previous to, and during the action; by which nearly the whole of them were prevented from falling into the hands of a superior force: and doth adjudge them to be most honorably acquitted; and the said Captain Richard Budd Vincent, his officers and ship’s company, are hereby most honorably acquitted accordingly.”
On the second day after his trial, Captain Vincent received a post commission dated April 8, 1805; and on the ensuing 3d July, the following resolution of the committee for managing the Patriotic Fund at Lloyd’s, was communicated to him by the Secretary:–
“Resolved,– That a sword, of the value of 100l. and a piece of plate of the same value, with an appropriate inscription, or that sum of money at his option, be presented to Captain Richard Budd Vincent, acting as Commodore on the occasion, for so nobly supporting the honor of the British flag, and successfully protecting the convoy under his care.”
The following letter was also transmitted to John Turnbull, Esq. Chairman of the Merchants trading to the South of Europe:–
“Sir,– The very gallant conduct of Captains Vincent and Farquhar, and the officers and crews of his Majesty’s sloop Arrow, and bomb Acheron, entitles them to every possible testimony of gratitude from their countrymen at large j but more particularly from the merchants and underwriters interested in the convoy under their care; which was so nobly and successfully protected, by the unequal conflict they maintained with the French frigates l’Hortense and l’Incorruptible.
“The Committee of the Patriotic Fund have voted honorary rewards to the commanding officers; given donations to the wounded; and made provision for the families of those who fell in thus supporting the honor of the British flag. But the rules of that Institution extend no further; and it is a tribute still due to those brave men who have lost their own property in so resolutely defending that of others, to provide, that on their return from imprisonment, they should at least be furnished with necessaries to equip them for his Majesty’s service.
“With this view we address ourselves to you, Sir, as Chairman of the merchants trading to the Mediterranean, that you may recommend the subject to their consideration. We shall be happy to learn that it meets their concurrence, and to join them in such measures as shall appear best calculated to carry it into effect. We have the honor to be, &c.
(Signed)“J. Angerstein.
(Signed)“R. Sheddon.
(Signed)“J. Marryatt.
In consequence of this letter the following communication was made to Captain Vincent, on the 26th Aug.:–
