After a long passage, we are arrived; and it is as I suspected--the
ministers at Naples know nothing of the situation of the island. Not
a house or bastion of the town is in possession of the islanders; and
the Marquis de Niza tells me, they want arms, victuals, and support.
He does not know, that any Neapolitan officers are in the island;
perhaps, although I have their names, none are arrived; and it is very
certain, by the Marquis's account, that no supplies have been sent by
the governors of Syracuse or Messina.

However, I shall and will know every thing as soon as the Marquis is
gone, which will be to-morrow morning. He says, he is very anxious to
serve under my command; and, by his changing his ship, it appears
as if he was so: however, I understand the trim of our English ships
better.

Ball will have the management of the blockade after my departure; as,
it seems, the Court of Naples think my presence may be necessary, and
useful, in the beginning of November.

I hope it will prove so; but, I feel, my duty lays at present in the
East; for, until I know the shipping in Egypt are destroyed, I shall
never consider the French army as completely sure of never returning
to Europe.

However, all my views are to serve and save the Two Sicilies; and
to do that which their Majesties may wish me, even against my own
opinion, when I come to Naples, and that country is at war. I shall
wish to have a meeting with General Acton on this subject.