by John Marshall

“ On the 28th July, 1809, Captain Markland assisted at the capture of six heavy gun-boats belonging to the Italian marine, and ten coasting traders, laden with brandy, flour, rice, and wheat.
The Bustard, at that period, formed part of the squadron employed in the gulf of Venice, under the orders of Captain John West, by whose activity the enemy’s convoy was prevented from entering Trieste, and obliged to take shelter in Douin, a port 4 leagues farther, to the N.W. defended by a strong castle. ”

“ We have at times had 1200 men on shore, at work and in the batteries; and the general good conduct of the officers, seamen, and marines, with the harmony that has invariably subsisted between the Austrian troops and our people, is quite gratifying to me. When we opened against the citadel it contained 800 Frenchmen, 45 large guns, 4 mortars, and 4 howitzers. The consequences of the taking this place will be felt throughout the country.” About 50 sail of vessels were taken in the port.
During the operations against Trieste, the Milford had 3 men killed and 10 wounded ”

“ By Rear-Admiral Freemantle’s subsequent despatclies it appears that he had left Captain Markland, as senior officer, for a short time, off Fiume; – the following are extracts:–
“On the 6th Sept. I arrived Fiume, and found the Milford and Wizard (sloop) at anchor off the town, and the Imperial flag flying; the whole of Istria and Croatia (nearly) up in arms against the French, and driving them out in all directions. Sagna and Porto Ré are also under the Austrian flag. General Nugent has his head-quarters at Lippa, about twenty-two miles from Fiume ”

“ Immediately after this little affair, the marines of the squadron and two field-pieces were landed under the command of Captain Markland, to assist at the siege of Trieste, which was commenced on the 11th, and terminated on the 29th of the same month. “I have to thank him,” says Rear-Admiral Freemantle, “for exerting himself in every way ”