[The Life of Horatio Lord Nelson by Robert Southey]@TWC D-Link bookThe Life of Horatio Lord Nelson CHAPTER IV 42/46
I hope you will be able to give me a frigate to convey the remains of my carcass to England." "A left-handed admiral," he said in a subsequent letter, "will never again be considered as useful; therefore the sooner I get to a very humble cottage the better, and make room for a sounder man to serve the state." His first letter to Lady Nelson was written under the same opinion, but in a more cheerful strain.
"It was the chance of war," said he, "and I have great reason to be thankful: and I know it will add much to your pleasure to find that Josiah, under God's providence, was principally instrumental in saving my life.
I shall not be surprised if I am neglected and forgotten: probably I shall no longer be considered as useful; however, I shall feel rich if I continue to enjoy your affection.
I beg neither you nor my father will think much of this mishap; my mind has long been made up to such an event." His son-in-law, according to his wish, was immediately promoted; and honours enough to heal his wounded spirit awaited him in England. Letters were addressed to him by the first lord of the Admiralty, and by his steady friend the Duke of Clarence, to congratulate him on his return, covered as he was with glory.
He assured the Duke, in his reply, that not a scrap of that ardour with which he had hitherto served his king had been shot away.
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