Walpole's most valuable intervention was not simply obtaining a berth but placing Suckling with Captain Thomas Fox, an experienced developer of junior officers. Suckling gained sea time under administrative ratings while being treated as an officer candidate, then followed Fox from HMS Newcastle to HMS Chichester. His promotion from ordinary seaman to able seaman and midshipman shows how rapidly Fox advanced a promising cadet. During this formative service he also met Peter Parker, a future friend and patron of Nelson.
Chapter · 13:17-17:29
Captain Thomas Fox trained Suckling for command
At thirteen, Suckling entered HMS Newcastle under a captain known for producing strong lieutenants and advanced rapidly from ordinary seaman to midshipman.