All children of the first mentioned Capt. James Cook, by Elizabeth Cook, who survived her husband 56 years, and departed this life, 13th May, 1835, at her residence, Clapham, Surrey, in the 94th year of her age.
Her remains are deposited
With those of her sons James and Hugh
in the middle Aisle of this Church.
The venerable father of Cook outlived his illustrious son only a few weeks; and consequently never heard of his untimely end. He was interred at Marske, April 1st, 1779; in the 85th year of his age. His son-in-law, Mr. James Fleck, died a few years ago.[1] Mrs. Fleck, the Captain's sister, had three sons, all master-mariners; and four daughters: and as all the seven were married, her descendants are numerous. One only of Capt. Cook's nephews is living, viz. Captain John Fleck, of Sunderland: but three of his nieces yet survive; viz. Mrs. Grace Carter, of Redcar, Mrs. Mary Duck, of Sunderland, and Mrs. Christiana Hustler, of Deptford.
As the relations of Cook were honoured for his sake, so his surviving messmates were justly regarded as deserving respect. Several young officers, trained under him, attained the rank of Captains; some became Admirals; and not a few were intrusted with important commands. Even ordinary seamen felt it to be a high distinction to have sailed with Cook; and royalty itself has deigned to honour them. In the present year, when our worthy King, William IV, who having been employed in the naval service himself, takes a lively interest in the welfare of seamen, paid a visit to
- ↑ The author had not heard of his death when page 16th was printed.
