CHAPTER 4

It was now between two and three years since I first came to England, a great part of which I had spent at sea; so that I became inured to that service, and began to consider myself as happily situated; for my master treated me always extremely well; and my attachment and gratitude to him were very great. From the various scenes I had beheld on shipboard, I soon grew a stranger to terror of every kind, and was, in that respect at least, almost an Englishman. I have often reflected with surprise that I never felt half the alarm at any of the numerous dangers I have been in, that I was filled with at the first sight of the Europeans, and at every act of theirs, even the most trifling, when I first came among them, and for some time afterwards. That fear, however, which was the effect of my ignorance, wore away as I began to know them. I could now speak English tolerably well, and I perfectly understood every thing that was said. I now not only felt myself quite easy with these new countrymen, but relished their society and manners. I no longer looked upon them as spirits, but as men superior to us; and therefore I had the stronger desire to resemble them; to imbibe their spirit, and imitate their manners; I therefore embraced every occasion of improvement; and every new thing that I observed I treasured up in my memory. I had long wished to be able to read and write; and for this purpose I took every opportunity to gain instruction, but had made as yet very little progress. However, when I went to London with my master, I had soon an opportunity of improving myself, which I gladly embraced. Shortly after my arrival, he sent me to wait upon the Miss Guerins, who had treated me with much kindness when I was there before; and they sent me to school.

It had now been between two and three years since I first came to England. I had spent much of that time at sea, so I had grown used to life aboard ship. I began to think I was fortunate, because my master always treated me extremely well. I felt deeply attached to him and very grateful. The many things I had witnessed aboard ship soon left me almost without fear of any kind. In that respect, at least, I was almost an Englishman. I have often thought with surprise about the many dangers I have faced. None frightened me half as much as my first sight of the Europeans. When I first came among them, and for some time afterward, even their smallest actions filled me with fear. But that fear came from my ignorance and faded as I got to know them. I could now speak English fairly well, and I understood everything people said. I not only felt completely at ease with my new countrymen but also enjoyed their company and ways. I no longer saw them as spirits, but as men superior to us. This belief made me want even more strongly to resemble them, adopt their spirit, and imitate their ways. So I took every opportunity to improve myself and stored every new thing I noticed in my memory. I had long wanted to read and write, so I took every chance to learn. But I had made very little progress so far. When I went to London with my master, however, I soon had a chance to improve my skills. I gladly took that chance. Shortly after I arrived, he sent me to serve the Miss Guerins. They had treated me very kindly during my earlier visit, and they sent me to school.

While I was attending these ladies their servants told me I could not go to Heaven unless I was baptized. This made me very uneasy; for I had now some faint idea of a future state: accordingly I communicated my anxiety to the eldest Miss Guerin, with whom I was become a favourite, and pressed her to have me baptized; when to my great joy she told me I should. She had formerly asked my master to let me be baptized, but he had refused; however she now insisted on it; and he being under some obligation to her brother complied with her request; so I was baptized in St. Margaret's church, Westminster, in February 1759, by my present name. The clergyman, at the same time, gave me a book, called a Guide to the Indians, written by the Bishop of Sodor and Man. On this occasion Miss Guerin did me the honour to stand as godmother, and afterwards gave me a treat. I used to attend these ladies about the town, in which service I was extremely happy; as I had thus many opportunities of seeing London, which I desired of all things. I was sometimes, however, with my master at his rendezvous-house, which was at the foot of Westminster-bridge. Here I used to enjoy myself in playing about the bridge stairs, and often in the watermen's wherries, with other boys. On one of these occasions there was another boy with me in a wherry, and we went out into the current of the river: while we were there two more stout boys came to us in another wherry, and, abusing us for taking the boat, desired me to get into the other wherry-boat. Accordingly I went to get out of the wherry I was in; but just as I had got one of my feet into the other boat the boys shoved it off, so that I fell into the Thames; and, not being able to swim, I should unavoidably have been drowned, but for the assistance of some watermen who providentially came to my relief.

While I was serving these ladies, their servants told me I could not go to Heaven unless I was baptized. Their words made me very uneasy, because I now had some faint idea of life after death. So I shared my worries with the eldest Miss Guerin, who had grown fond of me. I urged her to have me baptized, and to my great joy, she told me I would be. She had previously asked my master to let me be baptized, but he had refused. Now, however, she insisted. Because my master owed her brother a favor, he agreed to her request. So I was baptized under my present name at St. Margaret's church, Westminster, in February 1759. At the same time, the clergyman gave me a book called a Guide to the Indians. The book was written by the Bishop of Sodor and Man. On this occasion, Miss Guerin honored me by serving as my godmother, and afterward gave me a treat. I used to accompany these ladies around town and was extremely happy in their service. Serving them gave me many opportunities to see London, something I wanted more than anything else. Sometimes, however, I stayed with my master at his meeting place, at the foot of Westminster-bridge. Here I enjoyed playing with other boys around the bridge stairs and often in the watermen's small boats, called wherries. On one occasion, another boy was with me in a wherry, and we went out into the river's current. While we were there, two bigger, stronger boys came up to us in another wherry. They angrily scolded us for taking the boat and told me to get into their wherry. So I began to climb out of the wherry I was in. But just as I put one foot into the other boat, the boys pushed their boat away. I fell into the Thames. Because I could not swim, I would certainly have drowned without help. But through providence, some watermen came to my rescue.

The Namur being again got ready for sea, my master, with his gang, was ordered on board; and, to my no small grief, I was obliged to leave my school-master, whom I liked very much, and always attended while I stayed in London, to repair on board with my master. Nor did I leave my kind patronesses, the Miss Guerins, without uneasiness and regret. They often used to teach me to read, and took great pains to instruct me in the principles of religion and the knowledge of God. I therefore parted from those amiable ladies with reluctance; after receiving from them many friendly cautions how to conduct myself, and some valuable presents.

The Namur was ready for sea again, and my master and his crew were ordered on board. To my great sorrow, I had to leave my schoolmaster and join my master on the ship. I liked my schoolmaster very much and had attended his lessons regularly while staying in London. I also felt troubled and sad about leaving my kind supporters, the Miss Guerins. They often taught me to read and took great care to teach me religious principles and about God. So I was reluctant to part from those lovely ladies. Before I left, they gave me much friendly advice on how to behave, along with some valuable gifts.

When I came to Spithead, I found we were destined for the Mediterranean, with a large fleet, which was now ready to put to sea. We only waited for the arrival of the admiral, who soon came on board; and about the beginning of the spring 1759, having weighed anchor, and got under way, Sailed for the Mediterranean; and in eleven days, from the Land's End, we got to Gibraltar. While we were here I used to be often on shore, and got various fruits in great plenty, and very cheap.

When I arrived at Spithead, I learned we were bound for the Mediterranean with a large fleet ready to sail. We were only waiting for the admiral to arrive, and he soon came aboard. Around the beginning of spring 1759, we raised anchor and set sail for the Mediterranean. Eleven days after leaving Land's End, we reached Gibraltar. During our stay, I often went ashore and found plenty of different fruits at very low prices.

