114

LETTERS.

[1785.

possession of our Islands, are we ever again embroiled in aFrench war. The residents of these Islands are Americans byconnexion and by interest, and are inimical to Great Britain .They are as great rebels as ever were in America , had theythe power to show it.

After what I have said, you will believe I am not verypopular with the people. They have never visited me, and Ihave not had a foot in any house since I have been on theStation, and all for doing my duty by being true to the in-terests of Great Britain . A petition from the President andCouncil has gone to the Governor-General and Admiral, torequest the admission of Americans . I have given my answerto the Admiral upon the subject ; how he will like it I knownot: but I am determined to suppress the admission of Fo-reigners all in my power. I have told the Customs thatI will complain if they admit any Foreigner to an Entry :—anAmerican arrives; sprung a leak, a mast, and what not, makesa protest, gets admittance, sells his cargo for ready money ;goes to Martinico, buys molasses, and so round and round.But I hate them all. The Loyalist cannot do it, consequentlymust sell a little dearer. I am happy in hearing Bradley hasgot so good a place. I beg my best compliments to him andall that family. God bless you, my dear Sir, and rest assured,I am ever, your affectionate Friend,

HoRATro Nelson.

Remember me to the boys kindly.

TO REAR-ADMIRAL SIR RICHARD HUGHES, BART.

[Copy, in Captain Nelson's Narrative of his Proceedings in support of theNavigation Act. Vide p. 175, post.]

[January 11th or 12th, 1785.]

Sir,

I yesterday received your order of the 29th of December,wherein you direct me in the execution of your first order,dated the 12th of November, (which is in fact strictly requiringus to put the Act of Navigation, upon which the wealth andsafety of Great Britain so much depends, in force,) to observethe following directions, viz.: To cause Foreigners to anchor