by Michael Aye
“Aye, captain.”
“Mr. Davy.”
“Aye, sir.”
“Keep a sharp lookout. I don’t trust these rogues.”
“Aye, aye sir.”
One of the sailors forward used a boathook to grab onto the chains. As per custom Gabe stood up in the stern sheets only to be surprised when Dagan climbed up the tumblehome and through the port. This had taken the crew totally off guard but all eyes remained forward and nobody spoke. With a quick breath Gabe reached out and hauled himself out of the boat and through the entry port.
Once on deck, Gabe could see the marines were formed up and ready to fire. Behind him the gig’s crew boarded and fanned out. The sloop’s crew was gathered between the main mast and the quarterdeck.
Dagan was there and as Gabe drew abreast he whispered, “Careful now, I’ve a feeling.”
This explained his actions in departing the gig. Gabe quickly noted the flushed deck and sixteen twelve pounders and it reminded him of SeaWolf but more like a small frigate.
This will make a nice prize, he thought. Taking a few steps toward the sloop’s crew he said, “I’m Captain Gabriel Anthony of HMS Merlin. You have been taken and are now my prisoners. May I ask which of you is in command?”
The sailors before him were a mixed lot, Spanish, Negro’s and a few British. They were dressed in slops, most were barefoot and all looked defeated.
“I ask you again,” Gabe said, his voice now raised. “Which of you is in command?”
When no one spoke Gabe called, “Lieutenant Davy.”
“Aye, sir.”
“Line the prisoners up into two columns and have each man searched. Then have the ship searched.”
Then turning to the marines he said, “Sergeant Schniedermire, shoot the first man who makes a false move.”
“Aye, captain. Marines take aim and if a man so much as moves a hair sideways pluck it for him.” The harsh brogue voice of the marine sergeant seemed to leave little doubt in his willingness to cut a man down.
Turning aft Gabe called to Dagan and Paco to assist him as he searched the captain’s cabin. At that time a scream pierced the air and a dark figure jumped from the companionway, a sword in one hand and a pistol in the other. He charged screaming curses toward Gabe, his gaunt face emblazed in hate and fury.
Gabe knew he was dead but suddenly Dagan shouted, “deLavago halt.”
Almost like magic the man slid to a halt not three paces from Gabe. So Dagan was right, Gabe thought. The rogue hadn’t gone down with his ship. He’d bet we would let the sloop go to capture Barracuda only he hadn’t counted on Warrior and Defiant lying in wait.
Again Dagan spoke firmly, “It’s over.”
The half-crazed man took a deep breath and seemed to sigh. The contorted face seemed to relax and tears poured from his eyes and down his face. Then very deliberately he cocked his pistol and stuck the barrel to his chin and pulled the trigger. A sudden silence followed the bang.
All stood in awe at what they had just witnessed. No one was able to speak as they stared at the man slumped in a pile on the deck. Without understanding why, Gabe removed his coat and placed it over the fallen man.
Hearing steps across the deck Gabe saw Dagan headed toward the entry port and the gig below. Once again Dagan…his uncle…his protector had saved his life.
Gabe still felt numb as he said, “Lieutenant Davy, the prize is yours. I’ll send a prize crew over. When you are ready to get underway make a signal and take station on Merlin.”
Lieutenant Davy was also dumbfounded at the scene which had just taken place. Even more so when Gabe…the captain had said the prize was his. Well he’d make the captain proud. There’d be no more errors if Lieutenant David Davy could help it.
As the crew pulled back to Merlin the rhythm of the oars was almost hypnotic. Gabe couldn’t help but wonder if things had been different; if Spain had kept Florida and England had kept Havana. Would he be here today? Would Don Luis de Lavago be lying on a ship’s deck dead from his own hand or would he be sitting on the veranda of his plantation drinking a glass of wine and smoking a cigar. What about de Lavago’s family? Did England or Spain care what their actions had set forth? The destruction of a man. The destruction of his family. Damn all politicians, Gabe thought.
Epilogue
Lord Howe’s flagship was at anchor when Lord Anthony’s squadron returned with the sloop, Ram, as a prize. Lord Howe was ashore but a messenger from the Governor arrived on board almost before Warrior’s anchor was dropped. Governor Tonyn was having a reception for Lord Howe and Lord Anthony and his captains were invited.
