts of cargo, from
the following Houses :
Restanne & ſº tº tº e Q © tº G te e º tº º 'º .* * * 3,O42
Vallie Borghesi tº e ſº tº e º tº º º tº e G tº a º I,295
Ralli tº ſº º tº gº º tº º ºs ge º º tº e & ſº tº e 1,658
Giacommo Bernici ... tº ſº tº & ſº e ſº tº º tº e e 534
Ż. 18,2O7
1802.1 MEZSOAV PAPERS. 4OI
A PP E N DIX C.
Sheets of Accounts (in Lord Nelson's writing). Dated between July
20th, and September 21st, 1802. I4 pages 4to.
‘Subscribed SIR WM. HAMILTON & myself at Merton, July 20th, 1802.
24, Ioo each, being 24, 200. -
8 Horses, Merton to Hounslow, not paid Mr. Woodman.
Horses from Hounslow to Maidenhead ©
From M. to Henly
Benson tº e - tº tº e
Oxford Q - e. º e º e e & tº e Q tº º º
Bill at the ‘Star,’ Oxford, & Servants ...
Dorton, Dresses ... tº º º tº e e - e. e.
University Servis Q & Q tº e e to e G. e e c e e -
Horses to Woodstock
Bill at DO. & Servis
Same at Blenheim
Francatello tº e - tº e e ſº e e
Horses to Troymill from Burford
To Gloster tº e - º º º
Eating at tº º ſº tº e e tº e e e e -
Bill at Gloster ... tº e ∈ e - º tº e e e e Q
Same at the • . . . tº º ºr tº gº e tº e º e º o
To Ross ... . ... e e e tº e e º e e e tº e
Monmouth e e is º e e to e e © tº e
Do. by Water
Bill at Ross
Francatello tº º
Bill at Monmouth
To Abergavenny ...
Brecon tº e - tº tº º
Bill at Brecon ...
To Myrter Tydder
Francatello tº e &
Bill at Myrter Tidder
Servis at do. ©
£
3
.eº( )©º
I:
I
III
9
!
º
:
:
From Brecon to Trecastles
e tº º tº º & I
Trecastles & Landovery... e e e tº tº c. e e e
Bill at do. ... tº º tº C º e I
Servis tº º º © tº º tº º º ſº tº º e e º © e e e - e. Q & © I
To Carmarthen, 27 m. ... © e e
Drivers, turnpikes, gearing, &c.
Playhouse ... tº e - tº e e tº e e
Ventriloquist º tº e º
Bill at Carmarthen & servis
St. Clairs for breakft Q & Q
From Carn. to Narbeth, 2 pair ...
From Carn. to Har. Wt., 2 pr. ...
Drivers a - tº ſº ºn tº a tº - - -
Ringers at Narbeth tº e º
From Nbth. to Milford, 2 pr. ... dº º e
Haverfd Wt. to Milford, 2 pr. ... e a tº e - e. 0 - -
Drivers, except two posts from Merton to Milford ...
I
I
I4
I
I
Journey to Milford £189 12 to
VOL. II. D D
4O2
[1802.
THE HAMILTON AWD
&eing 24,63.
Bill at Milford, Breakfast & Servis ... tº e a © e º ... 45
Dinner & Horses to Picton
Oyster Man -
Boats to Picton
Drivers to Picton ...
Coachman ...
Rider © º e
Servº Maids e e
Drivers to Ridgeway
Letters G. e. g . tº - tº tº s tº e e e
Drivers to Stackpole ... e e s e e º . .
Feed for Horses and Men at Pembroke. . .
Return Turnpikes
Coachman at Lºl C.
Francatello
Bill at Tenby
Servis e - e Q . e. e. e. o e - tº e e - - - tº s e tº e - tº g tº
Horses as by bill from Narbeth to Stackpole, Pembroke,
Tenby, & St. Clairs ... º & O & © e e © tº e tº e º
Drivers ... * . e. e. tº e tº
Turnpikes paid by Drivers.
Bill at St. Clairs ... © e º tº s º e is e tº º º
Servis . G. e. tº • Q. tº e tº º º tº e º , © & © • e º
Ostler tº e G -
Horses to Carthan
Drivers * -e o - Q @
From Carthen to Lennon O © tº • e s
Drivers ... tº e - - º º tº e ſº tº º º a s p
To Clairmont
Drivers tº e e
Drivers to Swansey
Ringers
Greasing the Carriages ... tº e e e e e tº e a
Bill for Horses to Swansey; yesterday to Pyll
Drivers tº gº tº tº gº tº tº e e G - ſº • * *
Gardner at Margorn ... ... © tº º º e e tº a º 6 tº e
From Pyll to Yewbridge, & servº, & eating ... e e e © tº e
Drivers . … º .e. e. - e. e. tº e ∈ © tº . º tº e e
To Cardiff ... e.g. e
Drivers & Turnpikes
Francatello
Bill at Cardiff, includě Horses to Newport
Drivers tº º º e º tº - © º. º © & ©
From Newport to Chepstow
Drivers ... tº e. e. tº e. e.
Bill at Chepstow ...
Servº © e.e.
Repº Carriage ...
Horses to Monmouth
Drivers ...
Francatello tº e e tº e- tº © o. º .
Bill at Monmouth, incldé Serv" ...
Horses to the Kymin & to Reedhall
Drivers ... t
Ross, bill for Horses to Hereford, & 2 pr. to Leominster,
& Drivers ... © tº º e e Q
Horses, 2 pr. from Hereford to Leominster
Horses from Leominster to Ludlow ... tº e C © tº º
Drivers & Turnpikes, and Drivers from Hereford ...
Eating at Leominster ... tº tº a s e e tº e ºs tº ſº º
I
:
I
I
I
I:
I
;
I5
4, 17o 14
I
I
.
‘SIR. W.M. HAMILTON & myself subscribed 30 guineas each on August 5th,
802.] AVEZSOAV PAPAERS. 403
Bill at Ludlow for going to Downton, returning to Tenbury,
& Repairé the Coach © tº tº º tº º º
Ä
- - - * * * * * * * * : 5 8
Drivers to Downton & ... tº e º tº e - tº e º º, e a o I6 O
Do. to Tenbury ... ... e e e o 'º e o 'º º o Io 6
Turnpikes ... tº e Q tº e º tº e e tº e g º O O. e o 6 o
Horses to Hundred House º e Q e a e © e e 2 I6 o
Drivers ... tº e - º e ∈ O I2 O
Turnpikes ... tº ſº O 2 O
To Worcester e - 2 II 4
Drivers ... • * * tº e O I2 O
Bill at Worcester ... to e 4 7 8
Servants ... & © e © e I 5 6
Francatello tº e I 12 6
Cyder & Perry º e º ſº tº e I2 I6 Io
From Worcester to Broomsgrove 3 O 8
Drivers • * * e - © tº O I2 O
Ostler • e - • * * * * * * O 2 O
Horses to Birmingham ... 3 O IO
Drivers © e ºs tº e e © & Cº. tº e G tº C tº tº e - tº º º O I2 O
Bill at Birmingham tº e º tº e - ſº e º tº e º tº e e tº $ tº 8 I6 O
Men servis ... tº tº o - I II 6
Female Do. © º o I IO O
Bootcleaner tº º ºs tº e tº e e - O 2 6
Francatello's Bill for Washing ... 5 O O
Horses to Hockly—paid wrong... 2 I 8 o
Drivers ... º e e e e ſº tº e ºs O I2 O
Ostler tº e G tº e <> O 4 O
To Warwick • e e 2 6 8
Drivers ... e e e O I2 O
Turnpikes ... ... o 6 o
Bill at Warwick ... © º º tº tº º 9 I5 O
Male Servis tº e G • * * : * ~ * I I O
Female Do. o Io 6
Bootcleaner tº e º e e > & - e. tº e e tº e - O 2 O
Ostler - e & º, e - tº e º * @ º tº e º ... O 4 O
Horses to Coventry tº C. tº e ∈ 2 6 8
Drivers ... © tº e tº º º & O - © e & © tº tº O IO 8
Turnpikes ... tº º e tº e º ... ... tº e - © º e O 2 O
Bill at Coventry ... © e º ... e e G tº e - e e ºs I I O
Horses to Danchurch 2 II 4
Drivers O I2. O
Turnpikes ... O 3 O
To Daintree I I7 4
Drivers O IO 6
To Towcester 2 I6 O
Drivers ... O I2 O
Ostlers © tº e ºn e º O 2 O
Bill at Towcester ... I 6 O
Servis tº ſº tº tº º tº 0 e º tº ſº º º º gº tº º ſº tº e ºs O 5 O
Horses to Sy Stratford ... tº º e • * * ºn 4 - • a e I I 7 4
Drivers - * > tº e e º o Io 6
Ostlers O 2 O
To Brisley ... 2 2 O
Drivers ... o Io 6
Ostler e e tº e º © tº º O I O
To Dunstable . ... e tº tº e G tº º º tº e - ſº tº º 0 - - 2 6 8
Drivers ... s e e tº e O to - - tº ºn a a s a w w w º e Q O II 4
Francatello's Bill ... - - º e - I 7 o
Bill at Dunstable ... © º º © º º Q - © e e 2 I4 8
Male Servis tº e º e º e tº e º e º º ... o e º tº 9 O I5 O
Female Do. tº Q tº tº e e © tº º © º º © º º tº º º e - o 7 o
404 THE HAMILTON AND
[1802.
[Brought forward]
Ostler e e Q tº gº tº • * * * * * * © º ºs tº e º Q & © ... Áo 4 o
Bootcleaner tº º º O tº e © e o e - a ... ... e e - O 2 O
Horses to St. Albans ... • * * tº e e tº e e tº e e e e Q 3 5 O
Drivers ... © º c • * * tº e e tº º ſº tº e º tº tº º * - ſº O I2 O
Ostlers © e - © tº e tº e <> tº e e e e ºs tº e G tº e e e e e O 2 O
4. Io9 II 2
Horses to Watford 2 O O
Drivers ... tº e e o Io 6
Ostler e - e. O I O
To Brentford 4 O O
Drivers º e a O I4 O
To Merton (zz miles) 2 I 5 O
Drivers ... © e e O I2 O
Bridge & © Q o I 6
Francatello º O II 8
A, II 5 8
- 189 I2 Io
Received ... © e º tº e e ... 4,406 o o I7O I4 2
48 I 3 IO Io9 II 2
Pd by Lº N. . tº gº tº tº e º tº e C 75 3 IO A 48 I 3 Io
Sr Wm half º e e tº e e * - © 37 -I I I I -
. Receivd from Sr Wm. tº e ºa . . . . IOO O O
Due Sr Wim from Li N. ... ... A62 8 I
A. Io94 2 4. Half the expence of the journey to England.
255 O O ... Lent on the road. -
927 I4 O ... At Palermo.
2276 16 4 Owing Ld N.
957 I9 3
*1218 17. I Due Ld N.
62 8 I Owing Sir Wm. Hamilton.
II56 9 O ... Due Lº Nelson.
52 Io o
Ž, IIo3 19 o ...
Merton, Sept. 2 Ist, 1802.
* MONEY DRAWN FOR BY LORD NELSON.
Mr. Tyson, Leghorn, brought away ... Q & Q º e is ... A 258
Ancona, by bill ... - e. g. tº tº e tº a e e e - e - e tº s º IOO
Do. do. e - e. tº e & tº e tº tº 9 º' & © tº e - G I 50
Myself ... tº a tº O & © tº e G tº & e tº - e. tº e e ... 6
Vienna, Aug. 19th ... tº a 9 tº º e e - e. Q & e tº Q & IOO
2 ISt O & © • G & º tº ſº tº tº e º tº e e tº e & IOO
22nd ... & ſº tº ſº e e * - e. tº e G © º º 3OO
Sept. 13th ... © e e * & e • * * * * * tº º º 2OO
2Ist © tº e & G. & © tº º e e > 0 - e : tº e tº 3OO
23rd ... e & C * * * e - © • * * * * * IOO
Prague, 29th ... tº a tº C. tº e tº e - • . . . . . IOO
Dresden, Oct. 6th ... tº a C © tº e - G - © tº e tº e e IOO
smass-
* It will be noted that Lord Nelson has made a mistake against himself of £100.
1802.]
405
AVELSOAV PAPERS.
[Brought forward] -
Hamburg, 28th ... tº G e tº - e. • * * tº tº tº ... ſ.400
- 29th ... tº e º - e. e. © tº e tº e e e e e I 50
3Oth tº º tº tº tº º © e. e. tº 6 e tº º º © º o 656
O O
O O
O O
Yarmouth ſº tº G tº & tº { } {} @ © º º © e e 4 tº º © tº º 287 6 o
Colchester tº e c e - © tº tº º tº e - tº e e tº a tº & e - 5O O O
Money borrow'd tº a º tº a º tº a tº e e tº tº e tº tº e - 4O O O
e £3397 6 O
Mr. Oliver 0 & 9 tº dº 34 IO . O
Drawn for & paid out by Lº N. between July 13th &
Nov. I8th • * * - - © e - ... 63431 I6 o
‘SPENT BY LORD NELSON.
