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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Campaigns of the British Army at Washington and New Orleans, 1814-1815, by G. R. Gleig
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most
+other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
+whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of
+the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at
+www.gutenberg.org.  If you are not located in the United States, you'll have
+to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook.
+
+Title: The Campaigns of the British Army at Washington and New Orleans, 1814-1815
+
+Author: G. R. Gleig
+
+Release Date: June 1, 2006 [EBook #18479]
+[Most recently updated: February 16, 2020]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: UTF-8
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE CAMPAIGNS OF THE BRITISH ARMY AT WASHINGTON AND NEW ORLEANS ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Geoffrey Cowling
+
+
+
+
+The Campaigns of the British Army at Washington and New Orleans,
+1814-1815
+
+by Rev. G. R. Gleig, M.A.,
+
+Chaplain-General to the forces;
+Author of _The Subaltern_; _Story of the Battle of Waterloo_;
+_Life of Lord Clive_; _Life of Sir Thomas Munro_, etc.
+
+NEW EDITION
+1879
+
+
+
+
+ADVERTISEMENT.
+
+
+The following Narrative contains, it is believed, the only connected
+and authentic account, which has yet been given, of the expedition
+directed against Washington and New Orleans, towards the close of the
+late American war. It has been compiled, not from memory alone, but
+from a journal kept by the author whilst engaged in the enterprise; and
+as the adventures of each were faithfully noted down as they occurred,
+and such remarks made upon passing events as suggested themselves to
+his mind at the moment, the public may rely with confidence upon
+general correctness of the details. The issues of the expedition were
+not, indeed, of the most gratifying nature, but it is hoped that a
+plain relation of the proceedings of those to whom it was intrusted,
+will not, on that account, prove uninteresting; whilst nothing can be
+more evident than that the portion of our history which it embraces
+ought not to be overlooked because it is little conducive to the
+encouragement of national vanity. It was chiefly, indeed, upon this
+account, as well as with a view to redeem from an oblivion which they
+hardly merit, the actions and sufferings of a few brave men, that the
+Narrative now submitted to the public was written.
+
+Contents
+
+CHAPTER I.
+Cessation of Hostilities—Expected Embarkation for America—Encampment
+near Passages—March towards Bordeaux-Anglet
+
+CHAPTER II.
+Bayonne—St. Etienne—March through Bayonne, to Ondres
+
+CHAPTER III.
+Les Landes—March to Bordeaux—Bordeaux—Macan—La Moe—At Sea
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+At Sea—St. Michael’s—Villa Franca
+
+CHAPTER V.
+St Michael’s—Ponto del Gada—At Sea
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+Bermuda
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+America—The Chesapeake—The Partuxent—St. Benedicts
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+Nottingham—Marlborough
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+March to Washington—Bladensburg
+
+CHAPTER X.
+Washington
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+Washington—Bladensburg—Marlborough—St Benedicts
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+Alexandria—The Patuxent—The Patapsco
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+March—Attack—Halt
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+March—Halt—Search—March—Rally—Halt
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+The Patuxent—The Potomac—The Chesapeake—At Sea—The West Indies
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+The West Indies—Port Royal—Kingston—Jamaica—The Blue Mountains
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+The Blue Mountains—Port Royal—Negril Bay
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+At Sea—New Orleans—Lake Borgne—Pine Island
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+Pine Island—The Lake—Landing—March—Halt
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+Halt—Attack—Field of Battle—Hospital
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+Advance—Attack—March—Attack—Retreat—Preparations
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+Attack—Retreat—Pause—Attack—Re-embarkation
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+The Camp—Preparations for Retreat—Retreat—Halt
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+The Lake—Mobile—Siege—Peace—Havannah
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+Havannah—Remarks
+
+
+
+
+THE BRITISH ARMY
+AT
+WASHINGTON AND NEW ORLEANS.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+
+A revolution must occur in the condition and sentiments of mankind more
+decided than we have any reason to expect that the lapse of ages will
+produce, before the mighty events which distinguished the spring of
+1814 shall be spoken of in other terms than those of unqualified
+admiration. It was then that Europe, which during so many years had
+groaned beneath the miseries of war, found herself at once, and to her
+remotest recesses, blessed with the prospect of a sure and permanent
+peace. Princes, who had dwelt in exile till the very hope of
+restoration to power began to depart from them, beheld themselves
+unexpectedly replaced on the thrones of their ancestors; dynasties,
+which the will of one man had erected, disappeared with the same
+abruptness with which they had arisen; and the influence of changes
+which a quarter of a century of rapine and conquest had produced in the
+arrangements of general society, ceased, as if by magic, to be felt, or
+at least to be acknowledged. It seemed, indeed, as if all which had
+been passing during the last twenty or thirty years, had passed not in
+reality, but in a dream; so perfectly unlooked for were the issues of a
+struggle, to which, whatever light we may regard it, the history of the
+whole world presents no parallel.
+
+At the period above alluded to, it was the writer’s fortune to form one
+of a body of persons in whom the unexpected cessation of hostilities
+may be supposed to have excited sensations more powerful and more mixed
+than those to which the common occurrences of life are accustomed to
+give birth. He was then attached to that portion of the Peninsular army
+to which the siege of Bayonne had been intrusted; and on the 28th of
+April beheld, in common with his comrades, the tri-coloured flag,
+which, for upwards of two months, had waved defiance from the
+battlements, give place to the ancient drapeau blanc of the Bourbons.
+That such a spectacle could be regarded by any British soldier without
+stirring up in him strong feelings of national pride and exultation, is
+not to be imagined. I believe, indeed, that there was not a man in our
+ranks, however humble his station, to whose bosom these feelings were a
+stranger. But the excitation of the moment having passed away, other
+and no less powerful feelings succeeded; and they were painful, or the
+reverse, according as they ran in one or other of the channels into
+which the situations and prospects of individuals not unnaturally
+guided them. By such as had been long absent from their homes, the idea
+of enjoying once more the society of friends and relatives, was hailed
+with a degree of delight too engrossing to afford room for the
+occurrence of any other anticipations; to those who had either no homes
+to look to, or had quitted them only a short time ago, the thoughts of
+revisiting England came mixed with other thoughts, little gratifying,
+because at variance with all their dreams of advancement and renown.
+For my own part I candidly confess, that though I had just cause to
+look forward to a return to the bosom of my family with as much
+satisfaction as most men, the restoration of peace excited in me
+sensations of a very equivocal nature. At the age of eighteen, and
+still enthusiastically attached to my profession, neither the prospect
+of a reduction to half-pay, nor the expectation of a long continuance
+in a subaltern situation, were to me productive of any pleasurable
+emotions; and hence, though I entered heartily into all the
+arrangements by which those about me strove to evince their
+gratification at the glorious termination of the war, it must be
+acknowledged that I did so, without experiencing much of the
+satisfaction with the semblance of which my outward behaviour might be
+marked.
+
+EXPECTED EMBARKATION FOR AMERICA.
+
+Such being my own feelings, and the feelings of the great majority of
+those immediately around me, it was but natural that we should turn our
+views to the only remaining quarter of the globe in which the flame of
+war still continued to burn. Though at peace with France, England, we
+remembered; was not yet at peace with the United States; and reasoning,
+not as statesmen but as soldiers, we concluded that she was not now
+likely to make peace with that nation till she should be able to do so
+upon her own terms. Having such an army on foot, what line of policy
+could appear so natural or so judicious as that she should employ, if
+not the whole, at all events a large proportion of it, in chastising an
+enemy, than whom none had ever proved more vindictive or more
+ungenerous? Our view of the matter accordingly was, that some fifteen
+or twenty thousand men would be forthwith embarked on board of ship and
+transported to the other side of the Atlantic; that the war would there
+be carried on with a vigour conformable to the dignity and resources of
+the country which waged it; and that no mention of peace would be made
+till our general should be in a situation to dictate its conditions in
+the enemy’s capital.
