200

LETTERS.

[ 1798 .

TO IIIS EXCELLENCY SIR WILLIAM HAMILTON , K.B.[Letter-Book.]

Naples, litli December, 1708.

Sir,

As I have been informed that this Kingdom is invaded bya formidable French Army, I think it my duty to acquaintyour Excellency, for the information of the English merchantsand others residing at Naples, that the three English transportsin this Bay have my directions to receive such effects of theEnglish as they can stow, and that the whole Squadron isready to receive their persons, should such an event be foundnecessary as for them to embark. I have the honour to be, &c.

Nelson.

N.B.—I need not say that I mean valuable effects, and nothousehold furniture. I also beg leave to recommend thatanything sent on board Ship should be done with as littlebustle, and as much secrecy as possible.

TO LIEUTENANT PHILIP LAMB, AGENT OF TRANSPORTS.

[Order-Book.]

Secret.

Naples, December Uth , 1708.

Whereas, from the exigency of the times, it is necessary tothrow all the condemned provisions, and the hoops and stavesreturned from the different Ships of the Squadron, overboardinto the sea. You arc hereby required and directed to causethe Masters of the Transports under your directions, to heavethe said condemned provisions, with the hoops and staves,overboard into the sea, and to receive on board the saidTransports, the effects and persons of such British Families asmay be sent on board the said Transports, giving them everyassistance in their embarkation, and, at the same time, to keepthis as secret as possible.

Nelson.