Memoirs and Correspondence of Admiral Lord de Saumarez, Vol. I

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

26031

Title

Memoirs and Correspondence of Admiral Lord de Saumarez, Vol. I

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

This volume chronicles the distinguished naval career of Admiral Lord de Saumarez, detailing his service from the American War through the Napoleonic conflicts. Based on original family papers, it offers a firsthand account of major battles, strategic maneuvers, and personal correspondence, highlighting his bravery and leadership against French and Spanish forces.

Summary up to 500 words

Sir John Ross presents the *Memoirs and Correspondence of Admiral Lord de Saumarez*, a definitive account of the life and career of Rear-Admiral Sir James Saumarez, drawn from original family documents. The volume begins by establishing the Saumarez family's Norman roots in Guernsey before detailing James Saumarez's entry into the Royal Navy. His early career spans education, schooling, and service aboard vessels such as the *Solebay* and *Montreal*, leading to his promotion to Lieutenant and Master and Commander. The narrative highlights his engagements in the West Indies against French squadrons under Comte de Guichen and Comte de Grasse, including the capture of French ships and the defense of Alderney. A pivotal moment is the Battle of the Nile, where Saumarez, commanding the *Orion*, was wounded while fighting alongside Nelson. The text also covers the Battle of Algeziras, where Saumarez's squadron attacked a combined French and Spanish fleet, achieving significant victories despite the loss of the *Hannibal*. Ross meticulously addresses controversies surrounding these battles, utilizing logs and testimonies from officers like Captain Ferris and Colonel Connolly to clarify discrepancies, particularly regarding the surrender of the *Hannibal* and the conduct of the crew. The memoirs include private letters reflecting on personal sacrifices, officer conduct, and the broader context of the wars. Saumarez's promotion to Rear-Admiral, his creation as a Baronet, and his continued service under Nelson and Earl St. Vincent are noted. The volume concludes with reflections on his treatment after the Algeziras campaign and his enduring legacy as a naval hero, supported by extensive documentary evidence and personal correspondence.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Categories

• Biography
• History