I had frequently told several people, in my excursions on shore, the story of my being kidnapped with my sister, and of our being separated, as I have related before; and I had as often expressed my anxiety for her fate, and my sorrow at having never met her again. One day, when I was on shore, and mentioning these circumstances to some persons, one of them told me he knew where my sister was, and, if I would accompany him, he would bring me to her. Improbable as this story was I believed it immediately, and agreed to go with him, while my heart leaped for joy: and, indeed, he conducted me to a black young woman, who was so like my sister, that, at first sight, I really thought it was her: but I was quickly undeceived; and, on talking to her, I found her to be of another nation.

During my visits ashore, I had often told several people how my sister and I were kidnapped and separated. I have already described these events. Just as often, I had expressed my worry about her fate and my sorrow at never seeing her again. One day, while I was ashore telling some people about this, one of them said he knew where she was. He said that if I went with him, he would take me to her. Although his story seemed unlikely, I believed him immediately and agreed to go with him. My heart leaped for joy. He did take me to a young black woman who looked so much like my sister that I thought it was her. But I soon realized my mistake. When I spoke to her, I learned that she was from another nation.

While we lay here the Preston came in from the Levant. As soon as she arrived, my master told me I should now see my old companion, Dick, who had gone in her when she sailed for Turkey. I was much rejoiced at this news, and expected every minute to embrace him; and when the captain came on board of our ship, which he did immediately after, I ran to inquire after my friend; but, with inexpressible sorrow, I learned from the boat's crew that the dear youth was dead! and that they had brought his chest, and all his other things, to my master: these he afterwards gave to me, and I regarded them as a memorial of my friend, whom I loved, and grieved for, as a brother.

While we were anchored here, the Preston arrived from the Levant. As soon as the ship arrived, my master told me I would now see my old companion, Dick. Dick had sailed aboard the Preston when the ship left for Turkey. I was overjoyed at the news and expected to embrace him at any moment. The captain came aboard our ship immediately afterward, and I ran to ask about my friend. But, to my indescribable sorrow, I learned from the boat’s crew that the dear young man was dead! The crew had brought his chest and all his other belongings to my master. My master later gave these belongings to me, and I treasured them as reminders of my friend. I loved him and mourned him as a brother.

While we were at Gibraltar, I saw a soldier hanging by his heels, at one of the moles^L: I thought this a strange sight, as I had seen a man hanged in London by his neck. At another time I saw the master of a frigate towed to shore on a grating, by several of the men of war's boats, and discharged the fleet, which I understood was a mark of disgrace for cowardice. On board the same ship there was also a sailor hung up at the yard-arm.

While we were at Gibraltar, I saw a soldier hanging by his heels at one of the harbor piers^L. I thought the sight strange, since I had seen a man hanged by his neck in London. Another time, I saw the master of a frigate towed ashore on a grating by several boats from warships. He was dismissed from the fleet, which I understood was a mark of disgrace for cowardice. On board the same ship, a sailor was also hanged from the yardarm.

After lying at Gibraltar for some time, we sailed up the Mediterranean a considerable way above the Gulf of Lyons; where we were one night overtaken with a terrible gale of wind, much greater than any I had ever yet experienced. The sea ran so high that, though all the guns were well housed, there was great reason to fear their getting loose, the ship rolled so much; and if they had it must have proved our destruction. After we had cruised here for a short time, we came to Barcelona, a Spanish sea-port, remarkable for its silk manufactures. Here the ships were all to be watered; and my master, who spoke different languages, and used often to interpret for the admiral, superintended the watering of ours. For that purpose he and the officers of the other ships, who were on the same service, had tents pitched in the bay; and the Spanish soldiers were stationed along the shore, I suppose to see that no depredations were committed by our men.

After staying at Gibraltar for some time, we sailed up the Mediterranean, well beyond the Gulf of Lyons. There, one night, we were caught in a terrible gale, far stronger than any I had ever experienced. The waves were so high that, although all the guns were securely stowed, we greatly feared they might break loose. The ship was rolling so much that if the guns had broken loose, we would certainly have been destroyed. After cruising there for a short time, we came to Barcelona, a Spanish seaport known for its silk manufacturing. Here all the ships were to take on fresh water. My master, who spoke several languages and often interpreted for the admiral, supervised the supply of water to our ship. For this purpose, he and the officers overseeing the same work for the other ships had tents pitched in the bay. Spanish soldiers were stationed along the shore, I suppose to make sure our men did not steal or cause damage.

I used constantly to attend my master; and I was charmed with this place. All the time we stayed it was like a fair with the natives, who brought us fruits of all kinds, and sold them to us much cheaper than I got them in England. They used also to bring wine down to us in hog and sheep skins, which diverted me very much. The Spanish officers here treated our officers with great politeness and attention; and some of them, in particular, used to come often to my master's tent to visit him; where they would sometimes divert themselves by mounting me on the horses or mules, so that I could not fall, and setting them off at full gallop; my imperfect skill in horsemanship all the while affording them no small entertainment. After the ships were watered, we returned to our old station of cruizing off Toulon, for the purpose of intercepting a fleet of French men of war that lay there. One Sunday, in our cruise, we came off a place where there were two small French frigates lying in shore; and our admiral, thinking to take or destroy them, sent two ships in after them—the Culloden and the Conqueror. They soon came up to the Frenchmen; and I saw a smart fight here, both by sea and land: for the frigates were covered by batteries, and they played upon our ships most furiously, which they as furiously returned, and for a long time a constant firing was kept up on all sides at an amazing rate. At last one frigate sunk; but the people escaped, though not without much difficulty: and a little after some of the people left the other frigate also, which was a mere wreck. However, our ships did not venture to bring her away, they were so much annoyed from the batteries, which raked them both in going and coming: their topmasts were shot away, and they were otherwise so much shattered, that the admiral was obliged to send in many boats to tow them back to the fleet. I afterwards sailed with a man who fought in one of the French batteries during the engagement, and he told me our ships had done considerable mischief that day on shore and in the batteries.

I regularly attended my master, and I was delighted with this place. Throughout our stay, the local people made it feel like a fair. They brought us fruits of all kinds and sold them much more cheaply than I could buy them in England. They also brought us wine in pigskins and sheepskins, which amused me greatly. The Spanish officers here treated our officers with great courtesy and attention. Some of them, in particular, often visited my master’s tent. There, they sometimes amused themselves by putting me on horses or mules so that I could not fall off. Then they sent the animals off at full gallop. My lack of riding skill gave the officers a great deal of entertainment. After the ships had taken on fresh water, we returned to our old patrol station off Toulon. Our purpose was to intercept a fleet of French warships lying there. One Sunday during our patrol, we came near a place where two small French frigates lay close to shore. Our admiral hoped to capture or destroy them, so he sent in two ships, the Culloden and the Conqueror. Our ships soon reached the French frigates, and I witnessed a fierce battle involving ships and shore defenses. Shore batteries protected the frigates and fired furiously at our ships, which returned fire just as fiercely. For a long time, all sides kept firing constantly at an astonishing rate. At last, one frigate sank, but its crew escaped, though with great difficulty. A little later, some of the crew also left the other frigate, which was now a complete wreck. However, our ships did not dare tow the wreck away because the shore batteries were pounding them so heavily. The batteries swept both ships with gunfire as they approached and withdrew. Their topmasts were shot away, and the ships suffered so much other damage that the admiral had to send help. He sent many boats to tow them back to the fleet. I later sailed with a man who had fought in one of the French batteries during the battle. He told me our ships had caused considerable damage on shore and in the batteries that day.

