The Naval History of the United States. Volume 1Abbot, Willis J. (Willis John)
History
The Naval History of the United States. Volume 1
Abbot, Willis J. (Willis John)
United States -- History, Naval
The next year was one of comparative inactivity for Jones. He enjoyed
for a time the praise of all friends of the revolting colonies. He was
the lion of Paris. Then came the investigation into the action of
Landais at the time of the great battle. Though his course at that
time was one of open treachery, inspired by his wish to have Jones
strike to the "Serapis," that he might have the honor of capturing
both ships, Landais escaped any punishment at the hands of his French
compatriots. But he was relieved of the command of the "Alliance,"
which was given to Jones. Highly incensed at this action, the erratic
Frenchman incited the crew of the "Alliance" to open mutiny, and,
taking command of the ship himself, left France and sailed for
America, leaving Commodore Jones in the lurch. On his arrival at
Philadelphia, Landais strove to justify his action by blackening the
character of Jones, but failed in this, and was dismissed the service.
His actions should be regarded with some charity, for the man was
doubtless of unsound mind. His insanity became even more evident after
his dismissal from the navy; and from that time, until the time of his
death, his eccentricities made him generally regarded as one mentally
unsound.
Jones, having lost the "Alliance" by the mutiny of Landais, remained
abroad, waiting for another ship. He travelled widely on the
Continent, and was lavishly entertained by the rich and noble of every
nation. Not until October, 1780, did he again tread the deck of a
vessel under his own command.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
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