1781. Optic View. Etching with original hand coloring. Page measures 14 1/4" x 20". A stand off takes place on February 3, 1781 when fifteen large British ships and numerous other smaller ships carrying soldiers and supplies filled the harbor at St. Eustache prepared to invade and take control from the Dutch. George Brydges Rodney the British commander of the fleet had over 1,000 cannons compared to the 12 held by Dutch Governor De Graaff. Ultimately, De Graaff surrendered the island. The Dutch would gain control again in 1784. Title written in reverse for viewing correctly in zograscope (optic viewer).