each other, upon our larboard bow, that when
it moderated we might send hawsers to them to endeavour to
heave us off. Nystad now bore N.N.E. 1/2 E. distant about five
miles, and Skielbye church E.N.E., and the ship lay in four
fathoms water. On the 16th we were busily employed rigging
jury-masts. Towards the evening it moderated, and about four in
the morning of the 17th we had the cheering happiness to find
she had swung to her anchor. The hands were instantly turned to
the capstan, and we hove short on the sheet cable. The night
signal was then made for the assistance of boats, and having
happily succeeded in warping her into deep water, we made sail
(with which we steered her) with a fine breeze from the
eastward, and anchored near the convoy in eleven fathoms.

I have much pleasure in acquainting you, sir, that the officers
and ship's company merit my warmest praise for the constant
exertions and cheerful obedience with which they conducted
themselves throughout this distressing scene. Captain Guion
was unwearied and indefatigable, and his abilities could never
have been better shown than on this trying occasion. It is no
small consolation to me that in the awful moment of the masts
going over the side, and throughout the whole terrific gale,
not a man was hurt.

I have now, sir, to acquaint you that out of one hundred and
twenty sail which were at anchor here when the gale began, only
seventy-six are now remaining; twelve are seen wrecked upon the
Danish coast and in the enemy's possession; two ran foul of
each other, and both went to the bottom, and in the midst of
the gale several of the smaller vessels were observed
dismasted, and the sea making an entire breach over them; it is
much to be feared they foundered at their anchors. Many
remaining here are so much disabled that I doubt whether they
will be able to proceed with us, although they have had every
assistance from his Majesty's ships which could be given them.

I am happy, sir, to tell you that the St. George has her
jury-masts rigged, and her rudder hung, and is in every respect
as complete to proceed with the convoy (the first favourable
wind) as hands can make her in our present situation.

Before I conclude this narrative, permit me to insert my public
acknowl