THE FULFILMENT OF A CURSE.

Pukekohe & Waiuku Times, Volume 5, Issue 197, 4 August 1916, Page 3 (Supplement)

THE FULFILMENT OF A CURSE.

A naval court-martial, which created considerable excitement, and lasted for sixteen days, came to a conclusion on April 2s, 1793. This was the trial < : Captain Anthony James Pye Molloy, of H.M.S. Caesar, on the charge tmit he did not bring l.is ship into action and exert himself to the utmost of his power, in the memorable battle of June 1, 175)1. The charge in effect was the disgraceful one of cowardice: yet Mo.loy had frequently proved himself to be a brave sailor. The Court decided that the charge had been made good. but. having found that on many previous occasions Captain Molloy's courage had been unimpeachable, he was simply sentenced to bo dismissed from his ship, instead of the severe - penalty of death A very curious story is told to account for this example of the "fears of tho brave." It is said that Molloy had behaved dishonourably to a young lady <■> whom lie was bet-rot her. The friends of tlic lady wished to bring an action for broach of promise against the inc nstant captain, but she declined ido so, saying that "God wou'd punish him." Some t : iue afterwards they accidentally met in a public room at Bath. Sh. l steadily confronted him, wh'le he, drawing back, mumbled some incoherent apology. Thp lady said : "Captai l Molloy, you are -a bad man. I wijh you the greatest curse that can oefall :• British officer. When the day of battle conies, your false heart fail you!"' His sub;v |uent conduct and irr. i'i 'Ji- :: Ibe d : sgrace appeared to govern the fullilm -nt of her wish.