+
+Whether any design of the kind was ever seriously entertained, or
+whether men merely asserted as a truth what they earnestly desired to
+be such, I know not; but the white flag had hardly been hoisted on the
+citadel of Bayonne, when a rumour became prevalent that an extensive
+encampment of troops, destined for the American war, was actually
+forming in the vicinity of Bordeaux. A variety of causes led me to
+anticipate that the corps to which I was attached would certainly be
+employed upon that service. In the progress of the war which had been
+just brought to a conclusion, we had not suffered so severely as many
+other corps; and though not excelling in numbers, it is but justice to
+affirm that a more effective or better organized battalion could not be
+found in the whole army. We were all, moreover, from our commanding
+officer down to the youngest ensign, anxious to gather a few more
+laurels, even in America; and we had good reason to believe that those
+in power were not indisposed to gratify our inclinations. Under these
+circumstances we clung with fondness to the hope that our martial
+career had not yet come to a close; and employed the space which
+intervened between the eventful 28th of April and the 8th of the
+following month, chiefly in forming guesses as to the point of attack
+towards which it was likely that we should be turned.
+
+ENCAMPMENT NEAR PASSAGES.
+
+Though there was peace between the French and British nations, the form
+of hostilities was so far kept up between the garrison of Bayonne and
+the army encamped around it, that it was only by an especial treaty
+that the former were allowed to send out parties for the purpose of
+collecting forage and provisions from the adjacent country. The
+foraging parties, however, being permitted to proceed in any direction
+most convenient to themselves, the supplies of corn and grass, which
+had heretofore proved barely sufficient for our own horses and cattle,
+soon began to fail, and it was found necessary to move more than one
+brigade to a distance from the city. Among others, the brigade of which
+my regiment formed a part, received orders on the 7th of May to fall
+back on the road towards Passages. These orders we obeyed on the
+following morning; and after an agreeable march of fifteen or sixteen
+miles, pitched our tents in a thick wood, about half-way between the
+village of Bedart and the town of St. Jean de Luz. In this position we
+remained for nearly a week, our expectations of employment on the other
+side of the Atlantic becoming daily less and less sanguine, till at
+length all doubts on the subject were put an end to by the sudden
+arrival of a dispatch, which commanded us to set out with as little
+delay as possible towards Bordeaux.
+
+It was on the evening of the 14th that the route was received, and on
+the following morning, at daybreak, we commenced our march. The country
+through which we moved had nothing in it, unconnected with past events,
+calculated in any extraordinary degree to attract attention. Behind us,
+indeed, rose the Pyrenees in all their grandeur, forming, on that side,
+a noble boundary to the prospect; and on our left was the sea, a
+boundary different it is true in kind, though certainly not less
+magnificent. But, excepting at these two extremities, there was nothing
+in the landscape on which the eye loved particularly to rest, because
+the country, though pretty enough, has none of that exquisite richness
+and luxuriance which we had been led to expect as characteristic of the
+South of France. The houses, too, being all in a ruinous and
+dilapidated condition, reminded us more forcibly of the scenes of
+violence and outrage which had been lately acted among them, than of
+those ideas of rural contentment and innocence which various tales and
+melodramas had taught us to associate in our own minds with thoughts of
+the land of the vine.
+
+MARCH TOWARDS BORDEAUX
+
+Regarded, however, in connexion with past events, the scene was indeed
+most interesting; though to a stranger fresh from England—a man, we
+will suppose, of retired and peaceful habits, I can readily imagine
+that it would have been productive of much pain; for on each side of
+the road, in whatever direction we cast our eyes, and as far as the
+powers of vision extended, we beheld cottages unroofed and in ruins,
+chateaux stripped of their doors and windows, gardens laid waste, the
+walls demolished, and the fruit-trees cut down; whole plantations
+levelled, and vineyards trodden under foot. Here and there, likewise, a
+redoubt or breastwork presented itself; whilst caps, broken firelocks,
+pieces of clothing, and accoutrements scattered about in profusion,
+marked the spots where the strife had been most determined, and where
+many a fine fellow had met his fate. Our journey lay over a field of
+battle, through the entire extent of which the houses were not only
+thoroughly gutted (to use a vulgar but most expressive phrase), but for
+the most part were riddled with cannon-shot. Round some of the largest,
+indeed, there was not a wall nor a tree which did not present evident
+proofs of its having been converted into a temporary place of defence,
+whilst the deep ruts in what had once been lawns and flower-gardens,
+showed that all their beauty had not protected them from being
+destroyed by the rude passage of heavy artillery.
+
+Immediately beyond the village of Bedart such spectacles were
+particularly frequent. It was here, it may be remembered, that in the
+preceding month of December there had been fighting for four successive
+days; and the number of little hillocks now within our view; from under
+most of which legs and arms were beginning to show themselves, as well
+as the other objects which I have attempted to describe, sufficiently
+attested the obstinacy with which that fighting had been maintained.
+
+In the bosom of a man of peace it is very conceivable that all this
+would have excited feelings exceedingly painful; in ours, such feelings
+were overborne by others of a very different nature. If we gazed with
+peculiar interest upon one hovel more than upon another, it was because
+some of us had there maintained ourselves; if we endeavoured to count
+the number of shot-holes in any wall, or the breaks in any hedge, it
+was because we had stood behind it when “the iron hail” fell thick and
+fast around us. Our thoughts, in short, had more of exultation in them
+than of sorrow; for though now and then, when the name of a fallen
+comrade was mentioned, it was accompanied with a “poor fellow” the
+conversation soon returned again to the exploits and hair-breadth
+escapes of the survivors. On the whole, therefore, our march was one of
+deep interest and high excitement, feelings which did not entirely
+evaporate when we halted, about two hours after noon, at the village of
+Anglet.
+
+MARCH TOWARDS BORDEAUX—ANGLET
+
+We found this village in the condition in which it was to be expected
+that a place of so much importance during the progress of the late
+siege would be found, in other words, completely metamorphosed into a
+chain of petty posts. Being distant from the outworks of Bayonne not
+more than a mile and a half, and standing upon the great road by which
+all the supplies for the left of the British army were brought up, no
+means, as may be supposed, had been neglected, which art or nature
+could supply, towards rendering it as secure against a sudden excursion
+of the garrison as might be. About one hundred yards in front of it
+felled trees were laid across the road, with their branches turned
+towards the town, forming what soldiers, in the language of their
+profession, term an abattis. Forty or fifty yards in rear of this a
+ditch was dug, and a breastwork thrown up, from behind which a party
+might do great execution upon any body of men struggling to force their
+way over that impediment. On each side of the highway again, where the
+ground rises into little eminences, redoubts and batteries were
+erected, so as to command the whole with a heavy flanking fire; while
+every house and hovel lying at all within the line of expected
+operations was loop-holed, and otherwise put in a posture of defence.
+But upon the fortification of the church a more than ordinary degree of
+care seemed to have been bestowed. As it stood upon a little eminence
+in the middle of the hamlet, it was no hard matter to convert it into a
+tolerably regular fortress, which might serve the double purpose of a
+magazine for warlike stores and a post of defence against the enemy.
+With this view the churchyard was surrounded by a row of stout palings,
+called in military phraseology stockades, from certain openings in
+which the muzzles of half a dozen pieces of light artillery protruded.
+The walls of the edifice itself were, moreover, strengthened by an
+embankment of earth to the height of perhaps four or five feet from the
+ground, above which narrow openings were made, in order to give to its
+garrison an opportunity of levelling their muskets; while on the top of
+the tower a small howitzer was mounted, from which either shot or shell
+could be thrown with effect into any of the lanes or passes near. It is
+probably needless to add that the interior arrangements of this house
+of God had undergone a change as striking as that which affected its
+exterior. Barrels of gunpowder, with piles of balls of all sizes and
+dimensions, now occupied the spaces where worshippers had often
+crowded; and the very altar was heaped up with spunges, wadding, and
+other implements necessary in case of an attack.
