wing. I have
reason to believe they are part of the squadron that chased this
ship, in company with the Nymphe and Concorde, on the 2nd
instant, off the Seven Islands; and that the ships of the line
that were then in company proceeded to Brest.

His Majesty's ship Severn joined me this morning from Plymouth;
and I propose to proceed to the Sound to-morrow, in compliance
with orders from Rear-admiral McBride.

JAMES SAUMAREZ.
Philip Stephens, Esq. Secretary, &c. &c. &c.

The squadron returned to Plymouth Sound on the 14th of June, when
Sir James sent the following letter to his brother:--

Saturday, 14th June 1794.

MY DEAR RICHARD,

We sailed from the island at four yesterday morning, unluckily
too soon for the arrival of the packet; by which I lost all the
pretty things you, with other friends, said to me on the
business of last Sunday. We remain also uninformed of Lord
Howe's victory, except that we know a general action has taken
place favourable to us. This evening will, I hope, clear up all
our doubts.

The French squadron put into Cancalle Bay the day after our
rencontre, and I have reason to think were rather sore from our
well-directed fire. That their fire did not take more effect on
the Crescent, must be ascribed to a superior Providence; as, I
will own to you, I never saw shot fall thicker about any ship
than at the time we hauled up for Vason Bay.

My old pilot, Jean Breton, has infinite merit, and I must have
him recommended to that very laudable society for the
encouragement of the protection of the commerce of the country.
He has a large family, to whom any pecuniary recompense will be
of service; but as two other pilots exerted themselves, one on
board the Druid, and the other in this ship, I hope they will
also be considered. Mention this to my worthy friend the Lord
Mayor, who will probably have the goodness to undertake the
business.

I am proceeding to Plymouth for further orders, and you may rest
assured of hearing from me when any thing is fixed. The Valiant
lugger has this instant joined me from Plymouth, and has brought
me the extraordinary Gazette; I most truly rejoice at the good
news it contains, though I am savage enough to wish a few more
had been sunk or taken.

This business absorbs all lesser considerations, and I must be
satisfied if I can only be con