DECEMBER MEETING, 1922

    A Stated Meeting of the Society was held at the house of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, No. 28 Newbury Street, Boston, on Thursday, 21 December, 1922, at three o’clock in the afternoon, the President, Fred Norris Robinson, Ph.D., in the chair.

    The Records of the last Stated Meeting were read and approved.

    The Corresponding Secretary reported the death, on the third of December, of John Lowell, a Resident Member.

    Mr. James Melville Hunnewell of Boston, and Mr. Arthur Stanwood Pier of Milton, were elected Resident Members.

    The President announced his appointment of Dr. Charles Lemuel Nichols and Mr. Worthington Chauncey Ford as delegates from this Society to the annual Conference of Historical Societies to be held in New Haven this month in connection with the meeting of the American Historical Association.

    The following remarks, made by the Rev. Dr. Charles E. Park at the funeral of Henry Herbert Edes on the 16th of October, were read:

    Death comes as a release to some lives. To the life that is here ended, death came as an interruption. He might say with Job, My purposes are broken off. His life was full of purpose. He had something very definite to do. He is taken from us in the midst of projects and enterprises hopefully and bravely begun, but now left unfinished. He was a man of exceptional industry. Vocation and avocation filled his days with earnest and happy labor. There were no wasted moments in his record. He divided his time after his own fashion, and the result vindicated his wisdom, for he accomplished an amazing amount.

    He was a man of generous ambitions. He labored, not primarily for himself, but for ends that were larger than self, for results that were far reaching, for causes that quite transcended all personal emolument.

    He was a great lover of the graces and refinements of life, its sentiment and romance, its continuity and development, its stately dignities and proprieties. For him the Art of Living had peculiar value and strong fascination. Such things as courtesy and culture, a tender memory, a delightful conversation, a happily worded letter, a graceful ceremonial, all the more delicate amenities of man’s intercourse with man—these had an almost sacramental value in his eyes.

    It was by these that he reminded himself that man is not a brute, but that unsuspected heights of mental and spiritual achievement lie before him for his attainment. It was these things that he gleaned from his study of the age that is past, and it was these things that he strove to perpetuate and to put again into vogue with the age that is waiting before. And although his passionate love for these olden-time graces and amenities of life left him almost in the position of an anachronism amidst the raw crudities of this graceless present, it was yet with a splendid courage that he threw himself into his self-appointed task.

    It was a worthy task—to rescue our former culture from the disdain with which an age of material efficiency has sought to discredit it; to make the word gentleman mean something real, and stand for something real even to-day. To this ideal he gave his unflagging industry and his personal example with an enduring and a contagious enthusiasm. In fact, it is because of this very enthusiasm for the purposes dear to his heart, that, in a way, he stands in his own light.

    We needed to know him more intimately in order to discover the man’s deeper traits of character, lying under his enthusiasms and interests. There never was a gentler, a more dutiful, a kindlier nature. He was a devoted son. He was a loyal and warm-hearted friend. His honor and rectitude were taintless. He treated others with a fairness and a consideration that are altogether too unusual. The Golden Rule shone out in all his dealings and relationships. His ideal of the olden-time gentleman had rooted itself in the deeper soil of his heart.

    Added to this, perhaps the reason of this, was his religious faith: a perfectly clear and simple faith in God, in God’s law of righteousness, in the worth and beauty of Christian discipleship. It was the faith of his fathers—straightforward, childlike, unquestioning. All his life he stood Valiant in that faith, scorning to doubt, scorning to waver. You remember how Mr. Valiant crossed the River. We cannot help thinking of that picture at this moment:

    After this it was noised abroad that Mr. Valiant was taken with a summons, and had this for a token that the summons was true—“That his pitcher was broken at the fountain.” Then said he, I am going to my fathers; and though with great difficulty I am got hither, yet now I do not repent me of all the trouble I have been at to arrive where I am. When the day that he must go hence was come, many accompanied him to the river-side, into which as he went he said, “Death, where is thy sting?” And as he went deeper he said, “Grave, where is thy victory?” So he passed over, and all the trumpets sounded for him on the other side.

    Mr. Albert Matthews read a paper on “Charles Bulfinch, Architect and Citizen,” written by the Rev. Charles A. Place of Lancaster, and exhibited many photographs and illustrations which Mr. Place had himself made or collected.

    On behalf of Mr. Samuel E. Morison, the following communication was made:

    In Dr. Octavius T. Howe’s paper on “Beverly Privateers in the American Revolution,”173 there is frequent mention of the Pilgrim. “Of all the privateers sailing from Beverly during the war,” he writes, “the Pilgrim was the most famous and probably the most successful. She was very fortunate in her commanders and is said to have been built for her owner, Mr. [Andrew] Cabot, at Newburyport under the supervision of her first captain, Hugh Hill. She was ship rigged, measured 200 tons and carried 16 nine-pounders and a crew of 140 men. On September 12, 1778, Hugh Hill of Beverly was commissioned commander. . . . On March 24, 1780, Captain Hill resigned command of the Pilgrim and was succeeded by Joseph Robinson of Salem. Captain Robinson, like Hugh Hill, was a man of imposing presence, a good sailor and a good fighter. Under him the Pilgrim was as successful as under her first commander, and up to October 12, 1782, had sent into Beverly twelve prizes besides numerous others sent into France, Spain, and Martinique.”174 Joseph Robinson was first commissioned commander of the Pilgrim on March 24, 1780; again in April, 1781; and for a third time in November, 1781.175 On the second and third voyages the surgeon was Josiah Bartlett, who kept a log which has been preserved and is here printed for the first time.176

    At the end of the eighteenth century there were three Josiah Bartletts, between whom there has been confusion in biographies and bibliographies, since each was a physician and each was entitled to the prefix “Hon.” One was Josiah Bartlett (1729–1795), signer of the Declaration of Independence and Governor of New Hampshire, who received from Dartmouth College the honorary degrees of A.M. and M.D. in 1790 and 1792 respectively. Another was Josiah Bartlett (1768–1838), son of Governor Josiah Bartlett (1729–1795), who received from Dartmouth College the honorary degree of M.D. in 1820. The third was the Josiah Bartlett who wrote the log of the Pilgrim.

    Born at Charlestown on August 11, 1759,177 Josiah Bartlett when less than sixteen years of age assisted Dr. Isaac Foster178 in amputating a man’s leg at Lexington on the evening of April 19, 1775;179 served as hospital mate in the Continental army from January 1, 1777, to December 31, 1779, and as second (or junior) surgeon from January 1 to December 31, 1780;180 was surgeon on the Pilgrim in 1781 and 1782; in 1782 settled down in Charlestown, where he became a distinguished citizen as well as physician; received from Harvard College the honorary degrees of M.B. and M.D. in 1791 and 1809 respectively; wrote papers on historical and medical subjects; was a member of the Massachusetts Historical Society; and died March 3, 1820.181

    The first cruise of the Pilgrim extended from April 19 to October 1781, and the second from December 11, 1781, to July 23, 1782. The vessel visited European, Canadian, and West India waters, and took more than twenty-five prizes. The log follows.

    Log of the Pilgrim, 1781–1782182

    1781 April

    Thursday 19th In the morning sailed from Salem in the Ship Pilgrim, commanded by Captain Joseph Robinson, bound on a Cruize against the Enemies of the United States, at Noon we saw a Ship in the Bay. at four p m came to an Anchor in Portsmouth Harbour. Capt R. Mr Whellen,183 & myself went on Shore.

    Fryday 20th Dined with Capt Nicholls.184 at Evening attended a Ball. The appearance and behaviour of the Ladies could not fail to give satisfaction, and the general politeness with which we were treated, impressed me with a very favourable opinion of Portsmouth.

    Saturday 21st Breakfasted with Dr Cutter,185 at Ten AM, we went on Board the Ship, the Wind blowing exceedingly hard.

    Sunday 22d At nine in the forenoon got under way, the Wind blowing fresh, at four p m lost sight of Cape Ann from whence we took our Departure. At Eveng saw a Schooner.

    Monday 23d At One p m saw a Sail, and gave chace at Sun set spake her. a Schooner from Gaudiloupe bound to Salem, commanded by Capt Chever, fired several Shott at her during the Chace.

    Thursday 26th. At Noon saw a Sail ahead, & gave chace at Evening spake her. She proved a Briggn from Hyspana bound to Newbury, commanded by Capt: Coffin, sent our boat on bd her.

    Fryday 27th Early in the Morning saw a Sail to Windward, judged an American.