To Sept. 13th ... tº º º gº tº º tº e º e e Q & © tº ... A. I I I Io o
2 ISt ... tº e - e e º © tº º ... ... • * * IOO O O
Wine for Mr. Greffer ... tº e e © º º tº e e tº e e e - e. I2 O O
Hambé, Oct. 28th tº e - to 9 e. tº e e & e º tº a º e e - IOO O O
3Oth ... tº e ºs tº e - tº e e & e & tº e & 506 I3 3
Yarmth, Nov. . © tº º tº e º • . . tº e º tº º 'º 58 IO O
Total by Lº N. tº e - tº e G ... A 988 I3 3
* SIR WM. HAMILTON.
To Sept 13th ... tº e Q tº º & © tº º tº & © tº e º ... A 205 o o
Hambé, Oct 28th tº e & tº & © tº e e © º º tº e e tº º º 5O O O
Á255 o o
To be deducted from the bills drawn tº tº e s e e ... A 1243 I3 3
343 I I6 O
To be divided ... e tº o Q & Q te e e tº e e ... A 2188 4 9
Sir Wm. H. proportion © tº e tº e e º e G ... Io94. 2 4
255 O O
Due Lord Nelson e - e. tº e e e - © ... A 1349 2 4°
4O6 7"HE HAM/L7'OAV AAWD [1802.
A P P E N DIX D.
Weekly Account of the RT. HoN. SIR WM. HAMILTON and the RT. HoN, LORD
VISCOUNT NELSON, from the 21st to the 28th June, 1802.
- A. S. d.
Mr. Coleman, Fishmonger 5 6 IO
Mr. Stinton, Grocer e 4 8 II
Mr. Wyld, Cheesemonger o I7 II
Mr. Cummins, Washerwoman O 5 2
Mr. Gadd, Baker tº e O 6 Ok
Mr. Allard, Greengrocer O I8 4
Mr. Lucas, Milkman ... tº e e tº tº ſº O 2 IO
Mrs. Greenfield, Butcher at Merton ... 7 I I IO;
Mr. Cribb, for Vegetable at Do. 3 I2 7
Mr. Skelton, Baker at Do. ... tº e º I I I 9
Mr. Woodman, Chandler Shop at Do. & I O II
Mr. Boyes, for Letters ... tº º º tº dº tº e
- - A 26 3 2
Expended in the Town House from 21st to 28th June e O I8 5%
Total ... • . . tº º º ... A 27 I 7%
I6 July, 1802. Settled the above account by me, FRANs. WHITE.
*L460 oo o
52 7 Iož
4.7 I2 I#]
Weekly Account of the RT. HON. SIR WM. HAMILTON and the RT. HoN. LORD
VISCOUNT NELSON, from the 28th June to the 5th July, 1802.
S. d.
Mr. Dagley, Butcher, from 22nd May to the 30 June % II I
Mr. Coleman, Fishmonger ... tº & Cº. tº Q tº tº e ſº tº gº º 5 5 2
Mr. Smart, for Newspapers from the Ist Jan. to 30 June ... 5 4 O
Mr. Stinton, Grocer ... tº tº ºn tº e g © e e e is e 4 I6 8
Mr. Barclay, Wax Chandler 3 7 6
Mr. Wyld, Cheesemonger 2 5 5
Mr. Allard, Greengrocer © º ºs O I6 Io
Mr. Cummings, for Washing ... O 7 II;
Mr. Lucas, for Milk ... tº e G O I IO
Mr. Gadd, Baker tº º ſº & & tº º º O 8 8
Mrs. Varley, for Malt, Hops, and Sugar I2 8 O
Mr. Leach and Bennett, for Oats II I4. O
Mrs. Greenfield, Butcher at Merton ... 7 6 7
Mr. Cribb, for Vegetables at Do. 3 IQ 7
Mr. Skelton, Baker at Do. ... tº º ſº I 17 6
Mr. Woodman, Chandler Shop at Do. I 5 2
Mr. Boyes, for Letters at Do. tº e e O I3 4
* The portions in square brackets in this Appendix are in Nelson's handwriting.
1802.] AVE/CSOAV PAPERS. 4O7.
[Brought forward] A. s. d.
Mr. Oliver, for Road and Stable expenses ... & ſº tº tº gº º dº º ºs dº º º I 13 8
Mr. White, for Oranges, Lemons, and Fruit, to Merton ... tº e e tº tº 2 2 3
To the Coachman, for five days’ Board Wages ... tº º te ſº tº e tº º tº O IO O
Tradesmen's bills from the 28 June to 5 July ... tº ſe e o º ºs ... A 72 I5 2%
Expended in the house from the 28 June to the 5 July ... tº tº º tº gº tº I IO O#
Do. in the house at Merton, Do. to Do. tº º º 3 9 O
Total ... tº e º tº ſº e ... A 77 14 3
Last week's accº brought forward ... tº e Q © tº Q & ſº e * * * ... 27 I 7%
Total from the 21st June to the 5 July tº gº tº e is tº tº e ºs § tº ge ... A 104 I5 Iok
July 16, 18O2. 52 7 Io;
Recº of the Rt Hon'ble Sir Wm Hamilton and the Rt Hon'ble Lord Viscount Nelson
the above sum, by me, F. WHITE.
[{4o o o
38 5 8
£I I4 4
2 O O
£o 5 8]
Weekly Account of the RT. HoN. SIR WM. HAMILTON and the RT. HoN. LORD
VISCOUNT NELSON, from the 27 Sept. fo the 4th Ocſ., 1802.
A. s. d.
Mr. Burgess, Oilman 9 I9 O
Mr. Stinton, Grocer 7 8 2
Mr. Grange, Fruiterer ... 4 I2 6
Mr. Birch, for Turtle Soup 4 5 6
Mr. Coleman, Fishmonger ... © & © tº tº ºt 5 8 G
Mr. White, for Fruit sent to Merton, &c. &c. 3 17 6
Mr. Stone, for Spirits sent to Merton 2 6 o
Mr. Wyld, Cheesemonger I 18 8%
Mr. Scott, for Brown Stout I I 8 O
Mr. Jackson, for Perry ... I 4 O
Mr. Allard, Greengrocer o 8 Io
Mr. Cummins, for Washing O 6 5%
Mr. Gadd, Baker ſº tº e tº O 3 II
Mr. Lucas, for Milk ... tº gº º tº dº tº O 2 3
Mr. Oliver, for Advertising for a Cook o 6 o
Mr. Greenfield, Butcher at Merton IO IO 2%
Mr. Cribb, ten weeks' bills for Vegetables 5 I2 6
Mr. Skelton, Baker at Merton Q & © tº e º º e > tº tº e 2 I 8
Mr. Woodman, Chandler Shop at Do. tº gº tº & a º tº º ºs o I6 2;
Mr. Boyes, for Letters at Do. ... tº e Q tº 9 tº © tº & g O IO IO
Tradesmen's bills from 27 Sept. to 4 Oct. A63 16 9
Expended in the House from Do. to Do. e s ... 2 IO 4%
Total expended from Do to Do. ... tº º ve tº º e ... A 66 7 #
17 Oct., 1802. Settled the above accº, FRANs. WHITE.
408 THE HAMILTON AND
[1802.
Weekly Account of the RT. HoN. SIR WM. HAMILTON and the RT. HoN.
VISCOUNT NELSON, from the 4th to the 11th Oct., 1802.
Mr. Haines, Poulterer ... tº gº e tº e > tº ſº º © e tº tº º º tº º c ... Á
Mr. Stinton, Grocer
Mr. Coleman, Fishmonger
Mr. Wyld, Cheesemonger to e e
Mr. Scott, for Brown Stout ... tº tº º tº ſº tº tº º ſº tº º º tº e º tº º º
Coachman for Turnpike & Expences at different times from Merton to
London, &c. &c.
Mr. Gadd, Baker tº tº º tº e ºs
Mrs. Cummins, for Washing ... e s e tº e Q
Mr. White, for 4 lbs. Coffee sent to Merton
To Richard, for Turnpike at different times
Mr. Lucas, for Milk tº tº e º & º
Mrs. Perry, Pastry Cook tº gº tº tº e &
Mrs. Greenfield, Butcher at Merton ...
Mr. Cribb, for Vegetables at Do.
Mr. Skelton, Baker at Do. © º e
Mr. Boyes, for Letters at Do. ... Q º º
Mr. Woodman, Chandler Shop at Do. tº a e
Mr. Woodman, Publican for Charcoal, &c. ...
Mr. Foottit, for Malt, Hops, &c. &c. tº º &
Mr. Whitmore, for Poultry
Mr. Stone, Brandy Merchant ... tº e
Mr. Bethese, for Fruit send to Merton
Paid for Carriage and Porterage for 4 Hampers
:
I
tºe(egeetº&*g*eſe
&tee&ſºeee&ºge*eº*t
ºe&eſººſº&§**e{º&e&tºº
I
I
I
Expended at Merton by Mrs. Cadogan
Do. in the town house from 4 to 11 Oct. I
Total ... tº ſº ſº e G & ... A II.7
Last week's accº brought over 66
Total expended from 27 Sept. to II Oct. ... tº º º tº tº e tº º e
Paid Mr. White, Oct. 19th, 1802, N. & B. tº gº tº tº e tº ... 9 I
LORD
II
5i
:
#
;
:
I
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I
2
I
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5
I
I3
O
I4
8
7
I
6
O
:
i
... A 183
I5 4
17 5]
Recº the 17 Oct., 1802, of the Rt Hon'ble Sir Wm Hamilton, the sum of Ninety-one
Pounds Seventeen Shillings and Eightpence, being the half of the amount as appears
on the other side, by me, FRANS. WHITE.
A 91 17s. 8d.
Weekly Account of the RT. HoN. SIR WM. HAMILTON and the RT. HoN. LORD
- VISCOUNT NELSON, from the 11th to the 18th Oct., 1802.
Mr. Stinton, Grocer ... tº e ſº tº e tº tº $ tº *, * ºn * : * * * tº º 'º ... A5 I6 O
Mr. Coleman, Fishmonger e 4 IO 6
Mr. Wyld, Cheesemonger tº tº © tº © I I5 I
Mr. Peartree, Stable Keeper ... . ... § I 2 O
Paid the old Cook, by order of my Lady e O I 5 O
Mr. Allard, Greengrocer (2 bills) & º O I 5 2
Mr. Gadd, Baker e tº º tº it tº tº o 6 O
Mrs. Cummings, for Washing . . e O 5 9
Mr. Lucas, Milkman ... tº dº ſº & O 2 I
Mr. Greenfield, Butcher at Merton * 8 I 8 8
Mr. Cribb, for Vegetables at Do. ... . 3 I2 6
Mr. Woodman, Chandler Shop at Do. o I IO 5
Mr. Skelton, Baker at Do. ge e tº gº º * I I2 4
Mr. Boyes, for Letters at Do. ... ſe O I2 8
Tradesmen’s bills from II to the 18 Oct. ... A 31 I4 2
Expended in the house from Do. to Do. © º tº te tº * * > & 2 I6 2
Total ... * c & º º º ... Á34 Io 4
3rd Nov., 1802, Settled the above accounts, FRANS, WHITE,
1802.] AVEZSOAV PAPAERS. 4O9
Weekly Account of the RT. Hon. SIR WM. HAMILTON and the RT. HoN, LORD
VISCOUNT NELSON, from the 25th Oct. to the 1st Mov., 1802. -
A. S. d.
Mr. Stinton, Grocer 9 4 4
Mr. Coleman, Fishmonger 2 Io 8
Mr. Wyld, Cheesemonger I I4. 4.
Mr. Scott, for Brown Stout 2 I 5 O
Mr. Allard, Greengrocer O I 5 O
Mr. Gadd, Baker e e s e s e O 9 2
Mrs. Cummins, for Washing ... • * * e e e O 4 8
The Coachman, for Expenses and Turnpike O IO 3
Housemaid at Merton, 3 months' wages 2 I2 6
Mr. Lucas, for Milk ... s e s © e - O 2 I
Mr. Greenfield, Butcher at Merton IO 4 2
Mr. Skelton, Baker at Do. © tº tº I I 5 8
Mr. Cribb, for Vegetable at Do. Q & © I I2 8
Mr. Woodman, Chandler Shop at Do. I 2 IO;
Tradesman’s bills from the 25th Oct. to Ist Nov. ... tº e e e s e ... 435 13 4%
Expended in the house from Do. to Do. tº e - º - sº tº e & 2 3 6
Carried forward ... © º º e e e sº e º Total ... ... A 37 I6 Ioš
12th Nov., 1802. Settled the above accounts, FRANS. WHITE.