+
+I have been thus minute in my description of Anglet, because what has
+been said of it will apply more or less exactly to every village,
+hamlet, or cluster of cottages, within the compass of what were called
+the lines. It is true that neither here nor elsewhere, excepting at one
+particular point, and that on the opposite side of the river, were any
+serious intentions entertained of broaching or storming the place; and
+that the sole object of these preparations was to keep the enemy within
+his works, and to cut him off from all communication with the
+surrounding country. But to effect even this end, the utmost vigilance
+and precaution were necessary, not only because the number of troops
+employed on the service was hardly adequate to discharge it, but
+because the garrison hemmed in was well known to be at once numerous
+and enterprising. The reader may accordingly judge what appearance a
+country presented which, to the extent of fifteen or twenty miles
+round, was thus treated; where every house was fortified, every road
+blocked up, every eminence mined with fieldworks, and every place
+swarming with armed men. Nor was its aspect less striking by night than
+by day. Gaze where he might, the eye of the spectator then rested upon
+some portion of one huge circle of fires, by the glare of which the
+white tents or rudely constructed huts of the besiegers were from time
+to time made visible.
+
+While things continued thus, the condition of the peaceful inhabitant
+of this district could hardly fail to be one of extreme discomfort. Of
+these the greater number had indeed fled on the advance of the British
+army, leaving their houses and effects a prey to the conquerors; but
+there were some who, having probably no place of refuge to retire to,
+remained in their homes, and threw themselves upon our mercy for
+protection. It is not requisite that I should now inform the reader of
+the strict discipline which Lord Wellington preserved in every division
+of his army; his first step, on entering France, had been to inform the
+people that against them no violence was intended; and the assurance
+thus given, was in no instance, at least wantonly, violated. But,
+however orderly the conduct of an invading force may be, their very
+presence must occasion a thousand inconveniences to those upon whom
+they are quartered; not the least distressing of which is, perhaps, the
+feeling of degradation which the consciousness of being in the power of
+armed foreigners can hardly fail to produce. Then there is the total
+destruction of all domestic comfort, which the occupation of a man’s
+house by large bodies of soldiers produces; the liability to which the
+females, in particular, are exposed to insult from the common troopers;
+and the dread of vengeance from any delinquent on whom their complaints
+may have brought down chastisement, all these things must and do create
+a degree of misery, of which the inhabitants of Great Britain may thank
+God that they know nothing except by name. In the vicinity of Bayonne,
+moreover, the country people lived in daily and nightly expectation of
+finding themselves involved in all the horrors and dangers of a battle.
+Sorties were continually looked for, and however these might terminate,
+the non-combatants felt that they must be equally the sufferers. Nay,
+it was no uncommon ground of complaint among them, that even the total
+defeat of our forces would bring with it no relief, because, by
+remaining to receive us, they had disobeyed the proclamations of
+Marshal Soult, and were consequently liable to punishment as traitors.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+
+A soon as the bustle of encamping was over, and my time absolutely at
+my own disposal, I took advantage of an offered passport, and proceeded
+into Bayonne. It will be readily believed that I entered this city with
+feelings very different from those of a common traveller. Having lain
+before it as a besieger for upwards of two months, its shops, its
+trade, its public buildings and places of amusement were to me objects
+of, comparatively speaking, little interest or curiosity. Its
+fortifications and means of defence were, in truth, what I was
+principally anxious to examine. Hitherto I could judge of them only
+from outward appearances and vague reports; and now that an opportunity
+offered of so doing with greater accuracy, I confess that my
+inclination prompted me to embrace that opportunity, rather than to
+hunt for pictures which I could not value, or fatigue my imagination by
+endeavouring to discover fine specimens of architecture amidst heavy
+and ill-built churches.
+
+It is not my intention to attempt any scientific or technical review of
+the works which a very natural curiosity tempted me to examine; partly
+because I confess myself little competent to the task and partly
+because, were the contrary the case, I am inclined to believe that such
+a review would not prove very interesting to the public in general.
+Enough is done if I endeavour to impress my reader with as many of the
+feelings which I then experienced, as may be done by detailing them;
+and, at the same time, enable him to form some general idea of a place
+before whose walls no trifling quantity of British blood has been
+spilt.
+
+The city of Bayonne stands, as everybody knows, upon the Adour, about
+six or eight miles from the point where that river falls into the sea.
+On the southern or Spanish bank, where the whole of the city, properly
+so called, is built, the country, to the distance of two or three miles
+from the walls, is perfectly flat and the soil sandy, and apparently
+not very productive. On the bank the ground rises rather abruptly from
+the brink of the stream, sloping upwards likewise from the sea, till
+you arrive at the pinnacle upon which the citadel is erected, and which
+hangs immediately over the town. Thus, though the Adour in fact
+separates the city from the suburbs and citadel, yet as the ramparts of
+the former extend to the water’s edge on both sides, and as those of
+the latter continue the sweep from points immediately opposite, the
+general appearance presented is that of one considerable town, with a
+broad river flowing through the middle of it.
+
+It will be seen, even from this short and imperfect sketch, that its
+situation gives to Bayonne, considered as a military post, a
+superiority over most cities; inasmuch as it affords peculiar
+facilities towards rendering it a place of great strength. On one side
+there is a plain, always accounted by engineers the most convenient for
+the construction of fortifications; on the other an eminence, lofty
+enough to command the surrounding country, and at the same time
+sufficiently level at the summit to receive the walls of a fortress,
+powerful at once from its position and regularity. But the great
+strength of Bayonne arose at this juncture not so much from its
+original defences as from the numerous outworks which had been lately
+added to it. It was along the course of the Adour, as the reader will
+probably recollect, or rather between the Adour and the Nieve, that
+Soult formed his famous intrenched camp. The right of this chain of
+stupendous works rested upon the city, the importance of which was
+consequently much increased; and as the capture of it would have
+occasioned not only the loss of a town, but the turning of the whole
+position, no pains were spared in rendering it as nearly impregnable as
+possible. That I may convey some notion to the minds of others of the
+nature of these works, I will describe the aspect which they presented
+to myself, as I rode from Anglet towards the city.
+
+When I had proceeded about a mile and a half beyond our advanced posts,
+I found myself in front of the first line of defence. This consisted of
+a battery mounting three eighteen-pounders, upon the road, flanked by
+other batteries, one on each side; all so placed as that whichsoever of
+them should be attacked, it might be defended by a cross-fire from the
+rest. These were of course additionally strengthened by ditches and
+felled trees; but they were open in the rear; and though very
+formidable to an assailing party, yet, when taken, could have been of
+small service to the conquerors, being themselves exposed to the fire
+of the second line. The situation of the second line, again, was
+similar in every respect to that of the first, being, like it, open in
+the rear, and placed under the guns of the town. Thus, after having
+forced two powerful lines of defence, the besiegers would find
+themselves almost as far as ever from the attainment of their object,
+being then only arrived at the point where the labours of a siege could
+commence.
