When news of this event reached the Russian Emperor it threw him into a paroxysm of rage, and he declared war against England in violent language.

He had the insolence to make peace with France the _sina qua non_ of his friendship.

At the distance of nearly half a century, the actual language employed has a peculiar flavor.

The emperor, after detailing his grievances, declares that henceforth there shall be no connection between the two countries, and calls on his Britannic Majesty to dismiss his ministers, and conclude a peace forthwith.

The British Government replied to this by ordering Nelson to set sail forthwith for the mouth of the Neva.