Memoirs of the Generals, Commodores and other Commanders, who distinguished themselves in the American army and navy during the wars of the Revolution and 1812, and who were presented with medals by Congress for their gallant services

by Thomas Wyatt

On his arrival in France, Jones was received with the most flattering attention by the most distinguished persons in Paris. Louis the Sixteenth presented him with the cross of military merit, and a magnificent gold mounted sword, bearing this inscription: “Maris Ludovicus 16 Remunerator Strenuo Vindici.” He returned to America in the ship Ariel of twenty guns, after an absence of nearly three years. Congress immediately adopted the following resolutions:—

“Resolved,—That the Congress entertain a high sense of the distinguished bravery and military conduct of John Paul Jones, Esq., captain in the navy of the United States, and particularly in his victory over the British frigate Serapis, on the coast of England, which was attended with circumstances so brilliant as to excite general applause and admiration.

“Resolved,—That a gold medal (see [Plate VIII.]) be struck and presented to the Chevalier Paul Jones, in commemoration of the valor and brilliant services of that officer; and that the Hon. Mr. Jefferson, minister plenipotentiary of the United States at the court of Versailles, have the same executed in France with proper devices.”

Late in the year of 1787 he returned to Europe in order to settle some disputes relative to certain prizes which had been sent into Denmark; which, after much trouble, he accomplished to the satisfaction of his government. After a year of ill health, he died at Paris, on the 18th of July, 1792, aged forty-five years. President Washington designated him for the important mission to treat with the Dey of Algiers on the ransom of American captives. His credentials reached Paris the day after his death.

DESCRIPTION OF THE MEDAL.

Occasion.—Capture of the English frigate Serapis, Captain Pearson, by the Bon Homme Richard, Captain John Paul Jones.

Device.—Head of John Paul Jones.

Legend.—Joanni Paulo Jones classis prefecto comitia Americana.

Reverse.—Two frigates engaged yard-arm and yard-arm; the English ship severely battered in the sides. Another ship lying across the bow of the British frigate.

Legend.—Hostium navibus captis aut frigatis.