HMS Albemarle and the limits of early amphibious experience

Receiving HMS Albemarle at twenty-three restored Nelson's momentum after a long illness that could easily have stalled his career. He cruised, protected convoys, and led 160 sailors and marines against an entrenched French position in the Turks Islands with frigate support. The landing failed, but Samuel Hood continued to value an officer who was otherwise bringing in prizes. Nelson also met the widowed Fanny Nisbet, who later became his wife. When war ended, his attempts to find work for former crew and remain useful showed how badly his action-driven temperament fitted reserve life on half pay.