by John Marshall

“ The French fleet of which he was in pursuit, though soon descried by the British advanced vessels, was not seen by the line-of-battle ships till the 12th, when it was discovered to windward, consisting of one 3-decker, three 80’s, eleven 74’s, and three frigates. During the ensuing night, the Mercure, of 74 guns, lost her main top-mast in a squall, and parted company. On the morning of the 13th, the enemy being still to windward, without shewing any intention of coming down, the British Commander made the signal for a general chace. ”

“ We therefore content ourselves with observing, that the Audacious was the fourth ship that doubled the van of the French line, and brought up on the Conquerant’s bow, where Captain Gould commenced a spirited and galling fire. After the action he proceeded down the Mediterranean, in company with the division under Sir James Saumarez, and part of the prizes. The loss sustained by the Audacious was 1 man killed, and 35 wounded. She was afterwards employed in the blockade of Malta, and assisted at the capture of the Genereux, of 74 guns, Feb. ”

“ The damage sustained by his van ships, particularly the Illustrious and Courageux, prevented Vice-Admiral Hotham attempting a renewal of the engagement. The Illustrious was afterwards wrecked in Valence Bay ”