A Sailor of King George is a historical memoir by Captain Frederick Hoffman, who served in the Royal Navy during the Napoleonic Wars. The book is based on his journals, which he kept from 1793 to 1814, and covers his experiences in various ships, battles, and ports. The book is edited by A. Beckford Bevan and H. B. Wolryche-Whitmore, who provide some biographical and historical notes.The book is a fascinating account of a sailor’s life in the early 19th century, full of adventure, danger, and humor. Hoffman describes his encounters with enemy ships, storms, pirates, and exotic lands, as well as his personal relationships, opinions, and emotions. He also gives a vivid picture of the naval customs, discipline, and tactics of the time, as well as the political and social events that shaped the war. Hoffman was a loyal and brave officer, who witnessed some of the most important naval battles of the era, such as Trafalgar, where he served under Lord Nelson. He also suffered several hardships, such as shipwrecks, illnesses, and court-martials, but always maintained his optimism and sense of duty.
The book is written in a lively and engaging style, with a lot of detail and authenticity. Hoffman’s journals are a valuable source of information and insight into the naval history of the period, as well as a captivating personal narrative. The book is highly recommended for anyone interested in naval warfare, maritime history, or the Napoleonic Wars.
First Page:
[Illustration: Captain F. W. Hoffman, R.N.] A SAILOR OF KING GEORGE
THE JOURNALS OF CAPTAIN FREDERICK HOFFMAN, R.N. 1793 1814
EDITED BY A. BECKFORD BEVAN AND H.B. WOLRYCHE WHITMORE
WITH ILLUSTRATIONS
LONDON JOHN MURRAY, ALBEMARLE STREET 1901
BRADBURY, AGNEW, & CO. LD., PRINTERS, LONDON AND TONBRIDGE.
PREFACE.
In a memorial presented in 1835 to the Lords of the Admiralty, the author of the journals which form this volume details his various services. He joined the Navy in October, 1793, his first ship being H.M.S. Blonde . He was present at the siege of Martinique in 1794, and returned to England the same year in H.M.S. Hannibal with despatches and the colours of Martinique. For a few months the ship was attached to the Channel Fleet, and then suddenly, in 1795, was ordered to the West Indies again. Here he remained until 1802, during which period he was twice attacked by yellow fever.
The author was engaged in upwards of eighteen boat actions, in one of which, at Tiberoon Bay, St... Continue reading book >>
