my name having been found worthy of
notice in the House of Commons, and I thank you for the praise
you bestow on me for the business of our last cruise. Though we
failed in taking the frigate, it was certainly a matter of
exultation and triumph to me, in a single ship, thus to brave
the enemy off their port.

I find Sir John Warren has sent in an armed brig, which we were
prevented from sharing, at the time we were in pursuit of the
frigate: we decoyed her to within a small distance from us by
showing French colours, and I am persuaded we should have taken
her, if we had chased her instead of the frigate; and they ought
in justice to allow us to share in the profits of this prize.

I would advise you to wait till Donaldson's plates come out for
your paintings. Let me caution you against purchasing any of the
prints, as I have engaged fifteen sets for my friends, in order
to have proof engravings.

Tom[7] writes to me they are under serious apprehensions for the
island. I own to you I think there is some cause, unless we keep
a strong squadron for their defence; at the same time, I do not
believe they have so strong a force as mentioned, or that they
are making preparation for invading this country. Let me know
what has become of Mr. Warren, and whether Captain Parker has
sailed.

I must now wish you and my sister, and all under your roof, a
good night. And

I remain truly,
Yours affectionately,
Monday morning.
JAS. SAUMAREZ.

P.S.--Our admiral has not yet made his appearance, a vessel is
gone to Portsmouth for him. The packet returns so speedily that
it is next to impossible to answer letters the same day.

[7] Sir James's brother.

Crescent, Spithead, 24th February 1794.

MY DEAR RICHARD,

You will be pleased to hear of our being safe in port in the
midst of the prevailing storms, but not without our having
previously felt their rigour. Last Thursday morning we carried
away our main-top-mast; and, in going to Torbay soon after, we
sprung our fore-yard, which made the admiral determine to send
us to Spithead to refit, and afterwards join him with all
possible despatch. We are just anchored; but it blows so very
hard, there is no possibility of sending a boat on shore.

I left the squadron anchored in Torbay yesterday evening, where
they are well sheltered from the present