The Naval Chronicle (Volume 14) - Softcover

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text, images, or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1805. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... driven and wrecked upon the rocks. Those which escaped into the nearest Swedish ports were in so shattered a state, as to be for a long time unfit for service. The Russians, a* may be supposed, also suffered very considerably; and, after the battle, one of their Ships of the line sunk. The carnage was dreadful on both sides; but the English Officers who were engaged in the Russian service were particularly unfortunate. Out of six English Captains who commanded in the action, Captain Thesiger, we believe, was the only one who survived. The Captains Denison and Trevenon * were killed; Captain Marshal, in gallantly attempting to board one of the Swedish Ships, fell into the sea and was drowned; and Captains Aikin and Miller were mortally wounded. It was in this action that Sir Sidney Smith served as a volunteer on board a Yacht belonging to the King of Sweden, who fought in person; and, for his skilful manoeuvre in retreating with the Galley-fleet, by which he prevented the Swedish Monarch from being taken prisoner, and for other services, he was complimented with the Grand Cross of the Swedish Order of the Sword. Both Powers we believe were tired of the contest, and the peace of Reichenbasch speedily followed this victory of the Russians. The Great Catherine was never remiss in bestowing favours and rewards on those who deserved them: it is not therefore to be expected that, on this important occasion, she neglected to bestow some token of her royal pleasure on Captain Thesiger. None better than herself knew the mode of enhancing the value of a favour; and in return for the exertion, valour, and skill, displayed by our Officer on the memorable day of victory, she conferred upon him the Order of St. George, accompanying the insignia thereof with the follow...