In such estimation were Captain Knight’s abilities at this time held, that, in the hour of battle with M. de Grasse’s superior fleet at St. Kitt’s[1], the Rear-Admiral thought it proper to remove him from the Shrewsbury, to command his own flag-ship, the Barfleur.
On the evening of the memorable 12th April, 1782[2], Captain Knight received, and presented to his Admiral, the sword of Count de Grasse, and those of all the surviving officers of the Ville de Paris. A few days after the action, Sir Samuel Hood was detached in pursuit of the beaten enemy; and on the 19th came up with, and captured, two ships of 64 guns each, together with a frigate and a sloop[3].
For six months preceding the peace of 1783, Prince William Henry performed the duty of a Midshipman in the Barfleur, a portion of each day being allotted, by the Admiral’s desire, for a particular part of naval education and study under Captain Knight, from whose tuition H.R.H. derived acknowledged advantage.
When the account of a cessation of hostilities had reached Jamaica, in March 1783, Lord Hood permitted the Prince to visit Cape Francois, and the Havannah. H.R.H. was received at both places with every mark of distinction and politeness. After which, his Lordship returned to England with the squadron under his command, and arrived at Spithead on the 26th June, in the same year.
It being a period of profound peace, Captain Knight remained without any appointment until the year 1790; when, on the appearance of a rupture with Spain, Lord Hood again hoisted his flag, and our officer received the flattering compliment of being appointed his Lordship’s Captain, in the Victory of 100 guns, which he continued to command until the final adjustment of the dispute with Spain, and that which subsequently took place between Great Britain and Russia, in 1791.
On the commencement of the war with the French republic, Lord Hood was immediately called forth to command a powerful fleet, destined for the Mediterranean; and
