F. S. Bell 1939. "Exeter's" six eight-inch guns were mainly responsible for seriously damaging the in the Battle of the River Plate in December 1939. In this battle, "Exeter" also incurred severe damage from seven hits by eleven-inch shells and suffered 61 killed and 23 wounded. One salvo from the "Graf Spee" did a great deal of damage to the wheelhouse and killed all but three of the officers in it. Bell survived with minor injuries and he ordered that the remaining turrets should continue firing on the enemy. As damage control parties battled fires and flooding, Bell used a compass from one
HMS Hazard (1749) 1798. "Joseph" returned on 4 June 1799. 6th whaling voyage (1799–1800): Captain Ellis, or John Humphrey, sailed from London in 1799. As "Joseph" was returning home, the French privateer "Minerve" captured her. On 3 August 1800, HMS "Fisgard" captured the French privateer "Gironde". Earlier, she had also recaptured some other French prizes, including "Joseph" and , another returning whaler. "Lloyd's List" reported on 19 August 1800 that "Joseph", Humphries, master, had come into Plymouth after her recapture by "Fisgard". "Joseph" arrived back at London on 26 September. 7th whaling voyage (1801–1802): Captain John Humphreys sailed from London on 31 March