The Life of Silas Talbot; A Commodore in the Navy of the United States (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1850 edition. Excerpt: ...for each expedition either in person or at his own expense; and how subordinate, in every arrangement, were all motives and purposes to attachment to his country and the success of her arms. In accordance with this disinterested enthusiasm, throughout the war, Colonel Talbot was equally ready to take the field or hazard the dangers of a naval conflict. On land or water he commanded with the same efficient authority, planned with the same valorous daring, and fought with the same intrepidity. A letter addressed him, about this period, by Lafayette, is an interesting testimony to the justice of this view of his character: Bristol, Sept. 8, 1778. Sir, --The reputation you have already acquired by your zeal and skill in the artificial way, leads me to communicate to you a plan whereby I think some success would be obtained. Heavy and strong scows, upon each of which a twenty-four pounder might be fixed, and then sent on a calm night to attack an English frigate that lies at the north end of the island; such a direction could be taken as to avoid a broadside from her before many well-aimed shots had annoyed her exceedingly. At the same time, while she was busy on the defensive, four or five boats filled with bombs and combustibles could be sent to the other side to ignite her. If you believe, sir, such a scheme would succeed, I shall be obliged to you if you will come immediately from Providence with such artificial provisions as will enable us to try the experiment without loss of time. You might also bring down three, four, or more, large scows or ferry-boats adapted to carrying guns. The affair must be be kept very secret. With the greatest and most sincere esteem, I have the honor to be, dear sir, Your most obedient servant, The Marciuis De..