I request you will convey to your brave companions in arms, that, in my judgment, they stand foremost in the page of naval history; having, beyond all dispute, achieved more than was ever done before, and, under the critical circumstances of the times, have certainly rendered the greatest benefit to the human race at large, and to their King and country in particular, that ever was performed. I have the honour to be, with great esteem and regard, Sir, Your most obedient, humble servant, ST. VINCENT. To Sir James Saumarez. P.S. Doctor Harness has prepared the naval hospital for the reception of the wounded and sick of your squadron in the best manner our means will admit; the wards have been whitewashed, and every exertion made to purify them. The moment the invalids are landed, and the wants of the ships that go to Lisbon supplied, you shall proceed thither with them. ST. VINCENT. Orion, off Gibraltar, 18th Oct. 1798. MY LORD, I received late last evening the honour of your letter by L'Espoir, and shall not fail to communicate to the squadron the very handsome terms in which your lordship is pleased to express yourself of the action of the Nile. I am particularly happy the measures taken off Malta meet with your lordship's approbation; but I fear the account from Genoa is premature respecting the French garrison, as there has scarcely been time since we left the island, the 26th Sept. for the news to reach Genoa, and arrive at Gibraltar, if such an event had taken place. Fearing that, with the ship I have in tow, it will not be possible to reach Rozia Bay till a late hour, I send an officer on shore with the despatches for your lordship, and the letters for the garrison. I have the honour to be, my lord, Your lordship's most obedient and most humble servant, JAMES SAUMAREZ. To the Right Hon. Earl St. Vincent. The squadron arrived at Gibraltar on the evening of the 18th, amidst the universal and unbounded acclamations of the assembled population. "Sunday, 21st Oct.--Last Thursday, my dear love, we all anchored in safety in this bay, and met with a reception we want words to express from the governor, admiral, officers, soldiers, seamen, and inhabitants. We can never do justice to the warmth of their applause, and the praises they all bestowed on our squadron.