Thus, by dint of gallantry, exertion, and perseverance, was saved from capture a vessel which the Danes would, probably, have been still more anxious to possess had they known that she formerly belonged to their navy. Her consort mounted ten 18-pounder carronades, and had on board about 60 officers and men, of whom only one was killed and not any wounded. “A very serious investigation,” says Captain Brenton, “would have taken place on the conduct of the lieutenant of the Algerine, but before any complaint could reach the Admiralty, he was dismissed from the command of his vessel for another breach of discipline[1].”
That Lieutenant Devon’s conduct was highly approved by his commander-in-chief and the Board of Admiralty, the following copies of official documents will testify.
“I desire you to inform Lieutenant Devon, that I have transmitted an account of his very gallant action to the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty; and to assure him, and all the officers and crew of the Brevdrageren of my high approbation of the perseverance and determined courage with which they defended themselves against such very superior force: and that I have great pleasure in learning that of such brave men so few were killed or wounded in the unequal contest.”
Copy of a letter from Admiral Young to Lieutenant Devon, dated Aug. 30th, 1811:
“Having transmitted to the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty your letter addressed to Captain Hawtayne, giving an account of an action you bad sustained against three national brigs, on the coast of Norway, their lordships have commanded me to express to you their approbation of the gallant conduct of yourself, your officers, and crew, on the occasion. I have to desire that you communicate the same to the officers and crew of the Brevdrageren accordingly.”
The approbation of the Admiralty was further marked, by the promotion, in Sept. following, of the Brevdrageren’s sub-
- ↑ Brenton’s Nav. Hist. V. 329. Lieutenant Blow has since been promoted to the rank of commander.
