in the least degree likely to contribute to the public service. The French commander stood after the British for about five hours, and then hauled to the wind on the larboard tack, whilst Rear-Admiral Montagu stood to the N.W. in the hopes of meeting Earl Howe. His Lordship, however, was then on his way to Spithead, with the prizes taken on the 1st of that month; and our officer understanding that it was his wish that the fleet should assemble at Plymouth, anchored with his division in Cawsand Bay on the 12th.
Having informed the Admiralty of his arrival, and requested permission to come on shore for the recovery of his health, which was considerably affected by the tidings of the death of his brother, Captain James Montagu, who had fallen in the late battle, he received the following letters from the Secretary of that Board, the Earl of Chatham, and the veteran nobleman under whose orders he was then serving:
“Sir.– Having communicated to my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty your letters of the 8th and 12th inst. (with the enclosures), informing them of your arrival in Cawsand Bay, with the squadron under your command, and of your proceedings during your last cruise, I am commanded by their Lordships to acquaint you, that they approve thereof.
“Rear-Admiral Montagu, Plymouth.”
“Sir.– I received your letter this morning, and learnt, with great regret, that your state of health was such as to make it necessary, for a short time, to come on shore. I wish much it had been possible for the Hector to have brought you to Spithead; but as the squadron must proceed again immediately to sea, and in as much force as possible, it will not be at present practicable; but probably a little time hence it may be so arranged, that the Hector may come up to Spithead. The London is not yet commissioned; and I should be glad to know if there is any particular person you would wish to fit her out in the first instance[1]. I cannot conclude without condoling with you, which I do very truly, at the shock you
- ↑ The Rear-Admiral, on his return from escorting the convoys to the southward, had expressed a wish to exchange, at a convenient opportunity, the Hector for the London; and Lord Chatham had promised to direct her to be commissioned for him.