Weekly Account of the RT. HoN. SIR WM. HAMILTON and the RT. HoN. LORD
VISCOUNT NELSON, from the 1st to the 8th Mov., 1802.
A. S. d.
Mr. Stinton, Grocer 8 I 4 8
Mr. Coleman, Fishmonger 2 I 5 9
Mr. Wyld, Cheesemonger 2 2 2;
Mr. Scott, for Brown Stout I IO O
Mrs. Bethell, for Fruit to Merton I 7 o
To Richard, for Turnpike e tº tº º º tº e º O II 2
Mr. White, Lemons and Cakes to Merton O Io 6
Mr. Gadd, Baker © º e e tº tº tº a tº O 6 3
Mr. Cummins, for Washing o 5 3%
Mr. Allard, Greengrocer O 2 II
Mr. Lucas, for Milk ... to 9 e e - © O 2 2
Mr. Pascoe, for Malt, Hops, & Sugar I2 O O
Mr. Stammers, for Barley - e º 8 8 6
To Do., 2 more bills ... tº e > 3 I3 6
Mr. Pascoe, for Malt and Hops 9 O O
Mr. Greenfield, Butcher at Merton 8 I9 5
Mr. Skelton, Baker at DO. ... I I4 4
Mr. Cribb, for Vegetable at Do. I 5 9
Tradesmen’s bills from Ist to 8th Nov. tº a º A63 9 5
Expended in the town house from Do. to Do. 2 O 9
tº E tº 7 Io o
Do. by the Cook at Merton
A 73 O
2
Last week's account brought forward e e e © tº a tº $ tº tº gº tº ... 37 I6 Io;
Total from the 25th Oct. to 8th Nov.... ... A IIo 17 o’s
12th Nov. 1802. Recd of the Rt Honbi Sir Wm. Hamilton, the sum of Fifty-five
pounds, Eight shillings, and Sixpence, being the half of the above accº, by me,
F. WHITE.
[Paid by Lord Nelson to Mr. White.]
4IO THE HAM/Z 7 OAV AAVD
[1802.
Weekly Account of the RT, HoN. SIR WM. HAMILTON and the RT. HoN.
VISCOUNT NELSON, from the 29th Mov. to the 6th Dec., 1802.
Mr. Sanders, for 3 Dinners ... © tº e tº e tº tº e G
Mr. Hains, for Poultry from 16th Oct. to 11th Dec.
Mr. Tupp & Perry, Pastry Coo e s tº ſº tº ſº
Mr. Stinton, Grocer ... tº º º
Mr. Coleman, Fishmonger
Mr. Wyld, Cheesemonger e
Mr. Allard, Greengrocer tº e e tº ſº tº • * *
Mr. Smith, 5 Nov., a Coach & pair Horses ...
Mrs. Cummins, for Washing ... • ſº º tº e tº
Mr. Gadd, Baker tº ſº º tº º ſº tº gº tº tº e º tº e & tº gº tº © e ºs e tº º
Mr. White, Porterage & Carriage for a Case of Hollands Gin from Deal.
To Gaetano, for Turnpike tº e Q tº e º tº º º tº s e Q & C Q & Q tº º º
To Richard, Do. tº g ſº tº º º tº ſº tº tº gº º tº e G
Mr. Fawell, for Hack, one day tº e º tº º º tº e º tº e G
Mr. Canham, for Oysters and Musuls tº e g tº gº tº tº e º
Mr. Peartree, Baits for the horse at different times, and Osler
Mr. Lucas, for Milk ... tº gº ºn tº Q e e g
Mr. Greenfield, Butcher at Merton
Mr. Cribb, for Vegetables Do. tº º º
Mr. Woodman, Chandler Shop Do. ...
Mr. Skelton, Baker Do. tº e º tº º tº
Mr. Boyes, for Letters Do. ...
Mr. Whitmore, for Poultry Do.
A
Tradesmen’s bills from 29 Nov. to 6 Dec.
Expended at Merton by the Cook
Do. in the Town house e
Ä
3
ſ
Ä
4
:
Total
Last week's account brought forward tº tº º
Total from the 22 Nov. to 6 Dec. tº e º “. … A74
[Paid Mr. White Dec. 21st, 1802, from Nov. 22nd to Dec. 6th ... ... 37
N. & B.
3
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Weekly Account of the RT. HoN. SIR WM. HAMILTON and the RT. HoN.
VISCOUNT NEISON from the 6 to the 13 Oec., 1802.
Mr. Stinton, Grocer ... © e g © º º tº e º © e & tº º ºs to ſº tº ... 45
Mr. Wyld, Cheesemonger 2
Mr. Coleman, Fishmonger I
Mr. Allard, Greengrocer I
Mr. Twining, for Tea I
Mr. Cummins, for Washing ... tº tº e O
Mr. White, Fruit and Honey to Merton O
Mr. Gadd, Baker e © tº ſº e e e tº gº tº tº ſº tº tº gº ºf tº e ºs & gº º O
Mr. Lucas, for Milk ... . ... tº dº ſº tº e ºs º e e tº e s tº gº tº e e gº O
Gaetano, Turnpike te e ſº tº e tº O
Mr. Greenfield, Butcher at Merton 7
Mr. Skelton, Baker at Do. tº ei º tº e º I
Mr. Woodman, Chandler Shop at Do. I
Mr. Denny, for Poultry at Do. tº it tº I
Mr. Cribb, for Vegetables at Do. O
Mr. Boyes, for Letters at Do. ... O
7
Tradesmen’s bills from 6 to I3 Dec. ... tº tº º tº º & © e º ſº tº gº ... Á2
Expended in the house from Do. to Do. ... tº gº tº tº gº tº tº ſº ºf e e tº 3
Total
A30
28 Dec, Settled the above account.—F. WHITE,
L
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I4 6
I9 5%
1802.] AVE/CSOAV PAPERS.
4 II
Weekly Account of the RT. HoN. SIR WM. HAMILTON and the RT. HoN. LORD
Viscount NELSON from 13 to 20 Dec., 1802.
Mr. Clark, for Wax and Tallow Candles ... A 32 8 2%
Mr. Stinton, Grocer ... tº tº º tº e º tº ſº tº © 9 II 8
Mr. Dagley, Butcher, from 13 Nov. to 18 Dec. 7 17 7
Mr. Coleman, Fishmonger tº e e tº e - 3 2 4
Mr. Wyld, Cheesemonger tº e - tº e & © e Q I I9 I}
Mr. White, Fruit and other things to Merton O I8 o
Mr. Allard, Greengrocer tº e G tº º º tº º º o I6 II
Mr. Thomas, for Parmesan Cheese O II IO;
Mr. Cummins, for Washing O 9 8
Richard, for Turnpike ... O 8 O
Mr. Gadd, Baker tº a tº e e - o 5 4;
Mr. Lucas, for Milk ... tº e º o I 7
Mr. Greenfield, Butcher at Merton II 7 8%
Mr. Mason, for Brown Stout Do. 3 O 9
Mr. Whitmore, for Poultry at Do. 2 4 9
Mr. Skelton, Baker at Do. ... e e I I4 4+
Mr. Woodman, Chandler Shop Do. ... I 8 II
Mr. Cribb, for Vegetable Do. ... e tº I o 6
Mr. Boyes, for Letters ... e tº ºr O II 2
Tradesmen's bills from 13 to 20 Dec.... ... 479 I8 6
Expended in the house from Do. to Do. e 2 5 2
Do. by the Cook at Merton to e ºs tº e tº O I2 3
Total from the 13 to 20 Dec. ... © e e tº ſº º ... A82 I 5 II
Last week's accº brought forward ... tº e Q tº e - © e º tº tº º ... 30 19 5%
Total © e tº e e - e is e e ... 4 II3 I5 43
28 Dec., 1802. Recd of the Rt Hon'ble Sir Wm Hamilton the Half of the
above sum ... tº º º tº e - tº dº ſº. & © e tº a tº tº e ſº tº º e ... 56 I7 8
[Paid £56 17s. 8d. Dec. 29th, 1802, by NELSON & BRONTE.]
Weekly Account of the RT. HoN. SIR WM. HAMILTON and the RT. HoN. LORD
VISCOUNT NELSON from the 20th to the 27th Dec., 1802.
Mr. Stinton, Grocer ... A. IO I5 I}
Mr. Coleman, Fishmonger g 3 II 4
Mr. Wyld, Cheesemonger e 2 18 13.
Mr. Allard, Greengrocer e o I2 7
Mr. Gadd, Baker tº gº º © O 8 8
Mr. White, Fruit to Merton e I 3 6
Gaetano, for Turnpike ... o O 3 2
Coachman, for Do. º O 3 II
Mr. Cummins, for Washing º O 5 9%
Mr. Lucas, for Milk ... © e º e O 3 4
Mr. Greenfield, Butcher at Merton º 8 16 Jo,
Mr. Denny, for Poultery at Do. e tº e & 4 O 6
Mr. Woodman, Chandler Shop at Do. e I 7 9
Mr. Cribb, for Vegetable at Do. tº e º I 4 9
Mr. Whitmore, for Poultery at Do. e I IQ 6
Mr. Skelton, Baker at Do, ... e I 17 7%
Mr. Chapman, for Pork at Do. e o 17 6
Mr. Boyes, for Letters at Do. ... e o I6 II
Mr. Haines, for a Turkey at Do. tº & Cº º o I6 o
Mr. Skelton, for 50 Wood Bavins at Do. º O I 5 O
Tradesmen's bills from 20 to 27 Dec. ... A 42 17 II;
Expended in the house from Do. to Do. e e c 4 I4 8%
Total ... A 47 12 8
Jan. 9th, 1803,
Settled the above accº.—FRANS. WHITE,
4I2 THE HAM/Z TOW A/V/O
[1803.
Weekly Account of the RT. HoN. SIR WM. HAMILTON and the RT. HoN. LORD
VISCOUNT NELSON, from the 27th Dec., 1802, to the 3rd /an., 1803.
A.
Mr. Stinton, Grocer 9
Mr. Allard, Greengrocer 2
Mr. Coleman, Fishmonger 4
Mr. Wyld, Cheesemonger 2
Mr. Price, for Maccarone 2
Mr. Cummins, for Washing O
Mr. Gadd, Baker • - - © tº º O
Mr. Lucas, for Milk ... tº € gº O
Mr. Greenfield, Butcher at Merton ... I6
Mr. Woodman, Chandler Shop at Do. 3
Mr. Denny, for Poultery at Do. 3
Mr. Skelton, Baker at Do. tº º ſº 2
Mr. Cribb, Vegetables at Do. ... I
Mr. Boyes, for Letters at Do. ... O
Tradesmen’s bills from the 27th Dec. to 3rd Jan. ... ... ſ.50
Expended in the house from Do. to Do. * gº tº 3
Expended by the Cook at Merton e tº e e tº a º tº dº º tº e tº ... I 3
To 5 weeks' board wages to the two Coachmen, from the 29 Nov. to the
3rd Jan., 1803 e ſº tº tº e tº tº ſº tº tº º (º e dº º ſº tº e tº º q tº tº ſº 7
To Richard, for Turnpike at different times ... tº tº º tº e & * & © & ſº tº O
To the old Coachman for Do. Do. tº e tº tº e G tº e tº © tº gº tº $ tº O
Total tº e G tº e º tº gº tº tº a tº tº º ſº ... Á74
Last week's accº brought forward ... © e º © tº tº © e tº is e º ... 47
Total expended from 20 Dec., 1802, to 3rd Jan., 1803 ... A 122
Recd 9 Jan., 1803, of the Rt Honºle Sir Wim Hamilton, the sum of Sixty-
one Pounds One Shilling and Fivepence, being the half of the above
accº, by me, FRANS. WHITE ... tº e tº tº ſº tº tº e e © º º 6 I
[Paid by Lord Nelson £61 Is. 5d. Jan. IIth, 1803.−NELSON & BRONTE.]
S. d.
I2 Io;
8 II
I4 8
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6
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Weekly Account of the RT. HoN. SIR. W.M. HAMILTON and the RT. HoN.
VISCOUNT NELSON, from the 3rd to the Ioth January, 1803.
Mr. Coleman, Fishmonger
Mr. Slinton, Grocer
Mr. Mattam, Brewer ...
Mr. Wyld, Cheesemonger
Mr. Allard, Greengrocer
Mr. Gadd, Baker tº
Mr. Cummins, for Washing
Mr. Lucas, for Milk ... © tº º
Mr. Greenfield, Butcher at Merton
Mr. Skelton, Baker at Do. tº ſe e
Mr. Cribb, for Vegetables at Do. tº gº tº
Mr. Woodman, Chandler Shop at Do.