The reception that evening proved to be more spectacular than Anthony would have imagined based on previous events. He was shocked when a Negro footman with a white powdered wig took his hat and announced Admiral Lord Gilbert Anthony. The ballroom seemed to be teeming with people, all smiles and politeness. A momentary pause as Anthony was announced then the conversations renewed.
What a farce, Anthony thought. The Army’s scarlet coats were everywhere and Anthony quickly spotted Provost in conversation with Governor Tonyn and Lord Howe. A few marine officers were present as was one or two of Browne’s ranger officers. Anthony was amazed there were so many civilians. They’d not been many at other receptions.
Bare shouldered ladies flashed their fans and Anthony was amazed at the amount of bosoms being paraded. He then recalled Lady Deborah’s words, “look, don’t ogle.” Well he’d have to pass the word to Buck who was definitely ogling. I wonder if she’s the one who Buck’s been keeping company with?
Feeling a hand on his shoulder Anthony turned to be greeted by Colonel Browne. Seeing where Anthony’s gaze had been, Browne said, “With all these beautiful ladies it makes you wonder why a man would leave his home and bed to go fight a war.”
“Aye,” Anthony replied. He couldn’t disagree.
Anthony waited until Provost had made his way toward a servant to get a glass of wine then approached Howe, “My Lord.”
“Ah…Lord Anthony. My flag captain tells me a celebration is in order. I understand you’ve sank the privateers who’s been reeking havoc on our convoys and got a nice little prize to boot.”
“Aye, my lord,” Anthony replied. “Good fortune was with us.”
“Good,” Lord Howe said. “We will talk later, on the morrow after I’ve read your reports. Now Governor Tonyn tells me it’s time to dine.”
Taking their places at the huge table Anthony saw no expense had been spared for Lord Howe’s reception. He could almost imagine the tables groaning under the weight of so much food. Footmen and servants were everywhere, pouring wine; removing dishes as delicacies of every kind were being served; various tempting fruits and pies, meats, potatoes, carrots and breads. How could so much food be consumed in one evening? Anthony wondered. There was enough here to feed his squadron for a week.
There were silver punch bowls filled with Tonyn’s favorite wine, Sangria, and even that had slices of oranges floating on top along with small remnants of ice used to cool the wine. Recalling Bart’s words that he’d taken on a portly appearance, Anthony vowed he’d eat lightly. And he did until the desserts were served. Seeing the orange sherbet, fruit pastries, apple tarts and various puddings the vow was forgotten.
The shrill of pipes were barely out of Anthony’s ears when Lord Howe’s flag lieutenant greeted him. I’ll bet the flag captain is still abed with some obliging woman, Anthony thought. He then introduced his flag lieutenant to Lord Howe’s.
Anthony and Hazard were escorted to Lord Howe’s waiting area and the flag lieutenant took Anthony’s reports to the admiral. Feeling the after effects of last evening’s reception, conversation was minimal. Hazard was thinking of the privileges that had come with being Anthony’s flag lieutenant. Experiences he’d not encountered before nor would he again unless by some miracle he made admiral.
He was also grateful at the trust that had been given to him to pilot Merlin through the c
hannel at Cayo Hueso. He’d attempted to voice his appreciation but was cut short by Howe’s flag lieutenant telling Anthony that his lordship was ready for him.
“Take a seat, Gil,” Lord Howe said, creating an informal environment. This meant his lordship was pleased. “Governor Tonyn has spoken very highly of you,” Howe started, “You’ve greatly improved the Navy’s reputation after the blunders of your predecessor.”
Anthony noticed Howe disdained even to speak Sir Percival’s name.”
“How is Sir Raymond?” Howe asked.
“He visited the flagship this morning, my lord. He appears to be progressing well. I’m sure he’ll be fit for duty soon. He’s to be married soon. His visit this morning was to extend invitations to the wedding.”
“Speaking of weddings, how is Lady Deborah?” Howe asked.
“She is fine and we now have a daughter.”
“Well congratulations,” Howe said.
He and Anthony had been sipping on lime juice so he raised his glass, “To mothers and daughters.”
