Short biographies of some of the chief recipients of the letters in this book.

Acton, Sir John Francis Edward 1736–1811

Prime Minister of Naples

Entered the naval service of Tuscany under the auspices of his uncle, had a distinguished career and rose to high command. Undertook the reorganisation of the Neapolitan navy in 1779 and became associated with the affairs of that country at a critical point in its history. Following several promotions, was appointed Prime Minister. In 1804, on the demand of France, Acton was removed from power but continued to wield influence behind the scenes.

Addington, Henry, First Viscount Sidmouth 1757–1844

Politician and Prime Minister

Long-standing personal friend of William Pitt, which led him to pursue a career in politics. Elected MP for Devizes in 1784, the year of Pitt's first administration and became Speaker in 1789. When Pitt resigned over Catholic Emancipation in 1801, Addington was asked by George III to take over the government. Became Prime Minister, First Lord of the Treasury and Chancellor of the Exchequer. Involved with the Treaty of Amiens signed with France in March 1802. Replaced by Pitt in May 1804. Created Viscount Sidmouth in January 1805. Lord Privy Seal in 1806 and Home Secretrary in 1812.

Atkinson, Thomas 1767–1836

Royal Naval officer. Protégé of Nelson's

Joined the Royal Navy as a volunteer in 1793 and qualified as a Master two years later. Appointed to the Emerald and was present at the Battle of Cape St Vincent in 1797. Transferred to the Theseus, in which he took part in the attack on Santa Cruz in Tenerife, the Battle of the Nile the following year and the siege of Acre the year after that. Wounded during the siege by an explosion on board ship. Transferred to Nelson's new flagship, San Josef, in 1801, and there began an almost uninterrupted spell of service with Nelson. Appointed the Victory's Master when war resumed in 1803 and took part in the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.

Ball, Sir Alexander John 1757–1809

Royal Naval officer and one of Nelson's Nile ‘Band of Brothers’

Promoted Lieutenant in 1778. Transferred to the Sandwich, Sir George Rodney's flagship, in 1781. Served with Rodney at the Battle of the Saintes in 1782 and was later promoted Captain. Spent a year's leave in France, while on half pay, in 1783, and there met Nelson.