An oval bust-length portrait of Edward Vernon (1684–1757) in a dark wig. Lettered beneath the image with the title, ‘Hone. Ed. Vernon Esqr.’, and the publication details, ‘Harding sc. / Pubd. 1 Mar. 1800, by Edwd. Harding 98 Pall Mall.’ This portrait was engraved by Sylvester Harding and published by his brother Edward Harding in 1800. As naval officer, Vernon gained public popularity through his vocal opposed to the Walpole ministry and his successful capture of Porto Bello from the Spanish with only six ships in November 1739. However, after a disagreement with the Admiralty in 1746, he was struck off the flag officers’ list. He is now best remembered for ordering in 1740 that his men’s rum rations should be diluted with water and lemon juice for health reasons. This ‘grog’ – Vernon’s nickname – became the standard way of serving the naval rum ration until it was abolished in 1970. (Updated May 2019.)