+
+But the maintenance of Bayonne must at all times depend upon keeping
+possession of the citadel. The city lying upon a plain, and the castle
+standing upon an eminence immediately above it, it is clear that, were
+the latter taken, the former must either surrender or be speedily
+reduced to ruins. It is true that, by destroying the bridge which
+connects them, all communication between the two places would be cut
+off; but the distance from the one to the other being not more than
+half-musket shot, and the guns of the fort pointing directly down upon
+the streets and of the city, any attempt to hold out could cause only
+the destruction of the town, and the unavenged slaughter of its
+garrison. Of the truth of this the French were as much aware as their
+enemies, nor did they neglect any means which an accurate knowledge of
+engineering could point out, for the defence of what they justly
+considered as the key of the entire position. In addition to its own
+very regular and well-constructed fortifications, two strong redoubts
+were thrown up, on two sides of the fort, upon the only spots of ground
+calculated for the purpose; both of which, I was informed by my guide,
+were undermined and loaded with gunpowder, ready to be sprung as soon
+as they should fill into our hands. They had judged, and judged
+correctly, that if ever the place should be invested, it would be that
+the trenches would be opened and the breaching batteries erected; and
+they made every preparation to meet the danger which great prudence and
+military skill could suggest.
+
+Bayonne, though a populous place, does not cover so much ground as a
+stranger would be led to suppose. Like most walled towns, its streets,
+with the exception of one or two, are in general narrow, and the houses
+lofty: but it is compact, and, on the whole, clean, and neatly built.
+The number of inhabitants I should be inclined to estimate at somewhere
+about thirty thousand, exclusive of the garrison, which at this time
+amounted to fourteen or fifteen thousand men; but as most of the
+families appear to live in the style of those in the old town of
+Edinburgh, that is to say, several under the same roof, though each in
+a separate story or flat, it is not difficult to conceive how they
+contrive to find sufficient room, within a compass apparently so
+narrow. Of its commerce and manufactures I can say little, except that
+I should not imagine either to be extensive. I am led to form this
+opinion, partly from having seen no shipping at the wharfs, and partly
+because the Adour, though here both wide and deep, is rendered
+unnavigable to vessels of any size, by a shallow or bar at its mouth.
+There was, indeed, a sloop of war close to the town, but how it got
+there I am at a loss to conceive, unless it were built upon the river,
+and kept as an additional protection against a surprise from the water.
+The shops are, however, good, particularly those where jewellery is
+sold; an article in the setting and adorning of which the French, if
+they do not excel us in really substantial value, undoubtedly surpass
+us in elegance.
+
+When I had taken as complete a survey of the town as I felt disposed to
+take, I crossed the bridge with the intention of inspecting the
+interior of the citadel. Here, however, I was disappointed, no
+strangers being admitted within its gates; but as there was no
+objection made to my reconnoitring it from without, I proceeded towards
+the point where our trenches had been dug, and where it had been
+designed to breach and storm the place. To this I was urged by two
+motives, partly from the desire of obtaining the best view possible of
+the fort, and partly that I might examine the ground upon which the
+desperate affair of the 14th of April took place. The reader cannot
+have forgotten, that some hours before daylight on the morning of that
+day, a vigorous and well-arranged sortie was made by the garrison, and
+that it was not without hard fighting and a severe loss on both sides
+that the attack was finally repulsed.
+
+Mounting the heights, I soon arrived at St. Etienne, a little village
+nearly on a level with the citadel, and not more than a quarter of a
+mile from its walls. From this point I could satisfy my curiosity to
+the full, and as the account may not, perhaps, be uninteresting, I
+shall describe, as well as I am able, the scene which here met my eyes.
+
+St. Etienne
+
+The ridge of little hills upon which the fort and village are built,
+though it rises by gentle gradation from the sea, towards the spot
+where I now stood, is nevertheless intersected and broken here and
+there by deep glens or ravines. Two of these glens, one to the right,
+the other to the left, chance to occur immediately under the ramparts
+of the fortress, supplying, in some measure, the purposes of a ditch,
+and leaving a sort of table or elevated neck of land between them, the
+extremity of which is occupied by the village. On this neck of land the
+besieged had constructed one of the redoubts to which I alluded as
+having been lately thrown up; whilst on another table, at the opposite
+side of the left ravine, which winds round in the direction of the
+wall, as nearly as if it were the work of art, stands the other
+redoubt. Beyond this, again, there is a perpendicular precipice, the
+hills there abruptly ending; so that on two sides the walls of the fort
+skirt the extremity of a bare rock. It was along the outer ridges of
+these ravines, and through the churchyard of St. Etienne, that our
+trenches were drawn, the village itself being the most advanced British
+post; and it was along these ridges, and in the street of this village,
+that the action of the 14th of April was fought.
+
+It is not my business, neither indeed is it my intention, to relate
+here the particulars of that affair. The French, having contrived, in a
+dark night, to elude the vigilance of our sentinels, came upon the
+piquets unperceived, and took them completely by surprise. The battle
+was maintained on both sides with great determination, and had it not
+been for the unfortunate capture of Sir John Hope and the fall of
+General Hay, the assailants would have had little cause to rejoice at
+the result: for though the loss of the English was certainly great,
+that of the French was at least not inferior. Yet the business was an
+unfortunate one to both parties, since, before it took place,
+Buonaparte had already abdicated, and the preliminaries of peace were
+already signed between the two nations.
+
+I found the village, in which the fighting had been most obstinately
+maintained, in the condition of most villages where such dramas have
+been acted. The street had been barricaded, but the barricade was
+almost entirely torn down; the houses, trees, and church, like those we
+had passed upon the march, were covered with the marks of cannon and
+musket balls, whilst quantities of round and grape shot, of musket and
+pistol bullets, broken bayonets, swords, &c. &c., lay scattered about
+in every direction. Nor were these the only evidences of strife
+discernible. In many places—on the pavement of the street, in the
+churchyard, but above all, on the floor of the church itself, —the
+traces of blood were still distinctly visible. Beside the remains of
+the barricade there stood a solitary six-pounder, which had been taken
+and re-taken nine times during the struggle; and a sprinkling of what
+looked like a mixture of blood and brains still adhering to its
+carriage and breech, showed that it had never been given up without the
+most desperate resistance. The mounds, too, under which the dead were
+buried, presented a peculiarly striking appearance; for the field of
+action having been narrow, those that fell, fell in heaps together, and
+being buried in the same way, one was led to form an idea of greater
+slaughter than if double the number of graves had been distinguishable
+in a more extended space.
+
+Having now accomplished my wishes as far as I could, and beginning to
+feel somewhat fatigued with strolling about, I adjourned to an hotel in
+the city, from whence, in the evening, I went to the play. The house
+was poor and the performance miserable, consequently there was no great
+inducement to sit out the whole of the piece. After witnessing an act
+or two, therefore, I returned to the inn, where I slept, and at an
+early hour next morning rejoined my regiment, already under arms and
+making preparations for the continuance of the march.
+
+MARCH THROUGH BAYONNE—TO ONDRES
+
+As it would have been considerably out of our way to go round by the
+floating bridge[1], permission was applied for and granted, to pass
+directly through Bayonne. With bayonets fixed, band playing, and
+colours flying, we accordingly marched along the streets of that city;
+a large proportion of the garrison being drawn up to receive us, and
+the windows crowded with spectators, male and female, eager to behold
+the troops from whom not long ago they had probably expected a visit of
+a very different nature. The scene was certainly remarkable enough, and
+the transition from animosity to good-will as singular as it was
+sudden; nor do I imagine that it would be easy to define the sensations
+of either party, on being thus strangely brought n contact with the
+other. The females, indeed, waved their handkerchiefs, whilst we bowed
+and kissed our hands; but I thought I could discover something like a
+suppressed scowl upon the countenances of the military. Certain it is,
+that in whatever light the new state of affairs might be regarded by
+the great bulk of the nation, with the army it was by no means popular;
+and at this period they appeared to consider the passage of British
+troops through their lines as the triumphal entrance of a victorious
+enemy.
+
+ [1] The bridge here alluded to was thrown across the Adour by the Duke
+ of Wellington at the commencement of the siege. It was composed of a
+ number of small fishing vessels fastened together with cords, and
+ planked from one to another, the whole firmly moored about three miles
+ below Bayonne. Whether the daringness of the attempt, or the
+ difficulties surmounted in its completion, be considered, the
+ construction of this bridge may be looked upon as one of the most
+ extraordinary actions of that extraordinary man.
