May 20, 1799.
MY DEAR LADY HAMILTON,
Many thanks to you and Sir William
for your kind notes. You will believe I did not
sleep much, with all my letters to read, &c. &c.
My letters from Lord St. Vincent are
May 6th. He says “We saw the
Brest squadron pass us yesterday, under an easy sail.
I am making every effort to get information to Lord
Keith; who I have ordered here, to complete their
water and provisions. I conjecture, the French
squadron is bound for Malta and Alexandria, and the
Spanish fleet for the attack of Minorca.”
I must leave you to judge, whether
the Earl will come to us. I think he will:
but, entre nous, Mr. Duckworth means to leave
me to my fate. I send you (under all circumstances)
his letter. Never mind; if I can get my eleven
sail together, they shall not hurt me.
God bless you, Sir William, and all
our joint friends in your house; Noble, Gibbs, &c.
and believe me ever, for ever, your affectionate friend,
NELSON.