At the expiration of six months he wrote, formally announcing his engagement, to Mr.William Suckling, his mother's brother.

He anticipates the latter's doubts as to the permanence of this fancy: "This Horatio, you will say, is for ever in love;" but he considers that six months without change settles that question.

"My present attachment is of pretty long standing; but I was determined to be fixed before I broke this matter to any person." He then explains the situation,--that the lady herself has little or nothing; that Mr.Herbert, though rich, is not likely to help the young couple much, and he asks his uncle's assistance.

This Suckling consented to give, and for several years continued liberally to extend.

But still, impatient though Nelson always was to complete whatever he had on hand, various causes delayed the wedding for another year.