After the toast, Lord Howe picked up a paper he’d been taking notes on, “Gil, since you came out from England in 1775 you’ve patrolled the West Indies, the American coast from the Keys to Maine and you’ve also patrolled the waters of Nova Scotia. You’ve prevented an invasion, and you’ve taken some twenty-seven prizes including the sloop you’ve just brought in. I lost count of the enemy ships you’ve sank and prisoners you’ve taken. Because you’ve been so successful I’ve approved Gabe’s captaincy as a testament of gratitude for your ceaseless service and success.”
“Some will be jealous of the boy making captain, be prepared. He’s earned it and I know you would not have recommended him if he’d not the experience to support it. However, some will see it as nepotism. Now do you have a deserving officer for this sloop you’ve just taken?”
Anthony thought of Hazard but said, “Captain Buck’s first lieutenant, Mr. Herrod, is who I’d appoint, sir.”
“Very well, I’ll draw up the papers. Defiant,” Howe said. “Is she seaworthy?”
“Aye, my lord. She is as fine a ship as we could hope for.”
“And Captain Earl?” Howe continued his question. “Is he ready to hold permanent command of a forty gun ship?”
Once again, Anthony answered positively, “He has been with me almost as long as Buck has. I have the utmost of faith and trust in him.”
“Very well,” Howe replied. “I will confirm his appointment and I’ve already agreed to purchase Defiant. Now Lord Anthony, as to yourself. It grieves me to tell you this but you are being sent back to England.”
“The entire squadron, sir?” Anthony asked.
“Yes…no, not Defiant. She will remain here at Saint Augustine with the sloop and the little island schooner. After your success I doubt we’ll have to worry much about privateers. Now go home. Your tour has made you a rich man. Spend it on Lady Deborah and the little one. I’ve no doubt you’ll be hoisting your flag again soon so enjoy your time.”
Then Lord Howe exhaled deeply, “I wish it were me going home.”
All of Lord Anthony’s officers including Sir Raymond were gathered in his dining area aboard Warrior.
“Gentlemen,” Anthony spoke. “I’ve important information from our commander in chief. Defiant and the sloop, Ram, are to be purchased. Captain Earl, you have been confirmed to command Defiant and you will receive orders directly. Lieutenant Herrod, you upon Captain Buck’s recommendations have been given command of the sloop, Ram, and are promoted to the rank of Master and Commander.”
A chorus of cheers broke out.
“Commander Herrod, you will receive your orders along with Captain Earl. Gabe…Captain Anthony, Lord Howe has approved your promotion and command of Merlin.”
“Now gentlemen, with the exception of Captain Earl’s Defiant and Herrod’s Ram the squadron is to return to England.”
As the cheers quieted down Buck asked, “When do we sail?”
“Lord Howe has given me a bit of latitude here,” Anthony replied, “but I think by the end of the month at the latest.”
After the meeting broke up Anthony spoke to Gabe as he was leaving, “Dine with me tonight and bring Caleb, Dagan and Lum.”
Later that night after a filling but simple meal, Anthony, Gabe, Hazard, Bart, Dagan and Caleb sat back smoking their pipes and cigars as Lum played tunes on the lotz and then the fiddle.
As Lum played Dagan announced, “Caleb and I are going to visit Virginia.”
“Aye, I’ve been thinking the wind blew that way,” Anthony said with a smile on his face. Then turning to Gabe he continued, “I’d not take it amiss if you were to slip into Savannah and pick up a passenger for the trip to England either.”
Now Gabe was all smiles. Overhead the ship’s bell rang.
“I ’ears bells a ringin’,” Bart said, “And soon hit’ll be wedding bells I’m a thinkin’.”
APPENDIX
Historical Note
In 1763, the Seven Years’ War, or as it was called in America, the French and Indian War came to an end. Great Britain and her American colonies had won against the combined forces of France and Spain. The armies of Great Britain had conquered Canada and several French-held islands in the Caribbean. They had also stormed and occupied Havana, Cuba, Spain’s principal seaport and administrative headquarters for much of Spanish America. In 1763 a treaty of peace was signed that left Canada to the English, returned several Caribbean islands to the French, and provided for Havana to become Spanish again in exchange for the province of Florida. Great Britain now controlled all of North America east of the Mississippi River.
