latter were cut out from under the batteries of Bordiguera and Hospitallier.
In the spring of 1800, Captain Downman was entrusted by Lord Keith with the blockade of Savona, a fortress situated about seven leagues from Genoa, which city was at that time besieged by the British and Austrian forces[1]. During 41 nights the boats of the Santa Dorothea and the vessels under her orders[2] rowed guard, with a perseverance highly creditable to their officers and men; and at length, by their vigilance and activity in cutting off all supplies, obliged the garrison, consisting of 800 troops, to capitulate. The terms proposed having been submitted to and approved of by the commander-m-chief, were signed by Captain Downman, in conjunction with the Austrian Major-General Count de St. Julian.
Notwithstanding the exertions of the allied forces, the French were destined to be successful; and, in consequence of the fatal battle of Marengo, the whole of Tuscany and Genoa again fell under their dominion. After the surrender of the latter city to the enemy, Captain Downman was sent to destroy the fortifications in the Gulf of Spezzia; a service which he executed in the most satisfactory manner. He also preserved the valuable Gallery of Florence from falling into the hands of the French, by receiving it on board the Santa Dorothea, and conveying it in safety to Sicily. On his arrival at Palermo he received a letter, of which the following is a correct translation, from one of the Grand Duke’s confidential servants, dated Nov. 18, 1800.
- ↑ See Vol. I. p. 53.
- ↑ Cameleon sloop of war, commanded by Lieutenant Jackson; and Strombolo a Neapolitan brig, Captain Settimo.
