Published online by Cambridge University Press: 10 January 2011
“I persuade myself that at a time when our Fleets render the Nation so formidable abroad, it cannot be unseasonable to let the curious see by what steps Great Britain arrived at such an height of naval power and reputation.”
Preface to Colliber's Columna Rostrata.The veteran head of our Navy is an object not to be contemplated but with veneration. From his personal Valour, his professional skill, and his general merit, Sir Peter Parker is entitled to the respect and esteem of every son of Neptune, of every inhabitant of the British dominions.
Sir Peter Parker, Bart, now Admiral of the fleet, is the son of the late Rear-Admiral Christopher Parker, descended from a very respectable and ancient family in Ireland. Of the period of his birth, or of his entering the service, we are not in possession; but we find his first appointment, as Lieutenant, to have taken place in the year 1743. Admiral Matthews, who was at that time Commander in Chief on the Mediterranean Station, advanced him to this rank on board of the Russel, Captain C. Long. During the year of Mr. Parker's appointment, the Mediterranean Fleet continued in Hieres Bay, the chief service which it performed being that of blocking up the French and Spanish Fleets in the harbour of Toulon.
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