No sooner was the distressed situation of the Proselyte’s officers and crew made known to the squadron at Gottenburgh, than Captain George Acklom, of the Ranger sloop, most handsomely offered to work his ship through the ice, and proceed to their relief, which he happily effected on the 22d Feb., bringing with him a letter from Sir R. G. Keats, to Captain Lyford, of which the following is a copy:–
“Dear Sir,– I have heard of your misfortune with the greater concern, as Mr. Gammon informs me you are indisposed, and suffer a dejection to prey on your spirits; but I hope the speedy appearance of the Ranger will not only dispel all gloom, but give you and your unfortunate crew every assistance and relief. If my opinion can in any state operate to place your mind at ease, I can with great truth assure you, that I am satisfied, that so far from the loss of the Proselyte operating unfavorably to you, I feel convinced the contrary will he the case. For I really consider much praise is due to you, for having so perseveringly kept on your station, in compliance with your orders; and it will afford me pleasure to hear, that you are early put into the command of a much better ship. I am, dear sir, your sincere and very obedient and humble servant.
(Signed)“R. G. Keats.”
Captain Lyford left the island of Anholt on the 22d Feb. but not before he had had the satisfaction of seeing the Danish inhabitants placed in possession of all that their wants required. In July following, he was appointed to command a division of gun-boats attached to the Walcheren expedition[1]; and Aug. 18, 1812, to the Erebus of 18 guns, on the Baltic station, where he continued, under the orders of Sir.James Saumarez, until his advancement to post rank, Dec. 4, 1813.
This officer married Miss Binfield, the daughter of a deceased clergyman. His brother is a surgeon, in practice at Winchester.
Agents.– Messrs. Stilwell.
THOMAS FORTESCUE KENNEDY, Esq.
[Post-Captain of 1813.]
Is a son of the late Dr. Kennedy, Physician to our present monarch, when Prince of Wales, and an Inspector-General
