on what will, in all
likelihood, prove to be an arduous service. This vessel has already
done so much mischief, that I conceive it my duty to capture her if
possible: and although there is no service in which, generally speaking,
there is so great a sacrifice of life, in proportion to the object to be
attained, as that which is generally termed `cutting out,' yet, rather
than she should escape, to the further injury of our trade, I have
determined to have recourse to the measure.

"But, gentlemen (and to you, Mr Price, as commanding the expedition, I
particularly address myself), recollect that, even in this extreme case,
without proper arrangement, we may not only purchase our victory too
dear, but may even sacrifice a number of lives without succeeding in our
attempt. Of your courage I have not the least doubt; but let it be
remembered; that it is something more than mere animal courage which I
expect in the behaviour of my officers. If nothing more were required,
the command of these boats might be as safely intrusted to any of the
foremast men, who, like the bulldogs of our country, will thrust their
heads into the lion's jaw with perfect indifference.

"What I require, and expect, and will have, from every officer who looks
for promotion from my recommendation, is what I term--conduct: by which
I would imply, that coolness and presence of mind which enable him to
calculate chances in the midst of danger--to take advantage of a
favourable opportunity in the heat of an engagement--and to restrain the
impetuosity of those who have fallen into the dangerous error of
despising their enemy. Of such conduct the most favourable construction
that can be put upon it is, that it is only preferable to indecision.

"In a service of this description, even with the greatest courage and
prudence united, some loss must necessarily be expected to take place,
and there is no providing against unforeseen accidents; but if I find
that, by rash and injudicious behaviour, a greater sacrifice is made
than there is a necessity for, depend upon it that I shall not fail to
let that officer know the high value at which I estimate the life of a
British sailor. With this caution I shall now give you my ideas as to
what appears the most eligible plan of insuring success. I have made a
rough sketch on this paper, which will assist my explanation."

Captain M--- then entered into the plan of attack, pointing out the
precautions which shou