Upwards of seventy, he possesses the mind of forty years of age.

He has not a thought separated from honour and glory." The flattering proofs of his superior's esteem, and the demand made upon his natural powers to exert themselves freely, had a very beneficial effect upon his health and spirits.

It was not effort, however protracted and severe, but the denial of opportunity to act, whether by being left unemployed or through want of information, that wore Nelson down.

"I have not been one hour at anchor for pleasure in eight months; but I can assure you I never was better in health." Meanwhile a commission from the fleet arrived in Corsica.

Sir Gilbert Elliot, the representative of the British government in the island, was at its head, and with him were associated two army officers, one of whom afterwards became widely celebrated as Sir John Moore.