genuine, being exactly in the sarcastic strain he would be likely to employ. Of his quarrel with Congress this is not the place to speak, but we cannot unreservedly accept the Chevalier de Pontgibaud's estimation of him.
Note H, page 121.
Francois Joseph Paul, Comte de Grasse (b. 1753), though a brave man was not a great tactician. He was also unfortunate in being opposed to Hood, whom Nelson called, "the best officer, take him altogether, that England had to boast of." In January, 1782, De Grasse, with 32 ships, allowed Hood, with only 23, to get into the harbour at St. Christophers, take 1300 men who were being besieged there, and get out again unscathed. Three months later, Rodney and Hood inflicted a heavy defeat on De Grasse, sinking his flag ship and taking him prisoner. Anglo-Saxons always respect a brave man, and De Grasse was treated more like a guest than a prisoner whilst in England. On his release he returned to France, but did not again assume the command of a squadron, and died in Paris, 14th January, 1788, in the 65th year of his age.
