Who is Thomas Cochrane, Tenth Earl of Dundonald from Sharpe's Devil and what is their importance? Sharpe's_Devil_(novel) English & Literature "Thomas Cochrane

Cochrane, a Scottish nobleman, is the commander of the Chilean Navy. He was once a British naval officer and even a member of parliament, but he was removed from both the navy and Parliament and left England in disgrace. He sells his skills and experience to the Chilean rebels. Despite is command of the rebel navy, Cochrane is certainly no by-the-book officer. In fact, he is more akin to a pirate in his zest for glory, interest in riches, and utter disregard for rules and convention. Cochrane has a brilliant strategic mind, and he puts it to use in finding the most outlandish and unexpected battle plans.