SHIP'S

An excellent letter, describing the state of affairs in Sicily during the period of British occupation, 1806-1814. The recipient Sir Sidney Smith (see Oxford DNB) was second in command to Sir Edward Pellew, head of the Mediterranean squadron which included Bromley’s ship HMS America, a 76-gun third-rater, launched only three years before, in 1810. The present letter is written with the ship on the verge of a notable engagement (described in the European Magazine, March 1814, pp.245-247, quoting from the London Gazette). From Bromley’s entry by P. R.

Landscape 8vo, 85 pp. Sixty small photographs of boats and crews laid down with other matter (see below). Text clear. Apparently complete, but with two loose leaves at rear. In fair condition, on lightly-aged paper, with slight wear to photographs and wear to the two loose leaves. Efficiently records dates and times of voyages, together with other relevant details. First six pages consist of the 'LOG OF THE MIGGO II', an 'Outdoor Cabin Cruiser | Built by Dauntless Coy Feb-Apl Leigh-on-Sea 1930. Launched April. Engine - Elto Quad 1929 model'.