    Saturday 28th In the afternoon saw a Sail close on board us, the weather being very hazy Spake her, the Brign Three Friends, Capt. Beckwith, from Cork, bound to New York & loaded with Provisions, we immediately dispatched her for Salem, in charge of Mr Jno Dutch prize Master

    1781 May

    Thursday May 3d At nine in the Morning saw a Sail from the Mast head a great distance to Windward, made sail and gave chace the Wind being light at Evening kept sight of the Chace with our Glasses, and at ½ past 12 Spake her. The Brigg Alfred from Liverpool bound to New York, loaded with provs Dry Goods &c. mounting 14 Six pounders and commanded by Capt Collinson.186 She engaged us with warmth for 55 Minutes when she Struck, we received no great damage. The Brigg lost one Man, and had her Mast and rigging exceeding injured. Sent 20 Men on board her to repair her Damages.

    Fryday 4th Having finished the Work on board the prise, we dispatched her for Salem in charge of Mr Horton187 prize Master.

    Saturday 5th All hands Employed, in unbending our Wounded Sails, bending others, and repairing rigging.

    Monday 7th After Dinner saw a Sail to Windward running down upon us, she ran within 2 or 3 miles of us, and hawled her Wind, we made sail, and Sun set spake the Chace. The Ship Franklin from Salem (ten Days before us) Captain Turner, and bound home in consequence of some damages she received in an action with a letter of Marke Ship, which she Captoured, and was afterwards retaken by the Convoy of a large Fleet, which he gaves us an acct off. Capt Turner informed of having seen a large number of Vessells within a few days but he chaced none of them, put Capt Collinson, Capt Beckwith & a Mate belonging to the Alfred on board the Franklin, and parted Co with her about ten in the Evening.

    Sunday 13th At half past four AM saw Two Sail from the Mast head & gave chace to Leward, One being to Windward, which we lost sight off. At Noon Spake our Chace. The Brigg Albion Capt Burkett,188 from Jamaica, bound to London laden with Sugars Rum &c. Dispatched her for Salem, in charge of Mr Harris,189 prize Mastr Made Sail for the other Vessell, but saw nothing of her, the weather being hazy.

    Wednesday 16th At 7 in the Morning saw three Sail, one on our weather Bow, the other two astern. Made Sail & gave chace, judged the Chace to be a large Ship of War. wore Ship and chas’d the other two. at 11 Spake one of them. The Sloop Stagg, Captain Gray, with Salt & Beer, from pool Bound to Newfoundland. Mr Whellen with 2 or 3 Men went on board her with orders to follow us. We made Sail for the other Vessell, and in an hour & ½ Spake her. The Brigg Ann Capt Leworthy, with Salt & provisions, from Topsom, bound to Newf: Land. At four p m the Stagg came up, we took every thing valuable out of her & put them on board the Ann. which we sent to Salem in charge of Mr Rand prize Master. We then put all our prisoners to the amount of 55, on board the Sloop, taking their paroles, and gave them permission to go where they pleased, furnishing them with necessary provissions Liquors &c.

    Fryday 18th At seven in the morning saw a Sail, a great distance to Windward, we supposed her to belong to a Fleet, we heard off by the Brigg & Sloop, we kept along in sight of the Ship (which we found her to be) till we saw the Fleet. At Evening saw 120 Sail from the Main Top. They appeard like a floating Town, we discovered five Ships of the line, wh look’d very formidable.

    Saturday 19th at day light Saw four Sail a Stern, at Noon hove about, and stood after them, with a view of falling in with their rear in the Night.

    Sunday 20th Soon after the dawn of day we found ourselves directly to Windward of the Fleet & about 4 or 5 leagues distant, we bore away and ran with 2 leages of the main Body, when a large ship made Sail to speak us. She made so long a Stretch to get our wake that we lost sight of her. We wore Ship & ran towards her a short time when we tacked again, at this time the Egmont a 74 and ye Comodore’s Ship was under our lee Bow. She Spread all her Convas and gave chace, we passed her at the Distance of about 3 Miles, when she shew her Colours and fired at us. we displayed English Colours & did not crowd Sail. At Noon the Fleet tack’d, the Egmont left of Chace, and fired three Gun’s, upon wh a Frigate that had followed her, crowded all the Sail she could make, and continued to chace us. we hove about and followed the Fleet, for an hour, under our three Topsails, when we found ourselves about One league to Windward of the Ship in chace of us, and she directly upon our Beam, we hove about and made Sail, and kept our Wind close, in four hours we had so far gained upon the Frigate, that we could not see her Hull from the Deck, at five she gave over chace, and stood back towards the Meet which was not in sight, except two or three Vessells which had followed the Frigate, we supposed to shew signals, as they followed each other at a great distance

    Wednesday 23d Day light 21 hours of the 24.

    Thursday 24th at Nine in the Evening saw a Sail, being very disagreable weather did not speak her, but kept in Sight of her thro’ the Night.

    Fryday 25th At day light we discovered the Sail to be a large Ship, she passed us at the distance of half a Mile. The weather being very hazy & the Wind blowing a Gale, we could make no particular discoveries, as she passed us she shew signals, by false fires &c, have got about a league a Stern of us, she hove about and stood after us, we hove too; till she came very near us, and displayed British Colours. The Severity of the Weather prevented our speaking her, and we again made sail steering for the English Channell.

    Saturday 26th In the morning we saw a Sail to Windward, supposed to be the same Ship we saw Yesterday. The weather being hazy we soon lost sight of her.

    Wednesday 30th At ten AM saw the Land, being the SW part of Ireland & exceedingly mountaineous. at Evening judged ourselves about 7 leagues fromithe land we first saw. Just at Sunset saw two large Whales, 2 Miles dist. Threw our lines out for Fish, but caught none.

    Thursday 31st Standing from the land, At Evening saw a Sail standing for it, we endeavoured to way-lay her, without success.

    June 1781

    Sunday June 3d At four in the morning saw a Sail to leward, & gave chace, at 8 discovered her to be an Armed Ship. She made Sail from us. after a very severe Chace at 8 in the Evening we knew her, and made private Signals which she answered. The Essex, Capt Cathcart,190 from Salem, out since 22d Apr and no prize, kept Co with the Essex.

    Monday 4th Tried the Ships in Sailing, and we beat the Essex greatly. In the afternoon we saw Cape Clear, at Evening judged ourselves 3 leagues from the land, Tried for Fish, but caught none.

    Thursday 7th At four AM saw a Sail, and gave chace, at 6 fired a Shott which passed her, soon after which, the Essex spake her, the Ship Good Intent, a Transport from Jamaica bound to Europe. Ten Days since she was boarded by the Rambler, an American Cruizer, whose people, and stripped her of every thing, except Sick Soldiers & Women, we let her go again. Just as we spake the Transport, we saw a sail to leward & gave chace, in three hours spake her. The Ship Defence, Capt Edmunds,191 belonging to Beverly, from Bilboa on a Cruize. Capt. Cathcart & Edmunds, with one Officer from each of their Ships dined and spent the afternoon on board us. I went on board the Defence and spent an hour with Dr Herrick.

    Fryday 8th At five in the Morning spake an Outlandish Vessell from Bourdeaux. The Two Ships in Company.

    Sunday 10th At ½ past five in the morning we saw a Sail a head, we stood after her some time before she altered her Course, by which we judged her a Cruizer. immediately upon her making Sail, we all gave chace, we out sailed the Essex greatly, and run the Defence Hull down, at Noon knew the chace, fired a Shott, and shew our Colours. At two OClk, not having spake our chace, we saw a large Ship to Windward runing for the Midst of us. when she had an opportunity to view us fairly she fired a Gun to Windwd and Shew English Colours, many were the conjectures respecting this Ship, and it was generally supposed she was not a Kings Ship, unless she meant to deceive us, which deception we sorrowfully experienced. She first chaced us but gained not a Yard, she then altered her Course for the Essex, then 2 leagues a stern of us, till now we had stood after our Chace, (knowing her to be a Beverly Privateer) but we tackd Ship and endeavoured to get to the Essex, without success. Our Chace tack’d also, and stood after us at a Distance, By this time we had a fair view of our unwelcome Companion, and judged her to be a heavy Frigate, we prepared for Action, expecting the Essex would take the Ships Fire, and endeavour to get to us, but we had the mortification to see her fall a prey after a chace of 4 hours. The Defence had prudently taken timely care being but a dull sailer, and was not in Sight, Soon after this disaster we wore Ship to prevent falling a sacrifice, and soon lost sight of the Frigate and our late Consort, we kept sight of our former Chace, not having spake her

    Monday 11th a perfect Calm at day light the Ship was about 2 leagues Dist from us. we both shew our Colours. At noon we hoisted out one Yawl, and sent an Officer with five men to the Ship, They sent their Boat to us, at Evening we Spake each other the Wind breezing up. The Rambler, belonging to Beverly, from Bilboa, on a Cruize, & comd by Cap Lovett.192 In the Evening judged we Saw a light a great distance a Stern, kept Co wth ye Ship.