+
+
+As soon as we had cleared the entrenchments of Bayonne, and got beyond
+the limits of the allied camps, we found ours in a country more
+peaceful and more picturesque than any we had yet traversed. There were
+here no signs of war or marks of violence. The cottages were covered
+with honeysuckle and roses, the gardens were blooming in the most
+perfect order; the corn was growing in great plenty and richness, and
+the vines were clustering round their poles like the hops in the
+gardens of Kent. It is impossible to describe the feeling of absolute
+refreshment which such a sight stirred up in men who, for so long a
+time, had looked upon nothing but ruin and devastation. It is true that
+with respect to grandeur, or even beauty, the scenery through which we
+now travelled was not to be compared with the sublime passes of the
+Pyrenees, or with many spots which we had beheld; but in truth, a
+hamlet uninjured and tenanted by its own rude peasantry, a field of
+Indian corn exhibiting no wasteful track of foragers, nay, a single
+cottage with its flowers and evergreens budding around it, was at this
+a more welcome object to our eyes than the wildest mountains or most
+romantic valleys displaying no habitations except white tents and no
+inhabitants except soldiers. For my own part I felt as if I had once
+more returned into the bosom of civilized and domestic life, after
+having been for many months a wanderer and a savage.
+
+The road along which we proceeded had been made by Napoleon, and was
+remarkably good. It was sheltered, on each side, from the rays of the
+sun, by groves of cork-trees mingled with fir; by which means, though
+the day was overpoweringly hot, we did not suffer so much as we should
+otherwise have done. Our march was, therefore, exceedingly agreeable,
+and we came in, about noon, very little fatigued, to the village of
+Ondres, where the tents were pitched, and we remained till the morrow.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+LES LANDES
+
+
+The dawn was just beginning to appear, when the bugles sounded, and the
+tents were struck. For the first few leagues, our route to-day
+resembled that of yesterday, in almost every particular. There was the
+same appearance of peaceful quiet, the same delightful intermingling of
+woods, corn-fields, vineyards, and pasture; but we had not proceeded
+far, when a marked difference was perceptible; every step we trod, the
+soil became more and more sandy, the cultivation less frequent, and the
+wood more abundant, till at last we found ourselves marching through
+the heart of an immense forest of pines. We had diverged, it appeared,
+from the main road, which carries the traveller through a rich and open
+country, and were pursuing another through the middle of those deserts
+and savannahs which lie towards the coast; a district known by the name
+of les Landes. There was something, if not beautiful, at least new and
+striking in the scenery now around us. Wherever the eye turned, it was
+met by one wide waste of gloomy pine-trees; diversified, here and
+there, by the unexpected appearance of a modest hamlet, which looked as
+if it were the abode of some newly arrived settlers in a country
+hitherto devoid of human habitations.
+
+Were I to continue the detail of a long march through these barren
+regions, I should soon fatigue, without amusing my reader: I shall,
+therefore, content myself with observing, that day after day the same
+dreary prospect presented itself, varied by the occasional occurrence
+of huge uncultivated plains, which apparently chequer the forest, at
+certain intervals, with spots of stunted and unprofitable pasturage;
+upon these there were usually flocks of sheep grazing, in the mode of
+watching which, the peasants fully evinced the truth of the old
+proverb, that necessity is the mother of invention. I do not know
+whether the practice to which I allude be generally known, but as it
+struck me as very remarkable, I shall offer no apology for relating it.
+
+The whole of this district, as well where it is wooded, as where it is
+bare, is perfectly flat, containing scarcely a knoll or eminence any
+sort, as far as the eye can reach. In addition to this, the vast plains
+where the sheep are fed, many of which extend two or three leagues in
+every direction, produce not so much as a fir-tree, by climbing which,
+a man might see to any of its extremities: and the consequence is, that
+the shepherds are constantly in danger of losing their sheep, as one
+loses sight of a vessel at sea, in the distance. To remedy this evil,
+they have fallen upon a plan not more simple than ingenious; they all
+walk on stilts, exactly similar to those with which our school-boys
+amuse themselves; the only difference lying here, that whereas the
+school-boys’ stilts are with us seldom raised above ten or twelve
+inches from the ground, those of the French peasants are elevated to
+the height of six or eight feet.
+
+When we first caught a glimpse of these figures, it was in the dusk of
+the morning, and for awhile we were willing to persuade ourselves that
+the haze had deceived us, by seeming to enlarge bodies beyond their
+real dimensions. But when we looked at the trees, we saw them in their
+own proper size, nor could we suppose that the atmosphere would have an
+effect upon one object, which it had not upon another; yet there
+appeared to be no other way of accounting for the phenomenon, unless
+indeed this wild country were the parent of a race of giants, for the
+men whom we saw resembled moving towers rather than mortals. I need not
+observe that our astonishment was very great; nor, in was it much
+diminished when, on a nearer approach, we discovered the truth, and
+witnessed the agility with which they moved, and the ease with which,
+aided by the poles which each carried in his hand, they would stoop to
+the ground, pick up the article, and stand upright again. But if we
+admired the skill of one or two individuals, our admiration rose to a
+still higher pitch when we saw crowds of them together, all equally
+skilful; till they informed us that the thing was not an amusement, but
+universally practised for the purpose I have stated.
+
+Besides this, I know of nothing in the customs of this isolated people
+at all worthy of notice, unless, indeed, it be their method of
+supplying themselves with lights. Being completely cut off from the
+rest of the world, it is not in their power, except when once or twice
+a-year they travel to the nearest towns with their wool, to purchase
+candles; and as they have no notion how these can be made, they
+substitute in their room a lamp, fed with the turpentine extracted from
+the fir-trees. The whole process is simple and primitive: to obtain the
+turpentine they out a hole in the tree, and fasten a dish in it to
+catch the sap as it oozes through; and as soon as the dish is filled,
+they put a wick of cotton into the midst of the liquor, and burn it as
+we do a lamp. The light is not indeed of the most brilliant nature, but
+it is at least better than none; and as they have fir-trees in
+abundance within their reach, there is no danger of their oil being
+quickly exhausted.
+
+MARCH TO BORDEAUX
+
+In this manner was an entire week expended, each succeeding day
+introducing us to a repetition of the same adventures, and a renewal of
+the same scenery, which had amused us during the day before; nor was it
+till the morning of the twenty-third that we at last began to emerge
+from the forests, and to find ourselves once again in a more open
+country. At first, however, it cannot be said that, with respect to
+beauty, the change was greatly for the better. Upon the borders of the
+deserts there is a little village called Le Barp, where we spent the
+night of the twenty-second; from whence, till you arrive at a place
+called Belle-Vue, the country is exactly in that state which land
+assumes when nature has begun to lose ground, and art to gain it—when
+the wild simplicity of the one is destroyed, and the rich luxuriance of
+the other has not yet been superinduced. So far, therefore, we
+proceeded, regretting, rather than rejoicing, that we had quitted the
+woods; but no sooner had we attained that point, than there burst upon
+us, all on a sudden, a prospect as gloriously fertile as ever delighted
+the eyes of a weary traveller.
+
+BORDEAUX
+
+Instead of boundless forests of pine, the whole face of the country was
+now covered with vineyards, interspersed, in the most exquisite and
+tasteful manner, with corn-fields and meadows of the richest pasturage.
