11 Aug 1718. The Battle of Cape Passaro, aka the Battle of Avola and the Battle of Syracuse, was a major naval battle fought on between a fleet of the British Royal Navy under Admiral Sir George Byng (age 55) and a fleet of the Spanish Navy under Rear-Admiral Antonio de Gaztañeta. The British fleet secured a decisive victory.

Calendars. 02 Sep 1718. Royal sign manual for 1,000l. to Paty Byng, Esq.: without account: as a mark of royal favour in consideration of his service in bringing letters from our Admiral Sir George Byng (age 55) with a particular account of the engagement [1718 Battle of Cape Passaro] with the Spanish Fleet off Cape Passaro the 31st July last. (Money warrant dated Sept. 3 hereon.) (Money order dated Sept. 3 hereon.) (Letter of direction dated Sept. 5 hereon.) King's Warrant Book XXIX, p. 104. Order Book X, p. 157. Disposition Book XXIV, p. 147.