LAST YEARS 263 



evening on which the 'Alligator' left Xibara 

 and was on her way to Neu vitas, the place 

 designated as a rendezvous for her tender 

 and boats, she fell in with the TJ. S. schooner 

 'Grampus/ Lieut. Commander Gregory, 

 and after some communication united 

 their forces and proceeded to Neu vitas, 

 where Captain Stockton found his tender 

 and was informed that she had been plun- 

 dered by a pirate, without the resistance of 

 a single shot. This insult Captains Stock- 

 ton and Gregory resolved to avenge, and to 

 atone for the loss not only of victory but 

 some honor, determined to fit out the 

 schooner 'Jane' as a new tender, and 

 Captain Stockton took command himself, 

 while Captain Gregory followed with the 

 'Alligator' and 'Grampus.' The little 

 squadron was to rendezvous at a place 

 called Sugar Key. The particulars of the 

 expedition will be furnished hereafter. 

 Among the results Captain Stockton re- 

 captured an English brig which was in pos- 

 session of four piratical vessels, having 