When Florida was officially transferred to the English, most of the Spanish residents chose to depart for Cuba. Some stayed, especially the very poor, many blacks, and individuals of mixed blood. Even a few of the wealthier Spanish settlers remained to maintain their extensive properties and investments in Florida. At least one stayed to spy on the English.
The English had obtained a great continental peninsula with its eastern boundaries on the Atlantic Ocean, and its western boundaries on the Mississippi River. As the Spanish had done, they divided the new province into two parts. All the lands west of the Apalachiola River, including the very small settlement at Pensacola, became British West Florida and a part of the history of this region. The eastern lands, basically the Florida peninsula itself, became British East Florida, headquartered in Saint Augustine, home for virtually all of Florida’s residents.
In 1775, when armed conflict commenced, British East Florida’s security rested on the rather inadequate shoulders of a few companies of the English 14th and 16th Regiments of Foot and a handful of artillerymen at the Saint Augustine fort. By October of 1775, drafts of troops sent north had reduced the regular garrison in Saint Augustine to thirty-five soldiers of the 16th Foot and a company of hastily raised and ill-trained local militiamen. In the months that followed, Florida’s new governor, Patrick Tonyn, directed a number of small blockhouse forts to be constructed to help protect the province. Forts were established at Picolata, Anastasia, Matanzas, and Smyrna. A more substantial structure, Fort Tonyn, was built where the King’s Road from Saint Augustine crossed the St. Mary’s River, the official border separating the colonies of Georgia and Florida.
The Rebels to the north considered Florida to be a natural, or at least, a very desirable, part of the soon-to-be-declared new American nation. Their first act of war in Florida was the seizure of an English brig, the Betsey, and its load of 111 barrels of gunpowder by a Carolina privateer ship within sight of Saint Augustine. Between fall of 1775 and early spring of 1776, the Rebels raided Loyalist settlements along the Georgia-Florida border. With fewer than four hundred muskets within its borders, Florida was virtually defenseless by land. Only the sloops, and later, frigates of the Royal Navy protected Florida from seaborne invasion. This essential function of the Navy would continue and prove crucial to the ultimate survival of British East Florida in the
violent years ahead.
In the early summer of 1776, the American Rebels assembled a force of more than two thousand men in Savannah, Georgia, under the command of Colonel William Moultrie. The mission of this force was to invade and conquer Florida. Fortunately for Florida, command problems and widespread sickness so crippled this small army that it never advanced farther than Sunbury, Georgia. Even had it actually invaded, Florida was no longer quite as defenseless as it had been a few months earlier. The first contingent of the King’s 60th Regiment of Foot (Royal Americans) had arrived in Saint Augustine under the command of Colonel, later Brigadier General, Augustine Prevost.
As important to the future survival of British Florida as the arrival of the 60th Foot, was the arrival of Thomas Browne, formerly of Augusta, Georgia. A man of quite considerable competence and energy, Browne had been tarred, feathered, and partially scalped by Georgia Rebels for his loyalty to King George III. Recognizing his merits, Governor Tonyn commissioned Browne a colonel, and authorized him to raise, equip, and lead a force of irregular militia. This force would be called the East Florida Rangers. Rarely numbering more than two hundred, Browne and his Rangers assisted by a large band of partially red-coated Seminole Indians, were to perform signal services to the crown during the next few years.
American privateers roamed the Atlantic Coast from Canada to the Caribbean Sea, capturing enemy merchant vessels and effectively blockading the east coast of Florida, the Tory residents (British) of Cow Ford (Jacksonville) were unable to obtain supplies and so fled northward into Bullock County, Georgia.
Following this incident, the British Navy would successfully patrol the ocean, intercostal waters, and rivers.
On November 2, 1775 Governor Tonyn issued a proclamation that invited the loyalist to come to Florida and promising them free land. Starting in the spring of 1778 large groups of Loyalist exiles from South Carolina arrived in Florida. The men formed two small regiments—the South Carolina Royalists and the Royal North Carolina Regiment. Other men enlisted in Browne’s Rangers.