    Tuesday 12th At 8 AM we saw a Sail, and soon found her to be one of a Fleet standing to the Westward—we stood from them some time & then hove about, to fall in with their stragling Vessels but the weather became exceedingly hazy, & we saw no more of them. At three p m saw a Brigg close on board us, we fired several times at her while striving to escape us. At four Spake her, She proved the Snake Sloop of War, Mr Jackson,193 from St Kitts to Europe wth dispatches from Sr Geo B Rodney, mounting 14 Guns, the Disps were in charge of Captain Smith of the Centau (a 74.) who destroyed them when he struck his Colours. We took out the Prisoners, & dispatched the Brigg for Salem in charge of a prize Master from the Rambler. Just at Evening Saw a sail, & in 10 Min.es Spake her, The Brigg Capt Vaughn from with Flour &c from Bristol, to New York. This Vessell sailed with the Fleet, and was returning to the nearest port having sprung a leak. Sent her to the nearest Spanish port, in charge of a prize Master from the Ramr. The Snake spake the Fleet 2 hours before we saw her, and the Comodre told them of us.

    Thursday 14th Being very Bad weather, at 6 in the Evening saw the Fleet to leward 2 Miles Dist we judged the nearest Ships to be ye Convoy, and therefore kept our Wind.

    Fryday 15th Blowing a Gale, at half past 4 AM saw the Fleet very near us, laying too, we made all the Sail the Elements would permit to get under their Lee, which being accomplished we lay too the remainder of the Day.

    Saturday 16th At four p m. saw the Fleet, and a Vessell dogging them, which we judged a Cruizer. Found the Convoy in front, and therefore dispaired of doing any thing, we then chaced the Cruizer, but at Evening lost sight of her. Carried away our Gibb Boom &c. & rigged another in the Chace

    Monday 18th at ½ past four AM saw two Sails one a head and the other a great dise to leward. Chaced the One ahead, and in 2 hours Spake her. a Danish Ship from St Croix, to Sweeden. Made Sail to Leward, and at Noon spake the Chace. The Ship Good Intent, Capt from the West Indies to London, with Sugars Tobacco &c. at 3pm dispatched her for Brest in charge of Mr Bunker prize Master. Gave chace again to the Danish Ship. & at Sun Set she hove too, we having fired several times at her, at Dark we put all our prisoners on board her, to get to Europe, having taken their parolls and furnished them with provisions. The behaviour of the Kings Officers on board our Ships during their Stay, could not fail to give satisfaction, and the Generosity & Gratitude of Capt Smith & Mr Jackson at their departure extended to the most inferior Officer on bd the Ship, kept Co thro’ ye Night with the Dane & our prize.

    Tuesday 19th At 11 AM saw a Sail & gave chace. at 2 spake her, a portigueze Brigg from Lisbon to Galloway. 2 Englishmen were on Board her, but we could find no cause to detain her. parted with our prize, and the Dane—Capt. Lovett spent the afternoon on bd us.

    Wednesday 20th Capt Robinson & myself dined and spent the Afternoon on board the Rambler & her Lieuts on board our Ship, In the morning saw the Portige Brigg

    Fryday 22d At One p m saw seven Sail in Company, from the Mast head, having taken a fair View of them, we spake the Rambler, and agreed to speak them, we made sail together, and spake a Ship, informing us that they were a Fleet of Transports from Gibralter bound to London, this Ship had 8 Guns we put Mr Bunker on board her, and dispatched her for Brest. The Fleet had began to disperce, & the Rambler made Sail to Windward in quest of three of them. 2 of which struck to her in our Sight, 1 Ship & 1 Snow—both Armed. We chased to Leward, at Evening spake a large Ship of 18 Guns, but poorly Mand In the night spake one of the Ships, which the Rambler had captured, & directed her to follow us. parted Co with the Rambler, & Mr Bunker. At Evening we carried away our M T Sail Yd

    Saturday 23d Sent our Boat on Board the prizes.

    Sunday 24th At Day light we struck soundings in 120 Fathom, at Midnight following 75 fathom. In the afternoon sent our Boat to the prizes with Signalls &c.

    Monday 25th At day break saw a Sail standing towards us, at 7 AM spake her a Danish Brig, at half past ten spake another. After Dinnr Saw a Fleet of 15 Sail of large Ships. Two of ym chaced us, and for some time gained upon us, At Evening made Sail, and left our prizes to Share their Fate.

    Tuesday 26th In the morning saw the Two Ships still in pursuit of us, but farther distant then last Evening, we found they had spake our prizes, & consequently gave them Over, should the Fleet prove to be an Enemy’s. At half past ten AM passed within Shott of 2 Briggs judged to be Nuteral Vessells, At 11 the Ships gave over Chace. At Noon we saw a Fleet ahead, at four spake one of the lewdmost, (a small Sloop) by which we learned the Fleet, to be Coasters, from Nantz bound to Brest, under Convoy of 2 Kings Ships. We hove too, and the Renoma of 40 Guns bore away and spake us. The Captain very politely furnished us with a pilot to carry us to Brest. Just as we spake the Sloop, we made the Land, on our Weather Bow 8 leagues Dist at Sun Set saw the Houses, fences &c very evidently, and by the Pilots information 20 leags from Brest. Kept Co with the Frigate thro’ the Night, and wth several of the Fleet.

    Wednesday 27th At day-light we were very near the Shore, passed several, very dangerous, and disagreable Rocks, at 3 pm, saw the City of Brest, at five passed the Comodore, saluted with 13 Guns, he returned the salute—Came to an Anchor, half a Mile from Town, the Commandant came along side, & sundry other Boats, heard of the Arival of our prize Good Intent.

    28th Went on Shore in ye Morning

    1781 July

    July 4th heard of Mr Bunker’s arival at La Orient, on ye 9th he and his Crew returned to our Ship.

    16th Unmoored, and hauled into the Harbour, unrigged, and lightened her.

    20th Hauled the Ship on the Ways, for Coppering.

    22d removed the Ship from the Ways and began to fit her for Sea—50 Men were six hours employed in Coppering the Ship, compleatly.

    26th Hauled off to the Harbour, & moored the Ship.

    The entrance of the port of Brest affords the most delightful prospect. The Country in general, level, fertile, and the plantations regularly laid out. Vegetables are dailey brought to Market in great abundance. The Harbour is very justly called one of the Best in the World. Every part of it is very strongly fortified in a manner which does Honour to the Engineers of France. The grand Fleet sailed Two days before our arival consequently there were but few Ships of War in the Harbour. Brest being the principle Kings port in France, is Garrisoned, and governed by Military power, to which the greatest defference is paid, the City is divided by the extremity of the Harbour, wh tho’ very narrow, affords a passage for first rate Ships at Low Water. The situation is pleasant, the Streets have a Good wedth, & are regalar, in general, paved with square stones. The houses generally are 4 Story & some are five, their parlours in the 2d or 3d. The Kings works are exceedingly extensive neither trouble or expence has been spared to render them convenient, and every branch of Marine Business is executed with the greatest dispatch, four or five Thousand Slaves are constantly employed in the Dock Yards, and other labourious departments. The Manners & Customs vary from the English agreable to representations, particularly in the neglect of Cleanliness in their Houses, and their Mode of preparing Entertainments. During our stay there was a Fair which lasted a Week, and where every kind of Merchandise might be purchased. We very frequently attended the Plays at the Theater. These exhibitions afforded much more amusements yn any other of the public diversions. The Scenery, and Dress of the Actors were good, and always adapted to the peices performed, which in general were well chosen—The Dress of the Citizens of every denomination coresponds with the representations of Frenchmen in every part of the World.

    Monday 30th At Two p m came to Sail, saluted the Comodore, which he returned, with American Colours flying. At Sun set came to an Anchor 4 leags from Brest, and 1 Mile from the Shore.

    Tuesday 31st At nine Am got under way in Co with the the Brigg Black Pincis Capt: McCarthy, saw severl Vessells in the course of the Day, at Evening saw the Light house of Ushent.

    1781 August

    August 1781. Wednesday 1st Spake 3 Nuteral Vesslls in the Course of the Day, & saw several others.

    Thursday 2d Saw several Vessells under Nuteral Colours.

    Fryday 3d At 10 AM saw 2 Sails, gave Chace to One of them, prepared for Action & at half past One p m, spake the Chace, a large Sweedish Ship. Capt McCarthy & 2 of his Officers dined on board our Ship, at 5 pm, saw a Sail to Windward. At Evening Capt McCarthy saluted us with 13 Guns, we returned the Salute, and parted Co with the Brigg.

    Sunday 5th at 8 AM saw a Sail standing athwart us, stood towards her till we counted 10 Guns on her broad side, then altered our Course, finding we could out Sail her we stood again for her. She made Sail & we also, we gained upon her till 4pm when by the assistance of 18 or 20 Oars she held us. At Evening gave over Chace. At 11 Am saw the Land being some part of Ireland, stood towards it in the Night.

