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 Roberts acting commander of the Sophie sloop; the Committee of the Patriotic Fund presented him with £50 for the purchase of a sword; and, as a finale, the Board of Admiralty signed a commission, promoting him to his present rank, Sept. 20th, 1815. In the following year, he volunteered his services in the expedition against Algiers; but this, like every subsequent effort on his part to obtain further employment, proved abortive. In Sept. 1818, and June 1825, he received letters from Admiral Sir Alexander I. Cochrane, of which the following are copies:

“Dear Sir,– My absence in the Highlands has prevented me from replying to your letter of the 22d ultimo sooner, and I feel a sincere regret that I cannot aid you in your views to obtain a ship. I really have little or no interest with the Admiralty; and I am at a loss how to obtain an appointment for my son, to place him in the way of promotion. Your pretensions are good; and I recommend your applying to Lord Melville, who often acts from the impulse of the moment, and may lend a favorable ear to officers of merit. Wishing you every success,

(Signed)“.”

“In reply to your letter of the 19th, I have much satisfaction in bearing testimony to the zeal and ability you displayed, while under my command upon the coast of America. In the various services carried on during the last years of the American war, I was particularly fortunate in being so well supported by the officers serving under me, and by none more than yourself. As those services were officially made known to the Admiralty, I should hope that they will be considered in any application you may make for employment; which I sincerely hope you may obtain. I am, dear sir, your most faithful and obedient humble servant,

(Signed)“.”

Commander W. G. Roberts married, Feb. 5th, 1823, Sophia Frances, youngest daughter of the late William Wyndham, of Dinton, co. Wilts, Esq. whose descent may be traced from the same source as that of the Earls of Egremont. 



made a lieutenant in Feb. 1812; and commander on the 20th Sept. 1815.