+Nor was there any deficiency of timber; a well-wooded chateau, with its
+lawn and plantations, here and there presenting itself, while quiet
+hamlets and solitary cottages, scattered in great abundance over the
+scene, gave to it an appearance of life and prosperity exceedingly
+bewitching. Had there been but the addition of a fine river flowing
+through the midst of it, and had the ground been somewhat more broken
+into hill and dale, I should have pronounced it the most enchanting
+prospect of the kind I had ever beheld; but, unfortunately, both these
+were wanting. Though the effect of a first view, therefore, was
+striking and delightful, and though to the last we could not help
+acknowledging the richness of the land and its high state of
+cultivation, its beauty soon began to pall. The fact is, that an
+immense plain, however adorned by the labour of man, is not an object
+upon which it is pleasing to gaze for any length of time; the eye
+becomes wearied with the extent of its own stretch, and as there is no
+boundary but the horizon, the imagination is left to picture a
+continuance of the same plain, till it becomes as tired of fancying as
+the eye is of looking. Besides, we were not long in discovering that
+the vineyards were unworthy to be compared, in point of luxuriant
+appearance, with those of Spain and the more southern regions of
+France. In this neighbourhood the vine is not permitted to grow to a
+greater height than three or four feet from the ground; whereas in
+Spain, and on the borders, it climbs, like the hop-plant in England, to
+the top of high poles, and hangs over from one row to another, in the
+most graceful festoons. In spite of these objections, however, no one
+could do otherwise than admit that the change we had experienced was
+agreeable, and we continued to move on with greater alacrity, till it
+was evident, from the increasing number of seats and villas, that we
+were rapidly approaching the vicinity of Bordeaux.
+
+Nor was it long before the towers and buildings of that magnificent
+city began to be discernible in the distance. Prompted by I know not
+what impulse, we almost involuntarily quickened our pace at the sight,
+and in a short time reached the suburbs, which like those of most
+French towns, are composed of low houses, inhabited by the poorest and
+meanest of the people. Here we halted for a few minutes to refresh the
+men, when having again resumed the line of march, we advanced under a
+triumphal arch, originally erected in honour of Napoleon, but now
+inscribed with the name of the Duke d’Angouleme, and ornamented with
+garlands of flowers. Passing under this, we proceeded along one or two
+handsome streets, till we reached the Military Hospital, a large and
+commodious structure fitted up for the reception of several thousands
+of sick, where it was arranged that we should spend the night.
+
+The city of Bordeaux has been too often described, and is too well
+known to my countrymen, in general, to render any particular account of
+it at all necessary from me; and were the case otherwise, I confess
+that my opportunities of examining it were not sufficient to authorize
+my entering upon such an attempt. The whole extent of our sojourn was
+only during the remainder of that day (and it was past noon before we
+got in) and the ensuing night; a space of time which admitted of no
+more than a hurried stroll through some of the principal streets, and a
+hasty visit to such public buildings as are considered most worthy of
+attention. The palace of the Duke d’Angouleme, the Military Hospital,
+the Theatre, and the Cathedral, are all remarkably fine of their kind;
+whilst the public gardens, the Exchange, and fashionable promenades,
+are inferior only to those of Paris itself.
+
+MACAU
+
+I have said that our sojourn in Bordeaux was limited to the short space
+of a few hours. We could have wished indeed to prolong it, but to wish
+was needless, for at an early hour next morning we were again in
+motion, and proceeded to an extensive common, near the village of
+Macau, about three leagues from Bordeaux, where we found a considerable
+force already assembled. Judging from the number of tents upon the
+heath, I conceive that there could not be fewer than eight or ten
+thousand men in that camp, the whole of whom, we naturally concluded,
+were destined for the same service with ourselves. The sight was at
+once pleasing and encouraging, because there could be no doubt that
+such a force, ably commanded, would carry everything before it.
+
+In this situation we continued, without the occurrence of any incident
+deserving of record, till the 27th, when an order arrived for the
+officers to dispose of their horses without delay. This was necessarily
+done at an enormous loss; and on the morning of the 28th, we set
+forward towards the point of embarkation. But, alas! in the numbers
+allotted for the trans-Atlantic war, we found ourselves grievously
+disappointed, since, instead of the whole division, only two regiments,
+neither of them surpassingly numerous, were directed to move; it was
+not our business, however, to question the wisdom of any measure
+adopted by our superiors; and we accordingly marched on in as high
+spirits as if we had been followed by the entire Peninsular army.
+
+The remainder of our journey occupied two days, nor do I often remember
+to have spent a similar space of time with greater satisfaction; our
+route lay through some of the most fertile districts in France, passing
+Chateau Margaux, famous for its wine, with other places not inferior to
+it either in richness of soil or in beauty of prospect. The weather was
+delightful, and the grapes, though not yet ripe, were hanging in heavy
+bunches from the vines, giving promise of much wealth to come; the hay
+season had commenced, and numerous groups of happy-looking peasants
+were busy in every field; in short, it was a march upon which I shall
+never look back without pleasure.
+
+LA MOE.—AT SEA
+
+The close of the first day’s progress brought us to a village called La
+Moe, beautifully situated within view of the majestic waters of the
+Garonne. Here, for the first time since we quitted Bayonne, were we
+quartered upon the inhabitants—a measure which the loss of our tents
+rendered necessary. They received us with so much frankness, and
+treated us with so much civility, I had almost said kindness, that it
+was not without a feeling of something like regret that we parted from
+them. The second day carried us to Pauliac, an inconsiderable town upon
+the banks of the same river, where we found boats ready to convey us to
+the shipping, which lay at anchor to receive us.
+
+To embark the troops in these boats, and to huddle them on board two
+dirty little transports, occupied some time, and the provoking part of
+the business was, that all this trouble was to be gone through again.
+The men-of-war in which we were to cross the Atlantic, could not come
+up so high for want of water; and on this account it was that
+transports were sent as passage-boats to carry us to them. But the wind
+was foul, and blew so strong that the masters would not venture to
+hoist a sail; so we were obliged to endure the misery of a crowd in a
+small vessel for two nights and a day; nor was it till past noon on the
+31st, that the regiment to which I was attached found itself finally
+settled in His Majesty’s ship ———— of 64 guns.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+AT SEA
+
+
+The land army, destined for the invasion of the United States, which
+took shipping at this period in the Garonne, consisted but of three
+battalions of infantry, the 4th, 44th, and 85th regiments; the two
+former mustering each about eight hundred bayonets, the last not more
+than six hundred. In addition to these, there were two officers of
+engineers, a brigade of artillery, a detachment of sappers and miners,
+a party of artillery drivers, with a due proportion of officers
+belonging to the Medical and Commissariat departments. The whole
+together could not be computed at more than two thousand five hundred
+men, if indeed it amounted to so great a number; and was placed under
+the command of Major-General Ross, a very gallant and experienced
+officer.
+
+The fleet, again, consisted of the Royal Oak, of 74 guns, bearing the
+flag of Rear-Admiral Malcolm; the Diadem and Dictator, two sixty-fours,
+armed en flute; the Pomone, Menelaus, Trave, Weser, and Thames,
+frigates, the three last armed in the same manner as the Diadem and
+Dictator; the Meteor and Devastation, bomb-vessels; together with one
+or two gun-brigs, making in all a squadron of eleven or twelve ships of
+war, with several storeships and transports.
+
+On board the Royal Oak were embarked the General, with his staff, and
+the artillery; the Trave and Weser were filled with the 4th; the 44th
+were divided between the Dictator and the Thames, in the first of which
+ships were also the engineers; the 85th occupied the Diadem; and the
+rest were scattered through the fleet, partly in the men-of-war and
+partly in the transports.
+
+As soon as the troops, with all their baggage, were finally settled in
+the vessels allotted for their accommodation, the signal was made to
+weigh; but the wind being adverse, and the navigation of the Garonne
+far from simple, it could not be obeyed with safety. Every thing,
+therefore, remained quiet till the evening of the 2nd of June, when the
+gale moderating a little, the anchors were raised and the sails
+hoisted. The tide was beginning to ebb when this was done, favoured by
+which the ships drifted gradually on their course; but before long, the
+breeze shifting, blew directly in their sterns, when they stood
+gallantly to sea, clearing the river before dark; and, as there was no
+lull during the whole of the night, by daybreak the coast of France was
+not to be discerned. All was now one wide waste of waters, as far as
+the eye could reach, bounded on every side by the distant horizon; a
+scene which, though at first it must strike with awe and wonder a
+person unaccustomed to it, soon becomes insipid, and even wearisome,
+from its constant sameness.
