The captain, in his reply, did justice to Cook's merit; but, as he had been only a short time in the navy, informed Mr.Osbaldeston that he could not be promoted as a commission officer.

A master's warrant, Captain Palliser added, might perhaps be procured for Mr.Cook, by which he would be raised to a station that he was well qualified to discharge with ability and credit.
Such a warrant he obtained on the 10th of May, 1759, for the Grampus sloop; but the proper master having unexpectedly returned to her, the appointment did not take place.

Four days after he was made master of the Garland; when, upon inquiry, it was found, that he could not join her, as the ship had already sailed.

On the next day, the 15th of May, he was appointed to the Mercury.

These quick and successive appointments shew that his interest was strong, and that the intention to serve him was real and effectual.
The destination of the Mercury was to North America, where she joined the fleet under the command of Sir Charles Saunders, which, in conjunction with the land forces under General Wolfe, was engaged in the famous siege of Quebec.