Hello Tycho,
I found the letter in the Nicholas Edition, volume 7, page CXCV. It is indeed a charming letter.
Sylvia
To Captain the right hon. Henry Blackwoord, H.M.S. Penelope
Palermo, 5th April, 1800
My dear Blackwood,
Is there a sympathy which ties men together in the bonds of friendship without having a personal knowledge of each other? If so, (and, I believe, it was so to you,) I was your friend and acquaintance before I saw you. Your conduct and character on the late glorious occasion stamps your fame beyond the reach of envy: it was like yourself - it was like the Penelope. Thanks; and say everything kind for me to your brave Officers and men. When I receive any official letter on the subject, I shall notice your and their gallant services in the way they merit. Tell Captain Ormsby I have recommend him to Lord Keith, and hope it will answer his wishes. How fortunate he has been to be with you! It will give him, I am sure, the next step, and not interfere with captain Long, or any other Master and Commander who might have been present. I shall see you very soon, either here or at Malta. But in every situation I am your sincere and attached friend.
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