Alexander Ball
Rear-Admiral Sir Alexander John Ball, 1st Baronet (, 22 July 1757 – 25 October 1809) was a Royal Navy officer and colonial administrator who served as the Civil Commissioner of Malta. He was born in Ebworth Park in Sheepscombe, Gloucestershire. He was the fourth son of Robert and Mary (Dickinson) Ball and the younger brother of Ingram Ball. Early naval experience Ball entered the Royal Navy, and on 7 August 1778, was promoted lieutenant. Three years later he began a close association with Sir George Rodney. Ball was promoted commander on 14 April 1782, two days after his chief's crowning victory, and took command of . On 20 March 1783 he became captain. With peace restored, Ball was furloughed on half-pay. He then spent a year in France, hoping to learn the language and live economically. Captain Horatio Nelson was at this time by no means favourably impressed by his future friend and comrade, and described Ball as a "great coxcomb". In 1790, Ball received a command and from then on he was continuously employed. In May 1798, Ball commanded in the Mediterranean. Once when Nelson's had lost her fore- and topmasts, Ball towed Vanguard to Sardinia. Under Nelson's command,