    Monday 6th In the Morning found ourselves not more than 3 or 4 Miles from the Land, which appeared very hilly and uncultivated. Being quite Calm we hove too, and caught several Fish, which were very acceptable. Saw many Fishing Boats in the course of the Day. at 10 p m, One came along side us. In the Night stood off, the Wind breezing up.

    Wednesday 8th Spake 2 Nuteral Vessells.

    Fryday 10th At 4 p m Saw a sail & Gave chace. prepared for Action & at ½ past Eleven spake the Chace, a large Nuteral Brigg. At Evening saw a Sail off our starbd quar.

    Saturday 25th Distance pr Logg last 24 hours, 228 Miles.

    Sunday 26th At 4 p m saw a Sail & gave Chace. At 10 spake her. His Majestys Packet Briggtn Comet, Mr McDonough from Jamaica to London, The Dispatches destroyed on our boarding her. sent Mr Bunker on bd the prize she keeping us Company.

    Monday 27th In the afternoon Mr Whellen and myself went on board the Comet & spent 3 hours, in Company with sundry passengers who were permitted to tarry on bd her.

    Tuesday 28th At 9 AM saw a Sail, and gave chace at One spake her, a French Brigg, bound to Mersales. put Mr McDonough on board her with his Baggage at his own request parted Co with our prize.

    Fryday 31st In the afternoon we saw an exceeding large Shark, struck him several times with Harpoons, and then hoisted out the Yawl, six Men went in quest of him, & I made one of the Number, having rowed a Mile from the Ship, we overtook him, & prepared to attack him having thrown the Harpoon it struck him & held fast. The Warp in running out very rapidly, as the fish was going down, took a turn round Mr Bunkers Leg which drew him overboard, this disaster rendered our situation very dangerous, he held fast the gunnel of the Boat for his own preservation, by which means she was almost filled, at this Juncture the Warp happily parted below the turn, by which means we unexpectedly saved Mr Bunker, whose Leg was considerably hurt, returned to the Ship & having hoisted in the Boat we made Sail.

    1781 September

    Saturday Sepr 1st At nine Am saw a Sail, and gave Chace. at four p m fired at her, & in half an hour spake her. The Brigg Minerva, Capt Bolton194 from Virginia to Bristol, with Tobaco & Lumber, she had on bd sundry dispatches of no great consequence. She mounted 10 Guns, put Mr Porter on bd her and kept him Compy.

    Monday 3d At 3 p m, parted Co with Mr Porter directing him to Beverly.

    Tuesday 4th At 10 Am saw a Sail to leward, judged her to be our Prize.

    Thursday 6th at 8 AM a Sail ahead and gave chace, at Noon spake her, the Brigg Hope Capt Celso, from East Florida to Bristol, with Turpentine, put Mr Thing195 on board her and sent her for Beverly.

    Tuesday 11th At day light saw a Sail, and gave chace at 11 AM spake her, the Schooner Liverpool from Hallifax to Antigua, put Mr Biard on board her and ordered her for Beverly.

    Wednesday 12th In the morning saw 2 Ships which from their behaviour we judged to be Cruizers, we took every method to view them thoroughly, found that we out sailed them and that they mounted at least 20 Guns each. At noon one of them was within Musquet Shott of us, and fired a great number of Shott at us, some came very near, at One we made Sail, thinking not proper to Engage. They fired under British Colours, but we were not satisfied with respect to them.

    Thursday 13th At 6 AM saw the Two Ships again, We judged that they wished to bring us to Action, but we thought proper to avoid it, & we therefore parted with them, and at 2 p m lost sight of them. In the Morning they hoisted American Colours, when they hove too for us.

    Tuesday 18th At 6 AM saw a Sail ahead and gave chace, at Noon fired at her, and at 1 spake her, a Cartell from Bermuda, to Rd Island with 14 Americans & Frenchmen, put 3 Captains 1 Mate & 1 Boy on bd her, just as we parted with the Cartell, saw 3 Sail, a Ship & Sloop astern, and a Brigg on our quarter. Gave chace to the Ship, and kept sight of her, the Sloop made off.

    Wednesday 19th At Day light saw the Ship 4 miles Dist being Calm could not get at her till 10 p m when the Wind breezing we ran to her. She hailed and fired at us, Capt R. thought proper not to engage in the Night, and hove too letting her pass, and keeping sight of her.

    Thursday 20th Saw the Ship 2 Miles Dist & a perfect Calm, called all hands, and out Sweeps, in 3 hours ranged along side of her, Having fired one full Broadside at us, we returned the Compliment, being close on board her, and she Struck her Colours. The Ship Peggy 16 Guns from Nevis to Hallifax Captain Knox with rum & Sugar. We received no material damage. The prize lost one Man. On board her were several Gentlemen & passengers, and a Mrs Rogers, and 2 agreable Young Ladies her Daus put Mr V Bunker on Board her, and kept her Company.

    Fryday 21st At 7 AM saw a Sail and gave chace at Noon hoisted out our Barge, the weather being calm, and sent 8 men to the chace at four p m they brought her along side. The Sloop Dove, a prize to the Peggy (& the one we saw with her the 18th) formerly bound to the West Indies, and commanded by Capt Johnson who we have on board our Ship, put Mr Burges on board the Sloop and took her in Tow. she was loaded with Tobacco.

    Sunday 23d Saw a Sail to Leward in the Afternoon

    Monday 24th Spake the Peggy, & kept her Co.

    Tuesday 25th I went on board the Peggy and furnished her with Signals &c. from Captn Robinson.

    Thursday 27th Went on board the Peggy to Visit the Ladies.

    Fryday 28th By Capt Knox we received information that the 2 Ships we saw the 12th & 13th were the Bellona & Regulator, letters of Marque, full marm’d and Cruizing.

    Saturday 29th In the afternoon we learned from One of the Prisoners, that at 4 OClock, the prisoners had determined to attempt taking the Ship. We found sundry matters they had secreted to facilitate their Design. Ever having been on our guard their attempt would have been in vain, But this inteligence doubled our vigilence, and we Ironed them hand & foot.

    Sunday 30th At Day light sounded in 75 fathom, Shoaled the water gradually till Midnight found ourselves in 24 fathm supposing to be on George’s Bank.

    1781 October

    October 1781 Monday 1st Continued to throw the Lead thro’ the 24 hours, from 35 to 15 or 16 fathom of Water. About midnight parted Co with the Peggy.

    Tuesday 2d At day light saw 2 Sail off our wear Bow, 2 leags distant. They evidently shew themselves to be Ships of War, and one of them to have 2 tier of Guns, we endeavoured to get by them, (supposing Nantucket Shoals just to leward of us) which we effected by running a risque. Just as they were abreast our Beam, and within shott, the smallest of them (which had been ahead under full sail from our seeing them) hove too, and shortned sail, under American Cols. The large ship spake her under French Cols which they both wore till we lost sight of them. The Boats passed between them sundry times, and several of our people knew the small Vessell to be the Ship Defence, (our Consort on the 7th June last). The other we supposed to be a British Ship of War. When we first made sail we parted Co with our Sloop which we supposed must unavoidably fall a prey, as the Ships chaced her after hoisting in their Boats &c. Sounded sundry times & deepened the water from 16 to 140 Fathom. At midnight Saw a Sail close on board us, but did not speak her. we flatter ourselves wth the pleasing hopes of her being ye Peggy—having feared she would fall a prey wth the Sloop; as she could not be far distant when we fell in with the Ship’s.

    Wednesday 3d At 11 Am saw Cape Ann distr 5 Leags at Noon had the Satisfaction to see the Peggy standing for the Land, saw several Vessells in the Course of the day, at Dark spake a Fishing boat, and took a Pilot on board. At midnight came to an Anchor in Beverly Harbour. Mr Cobbett came on board us, & informed yt 3 of our prizes had arived safe, & no more.

    Thursday 4th In the morning we heard from on Shore, that a Ship and Brigg were engaged in the Bay, & supposed the Ship to be the Peggy, prepared and got underway, run as far as abreast Cape Ann, when we found our inteligence was not authentic, and saw the Peggy, standing in,—returned and Came to an Anchor at 1 p m. In the Afternoon rode to Boston in Co with Mr Whellen

    Pilgrims Officers 1781

    Joseph Robinson

    Captain

    George Sugden

    Master Richard

    Whellen

    1st Lieut

    Nathanl Otis

    Offr Marines

    William Courtis

    2d Lieut

    J B

    Surgeon

    Robert Berkley196

    Surgn Mate

    1781 December

    Tuesday 11th At 3 OClk p m sailed from the harbour of Marblehead in the Ship Pilgrim commanded by Captain Joseph Robinson, bound on a Cruize against the Enemies of America. At Evening lost sight of C. Ann.

