Patriotism shone forth in every rank of society, and one godlike churchman[3] exerted those powerful energies, which must always be attached to every reputable member of his honorable calling, in keeping alive the sacred flame.
FOOTNOTE:
[3] Dr. Moylan, Titular Bishop of Cork.
[CHAP. XLII.]
Spain having become a compulsory ally of France, during the last year, an expedition took place against the valuable island of Trinidad, on the North East coast of Terra Firma, in South America, which surrendered after a very trifling resistance, to the joint forces under Sir Ralph Abercrombie and Rear Admiral Hervey. Blended with this capture, were 4 sail of the line and one frigate, which offered no opposition to our fleet, but were destroyed by the enemy, excepting the St. Damaso of 70 guns.
Another but less fortunate attempt was made upon Porto Rico, but it was relinquished from the inadequacy of means to carry it, after some loss. On both occasions the Marines were placed in readiness to act, but were not required to land.
Sir John Jervis (now Earl St. Vincent) had the honourable distinction of standing foremost in the list of Naval Heroes, who, unappalled by very superior numbers, dashed at every thing. His masterly manœuvres, upon the 14th of February, rendered this encouraging advantage unavailing to the Spanish Fleet, which, by a bold and decisive push, he separated, and defeated. This immortal action was not only crowned with the glory of capturing 4 sail of the line, but it had also its influence upon the spirits of our enemy, in every subsequent combat on the sea. An uncommon display of personal intrepidity was evinced by Commodore Nelson, Captain Miller, and Lieutenant (afterwards Captain) Berry, who at the head of the boarders from his Majesty's ship Captain, assaulted and carried, sword in hand, the San Joseff and St. Nicholas. The battle raged from 10 in the morning, until the close of day, which screened this powerful armament from destruction. Major William Norris, Lieut. G. A. Livingstone, and Serjeant Watson, of Marines, finished their lives, and 6 privates were killed, besides 21 wounded, in a contest where all were distinguished. The Legislative thanks were bestowed upon every class of our victorious fleet, and all these honours which a grateful Country could give, were conferred upon her meritorious servants. The port of Cadiz was afterwards most effectually blockaded, and was twice bombarded, in one of which Captain John Oldfield, of Marines, was wounded.