Poor Sykes was wounded badly, but not killed.

When Nelson’s health was established after the loss of his arm, he sent to the minister of St. George’s, Hanover Square, the following desire to offer up his thanksgiving:—­“An officer desires to return thanks to Almighty God for his perfect recovery from a severe wound, and also for the many mercies bestowed on him.”  Thus showing that he was humble enough to be thankful to God, and continued so in the midst of all his successes.

The following is an instance of his coolness in the hour of danger.  The late Lieutenant-General the Hon. Sir William Stewart, as lieutenant-colonel of the rifle-brigade, embarked to do duty in the fleet which was led by Sir Hyde Parker and Nelson, to the attack of Copenhagen in 1801.  “I was,” says he, “with Lord Nelson when he wrote the note to the Crown Prince of Denmark, proposing terms of arrangement.  A cannon ball struck off the head of the boy who was crossing the cabin with the light to seal it.  “Bring another candle,” said his lordship.  I observed, that I thought it might very well be sent as it was, for it would not be expected that the usual forms could be observed at such a moment.  “That is the very thing I should wish to avoid, Colonel,” replied he, “for if the least appearance of precipitation were perceptible in the manner of sending this note, it might spoil all.”  Another candle being now brought, his lordship sealed the letter, carefully enclosed in an envelope, with a seal bearing his coat of arms and coronet, and delivered it to the officer in waiting to receive it.  It is said that the moment was a critical one, and that Lord Nelson’s note decided the event.”

A seaman of the name of Hewson, who had served under Nelson, was working as a caster in a manufactory at Birmingham when Nelson visited that place.  Among other manufactories, the admiral paid a visit to that where Hewson was at work as a brass-founder; and though no employment disfigures a workman more with smoke and dust than the process of casting, the quick eye of Nelson recognized in the caster an old associate.  “What, Hewson, my lad,” said he, “are you here?” Hewson laid hold of the hair that hung over his forehead, and making an awkward bow, replied, “Yes, your honor.”  “Why, how comes this about!  You and I are old acquaintances; you were with me in the Captain when I boarded the San Joseph, were you not?” Hewson again laid hold of of his hair, and bowing, replied, “Yes, your honor.”  “I remember you well,” said Nelson; “you were one of the cleverest fellows about the vessel!  If any thing was to be done, Hewson was the lad to do.  Why, what do you here, working like a negro?  Take this,” throwing him money, “and wash the dust down your throat.”