Mr. Boys, for Letters ... © e º tº e ſº
I
Tradesmen's bills from 3rd to the Ioth Jan....
Expended in the house from 3 to Io Do.
3
LORD
S. d.
8 3
4 8
IO O
I I IO
6 Io
6 2
6 I
3 7
8 o',
4 Ioš
I3 9
16 Io
IO 4
II 3}
I7 2
.8 5}
A39
January 26, 1803. Settled the above accº.—FRANs. WHITE.
1803.] AVEZSOAV PAPERS.
4I 3
Weekly Account of the RT. HoN. SIR WM. HAMILTON and the RT. HoN. LORD
VISCOUNT NELSON, from the Ioff, to the 17th January, 1803.
Mr. Tavernier, Wine Merchant e - e. tº E to tº e G © & © tº º º ... IO3
Mrs. Perry, Pastry Cook tº º º tº e - • e e “e e Q • e e tº e e ... 20
Mr. Stinton, Grocer ... © tº º © e º e tº e tº e G e - © G. G. G. ... I4
Mr. Johnson, for Maraschino ... º º º -
Mr. Simpson, for a Case Fish Sauce...
Mr. Peartree, for Baiting the, different times
Mr. Price, for Maccarone
Mr. Wyld, Cheesemonger
Mr. Coleman, Fishmonger
Mr. Allard, Greengrocer
Mrs. Cummins, Washing
Mr. Gadd, Baker
Mr. Lucas, Milkman
Gaetano, for Turnpike ... © e tº tº º º
Mr. Davis & Bent, Brewers at Merton
Mr. Greenfield, Butcher at Do. & © e.
Mr. Woodman, for Parcels, &c., at Do.
Mr. Mason, for Brown Stout at Do. ...
Mr. Skelton, Baker at Do. ... tº ſº tº
Mr. Woodman, Chandler Shop at Do.
Mr. Boyes, for Letters at Do. ... & © tº
Mr. Denny, for Poultery at Do.
Mr. Chapman, for Pork, &c.
à
2
I
3
2
Expended in the house from Io to 17 Jan.
Do. by the Cook at Merton tº º º tº e e e º º © tº e tº gº tº
Last week's accº brought forward ... & e e tº e & • * * • * * ... 39
Total from the 3rd to the 17 Jan. tº e e ... A 258
J., n. 26, 1803, Recd of the Rt Honºle Sir Win Hamilton by me, FRANs.
[Lord Nelson paid Jan. 27th.-N. & B.]
2
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Weekly Aecount of the RT. HoN. SIR WM. HAMILTON and the RT. HoN.
VISCOUNT NELSON, from the 17th to the 24th January, 1803.
#,
Mr. Stinton, Grocer ... tº e de tº a º
Mr. Aislabie, for Hock and Bottles ...
Mr. Coleman, Fishmonger tº º º
Mr. Price, for a Case of Macaroni
Mr. Radford, for Meat ...
Mr. Wyld, Cheesemonger
Mr. Allard, Greengrocer
Mr. Gadd, Baker e e e Q © tº º
Mr. Cummins, for Washing ... tº tº º
Two Coachmen 3 weeks' board wages
Mr. Lucas, for Milk ... tº º tº tº 8 tº
Gaetano and old Coachman, Turnpike
Mr. Greenfield, Butcher at Merton
Mr. Mason, for Brown Stout at Do. ...
Mr. Denny, Poulter at Do. ...
Mr. Cribb, for Vegetables at Do.
Mr. Skelton, Baker at Do. ... tº º º
Mr. Woodman, Chandler Shop at Do.
I
O
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I
I
I
I
:
::
I
4I4 7THE A/AM/Z 7'O/V AAWD [1803.
[Brought forward] A. s. d.
Mr. Whitmore, Poulterer at Do. tº º º tº tº º tº gº tº e & e & G tº g º 3 4. O
Mrs. Barnes, for Wages and other Expenses tº º º tº e e tº ſº tº ... 23 I 3
Tradesmen’s bills, &c., from 17 to 24 Jan. ... & © º tº dº ſº tº gº tº ... A86 II 6;
Expended in the house from Do. to Do. ... g tº E & 4 & & # 3 § 4 ſº 3 3 O#
Total ... . ... tº e G £ tº º tº º º ... A 39 I4 7
Feb. 8, 1803. Settled the above accº.—FRANs. WHITE.
Weekly Account of the RT. HoN. SIR WM. HAMILTON and the RT. HoN. LORD
VISCOUNT NELSON, from the 24th to the 31st January, 1803.
A. S. d.
Mr. Stinton, Grocer 2 Iº;
Mr. Coleman, Fishmonger O 2
Mr. Wyld, Cheesemonger O
Mr. Allard, Greengrocer
I
:
I
3
IO 2
Mr. Grange, &c., Fruiterers 5 9
Mr. Gadd, Baker 7 2%
Mr. Cummins, for Washing ... tº e g tº tº º e ſº e tº e de tº gº tº tº e e 9 2 3
Phillis Thorpe, housemaid at Merton, for 3 months and three days'
wages to ſº e * c º ſº ſº tº tº e º tº gº º – º e c tº e º tº º º tº gº e 2 I3. 9
To Richard, for Turnpike to & from Merton tº tº º ſº tº gº tº e e © º º o 8 3
Tradesmen's bills from the 24th to 31st Jan. ... ... tº tº º ... 633 9 7%
Expended in the house from Do. to Do. ... tº e e to e G tº º ºs tº e ºs 4 7 IO
Last week's accº brought forward ... * † - tº tº C. tº ſº tº tº ſº tº ... 89 I4 7
Total from the 17th to 31st Jan., 1803 ... A 127 12 Ok
8 Feb., 1803. Recº of the Rt Honble Sir Wm. Hamilton the half of the
above accº, by me, FRANS. WHITE ... tº gº tº 63 I6 o
[Paid by Lord Nelson, Feb. 9th, 1803.-N Elson & BRONî.]
Weekly Account of the RT. HoN. SIR WM. HAMILTON and the RT. HoN. LORD
VISCOUNT NELSON, from the 31st January to the 17th February, 1803.
A. S. d.
8 I6 o
17 o
I9 IO
12 I;
Mr. Coleman, Fishmonger
Mr. Allard, Grcengrocer
Mr. Stinton, Grocer
Mr. Wyld, Cheesemonger
Mr. Poulain, Brewer
Mr. Gadd, Baker tº ºn tº tº gº º * G -
Mr. Lucas, for Milk & Cream, 2 weeks . .
3
O
II 2
Mrs. Cummins, for Washing ... 6 II
Richard, for Turnpike ... tº e º 8 8
Mrs. Barnes, for a Roasting Pig tº e G tº e º tº gº º tº e dº tº e & * = & 9 6
Matthews, the old Coachman, for two weeks' board wages, from 24th Jan.
to 6th Feb. ... • * e e s e tº º º tº e • • * * tº tº & I 8 O
Mr. Skelton, Baker at Merton, 2 weeks © I 13 6;
Mr. Greenfield, Butcher at Merton, 2 weeks... . tº º 8 17 3
Mr. Woodman, Chandler Shop at Do., 2 weeks * I O 2
Mr. Cribb, for Vegetables at Do., 2 weeks ... tº e I I 6
Mr. Boyes, for Letters at Do., 2 weeks . tº º o 14 8
Mrs. Cadogan, expended at Do., 2 weeks tº º 2 I6 2
Tradesmen's bills from 31st Jan. to 7th Feb. . A 49 I5 Io;
Expended in the house from Do. to Do. tº º tº e tº tº dº ſº dº º tº 4 IS IO
Total ... tº gº tº e ... 454 9 84
Feb. 17, 1803. Settled the above accº.—FRANS, WHITE.
I8o3.] AVE/SO/V PAPERS. 4 IS
Weekly Account of the RT. HoN. SIR WM. HAMILTON and the RT. HoN. LORD
VISCOUNT NELSON, from the 7th to the 14th February, 1803.
. - A s. d.
Mr. Stinton, Grocer - & 7 16 6
Mr. Allard, Greengrocer tº º q tº tº º ſº tº gº & 7 I 7
Mr. Dagley, Butcher, from 21 Dec. to 12 Feb. . 33 18 8
Mr. Wyld, Cheesemonger tº a ſe tº e º & 4. O O
Mr. Coleman, Fishmonger tº º 4 IQ 9
Mr. Gadd, Baker o e e tº • - - - - - º I 2 9;
Mr. Haines, Poulterer, from 18 Dec. to 13 Feb. . I 3 IO 9
Mr. French, for Lamb ... tº e > tº º º tº e º e 2 5 6
Mr. Nowel, for Coffee at Merton e e º I I O
Mr. Clarke, for Woodcock & Larks ... gº I 4 O
Mr. Lucas, for Milk & Cream ... tº e e tº e Q • . . . . . . . tº e ºs tº I O 9
Sir Wº's Coachman, 3 weeks' board wages, from 24 to the 13 Feb. tº 2 4 O
Mr. Cummins, for Washing tº º º G tº a tº º ve tº & © & º is e O 7 3
Mrs. Delama, for Coffee {º sº I I O
Mr. Greenfield, Butcher at Merton ſe 3 4 9
Mr. Skelton, Baker at Do. ... tº e º & o 19 9;
Mr. Woodman, Chandler Shop at Do. e O 8 II
Mr. Boyes, for Letters at tº º º tº e ºs tº g O I3 7
Tradesmen's bills from 7 to 14 Feb. ... . A87 O 7
Expended in the house from Do. to Do. ... tº & © tº dº º tº º & tº º º 3 4 4
Last week's accº brought forward ... tº e º tº e e e e e © tº ... 54 9 84
Total G s ſº tº º ſº tº e C ... £144. I4 7#
[Paid Mr. White, Feb. 18th, 1803–NELSON & BRONTE.]
Feb. 17, 1803. Recd of the Rt Honble Sir Wm Hamilton Seventy-two Pounds Seven
Shillings & Threepence Halfpeny, being the half of the above sum, by me,
F. WHITE,
Weekly Account of the RT. HoN. SIR WM. HAMILTON and the RT. HoN. LORD
VISCOUNT NELSON, from the 14% to the 21st Feòruary, 18o3.
A s. d.
Mr. Dagley, Butcher ... tº tº Q © e e tº º º & e º tº tº e tº e ſº ... I I I8 3#
Mr. Coleman, Fishmonger o ºg ... ... ſº tº dº © tº tº e e > 5 I9 O
Mr. Allard, Greengrocer tº ſº Q 5 IO 9
Mr. Stinton, Grocer ... tº º c 4 I 7 IO
Mr. Haines, Poulterer ... 4 IQ 3
Mr. Wyld, Cheesemonger 3 9 5%
Mr. Lucas, Milkman I 6 6
Mr. Gadd, Baker tº e > tº e c I 2 Oğ
Mrs. Cummins, for Washing ... tº ſº e O 4 5
To Richard, for Turnpike tº e º & © e o 7 7
To Jnº. Matthews, 2 weeks' board wages I 8 O
Mr. Greenfield, Butcher at Merton 4 4 7
Mr. Skelton, Baker at Do. ... & Cº º O I7 9
Mr. Woodman, Chandler Shop at Do. O IO I}
Mr. Cribb, for Vegetable at Do. tº e º o Io 6
Do. Do. Do. e o 8 9
Tradesmen’s bills from 14th to 21st Feb. ... tº e e tº e e tº ... ſ.47 14 Io
Expended in the house from Do. to Do. ... * - e. tº º º tº e º tº º º 3 2 I
Total * * * tº ſº º tº e º tº e e tº º ... A50 I6 II
8 March, 1803. Settled the above accounts.-F. WHITE.
416 7THE A/A MZZ TOM AAV/D
[1803.
Weekly Account of the RT. HoN. SIR WM. HAMILTON and the RT. HoN.
VISCOUNT NELSON, from the 28th February to the 7th March, 1803.
A.
Mr. Tupp & Perry, Pastry Cooks
Mr. Coleman, Fishmonger ... tº e Q ^ - ©
Mr. Stinton, Grocer
Mr. Haines, Poulterer ...
Mr. Allard, Green Grocer
Mr. Wyld, Cheesemonger tº e O 0 e º tº e >
Mr. Bowering & Robertson, for Brown Stout
Mr. Peartree, for Baiting the Horse & Osler
Mr. Mackay, Oilman tº º º tº e ſº tº tº º
Mr. Lucas, Milkman
Mr. Gadd, Baker • * e tº e e
Mr. Lambe, for Bristol Water... e tº º º
Sir W* Coachman, 3 weeks' board wages ...
