A biographical sketch of the late Captain Sir Frederick Thesiger would, at any time, have excited its due portion of interest; but, at the present period, when every thing which bears even the most distant relation to our departed hero of the Nile, of Copenhagen, and of Trafalgar, is sought after with avidity, it must be peculiarly acceptable. To mention that Sir Frederick Thesiger was in possession of the confidence and friendship of Lord Nelson, reflects lustre on his name, and gives to his memory a decided claim on the attention of the public.

The first entrance of this gentleman into maritime life, was in the service of the Honourable East India Company; but, after having made two or three voyages, he found that his genius was but ill-adapted to trading pursuits, and he became anxious for some more active employment, in which his talents might be displayed to advantage. It has been judiciously observed by Dr. Johnson, in his life of Boerhaave the physician, that “Providence seldom sends any into the world with an inclination to attempt great things, who have not abilities likewise to perform them.” This may in some measure be accounted for, by adverting to the fact, that projects of enterprise and spirit are scarcely ever conceived or executed but by persons of an ardent temperament. The same ardour which inspires a man to attempt the accomplishment of some favourite object, furnishes him with energy and perseverance to achieve it.