Today is the anniversary of the capture of the Genereux on 18 February 1800, which prompted Ball to describe Nelson to Emma Hamilton as
'a heaven-born Admiral, upon whom fortune smiles wherever he goes', as Nelson had arrived the day before, just in the nick of time to steal all the glory!
Ball was pretty pleased that he and Emma had just received the Cross of Malta (the main subject of his letter), but I can't help thinking he felt a touch of resentment that the Genereux hadn't arrived a couple of days earlier!
It's a wonderful letter, complete with a bit of mischievous matchmaking:
Quote:
"Malta, 27th February, 1800.
"My dear Madam,
"I most sincerely congratulate your Ladyship on the distinguished mark of favour which his Imperial Majesty, the Emperor of Russia, has been pleased to confer upon you in creating you Chanoiness of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem. He has been graciously pleased to confer upon me the honour of Commander of the same Order, from which I derive a double satisfaction. The first, in the honour of being your brother and defender; and secondly, from the consideration of its being a token of regard of my invaluable friend and patron, Lord Nelson. This memento will have the same effect upon your Ladyship's mind. With what joy you must have received the news of his Lordship's success in the capture of the French Admiral's ship, the Genereux, with a corvette, and the dispersion of the rest of the enemy's squadron bound to Malta, not one of which will ever attempt to make for the destined port. We may truly call him a heaven-born Admiral, upon whom fortune smiles wherever he goes. We have been carrying on the blockade of Malta sixteen months, during which time the enemy never attempted to throw in great succours until this month. His Lordship arrived off here the day they were within a few leagues of the island, captured the principal ships, and dispersed the rest, so that not one has reached the port. I dined with his Lordship yesterday, who is apparently in good health, but he complains of indisposition and the necessity of repose. I do not think a short stay here will hurt his health, particularly as his ship is at anchor, and his mind not harassed. Troubridge and I are extremely anxious that the French ships (Le Guillaume Tell in particular), and the French garrison of La Valetta, shall surrender to him. I would not urge it if I were not convinced that it will ultimately add both to his honour and happiness. It will only be a sacrifice of a short time, after which he may retire to enjoy the air and society of his good friends at Palermo. What a gratification it would be to us if you and Sir William could pay us a short visit. We could make up a snug whist party every evening for Sir William, but we should fall very short in our attempts to amuse you, when we consider the multiplicity of engagements and amusements you have every day at Palermo.
"Troubridge is extremely ill, of a bilious complaint, which will require time to get the better of. I write to Sir William by this conveyance. I therefore only send my best respects to Miss Knight and Mrs. Cadogan. I wish we could bring about a match between the former lady and Captain Gould: he has money enough for both, and she abilities. Adieu, my dear lady and sister. May you live a thousand years; but at all events may you be supremely happy while you live, prays your
"Obliged brother and friend,
"Alexander John Ball.
"Her Excellency Lady Hamilton, C.S.J.J. "Is that right? pray tell me how to address your letter."