After this we sailed for Gibraltar, and arrived there about August 1759. Here we remained with all our sails unbent, while the fleet was watering and doing other necessary things. While we were in this situation, one day the admiral, with most of the principal officers, and many people of all stations, being on shore, about seven o'clock in the evening we were alarmed by signals from the frigates stationed for that purpose; and in an instant there was a general cry that the French fleet was out, and just passing through the streights. The admiral immediately came on board with some other officers; and it is impossible to describe the noise, hurry and confusion throughout the whole fleet, in bending their sails and slipping their cables; many people and ships' boats were left on shore in the bustle. We had two captains on board of our ship who came away in the hurry and left their ships to follow. We shewed lights from the gun-whale to the main topmast-head; and all our lieutenants were employed amongst the fleet to tell the ships not to wait for their captains, but to put the sails to the yards, slip their cables and follow us; and in this confusion of making ready for fighting we set out for sea in the dark after the French fleet. Here I could have exclaimed with Ajax,

After this we sailed for Gibraltar and arrived there around August 1759. We stayed there with all our sails detached while the fleet took on water and made other necessary preparations. One day, while we were still there, the admiral and most of the senior officers were ashore. Many people of all ranks were ashore as well. Around seven that evening, signals from the frigates stationed to give warnings raised the alarm. Instantly, a cry went up throughout the fleet that the French fleet had sailed and was just passing through the straits. The admiral immediately came aboard with some other officers. It is impossible to describe the noise, haste, and confusion throughout the fleet as crews attached sails and released anchors. Many people and ships' boats were left ashore in the rush. Two captains had hurried aboard our ship, leaving their own ships to follow. We displayed lights from the gunwale to the top of the main topmast. All our lieutenants went among the fleet, telling the ships not to wait for their captains. Instead, the crews were to attach their sails to the yards, release their anchors, and follow us. Amid the confusion of preparing for battle, we put to sea in the dark after the French fleet. At that moment I could have exclaimed with Ajax,

They had got the start of us so far that we were not able to come up with them during the night; but at daylight we saw seven sail of the line of battle some miles ahead. We immediately chased them till about four o'clock in the evening, when our ships came up with them; and, though we were about fifteen large ships, our gallant admiral only fought them with his own division, which consisted of seven; so that we were just ship for ship. We passed by the whole of the enemy's fleet in order to come at their commander, Mons. La Clue, who was in the Ocean, an eighty-four gun ship: as we passed they all fired on us; and at one time three of them fired together, continuing to do so for some time. Notwithstanding which our admiral would not suffer a gun to be fired at any of them, to my astonishment; but made us lie on our bellies on the deck till we came quite close to the Ocean, who was ahead of them all; when we had orders to pour the whole three tiers into her at once.

The enemy had gained such a lead that we could not catch up with them during the night. But at daylight, we saw seven ships of the line several miles ahead. We immediately gave chase until about four in the afternoon, when our ships caught up with them. Although we had about fifteen large ships, our gallant admiral fought with only his own division of seven. So we faced the enemy ship for ship. We passed the entire enemy fleet to reach their commander, Mons. La Clue, aboard the Ocean, an eighty-four-gun ship. As we passed, all the enemy ships fired on us. At one point, three fired together and continued doing so for some time. Despite this, to my astonishment, our admiral would not allow us to fire a single gun at any of them. Instead, he made us lie on our stomachs on deck until we came very close to the Ocean. The Ocean was ahead of all the other enemy ships. Then we were ordered to fire all three tiers of our guns into her at once.

The engagement now commenced with great fury on both sides: the Ocean immediately returned our fire, and we continued engaged with each other for some time; during which I was frequently stunned with the thundering of the great guns, whose dreadful contents hurried many of my companions into awful eternity. At last the French line was entirely broken, and we obtained the victory, which was immediately proclaimed with loud huzzas and acclamations. We took three prizes, La Modeste, of sixty-four guns, and Le Temeraire and Centaur, of seventy-four guns each. The rest of the French ships took to flight with all the sail they could crowd. Our ship being very much damaged, and quite disabled from pursuing the enemy, the admiral immediately quitted her, and went in the broken and only boat we had left on board the Newark, with which, and some other ships, he went after the French. The Ocean, and another large French ship, called the Redoubtable, endeavouring to escape, ran ashore at Cape Logas, on the coast of Portugal; and the French admiral and some of the crew got ashore; but we, finding it impossible to get the ships off, set fire to them both. About midnight I saw the Ocean blow up, with a most dreadful explosion. I never beheld a more awful scene. In less than a minute the midnight for a certain space seemed turned into day by the blaze, which was attended with a noise louder and more terrible than thunder, that seemed to rend every element around us.

The battle now began with great fury on both sides. The Ocean immediately returned our fire, and we continued fighting each other for some time. During the battle, I was often stunned by the thunder of the great guns. Their deadly fire sent many of my companions into the terrors of eternity. At last, the French line was completely broken, and we won the battle. Our victory was immediately announced with loud cheers and shouts of joy. We captured three ships: La Modeste, with sixty-four guns, and Le Temeraire and Centaur, with seventy-four guns each. The remaining French ships fled with every sail they could set. Our ship was badly damaged and completely unable to pursue the enemy, so the admiral immediately left her. He took our only remaining boat, which was damaged, to the Newark. With the Newark and some other ships, he went after the French. While trying to escape, the Ocean and another large French ship, the Redoubtable, ran ashore at Cape Logas, in Portugal. The French admiral and some of the crew reached shore. But we found it impossible to get the ships afloat again, so we set fire to both. Around midnight, I saw the Ocean blow up in a dreadful explosion. I had never seen a more terrifying scene. In less than a minute, the blaze made the surrounding area seem as bright as day. The explosion was louder and more terrible than thunder, and seemed to tear apart everything around us.

My station during the engagement was on the middle-deck, where I was quartered with another boy, to bring powder to the aftermost gun; and here I was a witness of the dreadful fate of many of my companions, who, in the twinkling of an eye, were dashed in pieces, and launched into eternity. Happily I escaped unhurt, though the shot and splinters flew thick about me during the whole fight. Towards the latter part of it my master was wounded, and I saw him carried down to the surgeon; but though I was much alarmed for him and wished to assist him I dared not leave my post. At this station my gun-mate (a partner in bringing powder for the same gun) and I ran a very great risk for more than half an hour of blowing up the ship. For, when we had taken the cartridges out of the boxes, the bottoms of many of them proving rotten, the powder ran all about the deck, near the match tub: we scarcely had water enough at the last to throw on it. We were also, from our employment, very much exposed to the enemy's shots; for we had to go through nearly the whole length of the ship to bring the powder. I expected therefore every minute to be my last; especially when I saw our men fall so thick about me; but, wishing to guard as much against the dangers as possible, at first I thought it would be safest not to go for the powder till the Frenchmen had fired their broadside; and then, while they were charging, I could go and come with my powder: but immediately afterwards I thought this caution was fruitless; and, cheering myself with the reflection that there was a time allotted for me to die as well as to be born, I instantly cast off all fear or thought whatever of death, and went through the whole of my duty with alacrity; pleasing myself with the hope, if I survived the battle, of relating it and the dangers I had escaped to the dear Miss Guerin, and others, when I should return to London.

