The foot-path should be turned.  I did shew Mr. Haslewood the way I
wished it done; and Mr. ------ will have no objections, if we make it
better than ever it has been:  and, I also beg, as my dear Horatia is
to be at Merton, that a strong netting, about three feet high, may be
placed round the Nile, that the little thing may not tumble in; and,
then, you may have ducks again in it.  I forget, at what place we saw
the netting; and either Mr. Perry, or Mr. Goldsmid, told us where it
was to be bought.  I shall be very anxious until I know this is done.

I have had no very late opportunities of sending to Naples:  but, via Malta, I wrote to Gibbs, to desire he would send over and purchase the amorins.  They will arrive in time.  I hope, the watch is arrived safe.

The British Fair cutter, I hope, is arrived safe.  She has three packets, from me, to England,

The expences of the alterations at Merton you are not to pay from the income.  Let it all be put to a separate account, and I will provide a fund for the payment.

All I long for, just now, is to hear that you are perfectly recovered; and, then, I care for nothing:  all my hopes are, to see you, and be happy, at dear Merton, again; but, I fear, this miscarriage of Pichegru’s, in France, will prolong the war.  It has kept the French fleet in port, which we are all sorry for.

Sir William Bolton was on board yesterday.  He looks thin.  The fag in a brig is very great; and I see no prospect of his either making prize-money, or being made post, at present:  but, I shall omit no opportunity.

I wrote to Mrs. Bolton a few months ago; and gave her letter, yesterday, to Bolton.  He conducts himself very well, indeed.

Ever, my dearest Emma, for ever, I am your most faithful, and affectionate

  NELSON & BRONTE.

Although I cannot well afford it, yet I could not bear that poor blind Mrs. Nelson should be in want in her old days, and sell her plate; therefore, if you will find out what are her debts, if they come within my power, I will certainly pay them.

Many, I dare say, if they had commanded here, would have made money; but, I can assure you, for prizes taken within the Mediterranean, I have not more than paid my expences.  However, I would rather pinch myself, than she, poor soul, should want.  Your good, angelic heart, my dearest beloved Emma, will fully agree with me, every thing is very expensive; and, even we find it, and will be obliged to economise, if we assist our friends:  and, I am sure, we should feel more comfort in it than in loaded tables, and entertaining a set of people who care not for us.

An account is this moment brought me, that a small sum is payable to me, for some neutral taken off Cadiz in May 1800; so that I shall not be poorer for my gift.  It is odd, is it not?

I shall, when I come home, settle four thousand pounds in trustees hands, for Horatia; for, I will not put it in my own power to have her left destitute:  for she would want friends, if we left her in this world.  She shall be independent of any smiles or frowns!