My Life > The Mediterranean, 1803-1805

The Mediterranean, 1803-1805

On the 16th of May 1803, England having declared war on France, I was appointed Commander-in-Chief in the Mediterranean and hoisted my flag in the Victory on the 18th. In her, I sailed to my station off Toulon where I continued for close two years, without once setting my foot out of the ship.

On the 8th of April 1805, the French fleet under Admiral Pierre de Villeneuve escaped from Toulon and sailed to the West Indies. I chased them, but suffered the misery of missing them, entirely owing to false information sent me from St Lucia. I returned with the fleet under my command to my station and then sailed to England for the recovery of my health. I arrived at Portsmouth on the 8th of August, hauled down my flag and proceeded to join my dear, good friend Lady Hamilton at Merton.

Happy days at Merton

My dearest Emma and I enjoy the company of our delightful daughter Horatia in the grounds at Merton Place. This picture was taken in September 1805 when Horatia was just four-and-a-half years old.

Thus it may be exemplified by my Life that perseverance in any profession will most probably meet its reward. Without having any inheritance, or having been fortunate in prize-money, I have received all the Honours of my Profession, been created a Peer of Great Britain and received many rewards from different potentates and states.

Therefore I may say to the Reader:

"Go thou, and do likewise!"

Merton, 24th of August 1805