    Thursday 13th Towards Evening saw a Brigg to Windward 2 or 3 Leags distant, judged to be an American.

    Fryday 21st passed the line of the Tropic of Cancer, This circumstance afforded much diversion for our Ships Co though attended with a very disagreable ceremony to such as never crossed it before.

    Sunday 23d At Evening we hove too in the Lattde of the Island of Antigua, where we spent the night.

    Tuesday 25th At Evening hove too in the Lattde of Barbadoes, having had very blustering weather from the time of our departure from America.

    Saturday 29th In the Afternoon we fell in with and spake the Ship Mohawk, and Brigg Swift both from Salem on a Cruize. The Mohawk (very unhappily) & us ran aboard each other, by which accident we carried away our figure Head & received some other injuries. The other Ship received no visible damage, much was said on this affair respecting Seamanship, and each party were naturally urgent to vindicate their own conduct, But it appeared to me that both Captains were aiming to take the same position should we not have proved friends to each other.

    Sunday 30th At 8 in the morning after a chace of 2 hours, we captured the Ship Hercules from Africa bound to Barbadoes, mounting 12 Guns, commanded by Captain Wilson & loaded with Wood, Wax & Ivory, & a quantity of Gold dust. About 11 OClk, the Mohawk and Swift came up and claimed a porportion of the Prize, Captain Robinson not supposing them entitled to any part of her forbid their putting men on board. At noon dispatch’d her for Martineco in charge of Mr Rand, p. Mastr Towards Evening chaced a Vessell (which we saw to Windward) in Company with the Ship & Brigg & at Evening lost the Chace.

    Monday 31st At day light saw a Sail to Windward & the Island of Barbadoes about 3 leagues to leward. Gave chace but by reason of a large Ship (judged to be a British frigate) bearing down & gaining fast upon us we were obliged to alter our course. The Ship chaced us till Evening.

    1782 January

    Tuesday 1st At four p m we came to an Anchor in Man of war Bay in the Island of Tobago, for the purpose of repairing our damages. The prospect from the entrance of the Harbour affords nothing but barrenness and dessolation: But upon coming too we saw upon an Eminence near the shore five or six Hutts, and a tract of clear’d Land, wh we found to be a plantation, The proprietor of which (being the only white person we saw belonging to the Island) visited us twice during our stay. Capt Robinson returned his visits, but saw nothing particularly inviting. On the 2d Ins’ I went on shore in the morning, and Curiosity led me into the woods while the people were filling water-casks, with much fatigue and perseverance I got to top of an exceeding high mountain about four miles from the shore, where I had an extensive prospect. The first human form that presented to view was the Body of a man in a Gibbit errected on the brow of the hill, and wh I afterwards found might be seen from our Ship by the assistance of a Glass. Upon the top of the mountain is a plantation and there are two others in its vicinity, but by far the greatest part of the land in sight appeared totally uninhabitted, consequently uncultivated, upon visiting the house of the planter (which struck me as exceedingly well calculated for the climate, and was very decently furnished for a place of great obscurity) I was told by his Wife, a likely Negro Girl, that her Husband, was at the house of a neighbour, residing 2 Miles distant on the other side of the hill my inclination to visit the other plantation was very great, but the want of time joined to my excessive fatigue prevented so additional a walk. I had a fair prospect of the distant houses & found them to be errected according to the same plan with the one I visited. At a small distance from their dwelling’s are Hutts appropriated to the use of Slaves, whose manner of living joined to their great labour & nakedness, could not fail to excite sensations of pity in a breast unaccustomed to Cruelty. From the Negro Lady I recd every mark of civility, and by her was entertained in a manner that discovered her associate not to be unacquainted with the manners & Customs of the polite world. The principle produce of these plantations are cotton-wool, & there are some fields of Sugarcane & Coffee. Vegetables may be procured plentifully & during my excursion I picked a quanty of the finest Limes I ever saw. We were informed that Scarborough the Capital of the Island is garrisoned by French, but I Judged the residents of this part of the Island to be their own law-makers; and that their severity to the Slaves exceeded ever the rigor of a military Government.

    Thursday 3d At four p m having so far compleated our Business as circumstances would permit we came to sail, & at Evening lost sight of the Island, saw a small Sloop, judged to be French. At Tobago we left Captain Wilson & such of his men as did not enter wth us.

    Saturday 5th At Eight in the Evening saw a Ship close on board us, she hoisted lights, & shew such signs of force that Captn R—n thought prudent not to speak her in the night.

    Sunday 6th Saw 2 Vessels in the course of the afternoon but paid no particular attention to them. At Sunset saw Barbadoes, 8 or 10 leagues to Windward.

    Monday 7th About 2 in the morning saw a Ship close on board us, we bore away and let her pass, at day light found her in chace of us, kept sight of her till Evening. In the Afternoon we saw Two Sail, but did not chace.

    Tuesday 8th At sun-rise we passed so near the Island of Barbadoes (to Windward) as afforded an oppertunity of distinguishing the different plantations & Houses. On our passage from Tobago, we saw St Vincents, St Lucia & the Granadilla’s, & unfortunately, the several Vessels which we have seen of late were either so near the land, or so far to leward, that chacing was considered impracticable.

    Thursday 10th Saw a Ship to windwd judged an American Cruizer.

    Fryday 11th Were chaced all day by 2 Ships, judged to be British Men of War.

    Saturday 12th We saw a Ship to lewd at a great distance, supposed to be one of those, mentioned yesterday

    Sunday 13th Saw the Island Descada a great distance to leward.

    Tuesday 22d At Sun rise saw a Ship to Windward running for us, hove-too, & at 8 OClk spake, She proved to be the Scourge from Salem on her Cruize & commanded by Captain Parker,197 who came on board us and spent the afternoon; he informed of having been nine weeks out & taken but One prize, from NfdLand.

    Wednesday 23d Capt Robinson & myself dined & spent the afternoon on board the Scourge.

    Fryday 25th On meridian we spake a very large Portigues Ship from Brazill, bound Lisbon. Captain Parker and Doctor Spooner dined & spent the afternoon on board our Ship.

    Saturday 26th At Eight in the morning we Captured the Brign Friendship from Newfoundland bound to Barbadoes & commanded by Captain Row, At noon dispatched her for the Havannah in charge of a Mr Dean prize Master from the Scourge, On bd her were Dr Row & family.

    Monday 28th In the forenoon we spake a portigues Ship from Brazill bound to Lisbon. Toward Evening saw a Sail to Windward, Gave chace, at ten spake her, The Prince William Henry, a packet from Falmouth, with dispatches for the West India Islda mounting six Guns & commanded by Captain Peters, the mail was destroyed upon our boarding her, but we saved sundry public papers which were sent into port by Mr Bunker prize Mr On the morning of the 29th having taken out sundry stores for our Ship & the Scourge, she was dispatch’d for Saint Pierre.

    1782 February

    Feby 4th Captain Robinson & Peters dined and spent the afternoon on board the Scourge.

    Sunday 10th Captn Parker & Dr Spooner dined &c on board our Ship.

    Wednesday 13th At one p m saw a sail upon our weather bow & running for us. At the distance of four miles she hawl’d by the wind & we passed each other which afforded us an oppertunity of viewing her particularly. We found her to be a line of battle Ship under British Colours, when she got upon our Beam she bore away again for us. The Scourge being to windward of us we hove too to speak her, but could not accomplish it without danger, as we found the large Ship outsailed us, & that one must unavoidably fall a prey, when we found the Scourge was under command of her Shot, & she began to fire at us, we made the best of our way; & about five had the great mortification to see our Concert strike her Colrs This disaster put us on our guard, and we carried a pressing sail through the night.

    Saturday 23d At ten in the morning we saw a Sail, a head, Gave chace, At ½ past five spake her. The Briggtn Penobscott from Penobscott bound to Barbadoes, 8 Guns, commanded by Captain McClane & loaded with Lumber, put Mr Stewart on board her & dispatched her for Saint Pierre.

    Sunday 24th At five p m saw the Island of Martinico under our Lee, 6 or 8 leagues distant, saw several Vessells in the night judged to be Coasters.

    Monday 25th On meridian we came to an Anchor in the harbour of Saint Pierre, where we found several American Vessells. We were likewise announc’d of the arival of our prizes, Prince Wm Henry, Penobscott, and Friendship (the one orded to ye Ha vanh). The Hercules sunk at sea the day after our parting with her & Mr Rand & his Crew were taken from her by the Mohawk, many severe reflections were cast upon Mr Rand respecting the prize, and probably not without great Cause. Immediately upon our arival all hands were employ’d in fitting ye Ship for Sea.

