John Paul Jones defeats the Serapis...

GENTLEMAN'S MAGAZINE, London, October, 1779  Inside has a very historical report headed in part: "...following letter from the brave Capt. Pearson of his Majestys ship Serapis..." which contains an excellent account of the most famous naval battle of the Revolutionary War. The account about the engagement, which takes nearly two pages, is quite graphic stating in part: "...we were on fire not less than ten or twelve times in different parts of the ship; and it was with greatest difficulty and exertion imaginable that we were able to get it extinguished. At the same time the largest of the...frigates kept sailing round us the whole action, and raking us fore and aft by which means she killed or wounded almost every man on the quarter and main decks..."  Later, when the situation appeared "impracticable" Pearson states that he and his first Lieutenant were escorted into the ship along side the Serapis and "...found her to be an American ship of war, called the Bon Homme Richard, of 40 guns and 375 men, commanded by Capt. Paul Jones..." 

Nice to have in this title since this battle was fought off the east coast of England. Near the back are various reports on the Revolutionary War, portions of which can be seen in the photos below. Included with this issue are the 2 plates called for, one showing a blue shark and a flying fish.

Measures about 5 by 8 inches, 48 pages, has full title/index page, 44 pages., with an engraving of St. John's Gate. Minor spine wear, otherwise in very nice condition.