Dueling Frigates-- Part 6: Duel Turned Down

It was Decatur's thought that which ever American frigate fought the British one and won, she would be able to escape out to sea as the rest of the British fleet would be held back from chasing in the name of good sportsmanship.

Although the HMS Endymion was the largest and most heavily armed of the British frigates, Thomas Hardy decided not to put her in play as he was afraid it couldn't match the USS United States' fire power and he informed Decatur:  "I must consider it my duty (tho very contrary to the wishes of Captain Hope) to decline the invitation on his part."

But, speaking with naval etiquette, he continued:  "The Captains of His Britannic Majesty's ships under my orders, as well as myself, cannot too highly appreciate the gallant spirit that has led to the communication from you, sir,  and are equally convinced that no personal feelings toward each other can ever influence a laudible ambition to add to the Naval renown of our respective countries."

Of interest, the HMS Endymion engaged the even heavier armed USS President in 1815 and was victorious.

--Brock-Perry