the slip-buoy in the morning were brought back, manned, and sent a-head to tow. In the mean time Captain Robilliard prevented, the French brigs from gaining Guadaloupe, and kept up a running fight with one of them until they reached the Saintes.
As soon as the Goree was secured in Grand Bourg bay, Captain Spear went on shore to dine with the Governor; and on landing he found the whole garrison drawn up to receive him, presenting their arms as he passed, the drums at the same time beating a march, and the fifes playing “Rule Britannia.” This flattering compliment was paid him at the request of the marine officers, who were such near spectators of the combat[1]. Captain Spear shortly afterwards received a letter of thanks from his commander-in-chief, of which the following is a copy:
“Sir,– I have to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 23d April, acquainting me with your having engaged two French corvettes; and I am sorry that the spirit and gallantry displayed by yourself, officers, and crew, did not meet with the success which you all so evidently deserved. I request you to accept my thanks; and also to make the same known to your officers and crew. I am, &c.
“To Captain Spear, H.M. sloop Goree.”
During the above gallant action, Captain Spear felt something like a blow on the left shoulder, and on looking round saw the helmsman in the act of throwing his epaulette into the binnacle. The man being questioned as to his motive for tearing it off, coolly replied, “I saw a fellow in the Frenchman’s fore-top levelling a musket at you.” This little anecdote will serve to show that the commander of the Goree possessed the esteem of his crew. The seaman who thus considerately stripped him of his honorable badge was an American, originally impressed into the British service, and naturally anxious to return to his native country: he was at that time doing duty as quarter-
- ↑ Marie-Galante had been taken by the British on the 2d of the preceding month, and was garrisoned by a detachment of royal marines. The manner in which it was captured will be seen by reference to pp. 110 and 111.
