object of the Enemy’s marksmen, and his desire that he might be entreated by somebody to cover the stars on his coat with a handkerchief.  Doctor Scott and Mr. Scott (Public Secretary) both observed, however, that such a request would have no effect; as they knew his LORDSHIP’S sentiments on the subject so well, that they were sure he would be highly displeased with whoever should take the liberty of recommending any change in his dress on this account:  and when the Surgeon declared to Mr. Scott that he would avail himself of the opportunity of making his sick-report for the day,[7] to submit his sentiments to the Admiral, Mr. Scott replied, “Take care, Doctor, what you are about; I would not be the man to mention such a matter to him.”  The Surgeon notwithstanding persisted in his design, and remained on deck to find a proper opportunity for addressing His Lordship; but this never occurred:  as His Lordship continued occupied with the Captains of the frigates (to whom he was explaining his intentions respecting the services they were to perform during the battle) till a short time before the Enemy—­opened their fire on the Royal Sovereign, when Lord Nelson ordered all persons not stationed on the quarter-deck or poop to repair to their proper quarters; and the Surgeon, much concerned at this disappointment, retired from the deck with several other Officers.[8]

The boats on the quarters of the ship, being found in the way of the guns, were now lowered, down, and towed astern.  Captain Blackwood, of the Euryalus, remained on board the Victory till a few minutes before the Enemy began to fire upon her.  He represented to His Lordship, that his flag-ship would be singled out and much pressed by the Enemy; and suggested the propriety therefore of permitting one or two ships of his line to go ahead of the Victory, and lead her into action, which might be the means of drawing in some measure the Enemy’s attention from her.  To this Lord Nelson assented, and at half past nine o’clock he ordered the Temeraire and Leviathan by signal (the former of which ships, being close to the Victory, was hailed by His Lordship) to go ahead for that purpose; but from the light breeze that prevailed they were unable, notwithstanding their utmost efforts, to attain their intended stations.  Captain Blackwood foresaw that this would be the case; and as the Victory still continued to carry all her sail, he wished Captain Hardy to acquaint His Lordship, that unless her sail was in some degree shortened, the two ships just mentioned could not succeed in getting ahead previously to the Enemy’s line being forced:  this however Captain Hardy declined doing, as he conceived His LORDSHIP’S ardour to get into battle would on no account suffer such a measure.[9]