+
+ST. MICHAEL’S
+
+The fair wind which carried us out of the Garonne continuing to blow
+without any interruption till the 19th of June, it was that day
+calculated, by consulting the log and taking observations, that the
+Azores, or Western Islands, could not be very distant. Nor, as it
+turned out, were these calculations incorrect; for, on ascending the
+deck next morning, the first object that met our eyes was the high land
+of St Michael’s rising, like a collection of blue clouds, out of the
+water. With such a prospect before us our consternation may be guessed
+at, when we found ourselves deserted by the breeze which had hitherto
+so uniformly favoured us, and lying as motionless as logs, under the
+influence of a dead calm.
+
+But the complaints to which we had begun to give utterance, were
+speedily changed again into rejoicings, for before mid-day the breeze
+once more freshened, and we approached every moment nearer and nearer
+to the object of our wishes. As soon, too, as we contrived to double
+the projecting headland which had attracted our attention in the
+morning, our course became productive of much interest and pleasure. We
+had neared the shore considerably, and were moving at a rate
+sufficiently rapid to prevent further repining, and at the same time
+slow enough to permit a distinct and calm survey of the beach, with the
+numerous villages, seats, and convents that adorned it.
+
+The island of St. Michael is mountainous, even to the very edge of the
+water, but the heights, though lofty, do not present a rugged or barren
+appearance. Here and there, indeed, bare rocks push themselves into
+notice, but in general the ascent is easy, and the hills are covered to
+the tops with groves of orange-trees and beautiful green pasturage.
+Like other Portuguese settlements, this island abounds in religious
+houses, the founders of many of which do not appear to have been
+deficient in taste when they pitched upon situations for building.
+There was one of these in particular that struck me: it stood upon a
+sort of platform or terrace, about half-way between the sea and the
+summit of the mountain; above it were hanging woods, whether natural or
+artificial I cannot say, broken in upon here and there by projecting
+rocks; and round it were plantations of orange-trees loaded with fruit,
+and interspersed with myrtles and other odoriferous shrubs. Being
+greatly pleased with the mansion and the surrounding scenery, I
+naturally inquired from the pilot (for one had already come off to us)
+as to its use, and the quality of Its owner; and from him I learnt that
+it was a convent, I forget of what order,—a piece of intelligence which
+was soon confirmed by the sound of bells distinctly audible as we
+passed.
+
+VILLA FRANCA.
+
+In this manner we continued to coast along, being seldom at a greater
+distance than four or five miles from the land, till we came opposite
+to a small town called Villa Franca. Here, as the wind threatened to
+die away, several others and myself agreed to go onshore: a boat was
+accordingly lowered, and we pushed off from the ship; but the operation
+of landing did not prove to be altogether so simple as we had expected.
+An immense reef of rocks, some under water, others barely above it, but
+none distinguishable till we had almost run against them, opposed our
+progress; and it was not without considerable difficulty, and the
+assistance of the country people, who made signals to us from the
+beach, that we contrived to discover a narrow channel leading up to the
+strand.
+
+Having at length so far attained our wishes as to tread once more upon
+firm ground, the next thing to be done was to find out some inn, or
+house of public entertainment, where we might pass the night, a measure
+which the increasing darkness rendered necessary. In this, however, we
+were disappointed, the town of Villa Franca boasting of no such
+convenience on any scale. But we were not on that account obliged to
+bivouac; for the Alcalde, or mayor of the place, politely insisted upon
+our accompanying him home, and entertained us with great hospitality;
+nor, in truth, had we any cause to regret the unsuccessful issue of our
+inquiries, since, in addition to the good cheer with which we were
+presented, our host, being an intelligent person, did not fail to
+render himself an agreeable companion; and what contributed in no
+slight degree to the facility of our intercourse was, that though he
+assured us he had never quitted St. Michael’s in his life, he spoke
+English with the fluency of a native. Among other pieces of information
+we learnt from him that the reef which impeded our progress towards the
+land, had formerly been an island. It appeared, he affirmed, one
+morning, in the most sudden and extraordinary manner, as if it had been
+thrown up by an earthquake during the night, and having continued so
+long above water as to embolden a single family of fishers to settle
+upon it, it disappeared again as suddenly as it had come, leaving no
+trace of its existence except the rocks which we had found so
+troublesome. Whether there be truth in this story, I cannot pretend to
+determine; and yet I see no reason to doubt the word of a man of
+respectability, who could have no motive whatever for deceiving us. But
+this was not all that we learnt from him respecting the reef. He
+declared that previous to the appearance of the island, the water in
+that very spot was unfathomable; and it was not till after it had sunk,
+that a single rock stood in the way to prevent the largest ship of war
+from anchoring within a stone’s throw of the beach.
+
+Finding our new acquaintance so civil and obliging, we naturally
+informed him of our intention to proceed next morning to Ponto del
+Gada, the principal town in St. Michael’s, and requested his assistance
+in procuring some mode of conveyance; but we were startled by the
+intelligence that nothing of the kind could be had, and that there were
+not even horses or mules to be hired at any place nearer than the very
+town whither we were going. This was rather an alarming piece of news,
+for our boat had left us, the weather was too hot for walking, and the
+distance to be travelled full fifteen miles. Had we been prudent enough
+to detain our boat, the matter would have been easily managed, because
+we might have sailed round to the point where the fleet was to anchor;
+but this was no longer in our power, and being rather unwilling to
+pursue our journey on foot, we were altogether at a loss upon what
+course to determine. Whilst we thus hesitated, the Alcalde suggested
+that if we would condescend to ride upon asses, he thought he could
+obtain a sufficient number for our party; a proposal with which we
+gladly closed, prudently determining that any mode of being carried was
+better than walking. Leaving the arrangement of this affair, therefore,
+to our obliging friend, we retired to rest upon clean comfortable
+mattresses spread for us on the floor; and on waking in the morning, we
+found that he had not been negligent in the charge assigned to him. Our
+party consisted of five officers, with five servants, for whose
+accommodation we found ten asses at the door, each attended by its
+driver, who wielded a long pole tipped with an iron spike, for the
+purpose of goading the animal whenever it should become lazy.
+
+It was not without a good deal of laughing that the cavalcade, after
+bidding adieu to the hospitable Mayor, began to move forward. Our
+asses, of no larger size than ordinary English donkeys, were
+uncaparisoned, at least with bridles; and the saddles were neither more
+nor less than the pack-saddles upon which goods are transported to
+market. For our own comfort, therefore, we were obliged to sit a la
+femelle, and having no command over the heads of our steeds, we were
+content to be guided by the hallooing and punching of the drivers. In
+spite, however, of these inconveniences, if so they may be called, I
+shall never cease to congratulate myself on having been of the party,
+because the ride proved to be one of the most agreeable I remember at
+any time to have taken.
