on the part of the authorities in that quarter, that the Baltimore flotilla, under Commodore Barney, was despatched to attempt to capture or destroy the Jaseur. In its passage for that purpose, however, it was fortunately intercepted by the Dragon 74, Captain Robert Barrie, and forced to take shelter in the Patuxent[1].
Captain Watts was also actively engaged with Captain Barrie, in various offensive operations. He assisted at the capture of the towns of Benedict and Marlborough, in the Patuxent, and at the destruction of much public property in its vicinity, for which he received the public thanks of both that officer and the Rear-Admiral. During his stay in the waters of the Cheaspeake he likewise captured and destroyed upwards of 30 vessels of different descriptions, in addition to the Grecian, and others already mentioned.
This active, gallant, and zealous officer, obtained post rank June 7, 1814, and returned to England early in 1815, after an unremitted service of 18 years; during which period he had received 17 wounds (besides having an arm fractured), all of them, except one, hand to hand with the enemy.
Upon the extension of, “the limits of the Most Honorable Military Order of the Bath[2],” Captain Watts interposed no claim for the distinction of a C.B., although, in common with others who were overlooked, he thought himself fully entitled to it. The detail of his services in this memoir tends to prove, that his exertions, while in command, placed him upon an equality with many who obtained the honor, but who never had the same opportunity as he had of distinguishing themselves while in a subordinate rank. He subsequently transmitted a memorial to the Admiralty, calling their lordships’ attention to his case, and expressing a hope, that in the event of a further enlargement of the Order, by installation or otherwise, his claim might be considered and rewarded. Justice and equity seem to intimate, that a series of even minor services may form a totality, so respectable and imposing, as to
