Be careful that nothing that I write to you transpires. I have
lately seen paragraphs which have given me concern, particularly
one mentioning my being ordered off St. Maloes. Be assured they
may occasion much mischief and distrust, if it can be imagined
that they originate from any of my friends. My brother has shown
me the P.S. of your letter to him: I think it best the plate
should be confined to a dinner-set, as I am unwilling to
separate the whole of a present so handsomely bestowed;
therefore, if not too late, I wish you to direct accordingly.
Lady S. writes to me that our dear little girl is better; I wish
to hear that she is sufficiently well to be inoculated. I shall
be happy to have it over.

You are a long time without writing to me. Although I know you
are most hurried at this time, you must forgive me if I desire
you will devote a few spare minutes to me; my sister, I am sure,
will consent to it. Assure her of my sincere love; and believe
me truly,
My dear Richard,

Yours affectionately,
JAMES SAUMAREZ.

P.S.--We are close ship-keepers, being all on board by six
o'clock; a very proper regulation. I do not expect to sail
before the fleet proceeds to the French coast, when I hope our
accounts will prove more favourable.

We have here two other remarkable instances, where on sudden and
unexpected danger appearing, the presence of mind and professional
skill of Saumarez saved his ship and squadron from destruction; and
although the bold attempt he made to attack the enemy was
unsuccessful, he does not less deserve the merit of making it, for we
cannot command the wind and tide.

The Crescent continued to cruise with Admiral McBride's squadron
during the winter, making several attempts to assist the royalists on
various places on the coast of France, and annoying the enemy's
coasting trade.

The following letters from Sir James to his brother in London, give a
particular account, in his own words, of the arduous services on which
he was employed during that time.

Crescent, Cowes Roads, 25th January 1794.

MY DEAR RICHARD,

You will not expect so soon to hear from me, but I must just
give you a journal of our short cruise. The day after we sailed
from here, we chased three armed brigs off Havre, which were
very near captured by the Flora and this ship. The day
following, Sir John Warren having detached me and