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IS contended so obstinately, that they were obliged to separate for want of powder. Last, though not least, is Mr. Villemoes, n second lieutenant, who commanded the float-t ing battery, No. 1. Much has been said about his skill in manoeuvring his raft, which con­ sisted merely of a number of beams nailed together, on them a flooring was laid to sup­ port the guns. It was square with breast work, full of port holes, and without masts. I shall not take upon myself to argue how far it were possible to manage such a log, but merely say, the manner in which Villemoes manoeu­ vred his guns, and ultimately saved his raft, attracted the notice of Lord Nelson, whose ship lay, for some time, opposite the floating battery. The Admiral is said, in the hand­ somest manner, to have noticed to the Prince Royal, how much the country, on future oc­ casions, might fairly expect from the abilities of young Villemoes. This trait of his lord- ship I consider as a never-fading flower in the wreath which military talents and success have twined around his brow.

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