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 of that month, the Pilot, in company with the Herald ship-sloop, Captain George Jackson, attacked a small convoy near the town of Monasteracci. The execution of this duty was entrusted to Captain Nicolas, the Herald’s boats being sent to assist those of the brig. Captain Jackson’s report of the affair, which was marked by great gallantry, and attended with complete success, was acknowledged by Rear-Admiral Boyles in the following terms:–

“Campus, Palermo Bay, 18th May, 1811.

“Sir,– I have to acknowledge your letter of the 10th inst. received by the Messina military courier this morning, and therefore do not lose a moment in answering your detailed account of the very handsome services of his Majesty’s sloop under your command, and that of the Pilot, under Captain Nicolas, in a co-operation in the annoyance of the enemy’s trade, and destruction of their craft on the coast of Upper Calabria; which has been accomplished in so judicious, and so gallant a manner, that I am confident the commander-in-chief, to whom I shall take the earliest opportunity to transmit your original letters, will feel with myself the merit that is due to the officers and men engaged in the enterprise, and particularly to the prudent and cool intrepidity of Lieutenant Alexander Campbell, in conducting the service, which, I have the pleasure to remark is the general characteristic of that brave officer, shewn on many similar occasions, which I have had the honor to be officially acquainted with, and which honorable testimonials have gone through me to the commander-in-chief, and I have not a doubt but very soon I shall have the happiness of transmitting his approbation and thanks for such meritorious services to all who have been employed. However, Sir, before I can receive such gratifying commands, I beg you will, as well as Captain Nicolas, Lieutenant Campbell, and the rest of the officers and men who had the honour to be engaged in this enterprise, accept my warmest thanks and approbation for their steady and gallant conduct on this and former occasions.

“You will please to make known these my sentiments to Captain Nicolas, that he may acquaint the officers and men employed on the active service therewith. I have the honor to be, &c.

(Signed)“.”

“To Captain Jackson, H.M.S. Herald.”

At the same time, Captain Nicolas received the annexed private letter from Rear-Admiral Boyles:–

“Canopus, Palermo, May 20th, 1811.

“Dear Sir,– I give you joy of your success; the whole affair has been conducted in a most officer like manner: I think Lieutenant Campbell to have the greatest merit, both on this last service, in the company of the Herald, as well as the exploits before. I have by this opportunity written to Captain Jackson my public approbation of the very essential services