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In order to hasten as much as possible towards the moreimmediate subject of these memoirs, I will pass over animmense quantity of matter of great historical interest, butwith which I had no personal connection, and merely state,that Naples was now at peace with France , which had justdispatched her army under Napoleon to occupy Egypt .The accounts of this occurrence, had not reached Naplesmany days, when they were followed by the news, (delightfulto the governing party) of the British victory of the Nile .A few days more, and Nelson with his gallant fleet, wasseen sailing majestically into the bay of Naples, bringing inhis rear the captured vessels of the defeated French .
Instantly the King and Queen, the Ministers of State, theBritish Ambassador Sir William Hamilton , accompanied byhis beautiful wife, repaired on board the Admiral’s ship.All honours, praises, presents, were bestowed upon thenaval visitor. Sir William Hamilton , addressing him thefirst official thanks he could receive, on the behalf of theBritish nation. Her ladyship appeared stricken withaffection for his person ; all contended for the palm ofministering the greatest quantum of admiration andapplause.
The whole party proceeded to the Royal Palace, and inthe evening the entire city was brilliantly illuminated. Theofficial , as well as public demonstrations of festivity andjoy, were such as might have followed a national triumph,or salvation from some impending calamity. The entireBritish fleet, together with their prizes, anchored in the bayand were prodigally supplied with everything that couldminister to the comfort and enjoyment of the officers andcrews.
This circumstance of the entry of so numerous a fleet,belonging to a power at war with France , was in directviolation of the treaty of peace of the 11th of October above