viewing the fire-works in the Park, August 12th. As my family were then in the country, and I myself was compelled to remain in town upon business, it was not till the other day that we could begin your narrative, as I determined that it should be read by us aloud, well knowing the interest that each individual would take in the adventures and miraculous escapes of our dear William’s friend. And now, my dear Sir, how shall I ever find words to express to you the various strong feelings, the anxiety of mind, the successive hopes and fears, which we all experienced during the course of your wonderful flight; and above all, the inexpressible joy and delight we felt at the moment of your obtaining the Austrian pasport! But I will not attempt that which I know to be impossible. Suffice it then to say, that if I before esteemed you for your general character, and the parental kindness which you so long showed to my dear boy, to these feelings must now be added, that admiration of your talents and of that almost unparalleled fortitude of mind which you so nobly displayed in the hour of trial. Your narrative is so artlessly, so naturally related, that I can assure, without the slightest exaggeration, there were moments when I so strongly imagined myself to be one of your party, that I could scarcely venture to stir, or even draw my breath. My wife and daughters experienced nearly similar feelings, and we all regretted that such courage and talents should have been employed during so long and cruel a captivity, instead of having been exerted against the enemies of your country, the foes of mankind. I hope and trust that you have sent a copy of your narrative, not only to every lord of the admiralty, and the two secretaries, but to all the leading members of the cabinet; and then, a well directed and well backed memorial cannot, I should apprehend, fail of obtaining for you that promotion which your merits so richly deserve. Lady R. and my daughters unite in best wishes for all that can contribute to the happiness of a man of Captain O’Brien’s worth. Yours most truly and sincerely.
“My dear Sir,– I found on my table, on my return home, your kind note and your narrative. I feel very much obliged to you for both, but particularly for the latter, which I shall preserve well bound, that my grand-children may read and admire your manly and unconquerable spirit, your indefatigable zeal and perseverance, giving a noble example to their young minds of what a British officer can do for the honor of his country and his own. Accept my sincere and cordial thanks, and believe me, my very sincere good wishes will ever attend you. I have the honor to be, my dear sir, most faithfully and much yours,
As Captain O’Brien was made commander for services performed antecedent to the capture of the Corfu flotilla, he
