"It was only this moment, that I had the invaluable approbation of
the great, the immortal, Earl Howe; an honour the most flattering a
sea-officer could receive, as it comes from the first and greatest
sea-officer the world has ever produced. I had the happiness to
command a band of brothers; therefore, night was to my advantage.
Each knew his duty; and, I was sure, each would feel for a French
ship. By attacking the enemy's van and centre, the wind blowing
directly along their line, I was enabled to throw what force I
pleased on a few ships. This plan my friends readily conceived, by
the signals--for which we are principally, if not entirely,
indebted to your lordship--and we always keep a superior force to
the enemy. At twenty-eight minutes past six, the sun in the
horizon, the firing commenced. At five minutes past ten, when
L'Orient blew up, having burnt seventy minutes, the six van ships
had surrendered. I then pressed forward, towards the rear; and, had
it pleased God, that I had not been wounded, and stone-blind, there
cannot be a doubt but that every ship would how have been in our
possession. But, here, let it not be supposed, that any officer is
to blame. No; on my honour, I am satisfied each did his very best!
I have never, before, my lord, detailed the action to any one; but
I should have thought it wrong, to have kept it from one who is our
great master in naval tactics and bravery. May I presume to present
my very best respects to Lady Howe, and to Lady Mary; and to beg
that your lordship will believe me, ever, your most obliged


"Nelson."

This was a rich repayment to the venerable and illustrious earl, of the
exalted praise which he had so liberally transmitted our hero: praise