In the following year a still more powerful squadron went to the West Indies under the command of Captain James Biddle, who did such valiant service in the War of 1812.

A good many buccaneers were destroyed, including several leaders of the buccaneers whose atrocious deeds had long made their names a terror.

In one of these attacks Lieutenant William H.Allen, of the schooner _Alligator_, was killed by a musket ball.

His gallantry in the fight between the _Argus_ and _Pelican_ in the war with Great Britain sent a thrill of admiration through the country and brought him well-merited promotion.
You have not forgotten the wonderful cruise of Captain David Porter in the _Essex_, when he entered the Pacific Ocean and caused such havoc among the British shipping.

He was appointed commander of the West India forces and arrived off Porto Rico in March, 1823.