"I have had this day (23rd July) a great deal of conversation with Baron Platen upon the actual state of affairs, and I feel perfectly disposed to give every assistance which the too limited means (owing to the various services required for my whole force) will admit. He informs me that the service is not likely to be of any continuance. "I have ordered the Tribune, with the Rose and a gun-brig, to cruise in Aland Haf. The Tribune is a frigate of the largest class, which I can ill spare at present. Captain Reynolds will be directed to communicate with you, and I request you will furnish him with all such information as he may occasionally profit from. "Baron Platen has brought me the decorations of Commander of the Grand Cross of the order of the Sword, a mark of distinction I by no means considered my services to have merited; and I feel sensibly this instance of attention from the King of Sweden. The choice fixed upon for successor to the throne is likely to lead to important events, as it is probable the Prince of Holstein will have influence enough in Norway to attach that country to Sweden, which would make up for the loss of Finland." CHAPTER X. 1809. Blockade of the Russian fleet.--Swedes' expedition, under Admiral Puke and General Wachtmeister, sails,--is unsuccessful.--Private correspondence with Mr. Foster.--Armistice and Peace with Russia.--Peace with Denmark.--Proceedings of the Fleet.--State of affairs in Sweden.--Fleet returns to Carlscrona, and subsequently to England. The part of the campaign which depended on Sir James Saumarez, namely, the blockade of the Russian fleet, which consisted of thirteen sail of the line,--the protection of the coast of Sweden and of the trade of both nations,--was completely successful. Not so, however, the efforts of the Swedes: they indeed fought most bravely; and, if any fault could be found with their general, it was that he was too courageous. The force of the Russians was too great for their Swedish opponents; and every attempt made by the latter was in vain, notwithstanding Baron Platen's wishes were acceded to. Admiral Puke, on receiving his appointment, left Carlscrona in a ship of the line, and, arriving off Daleroe, wrote the following letter to Sir James: His Majesty's ship Adolf Frederick, off Daleroe, 2d Aug. 1809. SIR,