During the battle, my post was on the middle deck. Another boy and I were stationed there to bring gunpowder to the gun farthest toward the stern. There I witnessed the dreadful fate of many of my companions. In the blink of an eye, they were torn to pieces and sent into eternity. Luckily, I escaped unharmed, though cannonballs and splinters flew thick around me throughout the fight. Toward the end of the battle, my master was wounded, and I saw him carried down to the surgeon. Although I was very worried about him and wanted to help, I dared not leave my post. For more than half an hour, my gun-mate and I ran a very great risk of blowing up the ship. My gun-mate was the boy who helped me bring powder to the same gun. When we took the cartridges out of their boxes, many of the cartridges' bottoms proved rotten. The powder spilled all over the deck, near the match tub holding the burning cords used to fire the guns. By the end, we barely had enough water to throw on the spilled powder. Our work also left us very exposed to enemy fire. We had to travel nearly the whole length of the ship to fetch the powder. So I expected every minute to be my last, especially when I saw so many men falling around me. Still, I wanted to protect myself from danger as much as possible. At first, I thought waiting until the Frenchmen had fired their broadside would be safest. Then, while they reloaded, I could fetch the powder and return. But immediately afterward, I thought taking such care was pointless. I encouraged myself by reflecting that I had an appointed time to die, just as I had one to be born. At once, I put aside all fear or thought of death and carried out every part of my duty eagerly. I took pleasure in the hope that, if I survived the battle, I could tell dear Miss Guerin and others about it. When I returned to London, I could describe the battle and the dangers I had escaped.

Our ship suffered very much in this engagement; for, besides the number of our killed and wounded, she was almost torn to pieces, and our rigging so much shattered, that our mizen-mast and main-yard, &c. hung over the side of the ship; so that we were obliged to get many carpenters, and others from some of the ships of the fleet, to assist in setting us in some tolerable order; and, notwithstanding, it took us some time before we were completely refitted; after which we left Admiral Broderick to command, and we, with the prizes, steered for England. On the passage, and as soon as my master was something recovered of his wounds, the admiral appointed him captain of the Ætna fire-ship, on which he and I left the Namur, and went on board of her at sea. I liked this little ship very much. I now became the captain's steward, in which situation I was very happy: for I was extremely well treated by all on board; and I had leisure to improve myself in reading and writing. The latter I had learned a little of before I left the Namur, as there was a school on board. When we arrived at Spithead the Ætna went into Portsmouth harbour to refit, which being done, we returned to Spithead and joined a large fleet that was thought to be intended against the Havannah; but about that time the king died: whether that prevented the expedition I know not; but it caused our ship to be stationed at Cowes, in the isle of Wight, till the beginning of the year sixty-one. Here I spent my time very pleasantly; I was much on shore all about this delightful island, and found the inhabitants very civil.

Our ship suffered badly in the battle. Besides the dead and wounded among our crew, the ship itself was almost torn to pieces. Our rigging was so badly damaged that our mizen-mast, main-yard, and other parts hung over the ship's side. So we had to bring in many carpenters and others from some ships in the fleet to help us. They helped put our ship into reasonably good order. Even with their help, though, fully repairing the ship took some time. Afterward, we left Admiral Broderick in command and sailed for England with the captured ships. During the voyage, as soon as my master had recovered somewhat from his wounds, the admiral appointed him captain of the Ætna fire-ship. My master and I then left the Namur and boarded the Ætna at sea. I liked this little ship very much. I now became the captain's steward and was very happy in that position. Everyone on board treated me extremely well, and I had time to improve my reading and writing. I had learned a little writing before leaving the Namur, since there was a school on board. When we arrived at Spithead, the Ætna went into Portsmouth harbour for repairs. Once the repairs were finished, we returned to Spithead and joined a large fleet thought to be intended for an attack on the Havannah. But around that time, the king died. I do not know whether his death prevented the expedition. But his death caused our ship to be stationed at Cowes, in the isle of Wight, until early 1761. I spent my time there very pleasantly. I often went ashore and explored this delightful island, and I found the inhabitants very polite.

While I was here, I met with a trifling incident, which surprised me agreeably. I was one day in a field belonging to a gentleman who had a black boy about my own size; this boy having observed me from his master's house, was transported at the sight of one of his own countrymen, and ran to meet me with the utmost haste. I not knowing what he was about turned a little out of his way at first, but to no purpose: he soon came close to me and caught hold of me in his arms as if I had been his brother, though we had never seen each other before. After we had talked together for some time he took me to his master's house, where I was treated very kindly. This benevolent boy and I were very happy in frequently seeing each other till about the month of March 1761, when our ship had orders to fit out again for another expedition. When we got ready, we joined a very large fleet at Spithead, commanded by Commodore Keppel, which was destined against Belle-Isle, and with a number of transport ships with troops on board to make a descent on the place. We sailed once more in quest of fame. I longed to engage in new adventures and see fresh wonders.

While I was here, a small incident gave me a pleasant surprise. One day, I was in a field belonging to a gentleman who had a black boy about my size. The boy had spotted me from his master’s house and was overjoyed to see someone from his own country. He ran to meet me as fast as he could. I did not know what he wanted, so at first I stepped a little out of his way. But that did no good. He soon reached me and threw his arms around me as if I were his brother, though we had never met. After we had talked for some time, he took me to his master’s house, where I was treated very kindly. This kind boy and I were very happy to see each other often until about March 1761. Then our ship received orders to prepare for another expedition. When we were ready, we joined a very large fleet at Spithead, commanded by Commodore Keppel. The fleet was headed to attack Belle-Isle, accompanied by several transport ships carrying troops to land there. We sailed once more in search of fame. I longed for new adventures and to see new wonders.

I had a mind on which every thing uncommon made its full impression, and every event which I considered as marvellous. Every extraordinary escape, or signal deliverance, either of myself or others, I looked upon to be effected by the interposition of Providence. We had not been above ten days at sea before an incident of this kind happened; which, whatever credit it may obtain from the reader, made no small impression on my mind.

Everything unusual, and every event I considered miraculous, made a deep impression on my mind. I believed that every extraordinary escape or remarkable rescue, whether my own or someone else’s, came through God’s intervention. We had been at sea no more than ten days when something of this kind happened. However much the reader may believe the account, the event made a strong impression on my mind.

