I am researching the biography of an old naval captain by the name of John Macgregor Skinner and was wandering if anyone can possibly be of any assistance.
After leaving Falmouth on the 12th June 1798, bound for Halifax, when ten days later on the 22nd June, The Princess Royal was attacked in mid Atlantic by a French Privateer.
The L'Adventeur.
Although there are various versions of the ballad, could this incident have been the basis of the lyrics.
Scotty@trinity-lodge.fsnet.co.uk