The Merry Past 



(for it does not seem likely that the two were identi- 

 cal) created quite a disturbance in May, 1804, at the 

 time of a presentation of colours at Blackhcath. 

 Upon this occasion, Mary Ann Talbot, who had 

 served several years in the Navy, and been in some 

 engagements, under the name of John Taylor, re- 

 sumed her seaman-dress and went down the river 

 in a boat to see the review. The waterman at- 

 tempted to impose on her, and on resisting his de- 

 mand, he used much abusive language and challenged 

 her to fight. The proposal was accepted, and they 

 landed at the Isle of Dogs for the purpose. After a 

 sharp set-to her superior dexterity prevailed, and the 

 fellow declared himself beaten, and gladly consented 

 to carry her to Greenwich without further payment. 

 She, however, paid him his fare, and remitted the 

 small wager which he risked on his battle. 



The French Revolution furnished similar instances 

 of singular acts of determination and courage 

 in women. Discarding the delicacy of their sex, 

 they assumed the habits of men ; they worked 

 the artillery, and charged at the head of the cavalry, 

 while others fought on foot a-facing the Austrian 

 horse, fearless either of the sabre or of being trodden 

 to death. Amongst others may be instanced the two 

 sisters who fought in the battle of Jemappes, as well as 

 in other actions, in the capacity of aides-de-camp to 

 General Dumouriez. These female warriors were 

 strongly recommended by that general to the Presi- 

 dent of the National Convention, and to the Minister 

 of War, for their heroism and bravery. 



281 



