e
reached the sixth ship from the enemy's rear, which was the Spanish
admiral's flag, the Santissima Trinidada, of one hundred and
thirty-six guns; a ship of four decks, and said to be the largest
in the world. Notwithstanding the inequality of force, the
commodore instantly engaged this colossal opponent; and, for a
considerable time, had to contend not only with her, but with her
seconds ahead and astern, of three decks each. While he maintained
this unequal combat, which was viewed with admiration, mixed with
anxiety, his friends were flying to his support: and the enemy's
attention was soon directed to the Culloden, Captain Troubridge;
and, in a short time after, to the Blenheim, of ninety guns,
Captain Frederick; who, very opportunely, came to his assistance.

"The intrepid conduct of the commodore staggered the Spanish
admiral, who already appeared to waver in pursuing his intention of
joining the ships cut off by the British fleet; when the Culloden's
arrival, and Captain Troubridge's spirited support of the Captain,
together with the approach of the Blenheim, followed by
Rear-Admiral Parker, with the Prince George, Orion, Irresistible,
and Diadem, not far distant, determined the Spanish admiral to
change his design altogether, and to make the signal for the ships
of his main body to haul their wind, and make sail on the larboard
tack.

"Advantage was now apparent, in favour of the British squadron, and
not a moment was lost in improving it. As the ships of Rear-Admiral
Parker's division approached the enemy's ships, in support of the
Captain, and her gallant seconds, the Blenheim and Culloden, the
cannonade became more animated and impressive. The superiority of
the British fire over that of the enemy, and it's effects on the
enemy's hulls and sails, were so evident, that there was no longer
any hesitation in pronouncing a glorious termination of the
contest.

"The British squadron, at this time, was formed in two divisions,
both on the larboard tack: Rear-Admiral Parker, with the Blenheim,
Culloden, Prince George, Captain, Orion, and Irresistible, composed
one division, which was engaged with the enemy's rear; Sir John
Jervis, with the other division, consisting of the Excellent,
Victory, Barfleur, Namur, Egmont, Goliah, and B