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Letter by Horatio Nelson to Lieutenant-General The Honourable Charles Stuart, 16 February 1799

Catalogue reference: ADM 1/399 (N36 and N44)


 

Palermo 16 February 1799

My dear Sir,

What a State we are in here! without Troops, and the Enemy at the Door: for altho’ there are 4000 Neapolitan regular troops, these are not to be trusted; 13,000 Sicilian Troops are raising, and 26,000 Militia; but I fear, before these are got together, the active French will get possession of Messina, the Key of Sicily. There is a good Citadel, and might be defended for a long time but there is such treachery, that probably it will be given without a shot. I know, my dear Sir, your Situation at Minorca, and I regret that you cannot, I fear, send here and save us, for 1000 English Troops in the Citadel of Messina would, I am convinced save Sicily. I dare not hope such a thing but having ventured to mention this Subject, I leave it to your excellent judgment. With every sentiment of Respect, believe me

My dear Sir
Your most obedient and faithful humble Servant

(signed) Nelson

I have sent my letter to Lord St Vincent open, for Duckworth to read, which tells all the News I can learn.

Hon[oura]ble Lieu[tenant] Gen[era]l Stuart

 

 
 
 
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