His romantic nature was deeply stirred by the accounts of the naval exploits of his countrymen in the War of 1812, and he set his heart upon entering the navy.

His mother opposed, but, when she saw it was useless, wisely yielded.

His father's influence readily procured him the appointment of midshipman, and he was directed to report on the schooner _Grampus_, under the command of Lieutenant (afterward Admiral) Gregory.
[Illustration: ANDREW HULL FOOTE.] The _Grampus_ went to the West Indies in quest of pirates, but never found any.

Young Foote was then transferred to the sloop of war _Peacock_, which had made such a glorious record in the last war with Great Britain, his next transfer being to the frigate _United States_, the flagship of Commodore Isaac Hull, who won the famous victory over the _Guerriere_ in August, 1812.
The cruise lasted three years, and Foote returned to New York in the spring of 1837.

He made a visit to his home, when he was once more ordered to the West Indies.
About this time he was brought under religious influence.