24th. In the gallery among others met with Major Halsey, a great
creature of the Duke of Albemarle's: who tells me that the Duke
by name hath said that he expected to have the work here up in
the River done, having left Sir W. Batten and Mr. Phipps there.
He says that the Duke of Albemarle do say that this is a victory
we have had, having, as he was sure, killed them 8000 men, and
sunk about fourteen of their ships; but nothing like this appears
true. He lays much of the little success we have had, however,
upon the fleet's being divided by order from above, and the want
of spirit in the commanders; and that he was commanded by order
to go out of the Downes to the Gunfleete, and in the way meeting
the Dutch fleet, what should he do? should he not fight them?
especially having beat them heretofore at as great disadvantage.
He tells me further, that having been downe with the Duke of
Albemarle, he finds that Holmes and Spragge do govern most
business of the Navy; and by others I understand that Sir Thomas
Allen is offended thereat: that he is not so much advised with
as he ought to be.
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