ralty on the 13th Feb. 1807, exchanged ships with Captain Robert Simpson, of the Driver; in which sloop we next find him cruising on the coast of South Carolina, in search of a piratical schooner.
The Driver, it should be observed, was in company with the Leander 50, Captain Henry Whitby, when that meritorious officer rendered himself so obnoxious to the American Government, by his activity and perseverance in detecting the deceits and frauds practised by sea-faring Jonathan, as to induce Mr. Jefferson, President of the United States, to issue an edict, by which the Leander and her consorts were for ever prohibited from receiving any aid or supplies. In consequence thereof, the following letter was addressed to Commander Love, on his anchoring in Charlestown harbour:
“Sir,– The President of the United States of America having, by proclamation bearing date 3d May, 1806, for ever interdicted H.B.M. sloop of war Driver from entering any port or harbour of the United States, and the said vessel having entered this port, in contempt of the said proclamation, my duty compels me to demand that the Driver sloop of war do depart from this harbour within twenty-four hours from the date hereof. Need I add, Sir, how repugnant it would be to my feelings should ony blood be spilt, which must inevitably be the case if this communication be not complied with. Lieutenant Windlyun, of the artillery, is charged with the delivery of this: he will receive your reply.
In answer to this, Commander Love wrote as follows:–