British Mediterranean Fleet

Introduction

The fleet destined to check the immediate designs of Spain was entrusted to Admiral Sir John Jennings (W.), who was afterwards joined by Bear-Admiral Edward Hopsonn (R.). Sir John, with nine ships of the line, sailed from St. Helen's on July 20th. The appearance of the British so much disquieted the Spaniards that, for the moment, they abandoned their hostile projects : and in October, Jennings was able to return 'to England, leaving Hopsonn, with a reduced squadron, as commander-in-chief in the Mediterranean.