An oval bust-length portrait of Edward Vernon (1684–1757) in a dark coat and wig. Lettered below the image, ‘Benoist sculp. / Admiral Vernon.’ This print was engraved by Guillaume Philippe Benoist as a book illustration – see Tobias Smollett, ‘History of England from the Descent of Julius Caesar, to the Treaty of Aix la Chapelle, 1748’, 3rd edition (London: James Rivington, James Fletcher and R. Baldwin, 1760) volume 11, opposite page 52. The portrait is copied in reverse from Thomas Gainsborough’s oil painting finished in 1753 (see version in 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.)