A circular bust-length portrait of Edward Vernon (1684–1757) in a dark coat and wig. Lettered above the image, ‘Vol.3. Page. 256.’, and below the image, ‘Grignion sculp. / Admiral Vernon.’ This print was engraved by Charles Grignion as a book illustration. The portrait is copied in reverse from Thomas Gainsborough’s oil painting finished in 1753 (National Portrait Gallery), which was first engraved by James Macardell (see PAD4653). 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.)