Diary of Alan Breck Stewart - ‘The Great Sea Battle’

9th July 1745
After what seemed like an age, where the hours turned into weeks, the Royal Navy vessels were able to close in on our anchored frigates. The Chevallier de Worrall, the Squadron Commander, was stationed on ‘Lyons’, and was waiting for the arrival of the Privateer ‘Le Dolphine’ when the English attacked.

At this very time our lookouts did notice on the starboard horizon the sails of  ‘Le Dolphine’, which was able to signal a warning of the approaching Royal Nay vessels.

Soon there was great activity on the three French Frigates as their crews were scrambling in the utmost haste to raise their anchors and set sails. The British vessels formed line as they approached and  the valiant Chevallier realised that with speed he may be able to evade the trap.

As ranges closed we exchanged our first shots, and I must say that I have not heard such a thunderous roar of guns in my life, it would certainly put fear into the hearts of the enemy crews at the receiving end of such fire. With the Royal Navy squadron running in line the ‘Lyons’ was able to break away from it’s moorings and as it sailed forth laid a terrible cannonade into the bow of the ‘Apollo’, which was leading the Royal Navy line. So powerful was the attack that the vessel noticeably slowed in the water.

Then the ‘Montpellier’ and the ‘Dunkirque’ were then able to slip their moorings and both sailed past the Apollo and turned starboard – as these naval fellows say – unleashing fire on the slowing vessel.

At this stage the Chevallier issued the order for all vessels to take their own quarter, as the our vessels attempted to break through the Royal Naval line the Apollo was able to lash it’s self to the French Frigate ‘Montpellier’ and a frightful slaughter did follow and Capt. Nuehomme was able to resist the force on numbers that overwhelmed his command.

Our other vessels – ‘Dunkirque’ and ‘Lyons’ did manage to break through after taking some damage from their guns. The Privateer – ‘Le Dolphine’ also attempted to break through the lines but was stopped by mighty fire from ‘H.M.S. Venus’ under the command and was forced to surrender.

10th July 1745
The Chevallier de Worral leads his two remaining vessels south in an attempt to reach France and deliver the letter requesting reinforcements to the French King. Meanwhile the fake letter has been delivered to the Royal Navy.

In Oban today there is heartening news, the raising of the first Regiment of Foot – that of Ardsheil Stuart. 150 men parade in the streets and pledge their allegiance to the Prince. Later comes in news from Loch Lomond and Ft. William that Glengyle MacGreggor and Donald of Lochiel Cameron are also raising Regiments for the Prince. The Camerons having the front to muster their men under the guns of Fort William its-self, the defenders powerless to do anything to stop this gathering.

Back on Mull, word is heard that a group of Royal Naval ratings and marines were captured by local clansmen in and around the town of Tobermoray. The unfortunates under the command of an Irishman by the name of Connor have been imprisoned in the Town Hall. The purpose of their presence on the island is not yet known.