We had on board a gunner, whose name was John Mondle; a man of very indifferent morals. This man's cabin was between the decks, exactly over where I lay, abreast of the quarter-deck ladder. One night, the 20th of April, being terrified with a dream, he awoke in so great a fright that he could not rest in his bed any longer, nor even remain in his cabin; and he went upon deck about four o'clock in the morning extremely agitated. He immediately told those on the deck of the agonies of his mind, and the dream which occasioned it; in which he said he had seen many things very awful, and had been warned by St. Peter to repent, who told him time was short. This he said had greatly alarmed him, and he was determined to alter his life. People generally mock the fears of others when they are themselves in safety; and some of his shipmates who heard him only laughed at him. However, he made a vow that he never would drink strong liquors again; and he immediately got a light, and gave away his sea-stores of liquor. After which, his agitation still continuing, he began to read the Scriptures, hoping to find some relief; and soon afterwards he laid himself down again on his bed, and endeavoured to compose himself to sleep, but to no purpose; his mind still continuing in a state of agony. By this time it was exactly half after seven in the morning: I was then under the half-deck at the great cabin door; and all at once I heard the people in the waist cry out, most fearfully—'The Lord have mercy upon us! We are all lost! The Lord have mercy upon us!' Mr. Mondle hearing the cries, immediately ran out of his cabin; and we were instantly struck by the Lynne, a forty-gun ship, Captain Clark, which nearly ran us down. This ship had just put about, and was by the wind, but had not got full headway, or we must all have perished; for the wind was brisk. However, before Mr. Mondle had got four steps from his cabin-door, she struck our ship with her cutwater right in the middle of his bed and cabin, and ran it up to the combings of the quarter-deck hatchway, and above three feet below water, and in a minute there was not a bit of wood to be seen where Mr. Mondle's cabin stood; and he was so near being killed that some of the splinters tore his face. As Mr. Mondle must inevitably have perished from this accident had he not been alarmed in the very extraordinary way I have related, I could not help regarding this as an awful interposition of Providence for his preservation. The two ships for some time swinged alongside of each other; for ours being a fire-ship, our grappling-irons caught the Lynne every way, and the yards and rigging went at an astonishing rate. Our ship was in such a shocking condition that we all thought she would instantly go down, and every one ran for their lives, and got as well as they could on board the Lynne; but our lieutenant being the aggressor, he never quitted the ship. However, when we found she did not sink immediately, the captain came on board again, and encouraged our people to return and try to save her. Many on this came back, but some would not venture. Some of the ships in the fleet, seeing our situation, immediately sent their boats to our assistance; but it took us the whole day to save the ship with all their help. And by using every possible means, particularly frapping her together with many hawsers, and putting a great quantity of tallow below water where she was damaged, she was kept together: but it was well we did not meet with any gales of wind, or we must have gone to pieces; for we were in such a crazy condition that we had ships to attend us till we arrived at Belle-Isle, the place of our destination; and then we had all things taken out of the ship, and she was properly repaired. This escape of Mr. Mondle, which he, as well as myself, always considered as a singular act of Providence, I believe had a great influence on his life and conduct ever afterwards.

We had a gunner on board named John Mondle, a man of very poor morals. His cabin was between decks, directly above where I slept, beside the quarter-deck ladder. On the night of April 20, he woke from a terrifying dream. He was so frightened that he could no longer rest in bed or even stay in his cabin. At about four in the morning, he went on deck, deeply distressed. He immediately told the people there about his mental anguish and the dream that had caused it. He said he had seen many dreadful things. St. Peter had warned him to repent, telling him that time was short. The warning had greatly alarmed him, he said, and he was determined to change his life. People generally mock other people's fears when they themselves are safe. Some shipmates who heard him only laughed at him. Nevertheless, he vowed never to drink strong liquor again. He immediately fetched a light and gave away his supply of liquor for the voyage. Still distressed, he began reading the Scriptures, hoping to find some relief. Soon afterward, he lay down in bed again and tried to settle himself to sleep. But he could not, for his mind remained in agony. By then, it was exactly half past seven in the morning. I was under the half-deck, at the door of the great cabin. Suddenly, I heard the people in the middle of the ship cry out in terror: 'The Lord have mercy upon us! We are all lost! The Lord have mercy upon us!' Hearing their cries, Mr. Mondle immediately ran out of his cabin. At that instant, the Lynne, a forty-gun ship commanded by Captain Clark, struck us and nearly sank us. The Lynne had just turned and was sailing close to the wind, but had not yet gained full speed. Otherwise, we must all have died, for the wind was strong. Before Mr. Mondle had taken four steps from his cabin door, the Lynne's bow struck our ship. The bow drove straight into the middle of his bed and cabin. It reached the raised edge of the quarter-deck hatchway and more than three feet below the waterline. Within a minute, not a piece of wood remained visible where Mr. Mondle's cabin had stood. He came so close to being killed that some splinters tore his face. Without the extraordinary warning I have described, Mr. Mondle would inevitably have died in the collision. I could not help seeing his escape as an awe-inspiring intervention by Providence to preserve his life. For some time, the two ships swung alongside each other. Ours was a fire-ship, equipped to set enemy ships on fire, and our grappling hooks caught the Lynne everywhere. The yards and rigging moved about at an astonishing speed. Our ship was in such a terrible state that we all thought she would sink immediately. Everyone ran for their lives and scrambled aboard the Lynne as best they could. But our lieutenant, who was responsible for the collision, never left our ship. When we found that she did not sink immediately, the captain came back aboard. He encouraged our crew to return and try to save her. Many came back, but some would not risk it. Some ships in the fleet saw our situation and immediately sent boats to help us. Even with all their help, saving the ship took the whole day. We used every possible means to hold her together. In particular, we bound her with many thick ropes and packed large quantities of tallow into the damage below water. Fortunately, we met no gales, or we must have broken apart. Our ship was so badly damaged that other ships accompanied us until we reached our destination, Belle-Isle. There, everything was taken out of the ship, and she was properly repaired. Both Mr. Mondle and I always considered his escape an extraordinary act of Providence. I believe his escape greatly influenced his life and conduct ever afterward.

Now that I am on this subject I beg leave to relate another instance or two which strongly raised my belief of the particular interposition of Heaven, and which might not otherwise have found a place here, from their insignificance. I belonged for a few days in the year 1758 to the Jason, of fifty-four guns, at Plymouth; and one night, when I was on board, a woman, with a child at her breast, fell from the upper-deck down into the hold, near the keel. Every one thought that the mother and child must be both dashed to pieces; but, to our great surprise, neither of them was hurt. I myself one day fell headlong from the upper-deck of the Ætna down the after-hold, when the ballast was out; and all who saw me fall cried out I was killed: but I received not the least injury. And in the same ship a man fell from the mast-head on the deck without being hurt. In these, and in many more instances, I thought I could plainly trace the hand of God, without whose permission a sparrow cannot fall. I began to raise my fear from man to him alone, and to call daily on his holy name with fear and reverence: and I trust he heard my supplications, and graciously condescended to answer me according to his holy word, and to implant the seeds of piety in me, even one of the meanest of his creatures.

Since I am on this subject, let me relate one or two more incidents. These greatly strengthened my belief that Heaven intervenes in our lives. Otherwise, these incidents might have seemed too insignificant to include here. In 1758, I served for a few days aboard the Jason, a ship with fifty-four guns, at Plymouth. One night aboard the ship, a woman with a baby at her breast fell from the upper deck. She fell into the hold, near the keel. Everyone thought both mother and child must have been smashed to pieces. But, to our great surprise, neither was hurt. One day, I myself fell headfirst from the upper deck of the Ætna into the rear hold. The ballast had been removed, and everyone who saw me fall cried out that I was dead. But I suffered no injury at all. On the same ship, a man fell from the top of the mast onto the deck without being hurt. In these and many other incidents, I thought I could clearly see the hand of God. Without his permission, not even a sparrow can fall. I began to turn my fear away from people and toward God alone. Every day, I called on his holy name with fear and reverence. I trust that he heard my prayers and graciously answered me according to his holy word. I also trust that he planted the seeds of devotion in me, even though I was among his humblest creatures.

