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This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1861 edition. Excerpt: ...but they were partially countermanded, and he was directed to make a demonstration on the coast of Holland, remote from the Helder, to distract the attention of the enemy, and he was afterwards to join the main body of the forces. The order given to General Coote leaves no doubt that Sir Ralph had resolved to exercise the discretion intrusted to him by the instruction of the 10th of August, by directing the attack against the Helder, unless subsequent information should be received from the officer who had been sent to Lord Duncan, and whom he was to meet at sea, or unless he should find that the Admiral entertained a different opinion. Neither of these events, as will appear, happened. The expedition sailed on the 13th of August, and on the 14th, Sir Ralph communicated to Mr. Dundas, that the intelligence brought by the officer who had been sent to Lord Duncan to bring the latest tidings from the coast of Holland, had not shaken his purpose, and that he intended to proceed to the Helder. Admiral Mitchell and Mr. Dundas both expressed their cordial approval of this decision. There are letters written by Sir Ralph to his family during, and after the conclusion of the expedition, in which he expresses his opinion as to the impolicy of the enterprise. It is sufficient for the present purpose to refer to one letter which is addressed to Mr. Huskisson, the Under Secretary of State, who was most intimately acquainted with all the facts, as he enjoyed the unreserved confidence both of Mr. Dundas and of Sir Ealph. In a letter dated on the 10th of October, which will be hereafter more fully noticed, Sir Ralph says, " I am unwilling to write to Mr. Dundas on the subject. My mind always went in opposition to this undertaking, and I spoke my...