determined to enter by the Passage of the Sound, as there are those who think, if you leave that passage open, that the Danish Fleet may sail from Copenhagen, and join the Dutch or French.  I own I have no fears on that subject; for it is not likely that whilst their Capital is menaced with an attack, 9,000 of her best men should be sent out of the Kingdom.  I suppose that some damage may arise amongst our masts and yards; yet perhaps there will not be one of them but could be made serviceable again.  You are now about Cronenburg:  if the wind be fair, and you determine to attack the Ships and Crown Islands, you must expect the natural issue of such a battle—­Ships crippled, and perhaps one or two lost; for the wind which carries you in, will most probably not bring out a crippled Ship.  This mode I call taking the bull by the horns.  It, however, will not prevent the Revel Ships, or Swedes, from joining the Danes; and to prevent this from taking effect, is, in my humble opinion, a measure absolutely necessary—­and still to attack Copenhagen.  Two modes are in my view; one to pass Cronenburg, taking the risk of damage, and to pass up[28] the deepest and straightest Channel above the Middle Grounds; and coming down the Garbar or King’s Channel, to attack their Floating batteries, &c. &c, as we find it convenient.  It must have the effect of preventing a junction between the Russians, Swedes, and Danes, and may give us an opportunity of bombarding Copenhagen.  I am also pretty certain that a passage could be found to the northward of Southolm for all our Ships; perhaps it might be necessary to warp a short distance in the very narrow part.  Should this mode of attack be ineligible, the passage of the Belt, I have no doubt, would be accomplished in four or five days, and then the attack by Draco could be carried into effect, and the junction of the Russians prevented, with every probability of success against the Danish Floating batteries.  What effect a bombardment might have, I am not called upon to give an opinion; but think the way would be cleared for the trial.  Supposing us through the Belt with the wind first westerly, would it not be possible to either go with the Fleet, or detach ten Ships of three and two decks, with one Bomb and two Fire-ships, to Revel, to destroy the Russian Squadron at that place?  I do not see the great risk of such a detachment, and with the remainder to attempt the business at Copenhagen.  The measure may be thought bold, but I am of opinion the boldest measures are the safest; and our Country demands a most vigorous exertion of her force, directed with judgment.  In supporting you, my dear Sir Hyde, through the arduous and important task you have undertaken, no exertion of head or heart shall be wanting from your most obedient and faithful servant,

    NELSON AND BRONTE.