Perceiving the Marshal had his uniform and sword on, speaking softly to one of his friends, "_Do you observe_," said he, "_how well dressed the Marshal is?_" "Yes," answered the gentleman; "I dare say, Sir, he intends paying the last piece of respect to you that he can." "_I am sensible he means well_," replied he, "_and I accept the compliment_." The gentleman added, "To see you so easy and composed, Sir, gives me as much pleasure as I can have on this occasion; but I expected no less from the whole of your conduct heretofore, and the last actions of a man marks his character more than all the others of his life." "_I am sensible they do, Sir_," replied he, "_and obliged to you for putting me in mind. I find innocence is the best foundation for firmness of mind_." After that, he walked about in the cabbin for some time; inquired what time it would be high-water; remarked that the tide would not suit to carry his body ashore after dark; expressed some apprehensions, that his body might be insulted going ashore in the day, on account of the prejudices of the people: but, on being assured that no such spirit was remaining among the people at _Portsmouth_, he appeared very well satisfied on that head. Then taking a paper out of his pocket, he addressed himself to the Marshal as follows: "_Sir, these are my thoughts on this occasion: I shall give them to you, that you may authenticate them, and prevent any thing spurious being published, that might tend to defame me. I have given a copy to one of my relations_." The paper was wrote in his own hand, and contained as follows: _On board his Majesty's ship_ Monarque _in_ Portsmouth-_harbour_, March 14, 1757.