The valid British force was thus reduced by one-fourth,--to nine vessels.
Nelson's ship, the "Elephant," was following the "Bellona" and "Russell," and he saw them ground.

"His agitation during these moments was extreme," says an eye-witness.

"I shall never forget the impression it made on me.

It was not, however, the agitation of indecision, but of ardent, animated patriotism panting for glory, which had appeared within his reach, and was vanishing from his grasp." He doubtless well knew the thinly veiled reproaches of rashness, cast by timid counsels upon the daring, which even under these disadvantages was to cover with confusion their prophecies of disaster; but, as on many another day, and in that more famous incident, a few hours later, in this same battle, his tenacious purpose harbored no side-thought of retreat.

"Before you receive this," he had written to Lady Hamilton, "all will be over with Denmark,--either your Nelson will be safe, and Sir Hyde Parker a victor, or he, your own Nelson, will be laid low." The signal to advance was kept flying, but new dispositions had to be made to meet the new and adverse conditions.[32] The remaining ships were made to close to the rear, as they anchored.