    1782 March

    Saturday 2d On meridian, having been 48 hours under way, we made Sail in Company with the Torus of 22 Nine pounders, Captain Carnes,198 & 118 Men. The Brutus 20 Six pounders & 95 Men. Captain Brookhouse.199 The Franklin 18 Six pounders Capn Duvall,200 & 85 Men, & The Halker Captain Cane 16 Six pounders & 105 Men, with a determination to invest the Island of Tortola. This plan having been several days in agitation, regulations were adopted for the government of the Fleet & Captain Carnes was appointed Comodore. At Evening passed the Island of Dominica 3 or 4 leagues distant.

    Sunday 3d In the afternoon chaced a Danish Schooner. The Comodore spake her, & made a Signal for all the Captains, to go on board him, passed St Eustatia & Saba, the latter plainly in sight.

    Monday 4th About 3 pm we saw the Virgin Islands, & Two Sails under the Land, By a signal from Cap: Carnes The fleet gave chace, but spake neither of them. At Sun set the Captain’s were called on board the Comodore, where they spent an hour. At Evening spake a small Schooner which was detained with the Fleet, we ran in among the Islands. 200 chosen men were to land for the purpose of taking the Town, on Tortola, & to be commanded by Major Courtis, each officer of Marines commanding the party from their own Ship’s, by accident, the night being dark, we passed the place of our destination & ran 3 or 4 leagues to leward, by which we were kept beating to windward thro’ the night, we found by several circumstances that the Island were alarm’d, particularly by false fires which were very frequent in different places.

    Tuesday 5th At day-light we were just abreast the Town, not more than 3 Miles distant, The Fleet hove too & the Captains held a consultation on board the Comodore, at Eight OClk saw several Vessells under way and endeavouring to make their escape. The Brutus & Halker were sent in chace of them. Finding the Inhabitants to be alarmed, abolished the Idea of surprize, And it was thought eligible to demand a surrender of the Town, which was to be effected by a flag of Truce to the Governor in the name of the Comodore & Major Courtis, in Case of refusal an attack by the Ship’s was proposed, and they were accordingly prepared for a Cannonade. About ten OClk the Brutus (being at a great distance, and the Halker not in sight) displayed a Signal for superior Force, in Consequence of which the former proposals were delayed, And The Franklin with our Ship were sent to her relief, soon after which, she doubled a head of Land & we saw no more of her. About noon we passed a nuteral harbour on the Island of St Johns, where were several vessells under English Colours, particularly 2 Ships of 24 or 26 Guns each a pilot boat came off, but did not board us. After getting clear of Tortola we hove too in a large Bay (among the Islands) for the Commodore who was to follow us, after discharging the Pilot, Schooner &c. in this Bay we spake One of the Brigg’s from Tortola, which the Halker had mann’d and Ordered for St Pierre. She mounted 14 Guns & was formerly a Salem privateer called the Macaroni. By the Men taken in her we learnt that on the preceeding evening 8 or 10 Liverpool Men had ran from the Harbour in consequence of our appearance, & that the Brutus, and Halker were gone to lewd in quest of them, we supposed the vessells which we passed to be a part of them, & that sundry others which we saw to leward at anchor on nuteral ground were the remainder, as they display’d English Colours. About 2 OClock the Comodore made his appearance and we found him to be engaged with the 2 Ships, who upon seeing him came to Sail & posted themselves in such a manner that Captain Carnes could not avoid running between them. The fire was warm for a few minutes but the Porus had the good fortune not to loose a Man. her standing rigging was much injured & One Shot struck her Hull, so soon as he had passed, the Ships came to an Anchor again under the Danish fort. wh put it out of our power to revenge the Cause. Upon speaking the Porus Captains Duvall & Robinson went on board her & spent an hour. At Evening we made sail to get clear of the Islands, & thus concluded the expidition. In the night we parted Company with the Franklin. In an affair of Intrest a plan will generally be condemned or applauded in porportion to the success attending its execution; and among a variety of opinions, of almost every character it must naturally be supposed, that many remarks were made, and reflections cast upon the conduct on this expedition, uninfluenced by the sentiments of any one, I endeavoured to be acquainted with the principle of our undertaking it, and the particular object in view: upon weighing the matter maturely it appears to me, that the failure of the plan proceeded from misinformation rather then from ill-behaviour. Captn Robinson says that before our sailing from Martinico they took every possible method to get authentic inteligence. That the Island of Tortola was represented to be in almost a defencless state (having but 2 Batteries, of no great consequence) and subject to the command of small Ships & a few men. Under these circumstances the attempt appeared very elegible, and enquiry was made for a proper Pilot; A Gentleman presented, who profess’d a thorough knowledge, but it proved that he scarcely knew our object from the neighbouring Islands. An old man from St Eustatia belonging to the Schooner we detained, was so well acquainted that while we were running to leward in the night he frequently represented the mistake, and offered to carry the Ships to a proper station; and also to accompany the men who landed, & conduct them to the principle & commanding Fort; But the pilot brought from Martinico, was depended upon: And to his ignorance in a very great measure I impute our not succeeding; as the Enemy (judging us to be French Frigates at the distance they saw us at dark) were so much deceived in our force, that had we landed in the night & attack’d the proper posts, in all probability we should have taken the Town; by which I conceive we should have been richly rewarded for the risque, when day light appeared, instead of 2 inconsiderable forts we found that the harbour was regularly fortified, and that Batteries were erected within shot of each other, upon the shore, the whole length of the Island. The inhabitants were collected in the Forts, and they hoisted Colours, which to me wore the appearance of defiance, but to many were only considered as Scare-Crow’s, From this presentation I dispaired of doing any thing: And was there any error in judgment, I think it was shewn in the want of system necessary for enterprize; and in the purposal of demanding the surrender of a Town, which to appearance would have resisted, had our force been greatly superior. Upon the whole, weighing the particulars deliberately, I think the Brutus’s Signal was a fortunate circumstance, as our demand would probably have been rejected, & ridiculed, if not attended with more serious consequences.

    That part of Tortola which presented to our view appeared greatly cultivated & in a very nourishing state. The plantations extensive & slaves numerous. The Town is compact, but small; its situation low, & the Air consequently confined by Mountains adjacent, which were exceeding high. The harbour is not large, but from its situation may reasonable be judged a place of security, from the severity of bad weather. At each fortified part of the Island were a cluster of Houses, pleasantly situated, which I supposed to be the residence of principle planters: But this description cannot be perfect, as the observations were made in the heighth of Business, when the Enemy’s Shott were flying over us. On our retreat the Ships received the fire of the different Batteries wh we returned, some of their shott went between our Ship’s Mast’s, but fortunately did us no damage.

    Wednesday 6th At Eleven in the forenoon saw a Sail to Windwd running for us, At the distance of three Miles she hove too & hoisted English Colours, when we were almost within hail, she made Sail again, we fired several Shott at her, & she struck before the Porus came up. She proved the Ship Suffolk, 12 Guns, from Liverpool bound to Jamaica, laden with provisions & dry Goods, and commanded by Captain Threlfell,201 We put Mr Swain on board her as prize Master, directing him to keep us Company. Captain Carnes dined and spent the afternoon on board us.

    Thursday 7th Saw a Brigg to windwd judged the (late) Macaroni.

    Fryday 8th Towards Evening we fell in with the Brutus and Halker, but spake neither of them. Captain Carnes spake the Halker.

    Saturday 9th parted Co with the Brutus and Halker. In the afternoon spake the Porus. Captain Carnes informed us of the Halker’s having been engaged with a ship of 16 Guns, which beat her off with considerable damage, the Brutus was in sight, but could not get to her assistance.

    Sunday 10th At Eight in the morning we spake a large Ship under Sweed’s Colour’s from Burdeaux, bound to Cape Francois. In the afternoon saw the Brutus a great distance a stern. At four p m saw a Sail to Windward, Gave chace, At Eight fired at her, & at 9 spake her She proved a Schooner from St Sabastin’s bound the Havannah,

    Monday 11th Saw a Sail to Windward, supposed to be the Brutus.

    Wednesday 13th Captain Carnes, came on board us & spent the afternoon.

    Fryday 15th In the forenoon we saw 2 small Vessells to leward. At four p m saw a Sail to windward, fired several Shot at her & at seven spake her, She proved a Briggn from St Sabastin’s, to the Havannah.

    Saturday 16th Captain Carnes spent the afternoon on board our Ship, and Major Courtis and myself visited the Officers of the Porus. In the forenoon the Porus spake a Flagg of truce from Antigua bound to Saint Thomas’s.

    Monday 18th In the morning we took our prize in tow.

