I mean to make this cruise long enough to entitle me to a relief, therefore do not expect me in port as long as I can keep the sea. Sir James immediately gave such orders and regulations as would best guard against, or overcome, the difficulties inseparable from such a service; and, with the prospect of a long winter before him, he sent these regulations, and a list of the rendezvous appointed by him, to the commander-in-chief, whose letter to Sir James, in answer, is expressive of the high opinion he entertained of him. Ville de Paris, off Ushant, 15th Sept. 1800. SIR, Nothing can be more appropriate than the different rendezvous you have sent me a copy of; your change of position must fluctuate according to the sudden changes of the weather, which are to be looked for soon. I repose such unbounded confidence in your zeal and judgment that _I sleep as soundly as if I had the key of Brest in my possession_. Sir Richard Strachan and Captain Buller, in the Captain and Edgar, will relieve two of the ships which last joined you as soon as they return to this rendezvous, and the Canada will relieve the third. As I have applied for Captain Foley's leave of absence on very important private business, I wish the Elephant to be the first sent to me. I am, sir, Your most obedient humble servant, ST. VINCENT. Sir James Saumarez. It was supposed that the Brest fleet would take advantage of the equinoctial gales, which were now approaching, and slip out as before, when the in-shore squadron was blown off, or compelled to bear up for Torbay; but Sir James had determined on frustrating their attempt. On the 23rd a heavy gale came on, which, in former instances, would have obliged the in-shore squadron to abandon the post; but, instead of bearing up for Torbay when no longer able to maintain his position, Sir James steered for Douvarnenez Bay, where he anchored with the whole squadron, just out of range of the enemy's mortar batteries, which soon tried their shells, but without effect. Here his squadron struck top-masts and lower yards, and rode out all the equinoctial gales, actually in the enemy's harbour, within a few miles of their whole fleet of four times his force, and in perfect safety! The gale had been very severe; and although Earl St. Vincent, who was obliged to run with his fleet for Torbay, had no fears for the safety of the in-shore squadron, relying as he did on the experience and skill of Sir James, yet the Admiralty were in a considerable state of alarm until the following account of his proceedings was received: TO THE RIGHT HON. EARL SPENCER. Caesar, Douvarnenez Bay, 26th Sept. 1800. MY LORD,