5075357313

the whole of the British line gained rapidly on ours ; in a few minutes two-third parts of our ships were in action. As our line was not broken, only one half of the force, on either side, was, consequently, engaged. It would be vain in me to touch upon a sub­ ject, which has, if I may say so, exhausted the powers of poets and artists. British for­ titude and skill have been so often displayed, that I need but say, the brave tars, on this oc­ casion, hardly perceived the signal befoie the glory of Albion shone in all its wonted splen­ dor. Before I shall endeavour to describe such traits as particularly commanded the admira­ tion and gratitude of our nation, I must beg leave to present this apology—However im­ partial the historian, it is, at best, an invi­ dious task to draw the outlines of an event which interweaves the honor and interest of every individual so immediately with the glory and welfare of his country. Chance frequently befriends us in an action, more than talent; but would it not be unfair to conceal the splendid advantages resulting to individuals who have