    Tuesday 19th At day light we saw a Sail to Windward, and One to leward, the porus chaced to leward, & we spake the weathermost, a large Danish Ship from Copenhagen, bound to S’ Croix. In the afternoon we saw St Eustatia, Saba, St Christophers, & St Martins. In the night we passed a large Ship.

    Wednesday 20th In the afternoon we hove too and spake the Porus put the prisoners taken from the Suffolk, on bd her. Captain Carnes came on board us and spent an hour, after which we parted Company, he taking the prize under convoy. Saw Nevis, St Bartholomews, & some other Islands at a great distance.

    Fryday 22d passed the Island of Barbuda 2 or 3 leags distant.

    Saturday 23d In the morning we saw a Ship to leward, at a great distance. At Evening saw Antegua, the high Land being 10 or 12 Leagues distant.

    Sunday 24th At day light saw a Sail to Windward, & gave chace, She proved a Brigg from Brest, bound Gaudiloupe, with public Stores, she informed of having 4 days before parted with a Fleet of 7 Sail of Battle Ships & a large number of Troops, bound to Martinico. passed Gaudiloupe about 6 or 8 Leagues distant.

    Monday 25th Towards evening we saw a Sail a great distance to Windward. On the 8th Instant we saw Annegada, which we were several days getting clear of.

    Tuesday 26th At Eleven p m saw a Sail close on board us, Spake her, a Danish Snow from Copenhagen bound to Saint-Croix.

    Wednesday 27th At day light saw a large Ship to Windward running down, we hove too & prepared for Action, At 7 Spake her, a Dane from Copenhagen bound to Saint Thomas’s.

    Thursday 28th In the afternoon we were chaced by a Ship wh was judged to have 2 tier of Guns, at Evening lost sight of her. At Eleven p m passed a large Brigg judged to be a British Cruizer.

    Fryday 29th Saw Merigalante about 3 leags distant, passed close to windward of Descada, saw a Brigg under the Land. In the afternoon Saw 2 Sail to Leward, One called the Ship which chaced us Yesterday.

    Saturday 30th Saw the large Ship to leward the greater part of the day. In the former part of the night, we were chaced by a Ship supposed to be an English Man of war.

    Sunday 31st Towards Evening saw a large Ship to lewd In the night saw a large Sail upon our weather Bow, we wore Ship & made Sail from her.

    1782 April

    Wednesday 3d At Eight in the morning saw a Sail a head steerg for Barbadoes, about 4 leags to lewd, Gave chace but finding her an Armed Ship (and judged to be a packet) Captain Robinson imagined she would endeavour to fight her way to the land, & we therefore hauld our Wind: being not more than 5 or 6 Miles from the Shore.

    Saturday 6th At 7 in the morning we saw a Sail to Windwd and gave chace. At Eight saw 2 Sail to Windward in chace of us. We were almost in Shot of our object, when we found the other Vessells were Frigates & gained fast upon us. we bore away & spread our Canvas. The smallest of the 2 spake our chace, The other kept pressing for us & held way with us untill Evening when we fortunately & unexpectedly lost sight of her; & her Concert who had followed her. we afterwards learnt that The Vessell we chaced was loaded with Wines for Barbadoes. & that the Frigates were The Fortune of 40 & the Pegasus of 28 Guns belonging to his Brittainic Majesty.

    Monday 8th In the morning we saw 2 Ships to Windward under easy sail, which put us upon our guard. In the afternoon passed to leward of Barbadoes, and so near the land as afforded a view of Bridge-Town, & the Vessells in the harbour, several of them appearing to be large Ships.

    Tuesday 9th In the forenoon saw Saint Lucia, & Martinico. Saw several small Vessells in the course of the day. At ten in the Evening came to an Anchor in Saint Pierre’s harbour. Captain Robinson & myself went on shore, we received information of the Arival of our prize Ship Suffolk, at the Island of St Christophers and that Captn Carnes had taken upon himself the Agency of her. The Porus had arived & was at Fort Royal & there were several American’s in this port. Yesterday the Count De Grass sailed from Fort Royal with his Squadron, and Admiral Rodney with the English Fleet was close in with Martinico when the Count sailed. The sight of these fleets were said to be the most formidable ever known in these Sea’s, during our tarry here I heard the melancholy account of my Uncle’s death by Captain Darby from Salem in the Ship Patty. Several Americans, having been exchanged, arived from Barbadoes & other English Islands, particularly Captain Parker & his Officers, by whome we learnt that the Scourge fell a prey to the Prothee a 64 Gun Ship.

    1782 May

    May, Fryday 3d At 6 p m we came to sail and bid adieu to Martinico; having so far settled our Business as circumstances would permit, and prepared for a Cruize of four Months.

    Sunday 5. At Eight in the morning we came to an Anchor in the harbour of Basseterre, on the Island of Saint Christophers, to know the state of the Suffolks accompts, but we got no satisfaction respecting them. Spent the day very cheerfully in seeing Fashions.

    Monday 6th At ten in the forenoon we got under way & for some time run along shore. On meridian we passed within Shot of the celebrated Garrison on Brimstone hill; which appears to have been made impregnable by Nature, independent of the visible exertions of Art to increase its Strength. In the afternoon we passed so near the Town on Saint Eustatia as afforded a sufficient oppertunity of viewing its Fortifications &c. saw Saint Bartholomews, Saba & St Martins. Just at Evening saw a Ship in chase of us.

    From an acquaintance with one of the West India Islands it appears to me that, making proper allowances for extent of Teritory & number of Inhabitants, a general Idea of the whole may be formed. A distant prospect of the plantations is really delightful: The mind is at once presented with variety & regularity. Eminences which to appearance are almost inaccessible demonstrate every mark of industry; And their adjacent plains are cultivated with equal attention. The Town of Saint Pierre, near two miles in length, is situated under a chain of mountains (whose heighth obstruct the clouds in their progress) which naturally retards a circulation of free air, and renders it entirely subject to the intense heat of the climate. There are two principle streets; One upon the Bay, which is the seat of Business, and the other (by much the most pleasant) is directly above it. a communication is formed by frequent cross-streets which extend from the water to the mountains back of the Town in the rear and at the extremities are several streets, or lanes of less consequence, the whole are well paved and in the center of each runs a continual stream of fresh water, from the Hills; the advantages of which may easily be delineated in the mind; as it greatly tends to preserve cleanliness, which in every particular is sacredly attended to. The Houses are compact, and are generally built upon One plan, when convenience seems to have been considered before Elegance; though, as in all other places, those of the first families may be distinguished. There are no other public amusements then the plays, which I frequented, with no other advantage then pleasing the Eye with the elegance of Dress, and artificial Beauty—too common among the Ladies. The Inhabitants are numerous, Industrious, and of a variety of complexions. I had but very little oppertunity of knowing them, their language being unintelegible; But the Laws, Manners, & Customs, I judged to be simular to French Men in every part of their territories.

    The town of Basseterre is much more pleasantly situated then St Pierre, by reason of a free circulation of fresh Air, The Houses are not so numerous, or so well built, but much more elegantly furnished. The Streets are not regular and so exceedingly dusty as to render walking very disagreable. Our short stay rendered particular observation impossible; but from the reception we met with, & the treatment we received I imagine a month might have passed agreably: the manners of the Inhabitts resemb’ling our own, & the language being inteligible to each other.

    Tuesday 7th in the morning we passed Sambarara, 3 leags to Wd

    Thursday 9th At day-light saw a small Sloop a head, & at 7 OClk spake her, She was from Burmuda bd to Antigua. Captain Robinson had determined to burn her: But she had a passenger on board her, by the name of Bonetheau, who owned her, & represented to have fled from Charlestown So Carolina, to escape the cruelty of the Enemy, under these circumstances She was permitted to pursue her voige, and the Gentleman taken on board our Ship.

    Wednesday 15th Sounded & got Bottom on the Coast of So Carolina.

    Thursday 16th Saw the Land, from the Mast head, & a Schooner judged to be a pilot-boat. In the afternoon we hove too and caught a large quantity of black-Fish.

    Fryday 17th At Eight in the morning we spake a Briggn proveing a Carteel from Charlestown, bound to ye Havannah. Ran in with the Land, and just at Evening we were so near the Bar, as plainly to distinguish the steeples, and Vessells in Charlestown road. Saw several Vessells near the Land; particularly One which gave us chace.

    Saturday 18th In the morning found the Ship we saw the last evening to be still in chase of us. At five p m we bore away to look at her & judged her to be a Sloop of War, of 18 Guns.

    Monday 20th At 3 p m saw a small Vessell to leward; at five p m saw a Sail a head, and gave chace, at 7 fired 2 Shott at her, & she hove too. The Sloop Sally a prize to His Brittainic Majesty’s Ship Garland, when taken from New Haven bound to the Havannah. took Mr Smith, a midshipman, out of her, and dispatched her for Beverly in charge of Mr Nothey prize Master. Mr Smith’s destination was Charlestown,

    Tuesday 21st At day light saw a Sail, and gave chace, At One spake her after firing several shott at her. She proved a pilot boat Schooner, prize to the So Carolina Frigate, The Midshipman who had charge of her spent an hour on board us. She being bound to George-town, we put Mr Bonetheau on board her by his own request.

