Leghorn, and began firing at the Inconstant, when I got under weigh with the only vessel remaining, which was a prize to l’Aigle, a brig laden with ship timber. Two small privateers endeavoured to cut her off, which obliged us to tack and support her, and occasioned some few shot being exchanged, which, however, did no damage. All the shipping, nearly the whole of the English property, and all his Majesty’s naval stores and provisions, have been saved; every British subject, and all the emigrés desirous of leaving Tuscany, have been received on board the convoy.
“I feel myself particularly obliged to Lieutenant Grey, employed in the transport service, for his great exertions in getting the stores, &c. off; and great credit is due to Mr. Heatly, agent-victualler, who was indefatigable in saving the provisions, wine, &c.”
In 1797, Lieutenant Grey was appointed first of the Adamant 50, Captain William Hotham, under whose command he continued during the remainder of the war. The following is a copy of the letter which procured him superior rank:–
“My Lord,– I have no other reason for taking the liberty of intruding this letter upon your lordship, than that it accompanies one written by the first lieutenant of the Adamant.
“After a long series of approved, but unsuccessful service, and in no instance, perhaps, has he been more unfortunate, than in those active times, serving with an insignificant person like myself, who has no other way of making up for it, than by endeavouring to introduce him to that patronage which has ever been conspicuous for its disposition to reward real merit; it would be unjust in me, if I were to withhold that commendation, which the conduct of this gentleman most strongly exacts from me. It is a tribute justly due to the character of an officer, whose exertions have been uniform and unremitting to blend the strictest discipline of service with the happiness and comfort of those who serve under him. He has twice, since the Adamant has been in this country, performed actions which required the coolest judgment, and the most determined intrepidity. I allude to the destroying la Preneuse frigate, under her own batteries, and bringing her captain and officers prisoners on board this ship; and to his having, on another occasion, and a more difficult one, proceeded above the buoys at the entrance of Port Louis, in the Mauritius, and brought out a ship[1], which I fancied, had insulted the British flag. On this latter service, Mr. Grey had two men killed and ten wounded: the enemy’s loss was much more considerable. I take this opportunity of offering my best wishes for your lordship’s health; being, with the greatest respect, your lordship’s obliged, and obedient, humble servant,
“To Earl St. Vincent, Admiralty.”
- ↑ Under Hamburgh colours.