When we had refitted our ship, and all things were in readiness for attacking the place, the troops on board the transports were ordered to disembark; and my master, as a junior captain, had a share in the command of the landing. This was on the 8th of April. The French were drawn up on the shore, and had made every disposition to oppose the landing of our men, only a small part of them this day being able to effect it; most of them, after fighting with great bravery, were cut off; and General Crawford, with a number of others, were taken prisoners. In this day's engagement we had also our lieutenant killed.

Once we had repaired and resupplied our ship and everything was ready for the attack, the troops received their orders. They were to leave the transport ships and land on shore. My master, as a junior captain, shared command of the landing. This was on April 8. The French had lined up on shore and made every preparation to resist our men's landing. Only a small number of our men managed to land that day. Most of them were killed after fighting very bravely. General Crawford and a number of others were taken prisoner. Our lieutenant was also killed in that day's battle.

On the 21st of April we renewed our efforts to land the men, while all the men of war were stationed along the shore to cover it, and fired at the French batteries and breastworks from early in the morning till about four o'clock in the evening, when our soldiers effected a safe landing. They immediately attacked the French; and, after a sharp encounter, forced them from the batteries. Before the enemy retreated they blew up several of them, lest they should fall into our hands. Our men now proceeded to besiege the citadel, and my master was ordered on shore to superintend the landing of all the materials necessary for carrying on the siege; in which service I mostly attended him. While I was there I went about to different parts of the island; and one day, particularly, my curiosity almost cost me my life. I wanted very much to see the mode of charging the mortars and letting off the shells, and for that purpose I went to an English battery that was but a very few yards from the walls of the citadel. There, indeed, I had an opportunity of completely gratifying myself in seeing the whole operation, and that not without running a very great risk, both from the English shells that burst while I was there, but likewise from those of the French. One of the largest of their shells bursted within nine or ten yards of me: there was a single rock close by, about the size of a butt; and I got instant shelter under it in time to avoid the fury of the shell. Where it burst the earth was torn in such a manner that two or three butts might easily have gone into the hole it made, and it threw great quantities of stones and dirt to a considerable distance. Three shot were also fired at me and another boy who was along with me, one of them in particular seemed

On April 21, we again tried to land the men. All the warships were stationed along the shore to cover the landing. They fired at the French gun batteries and defensive earthworks from early morning until about four in the afternoon. Then our soldiers landed safely. They immediately attacked the French and, after a fierce fight, drove them from the batteries. Before retreating, the enemy blew up several batteries to keep them from falling into our hands. Our men then began to besiege the citadel. My master was ordered ashore to oversee the landing of all the supplies needed for the siege. I usually accompanied him during this work. While I was there, I explored different parts of the island. One day in particular, my curiosity almost cost me my life. I very much wanted to see how the mortars were loaded and the shells fired. So I went to an English battery just a few yards from the citadel walls. There I was indeed able to satisfy my curiosity completely by watching the whole operation. But I ran a very great risk, both from the English shells that exploded nearby and from the French shells. One of the largest French shells exploded within nine or ten yards of me. A single rock stood close by, about the size of a large barrel. I instantly took shelter beneath the rock, just in time to escape the force of the explosion. The shell tore a hole in the earth large enough to hold two or three large barrels easily. The explosion also threw great quantities of stones and dirt a considerable distance. Three shots were also fired at me and another boy who was with me. One of the shots in particular seemed

for with a most dreadful sound it hissed close by me, and struck a rock at a little distance, which it shattered to pieces. When I saw what perilous circumstances I was in, I attempted to return the nearest way I could find, and thereby I got between the English and the French centinels. An English serjeant, who commanded the outposts, seeing me, and surprised how I came there, (which was by stealth along the seashore), reprimanded me very severely for it, and instantly took the centinel off his post into custody, for his negligence in suffering me to pass the lines. While I was in this situation I observed at a little distance a French horse, belonging to some islanders, which I thought I would now mount, for the greater expedition of getting off. Accordingly I took some cord which I had about me, and making a kind of bridle of it, I put it round the horse's head, and the tame beast very quietly suffered me to tie him thus and mount him. As soon as I was on the horse's back I began to kick and beat him, and try every means to make him go quick, but all to very little purpose: I could not drive him out of a slow pace. While I was creeping along, still within reach of the enemy's shot, I met with a servant well mounted on an English horse. I immediately stopped; and, crying, told him my case; and begged of him to help me, and this he effectually did; for, having a fine large whip, he began to lash my horse with it so severely, that he set off full speed with me towards the sea, while I was quite unable to hold or manage him. In this manner I went along till I came to a craggy precipice. I now could not stop my horse; and my mind was filled with apprehensions of my deplorable fate should he go down the precipice, which he appeared fully disposed to do: I therefore thought I had better throw myself off him at once, which I did immediately with a great deal of dexterity, and fortunately escaped unhurt. As soon as I found myself at liberty I made the best of my way for the ship, determined I would not be so fool-hardy again in a hurry.

For it hissed past me with a dreadful sound and struck a nearby rock, shattering the rock to pieces. When I saw how much danger I was in, I tried to return by the shortest route I could find. In doing so, I found myself between the English and French sentries. An English sergeant commanding the outposts saw me and was surprised at how I had reached that spot. I had slipped there unnoticed along the seashore. He scolded me very severely. He immediately removed the sentry from his post and arrested him for carelessly letting me pass through the lines. While I was there, I noticed a French horse a short distance away, belonging to some islanders. I thought I would ride the horse to get away more quickly. So I took some cord I had with me and made a sort of bridle. I put the cord around the horse's head. The tame animal calmly let me tie the bridle on and climb onto his back. Once mounted, I began kicking and beating him, trying every means to make him go quickly. But almost nothing worked. I could not make him move faster than a slow pace. While creeping along, still within range of enemy fire, I met a servant riding a good English horse. I stopped at once and, crying, explained my situation and begged him to help me. He did help me, very effectively. He had a fine, large whip and lashed my horse so severely that the animal galloped towards the sea. I was completely unable to hold him back or control him. I rode on like this until I reached a steep, rocky cliff. I could not stop my horse. I was filled with dread at the terrible fate awaiting me if he went over the edge. He seemed fully intent on doing so. I therefore thought I had better throw myself off at once. I immediately jumped off with great skill and fortunately escaped unhurt. As soon as I was free, I hurried back to the ship as quickly as I could. I was determined not to be so reckless again anytime soon.

We continued to besiege the citadel till June, when it surrendered. During the siege I have counted above sixty shells and carcases in the air at once. When this place was taken I went through the citadel, and in the bomb-proofs under it, which were cut in the solid rock; and I thought it a surprising place, both for strength and building: notwithstanding which our shots and shells had made amazing devastation, and ruinous heaps all around it.

