David Hannay was born in London, the son of James Hannay the novelist and critic. David was an historian and journalist and was vice-consul at Barcelona, probably during 1897. He helped found the Navy Record Society. He wrote for the 'Pall Mall Gazette', the 'Saturday Review' and 'St James's Gazette'. His published works include the lives of Admiral Blake, Tobias Smollett and Frederick Marryat; a short history of the Royal Navy; and a work on the great chartered companies.
From the guide to the Hannay Papers, 1882-1912, (University College London 0040)