Note 1. The Royal George, a ship of 1953 tons, and mounting 108 guns, was considered the first, as she was one of the oldest ships in the Navy. On the morning of August 29th, 1782, while at Spithead, just before sailing to join the fleet for the relief of Gibraltar, she heeled over on her leeboard side, and sank instantly. There were nearly 1100 souls on board out of which only 300, belonging chiefly to the ship’s company, were saved. Some 400 of the crew, and at least as many more women and children, who were taking farewell of friends, were lost. Rear-Admiral Richard Kempenfeldt was among the lost. The ship had been commanded by Anson, Boscawen, Rodney and Hawke. [back]
Note 2. Weigh the vessel up: i.e., to raise her. [back]