For Oil to Do. © tº e tº e C e e & * & ©
My Lady's Coachman, 2 weeks' board wages
Mrs. Delham, for Coffee tº e - e e ºs - e - to e - tº e e
Carriage and Cartage for a Case of Wine from Portsmouth
Richard, for Turnpike ... tº Q tº e ºs * * * º
Mrs. Cummins, for Washing ... e º is tº e Q
Mr. Greenfield, Butcher at Merton
Mr. Skelton, Baker at Do. ... tº e e
Mr. Woodman, Chandler Shop at Do.
Mr. Cribb, for Vegetables e º 'º
Mr. Boyes, for Letters ...
Mr. Dagley, Town Butcher
2
I
A.
8I
Tradesmen’s bills from 28 Feb. to 7 March ... tº e Q
Expended in the house from Do. to Do. ... -
Total
3
LORD
i.
I
I
I
I
I
... Á85
I9 March, 1803. Settled the above accounts.-FRANS. WHITE.
I2
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Weekly Account of the RT. HoN. SIR. W.M. HAMILTON and the RT. HoN. LORD
VISCOUNT NELSON, from the 14th to the 21st March, 1803.
J
Mr. Dagley, Butcher
Mr. Allard, Greengrocer
Mr. Coleman, Fishmonger
Mr. Haines, Poulterer ...
Mr. Stinton, Grocer
Mr. Wyld, Cheesemonger
Mr. Lucas, Milkman
Mr. Gadd, Baker
Mr. Mackay, Oilman ...
Mr. Grigg, Chandler Shop
Richard, for Turnpike ...
Mr. Ridley, for Sugar
Mr. Cummins, for Washing ...
Mr. Greenfield, Butcher at Merton
Mr. Skelton, Baker at Do. Q & © tº e G
Mr. Woodman, Chandler Shop at Do.
Mr. Cribb, for Vegetables at Do.
Tradesmen’s bills from 14 to 21st March
Expended in the house from Do. to Do. ...
Carried forward. Total Q & e e e tº ... Á54
#5
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1803.] - - AVELSO/V PAPERS.
417
Weekly Account of the RT. HoN. SIR WM. HAMILTON and the RT. HoN
VISCOUNT NELSON, from the 21st to the 28th March, 1803.
Mr. Dagley, Butcher ...
Mr. Allard, Greengrocer
Mr. Stinton, Grocer
Mr. Haines, Poulterer ...
Mr. Coleman, Fishmonger
Mr. Peto, for Oysters
Mr. Lucus, Milkman
Mr. Freser, for Lamb ...
Mrs. Dºham, for Coffee...
Mr. Gadd, Baker tº e tº
Mr. Grigg, Chandler Shop
Mr. Ridley, for Sugar
Mr. Cummins, for Washing tº sº e tº º º
W* Austin, Board wages from 7 to 28 inst .. tº º &
John Mathews, Do. from 7 to 2 I Do. ... tº º ſº
Twenty-five days to the Chairwoman in the Kitche
Mr. Wyld, Cheesemonger * * * * * * * * @ º ſº
Mr. Greenfield, Butcher at Merton ..
Mr. Woodman, Chandler Shop at Do.
Mr. Skelton, Baker at Do. ... º
Mr. Cribb, for Vegetables at Do. tº º tº
Mr. Mason, for Brown Stout at Do. ...
Mr. Pascoe, for Malt & Sugar at Do....
Expended by Mrs. Cadogan at Do. ...
Tradesmen’s bills from 21st to 28th March ...
Expended in the house from Do. to Do.
Last week's account brought forward...
Total from the 14 to 28 March
I3
IO
I--
Z
9
8
3
54
... A 156
. LORD
II
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Weekly Account of the Rt. Hon. Sir WM. HAMILTON and the Rt. Hon.
VISCOUNT NELSON, from 28th March to the 4th April, 1803.
Mr. Stinton, Grocer
Mr. Dagley, Butcher
Mr. Allard, Green Grocer
Mr. Haines, Poulterer ...
Mr. Wyld, Cheesemonger
Mr. Coleman, Fishmonger
Mr. Cummins, Washerwoman ...
Mr. Gadd, Baker
Mr. Lucas, Milkman
Mr. Mackay, Oilman .
Mr. Grigg, Chandler Shop
Mathews, Coachman, Board wages from the 21st March to the 4th April
To Richard, for Turnpikes e g
Mr. Greenfield, Butcher at Merton
Mr. Cribb, for Vegetables at Do.
Mr. Skelton, Baker at Do. ... tº e º
Mr. Woodman, Chandler Shop at Do.
Tradesmen’s bills from 28 March to 4 April...
Expended in the house from Do. to Do. wº
Total
VOL. II,
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4.18
THE HAMILTON AND [1803.
A P P E N D IX E.
1. Office Copy of Sir William Hamilton's will Dated April 16th, 1803.
24 pages folio. [H.]
‘This is the last Will and Testament of me, the Right Honorable Sir William
Hamilton, of Colby in the County of Pembroke, Knight of the Most Honorable
Order of the Bath. First, to fulfil the promise I made to my excellent wife,
Catherine, Lady Hamilton, deceased, I desire my body may be deposited near
her's in the family vault of the Barlows' in Slebeck Church, in the County of
Pembroke, and that my funeral may be conducted in as private a manner as
decency and propriety will admit, and I direct my just debts and testamen-
tary expences and legacies to be paid and satisfied out of my personal estate,
and in case my personal estate shall be insufficient for the payment thereof, then
I do llereby charge, and make chargeable in aid thereof, all my manors,
hereditaments, and real estate, by me hereinafter given and revised. I give and
bequeath unto my dear wife, Emma Lady Hamilton, the sum of three hundred
pounds of lawful money of Great Britain, to be paid to her immediately after my
decease, and to her mother, Mary Cadogan, the sum of one hundred pounds of
like lawful money, to be paid to her immediately after my decease. And as to
all the residue and remainder of my monies, Stocks, funds, and securities, debts,
goods, chattels, and all other my personal estate and effects, whatsoever and
wheresoever, from and after the payment of all my debts, funeral and testamentary
expences, and legacies, I give and bequeath the same, and every part thereof, unto
my nephew, the Right Honorable Charles Francis Greville, second son of the late
Francis Earl of Warwick, and to his executors, administrators, and assigns, to
and for his and their own use and benefit, and I give and devise unto the Most
Honorable James Marquis oſ Abercorn and John Meyrick, of Bush, in the
County of Pembroke aforesaid, Esquire, all my mortgages and securities what-
soever, and the lands, tenements, hereditaments, and premises comprised therein,
and all the lands, tenements, hereditaments, and premises whereof or whereto I
am seized, possessed, or entitled as sole trustee for any person or persons, to hold
the same unto and to the use of the said James Marquis of Abercorn and John
Meyrick, their heirs, executors, administrators, and assigns, according to the nature
and quality of the same heredit” and premises respectively upon such trusts,
and to and for such intents and purposes as the same now are or may hereafter
become subject or liable to, and I give and devise unto the said James Marquis
of Abercorn and John Meyrick, their heirs and assigns, all my manors, messuages,
farms, lands, tenements, and hereditaments whatsoever, whether in possession,
reversion, remainder, or expectancy, situate, lying, and being in the County of
Pembroke, town and county of Haverford West, Borough of Carmarthen, or
elsewhere in the Kingdom of Great Britain, to hold the same unto the said
James Marquis of Abercorn and John Meyrick, their heirs and assigns, to the
several uses upon and for the several trusts, intents, and purposes, hereinafter
expressed and declared of and concerning the same (that is to say) as to all the
same manors, messuages, farms, lands, tenements, and hereditaments (except the
prebend of Llawhadden) held under the Chancellor of the Church of St. David's,
to the use and intent that the said James Marquis of Abercorn and John
Meyrick, their executors, administrators, and assigns, may yearly, during the
natural life of my said wife, Lady Hamilton, receive and take by and out of the
18o3.] AVEZSO/V PAPERS. 4 IQ
rents and profits of the same manors, and hereditaments, one annuity or yearly
rent charge of eight hundred pounds of lawful money of Great Britain, clear of all
deductions, and to be payable quarterly, on the twenty-fifth day of March, the
twenty-fourth day of June, the twenty-ninth day of September, and the twenty-fifth
day of December, in every year, by equal portions, the first quarterly payment
thereof to commence on such of the said days as shall next happen after my
decease, upon trust, nevertheless to pay the said annuity or rent charge unto
my said wife, Lady Hamilton, and her assigns, during her natural life, for her
Sole and separate use and disposal, without being liable to the debts, controul,
forfeiture, disposition, or engagements, of any husband or husbands with whom
she, my said wife, may happen to marry, and her receipt alone from time to time,
notwithstandlng her being under covertule, shall be a sufficient discharge to the
said James Marquis of Abercorn and John Meyrick, their executors, adminis-
trators, and assigns, for so much money as in such receipt or receipts shall be
expressed to be received, and it is my will and meaning and I do hereby declare
that the said annuity or yearly rent charge of eight hundred pounds shall be
received by my said wife as well in confidence that she will during her life provide
for her mother, as also in full satisfaction and in bar of any right, title, or interest
that she, my said wife, may have or claim into or out of my real estates or any
part thereof, by way of dower or free bench or otherwise howsoever, and I do
hereby give to the said James Marquis of Abercorn and John Meyrick, their
executors, administrators, and assigns, in case of non-payment of the said annuity
or yearly rent charge of eight hundred pounds, by such equal quarterly payments
as aforesaid, all such powers, right and benefit of entry and distress, and all other
remedies for recovering the said annuity or yearly rent charge of eight hundred
pounds and all arrears thereof, and the costs and charges attending the same, as
is competent to landlords in cases of rent in arrears by their tenants at rack rents
and charged and chargeable as aforesaid, to the use and intent that the said
Mary Cadogan, and her assigns, may yearly during her natural life, in case she
shall survive my said wife, Lady Hamilton, receive and take by and out of the
rents and proſils of the same manors and hereditaments, annuity or yearly
rent charge of one hundred pounds of lawful money of Great Britain, clear of all
deductions, and to be payable quarterly on the days hereinbefore mentioned, in
every year, by equal portions, and the first payment thereof to commence on
such of the said days as shall happen next after the death of my said wife, Lady
Hamilton, and I do hereby give to the said Mary Cadogan, and her assigns, all
such powers of entry and distress, for securing the payment of the said annuity
or rent charge of one hundred pounds on the days aforesaid, and all costs and
charges attending the same, as I have hereinbefore given to the said James
Marquis of Abercorn and John Meyrick, for securing the said annuity or rent
charge of eight hundred pounds hereinbefore limitted to them and charged and
chargeable with the said annuities or yearly rent charges of eight hundred pounds
and one hundred pounds as aforesaid, as to the same manors, messuages, farms,
lands, tenements, and hereditaments, and also as to the said prebend of
Llawhadden, to the use of my said nephew, Charles Francis Greville, and his
assigns, for the term of his natural life, without impeachment of waste, and from
and after the determination of that estate in his life time to the use of the Right
Honorable George Earl of Warwick and Sir John Macpherson, of Brompton,
in the County of Middlesex, Baronet, their heirs and assigns, during the natural
life of the said Charles Francis Greville, in trust to support the contingent uses
and estates, hereinafter limited from being defeated or destroyed, and for that
purpose to make entries and bring actions as occasion shall require, but never-
theless to permit the said Charles Francis Greville and his assigns, during his
life to receive and take the rents and profits of the said manor and premises to and
for his and their own use and benefit, and from and after the decease of the said
Charles Francis Greville, to the use of the first, second, and all and every other,
the son and sons of the said Charles Francis Greville, severally and Successively
one after another in order and course as they shall be in seniority of age and
priority of birth, and of the several heirs male of their several and respective
bodies, lawfully to be begotten, the elder of the said sons and the heirs male of his
body being always to be preferred before the younger and the heirs male of their
42O
THE HAMILTON AND [18o3.
