1820, to the Cambrian frigate, Captain Gawen W, Hamilton, fitting out for the Mediterranean station. He obtained the rank of commander Mar. 31st, 1824; and married, Feb. 9th, 1830, Emma Maria, third daughter of the late H. Bowles, Esq., of Cuckfield, Sussex.
SAMUEL EDWARD COOK, Esq.
Knight of the Royal Portuguese Order of the Tower and Sword.
[Commander.]
Only son of the Rev. James Cook, of Newton Hall, Northumberland.
This officer was made a lieutenant on the 10th June, 1809. We first find him serving on board the Swallow sloop. Captain Edward Reynolds Sibly, and commanding her boats at the capture of a French armed brig, on the Mediterranean station. The following is a copy of the official letter written on that occasion:–
“Sir,– Being well in-shore, at day-light this morning, between the Tiber and D’Anzo, a brig and xebec were discovered between us and the latter harbour. Having light baffling winds at the time from the eastward, I thought the boats would have a chance of reaching them before they got into port, and three were accordingly despatched, under the direction of Lieutenant Samuel Edward Cook (first of the Swallow), assisted by Mr. Thomas Cole, mate, and Mr. Henry Thomas, midshipman, and, after a row of two hours, they came up with and brought out, from close under D’Anzo, (from whence numerous boats, besides two gun-vessels, had been sent to her assistance, and kept her in tow till the moment of our boats boarding) the French brig Guerriere, of four guns, with sixty stand of small arms. There could not have been more steady cool bravery displayed than on this occasion. Lieutenant Cook speaks in the highest terms of every person with him. I am sorry to say his loss has been severe, having had two seamen killed and four severely wounded in his boat. The enemy escaped over the bow as our men were boarding on the quarter, therefore I have not been enabled to ascertain the number that defended her, or their loss. The xebec, which also mounted four guns, succeeded in getting into D’Anzo. I have the honor to be, &c.
“Hon. Captain Duncan, H.M.S. Imperieuse.”
Lieutenant Cook subsequently served as first of the Nie-
