A difficulty arose respecting the duration of the armistice.

The Danish commissioners fairly stated their fears of Russia; and Nelson, with that frankness which sound policy and the sense of power seem often to require as well as justify in diplomacy, told them his reason for demanding a long term was, that he might have time to act against the Russian fleet, and then return to Copenhagen.

Neither party would yield upon this point; and one of the Danes hinted at the renewal of hostilities.

"Renew hostilities!" cried Nelson to one of his friends--for he understood French enough to comprehend what was said, though not to answer it in the same language--"tell him we are ready at a moment! ready to bombard this very night!" The conference, however, proceeded amicably on both sides; and as the commissioners could not agree on this head, they broke up, leaving Nelson to settle it with the prince.

A levee was held forthwith in one of the state-rooms, a scene well suited for such a consultation; for all these rooms had been stripped of their furniture, in fear of a bombardment.