bodies, and for default of such issue, to the use of my nephew, the Honorable
Robert Fulk Greville, and his assigns, for the term of his natural life without
impeachment of waste, and from and after the determination of that estate in his
life time, to the use of the said George Earl of Warwick and Sir John Macpherson,
and their heirs and assigns, during the natural life of the said Robert Fulk Greville,
in trust to support the contingent uses and estates hereinafter limitted from being
defeated or destroyed, and for that purpose to make entries and bring actions as
occasion shall require, yet nevertheless to permit and suffer the said Robert Fulk
Greville and his assigns, during his life to receive and take the rents and profits
of the said manors and premises to and for his and their own use and benefit,
and from and after the decease of the said Robert Fulk Greville, to the use of the
first, second, and all and every other, the son and sons of the said Robert Fulk
Greville, severally and successively one after another in order and course as they
shall be in seniority of age and priority of birth, and of the several heirs male of
their several and respective bodies lawfully to be begotten, the elder of the said sons
and the heirs male of his body being always to be preferred and to take before
the younger of them and the heirs male of their bodies, and for default of such
issue to the use of the first, second, and all and every other, the daughter and
daughters of the said Robert Fulk Greville, severally and successively one after
another in order and course as they shall be in seniority of age and priority of
birth, and of the several heirs male of their several and respective bodies lawfully
to be begotten, the elder of the said daughters and the heirs male of her body
being always to be preferred and to take before the younger of them and the
heirs male of their bodies, and for default of such issue, to the use of my nephew,
the Right Honorable William Lord Cathcart and his heirs, for the term of his
natural life, without impeachment of waste, and from and aſter the determination
of that estate in his life, to the use of the said George Earl of Warwick and Sir
John Macpherson, their heirs and assigns, during the natural life of the said
William Lord Cathcart, in trust to support the contingent uses and estates
hereinafter limitted from being defeated or destroyed, and for that purpose to
make entries and bring actions as occasion shall require, yet nevertheless to
permit the said William Lord Cathcart, and his assigns, during his life to
receive and take the rents and profits of the said manors and premises
to and for his and their own use and benefit, and from and after the
decease of the said William Lord Cathcart to the use of the first, second,
and all and every other, the son and sons of the said William Lord Cathcart
severally and successively one after another, in order and course as they
shall be in seniority of age and priority of birth, and of the several heirs male
of their several and respective bodies, lawfully to be begotten, the elder of the
said sons and the heirs male of his body being always to be preferred and to
take before the younger of them and the heirs male of their bodies, and for
default of such issue, to the use of my nephew, the Honorable Archibald Cathcart,
and his assigns, for the term of his natural life without impeachment of waste, and
from and after the determination of that estate in his life time, to the use of the
said George Earl of Warwick, their heirs and assigns during the natural life of
the said Archibald Cathcart, in trust to support the contingent uses and estates
hereinafter limited from being defeated or destroyed, and for that purpose to
make entries and bring actions as occasion shall require, yet nevertheless to
permit and suffer the said Archibald Cathcart, and his assigns, during his life to
receive and take the rents, issues, and profits of the said manors and premises
to and for his and their own use and benefit, and from and after the decease of
the said Archibald Cathcart, to the use of the first, second, and all and every
other, the son and sons of the said Archibald Cathcart, severally and successively
one after another in order and course as they shall be in seniority of age and
priority of birth, and the several heirs male of their several and respective bodies,
lawfully to be begotten, the elder of the said sons and the heirs male of his body
being always to be preferred and to take before the younger and the heirs male
of their bodies, and for default of such issue, to the use of the said Charles
Francis Greville, his heirs and assigns, for ever, provided always nevertheless
and my mind and will is that it shall and may be lawful to and for the said
Charles Francis Greville, Robert Fulk Greville, William Lord Cathcart, and
18O3.] NEzsoy PAPERS. 42I
Archibald Cathcart respectively, as and when they shall respectively come into
and be in the actual possession of the said several and respective manors,
messuages, farms, lands, tenements, and hereditaments, or entitled to the rents
and profits thereof, for their several and respective natural lives as aforesaid, or
any of them or any part or parts thereof, by any deed or deeds indented under
their hands and seals respectively, to make or grant any lease or leases in
possession, but not in reversion or remainder, or by way of future interest of all
or any of the same manors and premises, whereof they shall be so respectively in
possession, unto any person or persons for any term of years as shall be found
necessary for the purpose of building and setting up houses, and other erections
and buildings, upon such parts of the said manors and premises as shall be so
leased or otherwise, or for such term or number of years upon any life or lives,
and under and subject to such reservations, stipulations, and agreements, as shall
be usual or customary in such cases, and so as in every such lease, there be
contained a clause of re-entry for nonpayment of the rent or rents to be thereby
respectively reserved, and so as the lessee or lessees to whom such leases shall
be respectively made do execute a counterpart or counterparts thereof, provided
also and my will and mind further is that whereas I some time since joined with
my nephew, the said Charles Francis Greville, in a bond or obligation to enable
him to postpone the payment of several debts or sums of money due from him,
and it being my intention to empower my said nephew to secure the sum of six
thousand pounds immediately upon my said manors and hereditaments, but to
be made payable after my decease, as hereinafter mentioned, by creating such
charge thereon as is hereinafter mentioned in exonoration of the said debts. I do
hereby direct and declare that it shall and may be lawful to and for my said
nephew, Charles Francis Greville, at any time or times hereafter, as well during
my life time as after my decease, by any deed or deeds, writing or writings, to be
sealed and delivered by him in the presence of two or more credible witnesses,
and to be with or without power of revocation, or by his last will and testament
in writing, or any codicil or codicils thereof, to be by him signed, sealed, published,
and declared, in the presence of and to be attested by three or more Credible
witnesses, to charge all my said manors, messuages, farms, lands, tenements, and
hereditaments hereinbefore devised, or any part thereof, with or for the payment
of any sum or sums of money not exceeding six thousand pounds of lawful money
of Great Britain, unto or for the benefit of any person or persons whomsoever, to
be paid at such time or times after my decease, notwithstanding the said Charles
Francis Greville may die in my life time, and to be upon and for such trusts,
intents, and purposes, and under and subject to such provisoes, restrictions, and
limitations, as shall in the same deed or deeds, writing or writings, last will and
testament, codicil or codicils, respectively, be particularly mentioned, expressed,
and declared of and concerning the same, but subject and without prejudice to
the said annuities or yearly charges of eight hundred pounds and one hundred
pounds hereinbefore limited, and for securing the same sum or sums not exceeding
six thousand pounds with lawful interest by the same, or on any other deed or
deeds, writing or writings, sealed and delivered as aforesaid, or by such last will
and testament, codicil or codicils, attested as aforesaid, to limit or create any
term of years of and in my said manors and hereditaments, or any part thereof,
to any person or persons whomsoever without impeachment of waste, so never-
theless as the estate to be limited and created be made redeemable on full
payment of such sum or sums of money as shall be secured thereby by the
person or persons who, for the time being, shall be entitled to the freehold and
inheritance of the premises so to be charged. Provided also, and my mind and will
further is, that it shall and may be lawful to and for the said Charles Francis Greville
and Robert Fulk Greville, William Lord Cathcart and Archibald Cathcart, respec-
tively, as and when they shall respectively come into and be in the actual possession
of my said manors, messuages, farms, lands, tenements, and hereditaments, by
any deed or deeds, writing or writings, to be by them respectively sealed and
delivered in the presence of two or more credible witnesses, either before or
after marriage with any woman or women whom they shall respectively take or be
intended to take to wife, to assign, limit, appoint, or grant, any part of my said
manors and hereditaments, the clear yearly value whereof shall not exceed in he
422
7A7A2 A/AM/Z 7 O/W AAV/O [1803.
whole the sum of five hundred pounds, or to grant or appoint any rent charge
or clear yearly sum not exceeding the sum of four hundred pounds to be issuing
out of all or any part of my said manors and hereditaments unto or to the use of
any woman or women whom they, the said Charles Francis Greville and Robert
Fulk Greville, William Lord Cathcart and Archibald Cathcart, shall respectively
happen to marry or take to wife, for the life or lives of such wife or wives only
for her or their jointure and jointures, and in lieu and bar of her and their dower,
and so as such limitation or appointment be made subject and without prejudice
to the said annuities or yearly rent charges of eight hundred pounds and one
hundred pounds hereinbefore limitted, and to the said power hereinbefore given
to my said nephew, Charles Francis Greville, of charging the said manors and
hereditaments as aforesaid, and also be not by any clause or words free from
impeachment of waste, and it is my will and meaning, and I do hereby direct
that in case the said Charles Francis Greville and Robert Fulk Greville, William
Lord Cathcart and Archibald Cathcart, respectively or either of them shall by
virtue of the power last hereinbefore to them given, grant or appoint to or to the
use of any woman or women any such rent charge or annual sum for her life for
her jointure as aforesaid, that he or they shall have power by the same or any
other deed or deeds to give or grant to such woman or women, and her and their
assigns, such powers and remedies by distress or entry for recovery of such rent
charge when in arrear, and to limit all or any of the said manors, messuages,
farms, lands, tenements, and hereditaments, charged and chargeable there with,
to any trustee or trustees, for any term or number of years, for better securing
such rent charge as to them or either of them shall seem meet, so as such term
and terms of years, in case any such shall be limitted, shall be made defeasible
or void on full payment of the rent charge thereby secured, and all arrears thereof
together with all costs and charges to be incident thereto. Provided also, and
my will is that it shall and may be lawful to and for the said James Marquis of
Abercorn and John Meyrick, and the survivor of them and his heirs during the
life of the said Charles Francis Greville, only with the consent and approbation
of the said Charles Francis Greville, to be testified by writing under his hand and
seal, attested by two or more credible witnesses, to make sale and dispose of or
convey in exchange for and in lieu of other manors, messuages, farms, lands,
tenements, or hereditaments, to be situate within the County of Pembroke, in
the Principality of Wales, any of my manors, messuages, farms, lands, tenements,
and hereditaments, hereinbefore devised, or any part thereof to any person or
persons, his or their heirs and assigns either together or in parcels for such price
or prices in money, or for such equivalent in manors, messuages, farms, lands,
tenements, or hereditaments, and money as to them, the said trustees, or the
survivor of them or his heirs, shall seem meet, and upon payment of the money
arising by such sale or sales to the said James Marquis of Abercorn and John
Meyrick, or the survivor of them, his heirs, executors, or administrators, the
receipt and receipts of them, the said James Marquis of Abercorn and John
Meyrick, or the survivor of them, his heirs, executors, or administrators, shall
from time to time be a good and sufficient discharge to such purchaser or
purchasers for the purchase money, for which my said manors, messuages, farms,
lands, tenements, and hereditaments, or any part thereof, shall be sold, or for so
much thereof as in such receipt and receipts shall be expressed to be received,
and such purchaser or purchasers, and his or their heirs, executors, administrators,
or assigns, shall not afterwards be obliged to see to the application, or be answer-
able or accountable for any loss, misapplication, or nonapplication of such purchase
money or any part thereof, and when my said manors and hereditaments, or any
part thereof, shall be sold for a valuable consideration in money and conveyance,
or assurance shall be made thereof and executed to any purchaser or purchasers,
or other person or persons, in virtue of these presents, and such receipt or receipts
shall be given for the purchase money as aforesaid, and also when the same
manors and hereditaments, or any part thereof, shall be disposed of or conveyed
in exchange for and in lieu of any other manors or hereditaments, and the fee
simple of such last-mentioned manors or hereditaments shall be well vested in
the said James Marquis of Abercorn and John Meyrick, or the survivor of them
or his heirs, all and every person and persons to whom any Sale, conveyance, or
1803.] AVEZSOAV PAPAEA’.S. 423
exchange of all or any part or parts of my said manors and hereditaments shall
have been made, and the respective heirs and assigns of such person and persons
shall and may have, hold, and enjoy the manors and hereditaments by them
respectively purchased, or had in exchange, freed and absolutely discharged of
and from all and every the uses, estates, trusts, and limitations, powers, provisoes,
and declarations hereinbefore limited and expressed concerning the same,
provided nevertheless and my will further is that when all or any part of my
said manors and hereditaments shall be sold in pursuance of these presents, all
and every the sum and sums of money which shall arise by Such sale or sales
shall with all convenient speed be laid out and disposed of by them, the said
James Marquis of Abercorn and John Meyrick, or the survivor of them, his
heirs, executors, administrators, and assigns, with Such consent and approbation
as aforesaid, or by and of their own proper authority, in case the said Charles
Francis Greville shall be then dead, and be invested in the purchase of other
freehold manors, messuages, farms, lands, tenements, or hereditaments, and of
copyhold messuages, farms, lands, and hereditaments, which may be contiguous
thereto, and convenient to be purchased therewith (if any), whereof not more
than one fourth part in value of any one purchase shall be copyhold in fee
simple in possession, be it situate, lying, and being, or arising, in the County of
Pembroke and Principality of Wales, of equal or greater value to or than the
manors and hereditaments which shall have been so sold or conveyed as afore-
said, and as well the hereditaments so to be purchased as those taken in exchange
as aforesaid, shall be settled, conveyed, and assured, to such and the same uses,
upon and for such and the same trusts, intents, and purposes, and under and
subject to such and the same powers, provisoes, and limitations, as are herein-
before limitted and expressed concerning my said manors and hereditaments
hereinbefore devised, or as near thereto as the deaths of the parties and other
contingencies will admit, and I do hereby constitute and appoint the said Charles
Francis Greville sole executor of this my last will and testament, and I do hereby
revoke all former wills by me at any time heretofore made, and do publish and
declare this to be my last will and testament, in witness whereof I have hereunto
set my hand and seal, and also to a duplicate thereof—that is to Say I have
subscribed my name to the proceeding ten sheets and to this the eleventh sheet
of each part of my said will I have subscribed my name and affixed my seal, this
twenty-eight day of May, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred
and one. W* HAMILTON (L.S.)
