Newly promoted to Capt, I hated to leave my 1st command. ( HMS Ell ) The small fast 20 Gun ( short 6 pounders ) Sloop of War/ Packet Boat was a joy to sail. My New assignment is to the 28 Gun 5th Rate Frigate HMS Penafore as befits a Capt. of the Royal Navy.
With the Sloop of War HMS EEL in trail , We proceed to scout the East side of St John's and the Anchorage of English Harbor. On the 1sat Week out, a yell of Sail to starboard brought about " Beat to Quarters " we engaged and fought an armed Brig. She holed badly, but managed to remove part of her Cargo of Rum and Rice. 4 Days later, sighted and fought a armed Schooner off English Harbor. The HMS EEL captured her as a prize...Leaving, we spotted a Cruz zir rounding the coast carrying every Rag she had on the yards so we ran north and lost her in the night.