He therefore proposed to send to the Admiral a reprimand couched in terms so severe that the Queen did not like to sign it.

The language was much softened; but, in the main, Russell's advice was followed.

Torrington was positively ordered to retreat no further, and to give battle immediately.

Devonshire, however, was still unsatisfied.

"It is my duty, Madam," he said, "to tell Your Majesty exactly what I think on a matter of this importance; and I think that my Lord Torrington is not a man to be trusted with the fate of three kingdoms." Devonshire was right; but his colleagues were unanimously of opinion that to supersede a commander in sight of the enemy, and on the eve of a general action, would be a course full of danger, and it is difficult to say that they were wrong.
"You must either," said Russell, "leave him where he is, or send for him as a prisoner." Several expedients were suggested.