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In which is given an
accurate and lively Description of the Sieges, Battles, Bombardments,
Sea Engagements, Expeditions, and extensive Conquests of the British
Arms, in all Quarters of the Globe, with a variety of Interesting and
extraordinary Anecdotes of Military Skill and Intrepidity, heroic
Adventures, brilliant Exploits, martial Achievements, and memorable
Actions of the British Warriors calculated to inspire the Rising
Generation with Magnamity and Virtue and to Impress on their Minds the
generous Ardour and Noble Emulation of their Ancestors.
Preface
The memoirs of great and
renowned Persons in all Ages and Countries, have been received with
avidity, and read with admiration. But in the annals of what Nation
shall we find a series of noble deeds and heroic achievements, more
glorious and important, than what are recorded of Englishmen and
Britons? And though no regular history of them hath been before
attempted, they nevertheless deserve the pen of a Livy or a Tacitus, to
do justice to their merit, and immortalize their fame. Under such
historians, the glowing page would warm the heart of every reader, and
fire the bosoms of the brave and free, with that sacred flame of Virtue
and Patriotism, that illumined and adorned our illustrious Ancestors.
From the lives and characters of the invincible heroes herein depicted,
and the singular and fortuitous events described, the Prince and the
Subject may alike derive useful lessons of instruction and advice. To
the prince, they will teach that dignity of sentiment, and elevation of
mind, which are the true characteristict of wisdom and valour. They will
teach him firmness in war, and puncuality in his engagements; patience
under adverse fortune, and moderation when crowned with success. They
will point out to him that affable deportment, yet princely demeanour,
which ensures the affections of the people, amid the applause of the
world. To the subject they will teach due subordination— grateful
respect — loyal attachment — national integrity — and the love of
freedom. The warrior might also learn, from the battles herein
described, that it does not always depend on numbers; but that a chosen
and undaunted few, may sometimes overcome a powerful army when unanimity
prevails with a proper attachment to their leader.
Under the happy Constitution of this country the Soldier and the Sailor
and the Commander in Chiefs fight from the same impulse of national
liberty and honour. Hence it is that our brave tars and veteran troops
possess that steady courage and cool intrepidity so justly ascribed to
them. And hence in conflicts of difficulty and disadvantage — of
inequality and danger - led on by good officers and encouraged by mild
discipline they die rather than desert their posts — they overcome every
obstacle — they triumph both by sea and land — and the splendour of the
British arms becomes more and more conspicuous.
No appointment in the Army or Navy, can be held without a certain trust
annexed to it; it is therefore the duty of every officer, whatever be
his situation, to acquit himself with celerity and perseverance, which
fail not to insure respect and approbation. It is not the elevated
station that attracts applause; it is the activity, prudence, courage,
integrity and humanity, of him who commands. These constitute dignity of
character, and form the Soldier and the Hero. They draw upon him the
admiration and the love of mankind, while trophies of glory and honour
thicken round him and immortalize his name!
Editors Note: This
publication translates the letter s to the letter f
Volume 1
Of war and warriors
Volume 2
Of the Wars of England during the Reign OF Richard II. and under the
House of Lancaster.
Volume 3
Wars of England during the Reign of the Stuarts continued
Volume 4
Wars of England during the Reign of Queen Anne.
Volume 5
Of the Wars of England during the Reign of George I.
Volume 6
From the Peace of Aix-la-Chapelle to the Death of George II.
Volume 7
Of the Wars of England during the Reign of George III.
Volume 8
From the Year 1794 to the Peace of 1802. |
