ly carried away her main-top-sail-yard; by which accident she dropped a-stern, and was soon lost sight of by the Argo. The Spaniards separated at the close of the day; but Captain Bowen, by judicious management and skilful manoeuvres, kept sight of one of the frigates, which he got alongside of at midnight, and compelled to surrender. She proved to be the Santa Teresa, of 42 guns and 530 men. Her consort, the Proserpine, of similar force, effected her escape.
Captain Bowen shortly after attacked and carried a number of merchant vessels lying at Tarragona; but in consequence of their taking the ground when coming out, he was obliged to set them on fire. He subsequently went on a mission to Algiers; and whilst there, had the good fortune to procure the freedom of six British subjects, who had been fourteen years in a state of slavery. Previous to his departure, the Dey, as a mark of friendship, presented him with a rich Turkish sabre and two fine Arabian horses.
In the month of July following, the Argo received the flag of Earl St. Vincent, who had been obliged, through ill health, to resign his command on the Mediterranean station. On the 6th August, Captain Bowen captured the Infanta Amelia, a Spanish packet, mounting guns; and twelve days afterwards, landed his Lordship at Portsmouth. He was afterwards employed in affording protection to the Portugal and Mediterranean trade; and in addition to several privateers, captured the San Fernando, a Spanish letter of marque, pierced for 22 guns, carrying 12, with a complement of 53 men and a cargo of considerable value, a French brig in ballast, and three vessels laden with iron ore.
In the summer of 1801, Captain Bowen had the gratification of receiving the following letter from the Secretary of the Hon. East India Company:
“Sir.– I have great pleasure in obeying the command of the Court of Directors of the East India Company, by communicating their thanks for your care and attention in convoying to England from St. Helena, nine of the Company’s ships, together with an extra ship laden on their account; and in acquainting you, that the Court have presented you with the sum of 400 guineas, for the purchase of a piece of plate, as an acknowledgment of those services; which sum may he received at the Company’s Treasury here. I am, &c.