Signed, sealed, published, and declared by the said Sir William Hamilton,
the testaor, as and for his last will and testament, in the presence of us,
who at his request and in his presence and in the presence of each other
have subscribed our names as witnesses, W. Price, Lincoln's Inn ;
Tho. Wood, same ; Tho. Phillips, clk. to M* Price.
Merton, Surry, March 31* 1803.
2. Copy of Codicil to Sir William Hamilton's Will. Dated April 16th,
I8O3. 3.} pages folio. -
“Having heard that there need no more to make a codicil to a will and to
make it valid than that the testator shoud write it in his own hand, and Sign
on a part of the same will, I do then, feeling myself in a very weak state of health,
wish, without making any alteration to my will, to explain a few points. When
I made the above written will, I had not purchased seven thousand pounds in
the stocks, three per cents, and which are now in the hands of Mess* Coutts and
Co., my bankers in the Strand. This stock and whatever money may be found in
Coutts's hands at my death I bequeath to the Right Honourable Charles F.
Greville, my dear nephew and principal heir, he is well acquainted with all my
affairs, and will understand my meaning, and I dare say act up in every point
to what he knows to be my wish. All my old pictures, according to a former
agreement, and all I have under the denomination of virtu, all my drawings
and papers to be given to my said nephew, Rº Honºle Charles F. Greville;
but observing in my will, that at my death, by the will, my dear wife Emma
424
THE HAMILTON AND NEZSON PAPERS. [1803.
(S4) 1333 Marriott.
would only receive three hundred pounds of the eight hundred I have left
her and her mother, as explained in the will, now not to leave my wife in
such confusion at the moment of my death, my will is that my nephew
Charles will pay my wife directly eight hundred pounds out of what I have in
the stocks or Coutts's hands, and that her annual payments shall go on the
Same, and as I promised to pay Emma's debts, amounting to seven hundred
pounds, but have only paid two hundred and fifty pounds, my will is that my
nephew, Charles Greville, shall pay the remaining four hundred and fifty pounds
from the arrears due to me from the Treasury, as the King's Minister at Naples.
The copy of Madam Le Brunn's picture of Emma in enamel, by Bone, I give
to my dearest friend Lord Nelson Duke of Bronte, a very small token of the
great regard I have for his Lordship, the most virtuous, loyal, and truly brave
character I ever met with. God bless him, and shame fall on those who do
not say amen. One little article more, and I have done. My noble friend and
relation, the Marquis of Douglas and Clysdale, having often expressed a great
liking to my famous Amati tenor, I bequeath to his Lordship the case as it is
with the tenor and Giardini violin, and he may chuse out of my musick, any
that may suit him. This is also a very small mark of the regard I have for so
valuable a friend and relation. All my firearms I likewise bequeath to my nephew,
Charles Greville, except two guns that are at Merton, and which I bequeath to
Lº Nelson. -
Merton, March 31st, 1803. WM HAMILTON (L.S.)
Proved at London with a codicil, 16th April, 1803, before the worshipful
Samuel Pearce Parson, D* of Laws and Surrogate, by the oath of
the Right Honºle Charles Francis Greville, the nephew and sole
executor named in the will, to whom adm". was granted, having first
sworn duly to adm".
On the 7th July, 1810, admon, with the will and codicil annexed of the goods,
chattels, and credits of the Right Honºle Sir William Hamilton, Knight of the
most Honorable Order of the Bath, late of Coleby in the County of Pembroke
and of Piccadilly in the parish of St. George, Hanover Square, in the County of
Middlesex, deceased, left unadministered by the Right Honourable Charles
Francis Greville, deceased, whilst living the sole executor and residuary
legatee named in the said will, was granted to the Rt Honºlº Francis Fulk
Greville, the brother and admoº. of the goods of the R* Hon” Charles Francis
Greville dece”., having been first sworn duly to administer, the said ex". dying
intestate.
d Geo. Goldsmith
Ex Nath! Goldsmith, | &%
Signed
R. C. Cresswell,
425
I N D E X
Aersons from whom Zetters appear in these l’olumes.
Abercorn (8th Earl of), 25.
Abercorn (Marchioness of), 904.
Abercorn (Ist Marquis of), 197, 203, 209.
Acton (Sir John), 327.
Admiralty (Lords of), 3I4, 608.
Anderson (James), 650.
Angerstein (J. J.), 609.
Argyll (Duchess of), 38.
Baird (Dr. A.), 708.
Balascheff (A.), 581.
Ball (Captain Alexander J.), 346, 374, 407,
4IO, 428, 431, 462, 465, 469, 478, 485,
486, 493, 494, 615, 662, 670, 691, 722,
87I, 92 I.
Banks (Sir Joseph), 236, 402, 420, 685,
736.
Barry (James), I3.
Beauclerk (Lady Diana), 223, 233.
Beckford (Mrs.), 98.
Beckford (Richard), 196.
Beckford (William), 191, 198, 205, 2II, 212,
230, 235,269, 271, 279, 292, 438, 674.
Belmonte (Marquis), 422, 495.
Bessborough (Lord), 19.
Bexley (1st Baron), 556.
Bey (C.),653, 663, 687.
Bianchi (F.), 971.
Blackwood (Capt., afterwards Sir Henry),
368.
Blackwood (Mrs.), 854. .
Bolton (Miss A.), 714, 771, 776, 819, 917,
941, 95Q. 975, IOO6.
Bolton (Miss Anne Nelson), 952, 954, 955,
957, 960, 963, 964, 968, 977, 978, 980,
986, 994, IO22, IO29.
Bolton (Miss Eliza), 840, 889, 902.
Bolton (Miss J.), 915.
Bolton (Lady), 769, 788, 796, 812, 817,
836, 897, 900, 901, 903, 923, 925, 960,
987, IOO7, IO5O.
Bolton (Mrs.), 666, 675, 700, 706, 724, 737,
744, 752, 770, 772, 785, 787, 789, 791,
794, 797, 800, 805, 82O, 822, 824, 825,
846, 873, 875, 880-885, 892, 895, 896,
899, 905, 907, 909, 911, 913, 916, 918,
919, 926, 927, 931, 932, 934, 936, 939,
944–946, 953, 955, 957, 958, 965, 967,
970, 972, 981, 982, 984, 991, 993, 996,
999, IOO4, IOO8, IOI I, IoI2, IoI6, IO23,
IO44.
Bolton (Miss R.), 879, 906.
Bolton (Thomas, Sen.), 815, 850, 940.
Bolton (Thomas, Jun.), 920, 922, 928, 947,
Io28.
Bolton (Sir William), 727, 762, 818, 835,
864, 9 Io, 942, IOI7, Io34.
Bowen (Thomas), 689.
Bristol (Earl), Bishop of Derry, 82, 83, 85,
I94, 2CO, 232; 24 I, 242, 244, 28I, 283,
293, 294, 297-3OI, 3O2, 3O3, 3O5-3O9,
379, 382, 383, 482, 483.
Bruce (Lord), 16.
Buccleuch (Elizabeth Montagu), Duchess
of 433. . .
Bulkeley (Richard), 466, 647, 695, 697, 703,
704, 707, 83 I.
Cadogan (H.), IO62, IO64. - .
Cadogan (Mrs.), 563, 821, 865, 870, 874.
Campbell (Abbé H.), 725, 834.
Carew (Emma), IOO3.
Carlisle (Lord), 739.
| Christina (Princess), 312.
Cirillo (Dr. Dominico), 403.
Clive (Lord), 55.
Comelate (Alexander), 6 Io. -
Compton (William), 401, 412, 413, 427,
435, 488.
Connor (Charles), 780.
Connor (Miss C.), IO24.
Connor (Miss M.), 842.
Connor (Miss S.), 828, IOOO, IOOI.
Coutts (Thomas), 63.
Cowper (Earl), 22, 74, 75.
Coxe (T,), IO25.
Crauford (Sir James), 587.
Craven (Lady), 181. -
Crenneville (Madame de), 278.
Cumberland (Duke of), I41, 148.
426
ANZOAZ X.
Davison (Alexander), 490, 567, 629, 701,
732, 795, 804.
Denham (Joseph), 248.
Devonshire (Lady Georgiana Spencer,
Duchess of), II 2.
Devonshire (Lady Elizabeth Foster,
Duchess of), 375, 42 I.
Dickson (Admiral Archibald), 658
Dillon (Colonel H.), 641.
Dixon (Captain, afterwards Sir Manley),
332, 480.
Douglas (Marquis of), 678.
Duckworth (Admiral Sir Thomas), 698,
888.
Dutens (Louis), 517.
Eiker (Baron), 654.
Elizabeth (Princess), 41, 42, 44, 45, 48.
Elliot (Hugh), 763.
Este (Rev. C.), 728, 731, 745, 757, 766, 841,
867, 974.
Este (Dr. Lambton), 767, 781, 801.
Falconet (Mr.), 755.
Fetherstonhaugh (Sir Harry), 989, 992,
995, IOO9, IO3O.
Fitalia (Prince di), 447.
Fitz-Murray (F. A.), 498.
Flaxman (John), 2O7, 224, 237.
Foresti (S.), 596.
Fortuna (Don Camillo di), 443.
Galatone, 265.
Garlies (Lady), 3, 4.
Gavalla (Canon Emmanuele), 432.
Gayner (E.), 74I.
George III. (King of England), 894.
Gibson (Mary), 793.
Gloucester (Duke of), 155, 161, 166.
Goldsmid (Abraham), 872.
Graeffer (John), 623.
Graeffer (Mrs.), 979.
Greville (Hon. C. F.), 14, 15, 20, 27, 29,
31, 57, 59, 81, 96, IOO, IO2, IO4, IoS, IOZ,
I IO, II.4, I2 I, I23, I 3 I-I 39, I42, I44,
I45, I47, I5 I, I54, 156, 176, 183, 184,
I86, I87, 20I, 2O4, 2I4, 217, 222, 252,
262, 270, 285, 313, 371, 372, 396, 497,
624, 715, 908.
Greville (Hon. Robert Fulke), Io;8, Io;9.
Hamilton (8th Duke of), 64–69, 72.
Hamilton (9th Duke of), 590.
Hamilton (Gavin), 84, 88, 188, 268.
HAMILTON (Captain, afterwards Sir Wm.),
I8, 26, 28, 30, 36, 37, 39, 40, 46, 49, 52,
53, 54, 56, 58, 60, 61, 62, 71, 76, 78, 86,
90, 92, 95, 97, IOI, IO6, IoS, I I I, II5,
II8, I22, I46, I49, I65, 167, I7I, I 73,
I74, 177, 178, 18O, 182, 185, 193, 208,
220, 228, 238, 243, 247, 258, 267, 273,
282, 317, 318, 322, 323, 328, 334, 340,
349, 369, 38 I, 384, 405, 418, 444, 449,
484, 544, 550, 552, 633, 638, 642, 65 I,
67 I, 673, 680, 684, 694.
Hamilton (Mrs., afterwards Lady), 73, 93,
I I6, I 17, I2O.
HAMILTON (EMMA or EMILY LYON or
HART, afterwards Lady), II 3, 124–129,
I43, I 5C, I 52, I 53, I57–160, I62–164,
I68, 172, 189, 199, 215, 221, 246, 250,
263, 264, 274–277, 287, 370, 378, 406,
4II, 417, 572, 679, 844, 845, 949, 951,
959, IO33, IO42, IO43, IO45, IO47, IO5 I,
IO54, IO55.
Hamilton (Mary), 77.
Hardy (Sir T. M.), 876.
Haslewood (William), 677, 692.
Hastings (Warren), 91.
Hillyard (J. W.), 808, 81 I.
Holland (Lady), IO.
Jones (John), IO60.
Keats (Admiral), 878.
Keen (Robert), 869.
Keith (Sir R. M.), 32, 79, 87, 202, 206, 260.
Kidd (Thomas), 983.
Kingston (Duchess of), 35.
Knight (R. P.), 253, 682.
Langford (Captain F.), 72 I, 827, 914.
Lazarini (Marquis), 416.
Legge (Heneage), 190.
Aleviathan (Officers of), 409.
Lindholm (General), 560, 577, 582, 597,
599, 600.
Lloyd (H.), IO56, IO57, IO61, IO63, IO65,
IO66.
Lloyd (Captain Thomas), 3II.
Louis (Sir Thomas), 603, 761, 851, 887.
Malcolm (Admiral P.), 833.
Mansfield (Lord), 976, IoI4.
Marsh, Page, & Creed (Messrs.), 676.
Marziale (Scipione), 414.
Matcham (Miss C.), 985, IOI 5, IO38, IO39,
IO48, IO52, IoS3.
