by the logs of the Leander, Newcastle, and Acasta, copies of which are in our possession, will effectually rescue his memory from any illiberal reflections that an incorrect passage in a late publication may have given rise to[1].
“P.M. Moderate and hazy weather. At 12h 20' saw the land of St. Jago from E.N.E. to N.W. by N. At 12h 25' observed three ships, apparently frigates, getting under weigh in Porto Praya[2]: the Newcastle and Acasta about half a mile on the weather quarter. On the strangers being reported to Sir George Collier, who was then coming out of his cabin, he immediately called, ‘down with the main tack.’ – I submitted, as they appeared very close to us, from the haziness of the weather, and we laying up for them, to beat to quarters first: he said, ‘No, no, make sail, I will lay him on board!’ Shortly afterwards we fell off, and on bringing them abeam, tacked[3]. Weather very thick and hazy – took the two sternmost ships for frigates, the headmost, from appearance, a much larger ship, for the Guerriere, who we understood had long 32-pounders on her main-deck. Made private signal, which was not answered – hoisted our colours and fired a shot to windward. Shortly afterwards the sternmost ship tacked, and Sir George directed the Acasta’s signal to be made to tack after her; but countermanded the order on observing that she would gain the anchorage before the Acasta could close with her. At this time Sir George called me aft, took hold of my arm, and desired I would see every thing properly cleared for action; adding, ‘We shall, I dare say, have sharp work, but I would not give a fig for our fellows unless they knock them up in half an hour – we must secure them all, or John Bull will not be satisfied, although they have Guerriere with them[4]. I am seldom under fire without getting a lick;
- ↑ See James’s Naval History, vol. 5. p. 547, et seq.
- ↑ The British squadron was at this time standing in for the land with starboard tacks on board. The enemy, it appear, cut their cables, fearing they should be attacked at anchor, although in a neutral port.
- ↑ The Newcastle was now two miles ahead of the Leander, and one mile on the lee-bow of the Acasta. The enemy standing to the eastward.
- ↑ The Guerriere, rated as a 44-gun frigate, was a new ship, mounting
