the commodore, though the sea was so rough that it was with great difficulty, and the loss of two boats, he could put a party of men on board; and the Memorialist, for his unsparing exertions on that occasion, was particularly thanked and recommended to the commander-in-chief.”
Lieutenant Thomas was advanced to superior rank, and appointed second in command of the Cadiz flotilla, Mar. 4, 1811. On that occasion, he removed to the Rambler gun-vessel (rated a sloop of war) which had hitherto borne the distinguishing pendant of the senior officer, from whom he received the following handsome letters, accompanied by a sword:–
“My dear Thomas, – As you are now to supersede me in the Rambler, you must allow me to discharge the last, though not the least satisfactory part of my duty; which is, that of doing justice, if possible, to your distinguished services, while under my immediate orders; indeed, my gallant and inestimable friend, you have most honorably supported me in every enterprise, and in every danger, through a series of the most imminent and important services in which a naval officer could be engaged. Such distinguished conduct fully merits the highest encomiums from my pen, and calls forth this unfeigned acknowledgement of my gratitude and regard. I will deliver over to you all the orders, &c. to morrow, when you will likewise receive my public thanks. Believe me, very faithfully yours,
“My dear Thomas, – As I have now relinquished my command, I have to return you my public thanks, for your distinguished services, while under my immediate orders: your character, for courage, fidelity, vigilance, and talent, has met with universal applause. As my supporter, gallant intrepidity, and sound judgment, marked your professional conduct, while you have been no less conspicuous for gentlemanly deportment and high honor in private life: and I request you will do me the favour to receive the accompanying sword, as a lasting memento of my grateful acknowledgements. And I sincerely wish you a fortunate issue out of all your services. Believe me very sincerely yours,
On assuming his rank and command, Captain Thomas had also the pleasure of receiving a congratulatory address from the officers of the Cadiz flotilla. The unfortunate result of a most gallant enterprise, which he subsequently undertook, is thus described by him in an official letter to the flag-officer commanding at Cadiz:–
