Nelson, Horatio

A letter between friends. Nelson writes to his dear friend, Thomas Lloyd, about both social and political issues of the day. He begins on the social front in a whimsical tone: "I was much flattered by the Marquis's [Marquis of Landsdowne] kind notice of me, and I beg you will make my respects acceptable to him. Tell him that I possess his place in Mr. Palmer's box; but his Lordship did not tell me of all its charms, that generally some of the handsomest ladies in Bath are partakers in the box, and was I a bachelor I would not answer for being tempted; but as I am possessed of everything which is valuable in a wife, I have no occassion to think beyond a pretty face."

On the political front, Nelson makes mention of the voluntary subscription for the support of the War and remarks: "I am sorry the King is so poor. Had he been worth what those vile dogs of Opposition think, what a vast sum would have been given to the Nation; but I now hope the Nation will subscribe liberally. You will believe that I do not urge others to give, and to withhold myself; but my mode of subscribing will be novel in its manner, and by doing it I mean to debar myself of many comforts to serve my Country, and I expect great consolation every time I cut a slice of salt beef instead of mutton." As his letter nears its close, Nelson notes if the wind holds the Vanguard will be at Portsmouth before Vice-Admiral Sir Charles Thompson, third in command of the Channel Fleet, quits the Channel. He notes, "I only pray that the French may not be ready to leave Brest."