Autograph letter signed : Ashford, to Sir Sidney Smith, 1798 Nov. 8.

Discussing in detail the naval campaign in the Mediterranean and the "great danger from the Russians getting too high into the Mediterranean, lest they should establish themselves there -- I own I think we ought upon no account whatsoever to allow them to have either Malta or Corfu, & wish much to see both those Islands in our own Possession -- I think that the [illegible] would be lost as an Independent Nation should Russia once have a footing in the Mediterranean & that it is the Policy of the Turks to hinder every European Power holding those Islands but ourselves. Had the Emperor those Islands, he would become a Maritime Power & be formidable both to us & the [illegible]; We never can be formidable to her from our Distance, our friendship must ever be of great Consequence to her from our Commerce -- and I think she ought to look to us for Protection against her Enemies, as she can never dread us -- If we hold Corfu & Malta France can never [illegible the [illegible] & can never reach Egypt or any of her Possessions. The Emperor never can become a Maritime Power & Russia will be completely kept in check by us on that Side;" discussing the possibility of a Mediterranean Army and putting forth details on troop levels and possible commands.