As Parker, however, was obstinately resolved not to leave Denmark hostile in his rear, Nelson had to bend to the will of his superior.

He did so, without forsaking his own purpose.

As in the diverse objects of his care in the Mediterranean, where he could not compel, he sought diligently to compass his object by persuasion, by clear and full explanation of his lofty views, by stirring appeals to duty and opportunity, striving to impart to another his own insight, and to arouse in him his own single-minded and dauntless activity.

Conceding, perforce, that Denmark was not to be left hostile in the rear,--although he indicates that this object might be attained by masking her power with a detachment, while the main effort was immediately directed against Revel,--his suggestions to Parker for reducing Denmark speedily are dominated by the same conception.

Strategic and tactical considerations unite to dictate, that the fleet, whether it go by the Sound or the Belt, must quickly reach and hold a position beyond--and therefore in the rear of--Copenhagen.