Dear Archie-
Admiral Pellew has reinstated my promotion and placed me as captain of the Hotspur. I have been tasked to take a Frenchman to meet a contact who may give us a better idea as to the current French landscape. The commission caught me off guard, but it has been eagerly accepted.
Even more good news, I have as my first leftenant Mr. Bush from the Renown. Like me, he has been land-locked since the end of the war. He and I met several days ago by chance, and he was waiting for me when I returned from meeting with Admiral Pellew. We are glad to be out to sea again, and even more glad to be in such agreeable company.
There is one piece of regrettable news, however. Matthews and Stiles have remained among my crew, but it is unfortunate that Stiles has managed to become captain's steward. I hadn't the heart to put him ashore, and he said he could cook. I know you're laughing, I can practically hear you cackling. "Poor Horatio, such a pushover!" Yes, well, I'll let my growling stomach do the arguing for me. He almost caught the entire ship on fire for leaving the stove door open! I hated having to punish him for it, as I know it could not have been intentional, but such is the lot of a captain.
That infernal Major Cotard can not seem to avoid causing a ruckus. I had better see what is the matter. Your even temper would be a great help right now.
Signed, H. Hornblower, Captain, H.M.S. Hotspur