"The Vesuvian republic being fixed, I have now to look out for
Sicily: but revolutionary principles are so prevalent in the world,
that no monarchical government is safe, or sure of lasting ten
years.

"I beg you will make my kindest remembrances to Miss Locker, and
all your good sons; and believe me, ever, your faithful and
affectionate friend,


"Nelson."

"Lieutenant-Governor Locker,
Royal Hospital, Greenwich."

As the Vesuvian republic had been now formed on the ruins of the
Neapolitan monarchy, under the protection of the French, and was
consequently at war with Great Britain, Lord Nelson gave directions for
the property of all persons who had not left this new state to be seized
as lawful prize. Application was again made to the emperor; a survey
taken of the island, for the purpose of ascertaining it's strength and
security; and every endeavour used to obtain, during the war, a truce
with Tunis and Tripoli. The opinion of Lord Nelson, with regard to the
safety of Sicily, is conveyed in the following letter to Sir John Acton,
Bart, expressly on that subject.

"Palermo, Feb. 11, 1799.


"MY DEAR SIR,