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Virginia Argus
Richmond, Virginia
What is this article about?
During the War of 1812, British Captain Sir James Yeo challenges American Captain David Porter to a duel between their frigates Southampton and Essex off the Delaware coast, promising to break his sword over Porter's head. Porter accepts, pledging no interference and referencing the motto 'Free trade and sailors' rights.'
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Captain D'Acres--No. II.
Or another "Fighting Bob" in the British Navy.
"A passenger of the brig Lyon from Havana to N. Y. captured by the frigate Southampton, is requested by Sir J's. Yeo, to present his compliments to captain Porter, Commander of the American frigate Essex, would be glad to have a tete-a-tete any where between the capes of Delaware and the Havana, when he would have the pleasure to break his own sword over his damned head and put him down forward in irons.
ANSWER.
Capt. PORTER, of the U S. frigate Essex, presents his compliments to Sir James Yeo, commanding his Britannic Majesty's frigate Southampton, and accepts with pleasure his polite invitation. If agreeable to Sir James captain Porter would prefer meeting near the Delaware, where, capt. P. pledges his honor to Sir James, that no other American vessel shall interrupt their tete-a-tete. The Essex may be known by a flag bearing the motto---
"Free trade and sailors' rights."
And when that is struck to the Southampton, Captain Porter will deserve the treatment promised by Sir James.
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Between The Capes Of Delaware And The Havana, Near The Delaware
Story Details
British Captain Sir James Yeo sends a provocative challenge via a captured passenger to American Captain Porter of the USS Essex, inviting a one-on-one naval duel and threatening to break his sword over Porter's head. Porter responds by accepting the invitation, preferring the meeting near Delaware and ensuring no interference, identifying his ship by the flag motto 'Free trade and sailors' rights.'