Folios 159-160: Alexander Forrester Inglis Cochrane, HMS Thetis, St George's, Bermuda....

Folios 159-160: Alexander Forrester Inglis Cochrane, HMS Thetis, St George's, Bermuda. Encloses a letter from Captain Evans of HMS Spencer, giving an account of having captured on 4 May the French corvette La Volcan from Charlestown bound to Guadeloupe, in an action of 1 1/4 hours. Reports that the enemy had superior numbers, and the lack of guns on one side of HMS Spencer hampered the action, so much praise is due to the Captain and crew. Captain Cochrane intends to proceed immediately to Halifax to join Admiral Murray, taking the French prisoners.

Folios 161-162: enclosure with folios 159-160. Letter dated 10 May 1796 by Captain Andrew Fitzherbert Evans, HMS Spencer, St George's, Bermuda to Honourable Alexander Forrester Inglis Cochrane, Commander, HMS Thetis and the Senior Officer at Bermuda. Reports that on 4 May, in company with HMS Bonetta and HMS L'Esperance, he pursued and captured the French corvette La Volcan after action of over one hour with the loss of one seaman killed and one wounded. They also lost sight of two other vessels. Praises the Officers and crew, particularly Lieutenant Lennox and Mr Harriden, Master. Does not know the enemy's losses, but believes they are considerable. There was fire on board and several seamen jumped overboard and were drowned, while others were burned, some of whom have since died. The French vessel was badly damaged. He has landed the prisoners at St George's, refitted and taken on water. He has directed the Master's Mate, W. Wright, to take charge of the prize and follow with all speed.