Page:Royal Naval Biography Marshall v4p1.djvu/277

 than two-thirds of the whole treasure so unfortunately engulphed. They also succeeded in recovering the anchors, chain-cable, and some of the guns of the ill-fated Thetis.

“Sufficient has now been stated to inform the reader of the manner in which so much valuable property has been saved, – of the great personal danger to which the officers and men employed were continually exposed, – and of the skill and determined perseverance displayed by Commander Dickinson throughout this hazardous and difficult service. Such a service, among the occupations of peace, ranks equally high with the brightest achievement of war: if the latter has shed lustre on the naval profession, the former reflects equal honor on those by whom it was accomplished, and adds no less to the character for enterprise which distinguishes the British seaman.”

The Lightning returned home in Aug. 1832; and was paid off, at Portsmouth, on the 13th of the following month. Previous to her being put out of commission, the ship’s company requested permission to present a sword and pair of epaulettes to their commander, “in token of gratitude for his unceasing care, during their dangerous and laborious exertions at Cape Frio, by which their lives were preserved;” but he, disapproving of the principle of inferiors expressing a public opinion of their superiors, declined the acceptance of them. Subsequently, some malicious persons having aspersed the character of the crew, by writing an anonymous letter to Admiral Sir Thomas Foley, wherein it was set forth that they were discontented in their ship, they renewed their application, on the ground of shewing “that not a man amongst them felt otherwise than satisfied and happy, and that they had the highest respect for their commander and officers.” Commander Dickinson was then induced to consult an officer of high rank, as well as some of his brother officers, and under these peculiar circumstances accepted them. They also presented to the first lieutenant (Thomas G. Forbes), master (Charles Pope), and mate (M. D. Blennerhasset),