I dare say, Mr. Hazelwood acted, like all lawyers, whose only consideration was for their client:  but, I am sure, you will do, for me, all the civil things towards Mrs. Greaves.

If I can afford to buy the Duck Close, and the field adjoining, it would be pleasant; but, I fear, it is not in my power:  but, I shall know, when my accounts are settled, at New Year’s Day.

To be sure, we shall employ the trades-people of our village, in preference to any others, in what we want for common use, and give them every encouragement to be kind and attentive to us.

From my heart, do I wish that I was with you:  and it cannot be long; for, to-day, I am far from well; violent head ache, and very cold; but, it may be agitation.

Whatever, my dear Emma, you do for my little charge, I must be pleased with.  Probably, she will be lodged at Merton; at least, in the spring, when she can have the benefit of our walks.  It will make the poor mother happy, I am sure.

I do not write to her to-day, as this goes through the Admiralty; but, tell her all I would say.  You know my unchangeable thoughts about her.

I shall have the child christened, when I come up.

Have we a nice church at Merton?  We will set an example of goodness to the under-parishioners.

Would to God, I was with you at Laleham.  I shall never forget our happiness at that place.

Mr. Davison will pay Mrs. Nelson fifty pounds, October 1st.  I dare say, Mr. Shakespeare has some orders about it.

I had, yesterday, a letter from my father; he seems to think, that he may do something which I shall not like.  I suppose, he means, going to Somerset Street.

Shall I, to an old man, enter upon the detestable subject; it may shorten his days.  But, I think, I shall tell him, that I cannot go to Somerset Street, to see him.  But, I shall not write till I hear your opinion.

If I once begin, you know, it will all out, about her, and her ill-treatment to her son.  But, you shall decide.

Our accounts of dear Parker, I fear, preclude all hopes of his recovery.

It was my intention to have gone ashore this morning, to have called on Admiral Lutwidge:  but, the wind’s coming fresh from the S.W.  I have declined it; for, I doubt, if I could get off again.

At ten o’clock, with your letters, came off Dr. Baird’s note, to say every hope was gone!  I have desired, that his death should be sent, by telegraph, to the Admiralty.  They will, surely, honour his memory, although they would not promote him.

What are our feelings, my dear Emma! but, we must cheer up:  and, with best regards to Mrs. Nelson, believe me ever, for ever, your most affectionate,

  NELSON & BRONTE.

Best regards to Sir William.

I send you the last report.  Who knows!

LETTER XIX.