a, ready to sail, loaded with corn, for Genoa and France; the
arrival of which, must expedite the entrance into Italy of more French
troops. "General Naselli," says Lord Nelson, "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
responsibility 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 responsibility on myself."

Having left Captain Troubridge at Leghorn, to act as exigencies might
require, Lord Nelson immediately returned to Naples; where he arrived on
the 5th of December, having been absent little more than ten days.
During this time, letters had arrived from Commodore Duckworth,
relating to the conquest of Minorca; and, these letters having been
forwarded after him to Leghorn, he wrote the following apology and
congratulation to his friend the commodore, now Admiral Sir John
Duckworth, who commanded the squadron which had sailed from Gibraltar on
this expedition.

"Naples, 6th Dec. 1798.

"MY DEAR SIR,

"On my arrival here, yesterday, I found Lieutenant Gregory, who had
been charged with your letters to me; but which were, unluckily,
sent after me to Leghorn: and, as Lieutenant Gregory is very
anxious to return to you, it is out of my power to answer such part
of your public letter as might require. However, I most heartily
congratulate you on the conquest of Minorca; an acquisition
invaluable to Great Britain, and which completely, in future,
prevents any movements from Toulon to the westward. My situation in
this country has had, doubtless, _one_ rose; but, it has been
plucked from a bed of thorns. Nor is my present state that of ease;
and my health, at best but indifferent, has not mended lately.
Naples is just embarked in a new war: the event, God only knows;
but, without the assistance of the emperor, which is not yet given,
this country cannot resist the power of France. Leghorn is in
possession of the King of Naples's troops, as is Civita Vecchia. I
have Troubridge, with Minotaur, Terpsichore, and Bonne Citoyenne,
&c. on the north coast of Italy. Three sail of the line, under
Ball, are off Malta: and Hood, with three sail of the line, and two