The Naval Chronicle: Volume 10, July-December 1803

The Naval Chronicle, published in 40 volumes between 1799 and 1818, is a key source for British maritime and military history. This reissue is the first complete printed reproduction of what was the most influential maritime publication of its day. The subjects covered range from accounts of battles and lists of ships to notices of promotions and marriages, courts martial and deaths, and biographies, poetry and letters. Each volume also contains engravings and charts relating to naval engagements and important harbours around the world. Volume 10 (1803) shows a Navy stretched for resources after the end of the Peace of Amiens. Large numbers of ships were being captured or lost, and the Admiralty was investigating financial irregularities among suppliers where profits were high. Close watch was maintained on French affairs and propaganda. This volume also reports on the link between scurvy and diet and plans for coastal defences in Britain.