ship Le Decade, having on board Rear-Admiral Sir Richard Bickerton, who, was on his return to England for the recovery of his health.
Some bad weather and adverse winds were experienced by the Victory in crossing the Bay of Biscay, and on the 27th Cape St. Vincent was seen. Lord Nelson had dispatched the Euryalus ahead on the preceding day, to acquaint Admiral Collingwood with his approach; and to direct that no salute should take place, nor any public compliments be paid to his flag, on his assuming the command, as he wished the Enemy to be kept ignorant of a reinforcement being received by the British Fleet. In the evening of the 28th, the Victory joined the Fleet; now consisting of twenty-seven ships of the line, including the Victory, Ajax, and Thunderer: the city of Cadiz was seen distant about fifteen miles, with the Combined Fleets at anchor; and Admiral Louis, with five or six ships under his command, close
