CHAPTER VI.. The Mutiny.

THE MUTINY.

Remarks on Sir Edward's character as a seaman and an officer--His conduct when his ship was on fire--His consideration for his officers and men--The Duke of Northumberland--Mutiny at Spithead--Preparations for a second invasion of Ireland--General Daendels--Proposed expedition baffled--Sir Edward off Brest--Proposes to burn the French fleet--Success in capturing the enemy's cruisers--La Vaillante--Royalist priests and Madame Rovere--His liberality--Appointed to L'Impetueux, 78--Her mutinous state--Observations on the mutinies in the Navy, from 1797--Sir Edward's opinions on the subject--His precautions--Attempted mutiny in the Indefatigable--Conspiracy in the Channel fleet--Mutiny on board the Impetueux--His firmness and promptitude in suppressing it--Court-martial--Earl St. Vincent's opinion of his conduct--His conduct at the execution--His decision on the court-martial on a mutineer--Illustrative anecdote--He commands an expedition to Quiberon--Proposes to attack Belleisle--Cruises off Port Louis--Mr. Coghlan cuts out La Cerbere--He directs the landing of the army at Ferrol. page 108