    Fryday 24, At nine AM saw a Sail to leward & gave chace. At ten saw another Sail, which by her movements we supposed to be a Cruizer. (She was a Small Schooner.) we continued our chace through the night.

    Saturday 25th Fired several Shott at her; At One p m she hove too, She proved a Schooner from Edington, N, Carolina, bound to France. They threw their Guns & some other matters overboard for the purpose of escaping. About ten in the forenoon saw a Schooner, running athwart us, in the afternoon lost sight of her.

    Sunday 26th Towards Evening chaced a Vessell; at dark lost her.

    Tuesday 28th At Eight in the morning spake the Sloop Polly from Nantucket on a Whaleing voige, they had 2 large Fish along side & had caught 2 Others, we saw great numbers of Whales in the course of the day, some of them came so near as to strike our Ship. Saw 2 Sails supposed to be Whalers.

    Wednesday 29th Saw 2 Sail in the afternoon, but did not chace.

    1782 June

    June. Saturday lst At 7 in the morning saw a Sail to leward, Gave chace the Wind blowing hard; At five p m the chace carried away her Fore top Mast & hove too; She proved to be ye Brigg Marguis De Lafiatte from Grenada bound to Portsmouth New Hampshire. Just at Evening saw a Brigg to Windward.

    Sunday 2d At noon saw a Sail to Windward, Gave chace, & at Midnight spake her, after firing two Shott at her, She proved a Brigg from Newbury bound to Martinico.

    Tuesday 4th At ten AM saw a Sail & gave chace. fired 2 Shott at her. At five p m spake her, she proved to be the Brigg Neptune from Hallifax bound to the Island of Antigua, put Mr Rand on board her as prize Master and sent her for Beverly.

    Fryday 7th At Six p m sounded in 45 fathom on the Grand-bank.

    Saturday 8th Hove too and caught Cod-Fish.

    Sunday 9th Caught Fish plentifully, passed 2 Isds of Ice.

    Monday 10th passed a very large Body of Ice, about 2 Miles under our lee. it was judged to be 2 or 3 miles in length & as high as our Mast head.

    Monday 17th At one p m saw a Sail running for us. At 3 spake her. The Brigg Apledore from Europe bound to Newfoundland laden with Provs and commanded by Captain Limbree by whome we received intelegence of a Fleet for Quebec, which he parted with in bad weather on the 2d of last month, put Mr Hibbert on board the prize & ordered her for Beverly. At six pm saw a Sail a head & gave chace.

    Tuesday 18th At Eight in the morning spake our chace, She provd the Brigg Beaton, (of the Fleet) from London bd to Quebec laden with Spirituous liquors, &c, and commanded to Captain Burne. put Mr Banning on board her and dispatched her for Beverly. A heavy Gale, & labouring Seas.

    Sunday 23d On Meridian saw NewfdLand 8 or 10 leags Dist.

    Monday 24th At noon saw three Sail in chace of us, 2 of [them] came up with us very fast but at Evening they hove too. we judged them to be British men of war from St Johns, cruizing for the protection of the expected Fleet. The wind blew very fresh while they were in Chace.

    Thursday 27th At Evening we hove too, and caught a Cod-Fish. Fryday 28th Saw several large Bodies of Ice, passed near 2 of them.

    1782 July

    Wednesday 3d At day light saw a Ship to leward, which we supposed was an English Man of War. She chaced us two or three hours. At Evening hove too and caught Fish.

    Fryday 5th Just at Evening saw a Sail upon our wear bow.

    Saturday 6th At day light saw a Briggn to Windward, judged to be one of our own countrymen, gave chace but for the want of wind we could not catch her. At 4 p m saw Cape Breton 4 or 6 leags dist At six p m hove too and caught Fish in great abundance.

    Sunday 7th At five p m saw a Sloop to Windward, running for us untill one mile distant, when she hauld by the wind. Being close in with the Isles of Canso, and among dangerous rocks we could not get at her, but we found her to be a Cruizer of 12 Guns.

    Monday 8th In the afternoon we saw the Sloop, gave chace, fired several Shot at her and at 4 p m spake her, The Rainbow Captain Webb from Salem on a Cruize, out 6 weeks, and having taken 3 prizes. Capt. Webb supp’d on board our Ship.

    Tuesday 9th In the morning we bore away for the harbour of Canso, but passed it by reason of very hazy weathr and the want of experienced pilots, at three p m we came to an Anchor in Gabaruse-Bay. Captain Robinson supp’d and spent the Evening on board the Rainbow, she being at Anchor near us.

    Wednesday 10th Spent the forenoon on Shore, but saw nothing in my ramble worth very particular notice. We ran 4 or 5 leags up this convenient harbour; and were almost land-lock’d. Our Business was to replenish the Ships Wood and Water which we accomplished without the least dificulty, finding them both at hand. The land like all other unfrequented tracts, totally uncultivated, but not mountainous, and subject to improvement without great fatigue. I was told by an officer of the Sloop that about five Years since there were sundry habitations near the place of our landing, which were destroyed by an American Cruizer to which he belonged. Upon a Bank near the Shore we found Strawberries in their bloom, in the greatest abundance, which were very acceptable, particularly to our Sick.

    At ½ past three p m we came to Sail, and about seven passed the harbour of Louisbourg. We had no prospect of the City; but the marks of ancient war; Block Houses, Barracks, the reliques of Fortifications, and the landing places of Generals Amherst & Wolf on their expedition, were very conspicuous in its vicinity. Several Cattle were seen feeding in the fields, and we likewise saw sundry persons on a small eminence viewing us as we passed.

    Almost every part of the Island of Cape Breton (as well as the spot on which we landed) that presented to our view, appeared to be pleasantly situated, and very conveniently calculated for tillage.

    Thursday 11th At Eight in the morning we saw two Sail, and gave chace: but by reason of calm weather & their rowing we did not speak them. They we supposed to be small American Cruizers, we having been informed that several are on this coast by Captn Webb, who supped and spent the Evening with us.

    Fryday 12th In the night we parted company with Captn Webb.

    Saturday 13th At One p m saw a Sail and gave chace. at four we fired several shot at her, but by reason of light Winds, which gave her the advantage of rowing in among the ledges on Nova Scotia shore, we could not catch her. at five we hauld our Wind, the land being near 2 Miles distant, found the chace to be a small Schooner & supposed her an Amern Cruizer.

    Thursday 18th In the morning being but a short distance from the shore we saw a small Sail and gave chace. On meridian a perfect calm, we hoved too off the harbour of Liverpool & sent our Yawl to speak the chace (finding her to be nothing more then a fishing boat) but she returned at four p m without having accomplished the Business, the wind breezing up. Sundry Houses & farm’s might be seen on the Bay, but a prospect of the Town was cut of by the depth of the harbour, several heavy Guns were fired from a Fort, which we judged were Signals. Just at Evening saw 4 or 5 small craft along shore.

    Fryday 19th At nine a m saw a Sail and gave chace. On Meridian spake her, a small schooner from Hallifax in a set of ballast. At four p m put all our prisoners on board her, taking their parole.

    Saturday 20th At Eight in the morning we saw a Sail and gave chace the wind blowing very fresh. At four p m the Chace ran into portmatoon, we prepared for Action, ranged close along side her and let go our best Bower. She proved the Ship William from Bilboa bound to Newbury shewing 16 Guns and comd by Captain Row. at five p m we both hove up & came to sail, and in the night we parted Compy. The harbour being land-lock’d seems to be a very commodious one, and affords a prospect truly rural, in it are several very small Islands & in the passage into it are some dangerous rocks. I was told that there are sundry houses at the head of it, but only one, with an adjacent farm presented to our view.

    Sunday 21st At day light saw a small Sail to leward & the Ship still farther under our lee.

    Monday 22d Just at Sun set saw a Sail, which we supposed was a Ship, she passed us to Windward in the Eveng.

    Tuesday 23d At 6 in the morning saw Cape-Ann under our lee, and at Noon we came to an Anchor in Beverly harbour (being announced of none of our prises as yet, except the Brigg Neptune) to the no small satisfaction of a Ships Company murmuring at the frowns of Fortune.

    Pilgrims Officers, 1782

      Joseph Robinson
      Captain
      Richard Whellen
      1st Lieut
      William Courtis
      2d Lieut
      John Juliker202
      Master
      Jona Dorby Robins
      Offr Marines
      J B
      Surgeon
      Robert Berkley
      Surgs Mate