ion, the Bellona and Russell
unfortunately grounded: but, although not in the situation assigned
them, yet so placed as to be of great service. The Agamemnon could
not weather the shoal of the Middle Ground, and was obliged to
anchor: but not the smallest blame can be attached to Captain
Fancourt; it was an event to which all the ships were liable. These
accidents prevented the extension of our line by the three ships
before mentioned: who would, I am confident, have silenced the
Crown Islands, the two outer ships in the harbour's mouth, and
prevented the heavy loss in the Defiance and Monarch; and which
unhappily threw the gallant and good Captain Riou (to whom I had
given the command of the frigates and sloops named in the
margin--[the Blanche, Alcmene, Dart, Arrow, Zephyr, and Otter]--to
assist the attack of the ships at the harbour's mouth) under a very
heavy fire. The consequence has been, the death of Captain Riou,
and many brave officers and men in the frigates and sloops. The
bombs were directed, and took their stations, abreast of the
Elephant, and threw some shells into the arsenal. Captain Rose, who
volunteered his services to direct the gun-brigs, did every thing
that was possible to get them forward, but the current was too
strong for them to be of service during the action; but not the
less merit was due to Captain Rose, and--I believe--all the
officers and crews of the gun-vessels, for their exertions.

"The boats of those ships of the fleet who were not ordered on the
attack, afforded us every assistance; and the officers and men who
were in them, merit my warmest approbation.

"The Desiree took her station in raking the southernmost Danish
ship of the line, and performed the greatest service.

"The action began at five minutes past ten. The van led by Captain
George Murray of the Edgar, who set a noble example of
intrepidity, which was as well followed up by every captain,
officer, and man, in the squadron. It is my duty to state to you,
the high and distinguished merit and gallantry of Rear-Admiral
Graves.

"To Captain Foley, who permitted me the honour of hoisting my flag
in the Elephant, I feel under the greatest obligations; his advice
was necessary, on many important occasions, during the battle. I
beg leave to e