"I send you a copy of the Turkish admiral's letter to me, from Corfu; also, one from the Emperor of Russia: and one from Sir Sidney Smith, those parts of which, that are ministerial, are--I doubt not--very proper; but, indeed, my dear lord, those parts of Sir Sidney's letter which, as a captain of a man of war to an admiral commanding the squadron in the Levant, are not so respectful as the rules of our service demands from the different ranks in it. No man admires Sir Sidney's gallantry and zeal more than myself; but he should recollect, how I must feel, on seeing him placed in the situation which I thought naturally would fall to me. You may be assured, that I shall take care and arrange proper plans with the Porte for the service of Egypt, and shall support Sir Sidney to the utmost of my power. It is matter of regret, that no squadron of Turks and Russians are yet gone to Egypt; for, I want all our ships for Malta, Sicily, Naples, and Leghorn: and my only wish is, that the Turks and Russians would take care of all the French to the east of Malta. Our situation here is quiet; but who can say, if the French get into our neighbourhood, that we shall remain so? In Calabria, the people have cut down the Tree of Liberty; but I shall never consider any part of the kingdom of Naples safe, or even Sicily, till I hear of the emperor's entering Italy: when all my ships shall go into the Bay of Naples, and I think we can make a revolution against the French; at least, my endeavours shall not be wanting. I hope to go on the service myself, but I have my doubts if the King and Queen will consent to my leaving them for a moment. A few days past, I was presented, in due form, with the freedom of the city of Palermo in a gold box, and brought upon a silver salver. I have endeavoured so to conduct myself, as to meet the approbation of all classes in this country, and I hope to be equally fortunate in meeting your lordship's. A ship is in sight, from Malta. I shall keep this letter open till her arrival; but I do not expect any thing particularly good. The blockade must continue, to the end of the chapter; for neither Maltese, nor Italians, will fight by themselves. Ever your lordship's faithful, and obedient, "Nelson. "P.S. I send your lordship copies of Captain Ball's letters from Malta. It is not for me to judge the propriety of Captain Ball's plans; but, I can assure you, he is a man of great judgment and abilities, and ought to have a recompence for all his expence and trouble."