dependent states, under the name of the Thirteen United Provinces, and
which terminated in their separation from the mother-country, was
ordered to the West Indies; there to remain, as one of the squadron
under the good and gallant Admiral Gayton: an old officer of such
distinguished activity and success, that his cruizers captured, while
he commanded on the Jamaica station, no less than two hundred and
thirty-five American vessels.

The worthy Comptroller of the Navy having thus secured rank, and a
prospect of active employ, for his meritorious nephew, they parted with
most affectionate adieus, and in the fullest hopes of again meeting.
This, however, was not to happen: they never more beheld each other! His
uncle was elected member of parliament for Portsmouth, in 1778: and
died, in the month of July, that year; leaving a handsome legacy to his
nephew, as well as to all the rest of his sister's children.

Captain Locker, who was a very friendly man, as well as an intelligent
and skilful commander, became greatly attached to his young lieutenant,
and very liberal of scientific and professional instruction. The youth
had been powerfully recommended; and, as usual, he recommended himself
still more powerfully. On his voyage to Jamaica, therefore, where he had
before sailed, in a merchantman, with his early friend Mr. Rathbone, he
was now a second time receiving nautical instruction; nor did he at
present feel inclined to cherish, whatever he might formerly have done,
the smallest dread of any professional disappointments in the naval
service of his country. He had been fortunate in patronage; and he had
also been fortunate enough, through the circumspection of his excellent
uncle, to have been constantly placed under none but skilful, brave,
and worthy commanders.

Shortly after the Lowestoffe's arrival at Jamaica, a circumstance took
place, during a cruize off the island, which affords a striking proof of
that inherent firmness of character, and cool presence of mind, for
which this heroic youth was always remarkable.

In a strong gale of wind, and a heavy sea, an American letter of marque
was discovered by Captain Locker; which, after a short chace, finding it
could not escape, struck it's flag to the Lowestoffe. The captain,
accordingly, ordered his first-lieutenant to board and take possession
of the captured vessel; but, owing to the tremendous sea which was then
running, he found himself unable, though a very br