Engagement Between the Ships “Lion” and “Elizabeth,” 1745
By S. SCOTT.
This desperate, and sanguinary engagement was fought on the 9th of May, 1745. The “Lion” had fifty-eight guns, and four hundred and forty men, and was commanded by Captain Piercy Brett. The “Elizabeth,” a sixty-four gun ship, was convoying another, of sixteen guns, with the Pretender on board. They fought for five hours, within pistol shot of each other, during which time, the frigate, with the Pretender on board, managed to make her escape. The “Elizabeth” also at length, effected her entrance into Brest Harbour. She had £400,000 on board, for the use of Charles Edward. The “Lion,” unable to pursue, lay a complete wreck on the water.