CHAPTER V.

Commencement of Hostilities with France.--Sir James hoists his Flag at Sheerness.--Proceeds to Guernsey.--Flag in the Grampus.--Anecdote of Captain Caulfield.--Sir James visits Jersey, &c.--Diomede arrives as Flag ship.--The Admiral examines the Defence of the Island.--Loss of La Minerve.--Attack and Bombardment of Granville.--Cerberus gets aground.--Narrow Escape from a Shot.--Public and Private Letters.--Blockade of the Coast.--Loss of the Shannon and Grappler.--Conclusion of 1803. 72