We continued to besiege the citadel until June, when it surrendered. During the siege, I counted more than sixty shells and incendiary bombs in the air at once. After the citadel was captured, I explored it and the bombproof shelters beneath it, cut into solid rock. I found the citadel remarkable for both its strength and its construction. Despite that strength, our cannonballs and shells had caused tremendous destruction, leaving heaps of rubble all around the citadel.

After the taking of this island our ships, with some others commanded by Commodore Stanhope in the Swiftsure, went to Basse-road, where we blocked up a French fleet. Our ships were there from June till February following; and in that time I saw a great many scenes of war, and stratagems on both sides to destroy each others fleet. Sometimes we would attack the French with some ships of the line; at other times with boats; and frequently we made prizes. Once or twice the French attacked us by throwing shells with their bomb-vessels: and one day as a French vessel was throwing shells at our ships she broke from her springs, behind the isle of I de Re: the tide being complicated, she came within a gun shot of the Nassau; but the Nassau could not bring a gun to bear upon her, and thereby the Frenchman got off. We were twice attacked by their fire-floats, which they chained together, and then let them float down with the tide; but each time we sent boats with graplings, and towed them safe out of the fleet.

After the capture of this island, our ships sailed to Basse-road with some others commanded by Commodore Stanhope aboard the Swiftsure. There we blockaded a French fleet. Our ships stayed there from June until the following February. During that time, I saw many scenes of war and schemes on both sides to destroy each other’s fleets. Sometimes we attacked the French with ships of the line, and at other times with boats. We frequently captured enemy vessels. Once or twice, the French attacked us by firing shells from their bomb-vessels. One day, a French vessel firing shells at our ships broke loose from her mooring lines behind the isle of I de Re. The currents were complicated, and the vessel drifted within gunshot of the Nassau. But the Nassau could not aim a gun at the French vessel, so the vessel escaped. The French twice attacked us with fire-floats, which they chained together and sent drifting toward us with the tide. But each time, we sent boats with grappling hooks and safely towed the fire-floats away from the fleet.

We had different commanders while we were at this place, Commodores Stanhope, Dennis, Lord Howe, &c. From hence, before the Spanish war began, our ship and the Wasp sloop were sent to St. Sebastian in Spain, by Commodore Stanhope; and Commodore Dennis afterwards sent our ship as a cartel to Bayonne in France^M, after which^N we went in February in 1762 to Belle-Isle, and there stayed till the summer, when we left it, and returned to Portsmouth.

We had several commanders while we were at this place, including Commodores Stanhope, Dennis, Lord Howe, and others. Before the Spanish war began, Commodore Stanhope sent our ship and the Wasp sloop from there to St. Sebastian in Spain. Commodore Dennis later sent our ship to Bayonne in France as a cartel ship for exchanging prisoners^M. After that^N, we went to Belle-Isle in February 1762 and stayed there until summer. Then we left Belle-Isle and returned to Portsmouth.

After our ship was fitted out again for service, in September she went to Guernsey, where I was very glad to see my old hostess, who was now a widow, and my former little charming companion, her daughter. I spent some time here very happily with them, till October, when we had orders to repair to Portsmouth. We parted from each other with a great deal of affection; and I promised to return soon, and see them again, not knowing what all-powerful fate had determined for me. Our ship having arrived at Portsmouth, we went into the harbour, and remained there till the latter end of November, when we heard great talk about peace; and, to our very great joy, in the beginning of December we had orders to go up to London with our ship to be paid off. We received this news with loud huzzas, and every other demonstration of gladness; and nothing but mirth was to be seen throughout every part of the ship. I too was not without my share of the general joy on this occasion. I thought now of nothing but being freed, and working for myself, and thereby getting money to enable me to get a good education; for I always had a great desire to be able at least to read and write; and while I was on shipboard I had endeavoured to improve myself in both. While I was in the Ætna particularly, the captain's clerk taught me to write, and gave me a smattering of arithmetic as far as the rule of three. There was also one Daniel Queen, about forty years of age, a man very well educated, who messed with me on board this ship, and he likewise dressed and attended the captain. Fortunately this man soon became very much attached to me, and took very great pains to instruct me in many things. He taught me to shave and dress hair a little, and also to read in the Bible, explaining many passages to me, which I did not comprehend. I was wonderfully surprised to see the laws and rules of my country written almost exactly here; a circumstance which I believe tended to impress our manners and customs more deeply on my memory. I used to tell him of this resemblance; and many a time we have sat up the whole night together at this employment. In short, he was like a father to me; and some even used to call me after his name; they also styled me the black Christian. Indeed I almost loved him with the affection of a son. Many things I have denied myself that he might have them; and when I used to play at marbles or any other game, and won a few half-pence, or got any little money, which I sometimes did, for shaving any one, I used to buy him a little sugar or tobacco, as far as my stock of money would go. He used to say, that he and I never should part; and that when our ship was paid off, as I was as free as himself or any other man on board, he would instruct me in his business, by which I might gain a good livelihood. This gave me new life and spirits; and my heart burned within me, while I thought the time long till I obtained my freedom. For though my master had not promised it to me, yet, besides the assurances I had received that he had no right to detain me, he always treated me with the greatest kindness, and reposed in me an unbounded confidence; he even paid attention to my morals; and would never suffer me to deceive him, or tell lies, of which he used to tell me the consequences; and that if I did so God would not love me; so that, from all this tenderness, I had never once supposed, in all my dreams of freedom, that he would think of detaining me any longer than I wished.

After our ship was fitted out for service again, she sailed to Guernsey in September. I was very glad to see my former hostess, who was now a widow, and her daughter, my charming little companion. I spent some very happy time with them until October, when we received orders to go to Portsmouth. We parted with great affection, and I promised to return soon to see them again. I did not know what all-powerful fate had decided for me. When our ship arrived at Portsmouth, we entered the harbour and stayed until late November. Then we heard much talk of peace. To our great joy, early in December we received orders to take our ship to London and receive our final pay. We greeted the news with loud cheers and every other sign of happiness. There was nothing but celebration throughout the ship. I too shared in the general joy. Now I thought only of gaining my freedom and working for myself. By earning money, I hoped to get a good education. I had always wanted very much to learn at least to read and write. While aboard ship, I had tried to improve at both. On the Ætna in particular, the captain's clerk taught me to write. He also taught me some basic arithmetic, including the rule of three for working out proportions. There was also a very well-educated man named Daniel Queen, about forty years old, who ate with me aboard this ship. He also dressed and attended to the captain. Fortunately, he soon became very fond of me and took great care to teach me many things. He taught me to shave and do a little hairdressing. He also taught me to read the Bible, explaining many passages I did not understand. I was greatly surprised to find my country's laws and rules written there almost exactly as I knew them. I believe this resemblance helped fix our manners and customs more deeply in my memory. I used to tell him about the resemblance. Many times we stayed up all night together reading and discussing the Bible. In short, he was like a father to me, and some people even called me by his name. They also called me the black Christian. Indeed, I loved him with almost the affection of a son. I went without many things so that he could have them. Sometimes I won a few halfpence playing marbles or other games, or earned a little money by shaving someone. With that money, I bought him a little sugar or tobacco, as much as I could afford. He used to say that he and I should never part. He said I was as free as he or any other man aboard. When our ship's crew received their final pay, he would teach me his trade so I could earn a good living. His words gave me new life and hope. My heart burned with longing, and the wait for freedom seemed long. My master had not promised me freedom. Yet others had assured me that he had no right to keep me. Besides, he always treated me with the greatest kindness and trusted me completely. He even took an interest in my morals. He would never let me deceive him or tell lies. He used to explain the consequences and tell me that God would not love me if I did so. Because of all this tenderness, I had never once imagined, in all my dreams of freedom, that he would keep me any longer than I wished.

