daughter of the late Samuel Shute, of Fern Hill, Isle of Wight, Esq.
Agent.– J. P. Muspratt, Esq.
HON. ARCHIBALD COCHRANE,
[Post-Captain of 1806.]
Youngest surviving son of the Earl of Dundonald, and nephew to Admiral Sir Alexander J. Cochrane, G.C.B.
A short time previous to the peace of Amiens, we find this officer serving as a Midshipman on board the Speedy brig, commanded by his gallant brother, Lord Cochrane, and bearing a conspicuous part in one of the most brilliant actions that has ever been recorded. The achievement to which we allude was the capture of El Gamo, a Spanish polacre, frigate-built, mounting 22 long 12-pounders, 8 nines, and 2 heavy carronades, with a complement of 319 officers, men, and boys, by a British vessel carrying 14 four-pounders, and having no more than 54 persons, of every description, on board.
This formidable enemy was warmly engaged by the Speedy, at close quarters, for upwards of half an hour, during which time the Spaniards made several attempts to board their opponent, but were prevented by her skilful manoeuvres. The great disparity of force, however, rendered it necessary to adopt some measure that might prove more decisive than cannonading, and Lord Cochrane therefore resolved to run his little brig alongside the polacre, which was no sooner effected than he sprang on board sword in hand, and, being bravely seconded by the whole of his officers and crew, compelled the enemy instantly to strike their colours. The total loss sustained by the Speedy on this occasion was 3 killed and 8 wounded; E1 Gamo had 15, including her commander, slain, and no less than 41 wounded. The following is an extract from Lord Cochrane’s official letter, written on the day of the action. May 6, 1801:–
“I must be permitted to say there could not be greater regularity nor more cool determined courage shewn by men, than by the crew of the Speedy. Lieutenant Parker, whom I beg leave to recommend to their Lordships’ notice, as well as the Hon. Mr. Cochrane, deserve all the approbation that can be bestowed[1].”
- ↑ Lieutenant Richard William Parker was wounded severely, both by
