Duty is the great business of a sea officer; all private considerations must give way to it, however painful it may be.

My greatest happiness is to serve my gracious King and Country and I am envious only of glory; for if it be a sin to covet glory I am the most offending soul alive.

My character and good name are in my own keeping. Life with disgrace is dreadful. A glorious death is to be envied.

Now I can do no more. We must trust to the Great Disposer of all events and the justice of our cause. I thank God for this opportunity of doing my duty.

Let me alone: I have yet my legs and one arm. Tell the surgeon to make haste and his instruments. I know I must lose my right arm, so the sooner it's off the better.

I could not tread these perilous paths in safety, if I did not keep a saving sense of humor.