David Hotchkis

Posted by Jon Miller on Saturday 13th of June 2026 12:28

Thursday morning at nine o’clock a court martial for the trial of Lieutenant Brooks, of the Puissant, by Captain Hotchkis, who was tried last week, met on-board the Britannia. When the court was sworn, and the charge read, the lieutenant on trial remarked to the court, that from the extensive and artful charges brought against him, he submitted to them whether he had not a right to have his charges more specific, as from their intent and the vague way they were laid, it would be impossible for him to defend himself against them. On this the court was cleared, and after a short deliberation, it was again opened, and the lieutenant informed, that they had ordered Captain Hotchkis to specify the periods when and where the offences were committed, in order that the prisoner might have a fair opportunity of defending himself. To this Captain Hotchkis objected, insomuch that the president and several members were obliged to reprimand him, and desire him to be silent. He then said, that he could not, in less time than twenty-four hours, bring his charges as prescribed by the court; which after some deliberation adjourned.
Friday the court met again. The charges were reduced to four; one of which the court recommended to Captain Hotchkis to withdraw, as being improper, which was accordingly done. The three remaining charges were, cruelty and oppression, disobedience of orders, and endeavouring to alienate the affection of the ship’s company from him, their lawful captain. Captain Hotchkis called several witnesses, to prove these charges; but they failed. After this, the prisoner was put on his defence; and, after a very modest statement, he disproved the charges brought against him, and also proved to the court, that his confinement by Captain Hotchkis, was not from his committing the offences brought against him, but but to prevent his (Lieut Brook’s) appearing on his own trial, or at least to render his evidence of as little effect as possible.
The court met again on Saturday for the purpose of considering Lieut Brook’s sentence, which was, that he was acquitted of the whole of the charges alledged against him, and that they were unfounded and litigious.
[Hampshire Chronicle, 2 December 1797]