Sir Ralph Abercromby, a British general, born in 1738, died March 28, 1801. He was descended from a good Scottish family, entered the army, and became major general in 1787. In 1793 he went to Holland in the unsuccessful Walcheren expedition, and gained universal esteem by his humanity and soldierlike qualities. He was now made commander-in-chief in the West Indies, and took several of the French West India islands. After his recall he was made lieutenant governor of the Isle of Wight, and showed his judgment and presence of mind in suppressing a mutiny of the Highland regiments, who had revolted because they were required to serve as marines. On the breaking out of the rebellion of 1798 in Ireland, he was sent there as commander-in-chief, but his distaste for the service was so decided that he was removed to Scotland. In 1799 he again served in Holland. In 1800 he was sent to Egypt to act against the French invasion of that country, and on March 8, 1801, he made good his landing at Aboukir in the face of a hostile force, but with considerable loss. He encamped near Alexandria, and was attacked by the French, and on the 21st the battle of Alexandria was fought.

Sir Ralph was severely wounded early in the action, but concealing his wound, he continued on the field, giving his orders, until after the action was over, and the French had been entirely defeated. His dangerous condition was then made known. He died a week afterward, and his remains were conveyed to Malta and there interred. His widow was created a peeress as Baroness Abercromby, with succession.