"I am in desperation about Malta. We shall lose it, I am afraid, past redemption, I send you copies of Niza's and Ball's letters; also, General Acton's: so that, you will see, I have not been idle. If Ball can hardly keep the inhabitants, in hopes of relief by the five hundred men landed from our ships; what must be expected, when four hundred of them, and four sail of the line, will be withdrawn? And, if the islanders are forced again to join the French, we may not find even landing a very easy task; much less, to get again our present advantageous position. I therefore intreat, for the honour of our king, and for the advantage of the common cause, that whether General Fox is arrived, or not, at least, the garrison of Messina may be ordered to hold post in Malta, till a sufficient force can be collected to attack it; which, I flatter myself, will in time, be got together. But, while that is effecting, I fear our being obliged to quit the island; therefore, I am forced to make this representation. I know, well enough, of what officers in your situation can do. The delicacy of your feelings, on the near approach of General Fox, I can readily conceive; but, the time you know nothing about. This is a great and important moment; and the only thing to be considered--_Is his majesty's service to stand still for an instant?_ I have no scruple in declaring what I should do: that, knowing the importance of possessing Malta, to England and her allies; that, if even two regiments were ordered from Minorca, yet it must be considered--for which the officer must certainly be responsible--was the call for these troops known at home, would not they order them to proceed where the service near at hand so loudly calls for them? _This is the only thing, in my opinion, for consideration._ If we lose this opportunity, it will be impossible to recal it. If possible, I wish to take all the responsibility. I know, my dear Sir James, your zeal and ability; and, that delicacy to General Fox, has been your sole motive for not altering the disposition of the troops: but, I hope, General Fox is with you; and, I am sure, from his character, he will approve of my feelings on this subject. If he is not, I must again earnestly entreat that, at least, you will give directions for Colonel Graham to hold Malta till we can get troops to attack La Valette. May God direct your councils, for the honour of our king and his allies, and to the destruction of the French, is the fervent prayer of, &c. "Nelson."