Publications of the Navy Records Society (Volume 3 ) (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1895. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... line, not far from her, which made a gallant defence for an hour and then struck, her commander finding he could not succeed in his endeavours of running her on shore. About this time the Magnificent took L'Aimable, a very fine large coppered frigate whose captain resisted full half an hour, and almost at the same moment the Champion took the Ceres, a very elegant little coppered ship, late his Majesty's sloop Ceres, close to the shore. The fifth separated in the forenoon and steered to the westward, which the Warrior was directed to pursue, and she was afterwards followed by the Prince William; so soon as the prizes were taken possession of and the prisoners partly shifted, I made the signal and bore away out of the narrow channel. It is a very mortifying circumstance to relate to you, Sir, that the French fleet which you put to flight on the 12th (twenty-six in number, including frigates) went through the Mona Channel on the 18th, only the day before I was in it. Herewith is an account of the killed and wounded on the part of his Majesty, as well as that of the enemy, with the names and force of the ships taken and the number of men each had on board. Every one of them was loaded with shells and other ordnance stores, amongst which are forges complete for red-hot balls at a siege. The Caton and Jason are very fine ships, almost new; were built at Toulon, which last twice as long as those built at Brest. The Valiant as well as the last ship she took were much hurt in their masts, yards, sails and rigging, but both are now to rights and fit for immediate service. I have the honour to be, with great respect, Sir, your most obedient and most humble servant, Saml. Hood. HOOD TO JACKSON. Barfleur, off the Isle Navassa,1 30th of April, 1782. Private and Confidential....