Some new idea had, however, been started in my absence; every body had his plan, and I am sure the Admiral must have been worried to death with the projects of the different people who had access to him; and on the morning of the 24th he informed me by letter that the attack on Sidon was given up for another. “Princess Charlotte, D’Jounie Bay, September 24, 1840. “Sir, “I have to acquaint you that the plan on Sidon is to be abandoned for another which I consider of far more importance, selecting a proper situation for the Turkish troops to remain in during the winter, as their remaining where they are is quite impossible. “Izzet Pacha will accompany the troops going to Tyre, the place which appears best calculated for a winter settlement, and will, upon examination, take and keep possession of it if found favourable. “I am, Sir, “Your obedient servant, ROBERT STOPFORD.” This new project was happily set aside; and, after dining with the Admiral, on the 25th, I took my leave, promising to be back in forty-eight hours with the garrison of Sidon, and received orders to the following effect: “You will proceed with the steamer named in the margin[14] with the troops put on board towards Sidon, where you will fall in with the Thunderer and Wasp, and take them under your orders. Footnote 14: Gorgon. “The object is to arm the inhabitants in that quarter, and, if necessary, to land troops to allow of their approach towards Damour, which having done to the best of your power, the troops are to re-embark and go to Sidon, where you will summon the governor to give up the place, and on his refusal bring all the fire you can upon the forts and fortifications, avoiding as much as possible the destruction of private houses; should you, after due precaution, find the town to be evacuated, you will land the troops, under protection of the ships and take possession of it, retaining it long enough to distribute arms to the Syrians, which is the principal object of the expedition, after which you will return to this anchorage; but should the Egyptians not leave the town, you will seize every opportunity of supplying the Syrians with arms, by landing the troops, if necessary. “Given under my hand, on board the Princess Charlotte, off D’Jounie, September 25, 1840. “ROBERT STOPFORD.” “Commodore Napier, H.M.S. Powerful. “By command of the Commander-in-Chief, “JOSEPH LOUDEN, _Sec._” This was followed up by a precautionary letter: “September 25, 1840. “My dear Commodore,