that when the reverse of war compelled the British troops to quit Flanders and retire into Holland, whither they were followed by the armies of the French Convention, Captain Schanck was appointed superintendant of all the vessels employed in the various services of conveying either troops, stores, or property, from one country to the other; and his exertions tended at least to reduce disaster within its narrowest possible limits.
The acquisition of coast gained by the enemy, and the general complexion of public affairs, causing an apprehension that an attempt might be made to invade Britain, a new and formidable system of defence was, by the orders of the Admiralty-Board, projected, arranged, and completely carried into execution, under the direction of Captain Schanck. In short, the defence of the whole coast> from Portsmouth to Berwick-upon-Tweed, was confided to him; and few commands have ever been bestowed of more magnitude and importance, or requiring more extensive abilities. The objects he had to attain were infinitely more multifarious than generally fall to the lot either of a land or a naval officer; for he was not only under the necessity of contriving and constructing a variety of rafts, and vessels of different descriptions, capable of receiving cannon, but he was also compelled to fit and adapt for the same purpose, the greater part even of the small boats which he found employed in different occupations on the coast. When even these difficulties were overcome, he had still to undergo the task of teaching the inhabitants throughout the several districts, the art of fighting and managing this heterogeneous, though highly serviceable flotilla, in case the necessity of the country should be such as to require their personal exertions. To have overcome these multiplied difficulties, would in itself be a matter of sufficient praise, to entitle a man to the highest tribute public gratitude could bestow, were every other occasion that could call for it wanting. In 1799, Captain Schanck was again appointed to superintend the transport service connected with the expedition to Holland[1]; and on the formation of the Transport Board, he was nominated one of the Commissioners; a sta-