Matcham (George), 656, 660, 690, 709, 830,
943, 956, IO2 I, Io35-IO37, IoS2.
Matcham (Mrs.), 655, 683, 7 I I, 723, 726,
743, 746, 754, 756, 773, 774, 786, 798,
806, 829, 877, 898, 912, 929, 937, 956,
962, 966, 969, IOO2, IOO5, IoIo, Io98,
IO4O, IO4 I, IO49, IO53.
McArthur (John), 659.
McMahon (Colonel J.), 837.
Melville (Lord), 7 Io.
Miller (Mr.), 213.
Minto (Lord), 436.
‘Montagu, 43.
Mountstuart (Lord), 5–7, 9, II.
A/V/D E.X.
427
Mulligan (Father), 499.
Naples (Queen of), 491, 648, 740.
Naylor (G.), 832.
Nelson (Rev. Edmund), 229, 632, 643, 645.
N ELS ON (Frances), afterwards Lady
Nelson, 439, 442, 454, 472, 473.
NELSON (Captain H., afterwards Lord),
Io9, 226, 234, 239, 240, 245, 249, 25I,
254–257, 26.1, 266, 272, 28O, 284, 286,
288, 290, 291, 295, 296, 3O4, 3IO, 315,
316, 319-32 I, 324, 325, 326, 329, 331,
333, 335-337, 342–345, 347, 348, 350–
360, 362, 364–366, 373, 376, 386–395,
397-399, 408, 429, 430, 434, 437, 440,
448, 450, 451, 452, 455, 456, 458, 460,
461, 463, 464, 474–477, 479, 481, 502–
505, 507, 516, 518–539, 541-543, 545–
549, 55 I, 554, 555, 557-559, 561, 562,
564–566, 569-57 I, 573–576, 579, 580,
588, 589, 592-594, 598, 6OI, 6O2, 6O4–
606, 61 I-614, 616, 620–622, 625, 626,
628, 630, 631, 634–637, 640, 652, 661,
669, 681, 693, 699, 702, 712, 713, 716,
718, 719, 730, 733–735, 742, 747, 749–
751, 753, 758–760, 764, 765, 768, 775,
777-779, 782, 783, 790, 792, 802, 8o3,
807, 809, 8 Io, 813, 814, 816, 838, 839,
843, 847, 848.
Nelson (R.), 705.
Nelson (Rev. William, afterwards Ist Earl
Nelson), 664, 665, 667, 668, 688, 868,
935.
Nelson (William), 998.
Nepean (Evan), 423, 591, 619, 738.
Nesbit (Josiah), 385.
Niza (Marquis de), 330, 339, 500.
Northwick (Lord), 973.
Oliver (Mr.), 890.
Orloff (Feodor, Count), 24, 47, 50, 5 I.
Paole (Pasquale di), 338.
Pearce (W.), 823.
Pembroke (Earl), I, 2, 8, 21, 23, 33, 34, 80,
89, 94, 99, Io3, II9, I40, I69, 170, 175,
I92, 195, 216, 225.
PerConte (Eliza), 489, 492.
Pica (Gabriele), 415.
Pierson (Mrs. M.), 891, 893, 988, 990, 997,
IO26.
Pollion (M. de), 496.
Puleston (Sir R.), IO27, Io92.
Reynolds (Sir Joshua), 17.
Rinaldo (Paolo), 446.
Roche (John Thomas), 453.
Romney (George), 2 Io.
Rose (Right Hon. G.), 748, 852, 863, 886,
933, 948.
Ross (Hercules), 646.
Roxburgh (Duke of), I30, 219.
Saint Luc (Thimoléon d'Espinay), 367.
St. Vincent (Earl), 341.
Scerlini (G.), 649.
Schenk (A.), 639.
Scott (Rev. A. J.), 849, 855–862, 866.
Scott (John), 717, 72O.
Sidmouth (H. A.), Lord, 657.
Smith (J. Spencer), 424, 468.
Smith (Sir W. Sidney), 231, 361, 363, 377,
425, 457,467. .
Spencer (Lord), First Lord of the Ad-
miralty, 50 I.
Spiridon (Admiral), 583, 586.
Staines (Sir Thomas), 799.
Stewart (Colonel), 568, 595, 617, 686.
Sutton (Admiral S.), 784.
Swinburne (Henry), 179, 218, 227.
Thomas (Mari), 930.
Thomson (Sir J. D.), 853.
Trabia (Prince di), 380, 47 I.
Troubridge (Captain), 44 I.
Totty (Admiral), 585.
Tugbear (Thomas), 540.
Tunis (Bey of), 400, 487.
Twiss (Horace), IoI3.
Tyson (Captain), 459, 470, 729.
Tyson (Mrs.), 696, 826.
Wade (Matthew), 419, 426.
Walpole (Horace, afterwards
Orford), 12, 7o.
Walterstorff (Count), 607, 644, 672.
Ward (Horatia Nelson), 1067.
Warrington (A.), 924.
Withers (Lieutenant), 618
Witterode (Commander), 627.
Wollstonecraft (J.), 584.
Wyndham (Mr. W.), 404.
Earl of
429
I N D E X
OF
Aersons to whom Zetters are addressed in these Volumes. -
Acton (Sir John), 807.
Admiralty (Lords of), Io9, 636.
Baird (Dr. A.), 753.
Ball (Captain Alexander J.), 376, 437.
Beckford (William), 378.
Bolton (Miss A.), 889, 915, 946.
Bolton (Lady), 864.
Bolton (Mrs.), 723, 836.
Bolton (Thomas), Jun., 975.
Bolton (Sir William), 897.
Boyle (Hon. C.), 8o3.
Briggs (Samuel), 809.
Cadogan (Mrs.), 408,849, 914.
Calais (Prefét de), Io;9.
Campbell (Abbé H.), IO42.
Campbell (Commodore), 365.
Collingwood (Captain), afterwards Lord,
284. -
Cracraft (W. E.), 810.
Davison (Alexander), 517.
Day (Alexander), 382.
Devonshire (5th Duke of), Ioff, Io&.
Douglas (Marquis of), 673.
Elgin (Lord), 475, 476.
Elizabeth (Princess), 43.
Foster (Lady Elizabeth), 489.
Fox (Charles James), I23.
Greville (Hon. C. F.), 18, 26, 30, 32, 36,
37, 39, 40, 52, 53, 54, 56, 58, 60, 61, 62,
7I, 73, 76, 78, 86, 90–92, 95, 97, IOI,
III, II3, II5, II 8, 122, 124-129, 146,
I49, ISO, I 52, I 53, I65, I67, 168, I7 I,
I72- 174, I77, 178, 18O, I82, 185, I89,
I90, I93, 215, 220, 22 I, 238, 243, 246,
247, 250, 258, 263, 264, 267, 273, 282,
287, 369, 370, 381, 384, 405, 406, 4 II,
4.17, 42O, 444, 484, 550, 552, 633, 642,
651, 67 I, 685, 694, 736, 739.
Greville (Hon. Robert Fulke), 236, 402,
IO55–IO57, IO60, IO61, IO63, IO65, IO66.
Griffin (Mr.), Io97.
HAMILTON (Captain, afterwards Sir Wm.),
I, 2, 4–17, 19–25, 27, 29, 31, 33–35, 38,
41, 42, 47, 48, 50, 51, 55, 57, 59, 63-70,
72, 74, 75, 79–85, 87–89, 93, 94, 96, 98–
IOO, IO2–IO5, IO7, I IO, I I7, II9–I2 I,
I3 I-I45, I47, I48, I5 I, I54–164, I66,
I69, 170, 175, 176, 179, 181, 183, 184,
I86–188, 191, 192, 194–198, 200–2O7,
209, 2II-2I4, 216–218, 222–227, 230–
233, 235, 237, 24O-242, 244, 245, 249,
251, 252, 254–257, 260-262, 268-271,
279-281, 283, 285, 288, 290–294, 296,
3O3, 305, 308, 313, 315, 316, 319-321,
326, 327, 329, 333, 336-339, 342–345,
347, 350, 352–354, 357, 359, 361-364,
371-373, 377, 379, 383, 386–390, 393–
399, 404, 4 I 3, 424, 425, 429, 43O, 433,
438, 440, 448, 450 451, 455, 457, 458,
460, 463, 464, 467, 474, 479, 48 I, 488,
495, 497, 571, 616, 624, 635, 661, 674,
678, 679.
Hamilton (Mrs., afterwards Lady), 3, 77,
II 2.
HAMILTON (EMMA or EMILY LYON or
HART, afterwards Lady), II4, 2IO, 248,
253, 325, 335, 346, 355, 360, 374, 375,
392, 4OI, 4O3, 4O9, 4 I2, 4 I9, 42 I, 422,
426, 428, 431, 435, 436, 441, 452,
453, 456, 459, 462, 465, 470, 478, 483,
485, 486, 492, 498, 502-505, 507–516,
518–535, 537, 539, 541-543, 545–549,
55 I, 555, 557, 563, 565, 568-570, 573,
575, 579, 580, 589, 590, 592, 594,
596, 603, 6II–614, 621, 622, 625, 626,
628, 630, 631, 634, 637, 645, 662, 666,
675, 680, 682–684, 689, 691, 700, 706,
7I2–722, 724–73O, 732–734, 737, 742–
744, 746–752, 754, 756-759, 761, 762,
764-766, 768–774, 776–780, 782–798,
800, 802, 804–806, 808, 81 I-815, 817–
43O
AAWD EX.
829, 832, 835, 839–841, 843, 846, 847,
850–863, 865, 866, 868–878, 880–888,
890-893, 895, 896, 898–913, 916–934,
936, 937, 939–945, 947, 948, 950, 952–
958, 960, 962–974, 976–IOI7, IO2 I-IO32,
IO34–IO4I, IO44, IO48-IO50, IOS2, IoS3.
Herring (William), Mayor of Norwich, 295.
Hoste (Rev. Dixon), 234, 239, 266, 272,
640, 68.I.
Italinski (Chevalier), 449.
Jewett (Mrs.), Io93.
Knight (Lady), 366
Leiningen (Count), 669.
Lindholm (General), 554, 558, 559, 562,
566, 574, 576, 588, 593, 598, 6OI, 602, 604.
Lloyd (H.), IO58.
Lloyd (Captain Thomas), 3O4.
Macartney (Lord), 274–278.
Macaulay (Mr.), 469.
Marsh, Page, & Creed (Messrs.), 62o.
Mary Amélie (Princess), 312. -
McGrath (Mr.), 816.
Naples, Queen of, 265, 482.
Nelson (Lady Charlotte), 842, 867.
N ELSON (Frances), afterwards
Nelson, 229, 3IO, 490, 536.
NELSON (Lord), 3II, 317, 322, 323, 328,
334, 349, 368, 385, 400, 407, 4 Io, 414–
416, 423, 432, 439, 442, 443, 446, 447,
454, 466, 468, 47 I-473, 480, 487, 491,
493, 494, 496, 499-501, 540, 544, 556,
560, 567, 572, 577, 581–587, 59 I, 595,
597, 599, 6OO, 6O7–6 Io, 615, 6I7—619,
623, 627, 629, 632, 638, 639, 641, 643,
644, 646–650, 653–660, 663–665, 667,
668, 670, 672, 676, 677, 686–688, 690,
Lady
692, 695, 697, 698, 7.OI, 703–705, 707–
7II, 731, 738, 740, 745, 755, 763, 767,
§: 799, 830, 831, 833, 834, 837, 844,
45.
Nelson (Horatia), afterwards Mrs. Ward,
IO47, IO5 I.
Nelson (Maurice), 56.I.
Nelson (Mrs. Maurice), 605, 935.
Nepean (Evan), 228.
Niza (Marquis de), 348.
Orde (Sir John), 606.
Orloff, (Feodor, Count), 46, 49. -
Parker (Sir Peter), 775.
Pasha (Captain), 477.
Perry (James), IO43, IO54.
Perry (W.), 838.
Pierson (Mrs. M.), 879.
Queensberry (Duke of), 95 I.
Romney (George), 199.
Russia (Paul I.), Czar of, 434, 46I.
St. Vincent (Earl), 314, 318, 699, 949.
Sidmouth (H. A.), Lord, 652, 693.
Spencer (Lord), First Lord of the Ad-
miralty, 35I.
Stephens (Alexander), 702.
Taylor (Nathaniel), 735.
Townshend (Lady), 34I.
TURKEY (Sultan of), 44, 45.
Villettes (General), 760.
Walpole (Horace), afterwards Earl of Or-
ford, 208.
Warwick (Countess of), Elizabeth Douglas
Hamilton, 418. •
Wedgewood & Bentley (Messrs.), 28.
Wyndham (Mr. W.), 306, 307, 309.
L ON DO N :
Printed by STRANGEwAys & Sons, Tower Street, Cambridge Circus, w.c.

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