mistake; and nothing could exceed the respect which the temporary monarch expressed for the English nation. About the same period, Captain Nicolas had the high gratification of receiving the annexed private letter from his Commander-in-chief:
“Dear Sir,– As the arrangements are making for the return of the fleet to England, and it will soon fall to the lot of the Pilot to bend her course the same way, I should regret your departure from my command without taking with you my best wishes for your promotion and success, and my testimony of satisfaction with your conduct during the three years you have served under my flag. I have had uniform pleasure in receiving reports of your gallantry and zeal, and my own observation has confirmed and strengthened your claim to my good opinion, to which no officer under my command has higher pretensions. I am, dear Sir, with esteem, your very faithful servant,
The Pilot was ordered to call for the Oporto convoy on her way to England, with which she arrived at Portsmouth, Oct. 6, 1814. Captain Nicolas then obtained six weeks’ leave of absence, and soon afterwards received the following letter from his late Admiral:
“London, Nov. 12, 1814.
“My dear Sir,– It is with sensible pleasure I hear from you, that Lord Melville acknowledges your just pretensions to promotion; I can safely say your conduct under my flag fully entitles yon to his consideration, and I hope you may soon experience the benefit of his good disposition towards you. Wishing you perfect success, I am, my dear Sir, very faithfully yours,
From the want of interest to support his claims. Captain Nicolas was advised to ask the officers who severally commanded at Sicily for their testimonials of the Pilot’s services on that station, and this request procured for him the letters which we subjoin.