In pursuance of our orders we sailed from Portsmouth for the Thames, and arrived at Deptford the 10th of December, where we cast anchor just as it was high water. The ship was up about half an hour, when my master ordered the barge to be manned; and all in an instant, without having before given me the least reason to suspect any thing of the matter, he forced me into the barge; saying, I was going to leave him, but he would take care I should not. I was so struck with the unexpectedness of this proceeding, that for some time I did not make a reply, only I made an offer to go for my books and chest of clothes, but he swore I should not move out of his sight; and if I did he would cut my throat, at the same time taking his hanger. I began, however, to collect myself; and, plucking up courage, I told him I was free, and he could not by law serve me so. But this only enraged him the more; and he continued to swear, and said he would soon let me know whether he would or not, and at that instant sprung himself into the barge from the ship, to the astonishment and sorrow of all on board. The tide, rather unluckily for me, had just turned downward, so that we quickly fell down the river along with it, till we came among some outward-bound West Indiamen; for he was resolved to put me on board the first vessel he could get to receive me. The boat's crew, who pulled against their will, became quite faint different times, and would have gone ashore; but he would not let them. Some of them strove then to cheer me, and told me he could not sell me, and that they would stand by me, which revived me a little; and I still entertained hopes; for as they pulled along he asked some vessels to receive me, but they could not. But, just as we had got a little below Gravesend, we came alongside of a ship which was going away the next tide for the West Indies; her name was the Charming Sally, Captain James Doran; and my master went on board and agreed with him for me; and in a little time I was sent for into the cabin. When I came there Captain Doran asked me if I knew him; I answered that I did not; 'Then,' said he 'you are now my slave.' I told him my master could not sell me to him, nor to any one else. 'Why,' said he, 'did not your master buy you?' I confessed he did. 'But I have served him,' said I, 'many years, and he has taken all my wages and prize-money, for I only got one sixpence during the war; besides this I have been baptized; and by the laws of the land no man has a right to sell me:' And I added, that I had heard a lawyer and others at different times tell my master so. They both then said that those people who told me so were not my friends; but I replied—it was very extraordinary that other people did not know the law as well as they. Upon this Captain Doran said I talked too much English; and if I did not behave myself well, and be quiet, he had a method on board to make me. I was too well convinced of his power over me to doubt what he said; and my former sufferings in the slave-ship presenting themselves to my mind, the recollection of them made me shudder. However, before I retired I told them that as I could not get any right among men here I hoped I should hereafter in Heaven; and I immediately left the cabin, filled with resentment and sorrow. The only coat I had with me my master took away with him, and said if my prize-money had been 10,000 £. he had a right to it all, and would have taken it. I had about nine guineas, which, during my long sea-faring life, I had scraped together from trifling perquisites and little ventures; and I hid it that instant, lest my master should take that from me likewise, still hoping that by some means or other I should make my escape to the shore; and indeed some of my old shipmates told me not to despair, for they would get me back again; and that, as soon as they could get their pay, they would immediately come to Portsmouth to me, where this ship was going: but, alas! all my hopes were baffled, and the hour of my deliverance was yet far off. My master, having soon concluded his bargain with the captain, came out of the cabin, and he and his people got into the boat and put off; I followed them with aching eyes as long as I could, and when they were out of sight I threw myself on the deck, while my heart was ready to burst with sorrow and anguish.

Following our orders, we sailed from Portsmouth for the Thames and arrived at Deptford on December 10. We dropped anchor just at high tide. About half an hour after our arrival, my master ordered the crew to man the barge. Then, without warning or any earlier reason to suspect his intentions, he forced me into the boat. He said I was going to leave him, but he would make sure I did not. I was so stunned by this unexpected act that, for a while, I said nothing. I only tried to go and fetch my books and chest of clothes. But he swore I would not leave his sight. He threatened to cut my throat if I did, taking hold of his short sword as he spoke. However, I began to collect myself. Gathering my courage, I told him I was free and he could not legally treat me this way. But my words only made him angrier. He kept swearing and said he would soon show me whether he could or not. At that moment, he jumped from the ship into the barge, to the astonishment and sorrow of everyone aboard. Unfortunately for me, the tide had just begun flowing out, so we quickly drifted downriver with it. We reached some ships bound for the West Indies. My master was determined to put me aboard the first vessel willing to take me. The boat's crew rowed against their will. Several times they grew faint and wanted to go ashore, but he would not let them. Some of the men then tried to comfort me. They said he could not sell me and promised to stand by me. Their words lifted my spirits a little, and I still had hope. As they rowed, my master asked several ships to take me, but none could. But just below Gravesend, we came alongside a ship leaving for the West Indies on the next tide. Her name was the Charming Sally, commanded by Captain James Doran. My master went aboard and struck a bargain with him for me. Soon afterward, I was called into the cabin. When I entered, Captain Doran asked whether I knew him. I answered that I did not. 'Then,' he said, 'you are now my slave.' I told him my master could not sell me to him or anyone else. 'Why,' he said, 'didn't your master buy you?' I admitted that he had. 'But I have served him for many years,' I said, 'and he has taken all my wages and prize money. During the war, I received only one sixpence. Besides, I have been baptized, and under the laws of this country no man has the right to sell me.' I added that, at different times, I had heard a lawyer and others tell my master the same thing. Both men then said that the people who told me this were not my friends. But I replied that it was very strange that other people did not know the law as well as they did. Captain Doran then said I spoke too much English. If I did not behave myself and keep quiet, he had a way aboard his ship to make me. I knew his power over me too well to doubt his words. Memories of my earlier suffering aboard the slave ship came back to me and made me shudder. Before leaving, however, I told them that, since I could find no justice among men here, I hoped to find justice afterward in Heaven. I immediately left the cabin, filled with anger and sorrow. My master took away the only coat I had with me. He said that even if my prize money had been £10,000, he had a right to all of it. He would have taken it all. I had about nine guineas, scraped together during my long life at sea from small extra payments and little trading ventures. I hid the money at once, afraid my master would take that too. I still hoped that somehow I could escape to shore. Indeed, some of my old shipmates told me not to despair, because they would get me back again. As soon as they received their pay, they would come straight to Portsmouth to find me. The ship was heading there. But, alas, all my hopes came to nothing, and the hour of my freedom was still far away. My master soon finished his bargain with the captain and came out of the cabin. He and his men got into the boat and rowed away. With aching eyes, I watched them for as long as I could. When they disappeared from sight, I threw myself onto the deck, my heart ready to burst with sorrow and anguish.