by John Marshall

“ Much praise is due to Mr. J. Tuckey, my first Lieutenant, Lieutenant R. Donovan, and acting Lieutenant, J. Collas, for their spirited conduct and active exertions during the pursuit by the enemy and subsequent action; and though His Majesty’s ship has been captured, I trust the country has been materially benefited by the escape of the convoy, and its subsequent consequences. ”

“ At day-light on the 26th they had neared us considerably; and the Brothers sailing so much worse than the rest of the convoy, kept me considerably astern. Had I not been unfortunately detained by this ship, all would have been well. At six A.M. observing the number of strange ships increased to thirteen, apparently large vessels, closely connected, and evidently in chase of us, I made the necessary arrangements for the escape of my convoy, should they prove an enemy’s squadron. ”

“ At day-light next morning I had much satisfaction in finding that His Majesty’s ship had not been uselessly sacrificed; for the ships of the convoy being all out of sight (except the Brothers, which was brought in by the Sylph) , I trust they will arrive in safety. I am further gratified, that in consequence of their escape, information will be given of this powerful squadron cruising immediately in the tract of our homeward bound trade ”

“ At the close of 1808, Captain Woodriffe was appointed agent for prisoners of war at Forton, near Gosport. Towards the latter end^of the war we find him residing as Commissioner at Jamaica. One of his sons is a Commander, and another a Lieutenant, R.N. His eldest daughter married the late Lieutenant-Colonel Tomkins of the 58th regiment, and died in 1820. ”