+
+The road from Villa Franca to Ponto del Gada quits the water’s edge,
+and turns, for a little way, inland, carrying you through a region as
+romantic and beautiful as can well be imagined. There are here no level
+plains, no smooth paths over which a landau or tilbury might glide,
+but, on the contrary, a rugged and stony track, sometimes leading down
+the face of steep hills, sometimes scaling heights which at the
+distance of a mile appear to be almost perpendicular, and sometimes
+winding along the side of a cliff, and by the edge of a fearful
+precipice. Except when you reach the summit of a mountain, the road is
+in general shaded by the richest underwood, hanging over it from above;
+but the whole aspect of the country is decidedly that of a volcanic
+production: the rocks seem to have been cast up and torn asunder by
+some prodigious violence, and hurled, by a force which nothing but a
+volcano could possess, into the most grotesque and irregular shapes. It
+is no uncommon thing to pass under a huge crag, leaning almost
+horizontally over the road, and bedded in the earth by a foundation
+apparently so slight, as to appear liable to fall every moment,
+precipitating the enormous mass upon the luckless wretch beneath. Nay,
+the very colour of the stones, and the quantity of what bears every
+resemblance to vitrification, scattered about, all tend to induce the,
+belief that the main island owes its formation to the same cause which
+doubtless produced the smaller one that has now disappeared.
+
+ST. MICHAEL’S
+
+It is not, however, to be inferred from the above description that St.
+Michael’s is nothing but a barren rock; far from it. There is, indeed,
+in this direction at least, a fair proportion of that commodity; but
+tracts of cultivated ground are not therefore wanting. I should not
+certainly suppose that the soil was remarkably rich in any part of the
+island; but it produces the fig, the orange-tree, and a grape from
+which the inhabitants make very tolerable wine; and there is excellent
+pasture for sheep, and a competent supply of grain. But that in which
+the Azores, and St. Michael’s among the number, particularly excel, is
+the extreme salubrity of the climate. Lying in nearly the same degree
+of latitude with Lisbon, the intense heat which oppresses in that city
+is here alleviated by refreshing sea-breezes; by which means, though I
+believe there is no occasion at any season to complain of cold, it is
+only in the very height of the dog-days, if then, that a person, not
+actually engaged in violent exercise, is justified in complaining of
+sultriness.
+
+The trade of St. Michael’s, as far as I could learn, is confined
+exclusively to fruit: the fig and the orange are the staple
+commodities; and being both very abundant, they are, of course,
+proportionably cheap. Into the praise of a St. Michael’s orange it is
+unnecessary for me to enter, because it is generally allowed to be the
+best with which the English market is supplied; but of the excellence
+of the St. Michael’s fig, I am not sure that my countrymen in general
+are so much aware. It might be, that not having seen a fig for a
+considerable lapse of time, my appetite was peculiarly sharpened
+towards its good qualities, but it struck me that I never before tasted
+any so highly flavoured or so delicate. Besides these, they sell to
+vessels putting in, as we did, for water, some of the wine made in this
+and the neighbouring islands; but the quantity thus disposed of must be
+too inconsiderable to entitle it to be classed among the articles of
+merchandise.
+
+I find, however, that I am entering upon subjects in which I am but
+little versed, and digressing from my narrative. Let me return, then,
+to self, that beloved idol of all travellers, and state that, after we
+had ridden about six miles, the road, which had hitherto conducted us
+along a narrow glen, where the vision was intercepted on both sides,
+now carried us to the summit of a lofty mountain, from whence we
+enjoyed the satisfaction of an extensive prospect, both of the sea and
+of the interior. Looking towards the former, we beheld our own fleet
+bearing down majestically upon Ponto del Gada, and fast approaching the
+anchorage. Turning our eyes inland again, we were delighted with a view
+of mountain and valley, rock and culture, wood and pasturage,
+intermingled in the most exquisite degree of irregularity; but what
+principally attracted our attention was a thick dark smoke rising
+slowly from the summit of a high hill that bounded the prospect. Our
+curiosity being excited by this phenomenon, we inquired from our guides
+into its cause, and were informed that the mountain in question was a
+volcano, and that at its base and along its sides were hot springs of
+water, of a temperature sufficient to boil an egg in three minutes.
+This piece of intelligence confirmed me in my former opinion relative
+to the operative cause in the production of these islands; though,
+indeed, had such evidence been wanting, I should have equally
+concluded, either that they were thrown up, in their present form, from
+the bottom of the sea, or at least that they were torn asunder from one
+another by the force of fire. It must be confessed, however, that mine
+is the opinion of one who has devoted little of his attention to
+geology; but I would by all means advise the disciples of Werner to
+come hither, if they desire further helps in the prosecution of that
+very interesting and practically useful study.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+
+Descending the mountain, on which we had paused for a few minutes to
+feast our eyes and satisfy our curiosity, we arrived at a small hamlet,
+or rather a group of two or three hovels, as romantically situated as
+it is possible for the imagination of man to conceive. They stood at
+the further end of a sort of recess, formed by the hills, which are
+here broken into a circular valley, cut off, to all appearance, from
+the rest of the habitable world; behind them rose a towering crag, as
+perpendicular as the drop of a plummet, from the top of which a little
+rivulet came tumbling down, giving to the scene an appearance of the
+most delightful coolness, and amusing the ear with the unceasing roar
+of a waterfall. From the very face of the cliff, where there seemed to
+be scarcely soil enough to nourish a thistle, numerous shrubs and dwarf
+trees protruded themselves; whilst above it, and on every side of the
+area, the hills were covered with wood, interrupted now and then by the
+bald forehead of a blackened rock. In front of the hamlet again, there
+was an opening sufficient to admit the most delicious glimpse of the
+ocean; and through this the stream, after boiling for awhile in a
+little basin, which it has excavated for itself out of what resembles
+the foundation of the cliff, makes its way, brawling over a clear
+pebbly bottom, till it joins the sea.
+
+This paragon of valleys burst upon us as such scenes, to be witnessed
+with advantage, ought to do, without the slightest warning or
+expectation. The road by which we approached it, being completely shut
+in with wood, and winding considerably to aid the descent, brought us
+out nearly at the gorge of the vale, so as to throw the hamlet, the
+cliff, and the waterfall into the background; and as the whole was of
+such extent as to be taken in at one glance, the effect was striking
+beyond anything of the kind I ever witnessed. It is but natural to
+suppose that we had no desire to hurry through such a glen as this; and
+seeded not the additional motive which the weariness of our donkeys
+afforded, to persuade us to a temporary halt. Giving the animals,
+therefore, to the care of their owners, we dismounted, and went into
+some of the cabins, the inhabitants of which appeared to be as simple
+as the situation of their abodes had prepared us to expect. The men
+were all goatherds, and the women seemed to be as idle as their
+countrywomen in Portugal, sitting at the doors of their houses,
+surrounded by groups of half-naked and filthy-looking children. If it
+be fair to judge from their dress and the furniture of their hovels,
+they were miserably poor, though perfectly contented; they did not ask
+us for money, but astonished, I suppose, at the glaring colour of our
+coats, they were very inquisitive to know who we were and whence we had
+come. The English, the French, and the Portuguese seemed to be the only
+three nations of whose existence they had any knowledge; and having
+been assured, in answer to their first question, that we were not
+French, they immediately added, “Then you must be English.” They did
+not appear, however, to be without some degree of cunning, for as long
+as we paused in replying to their query, they were silent; but no
+sooner had we answered in the negative than they launched forth into
+the most violent invectives against the French; convincing us that the
+animosity of the mother-country towards its barbarous invaders was not
+more implacable than that of the colonies.
+
+Having loitered away half an hour in this romantic spot, and
+distributed a few dollars among its inhabitants, we remounted our
+steeds and continued our journey. The remainder of the ride carried us
+through scenery very similar to what we had already passed; the only
+difference was, that the nearer we approached to Ponto del Gada the
+more frequent became the spots of cultivation, the width and smoothness
+of the road improving in proportion; till at last, when we had attained
+the brow of an eminence, from whence the town with its port and bay
+were distinguishable, we looked down upon an extensive valley, richly
+covered with fields of standing corn. Quickening our pace, we soon
+entered the capital of St. Michael’s, and were conducted by the drivers
+to a good hotel, kept by an Englishwoman of the name of Currie, where
+we found every accommodation which we could desire, at a very moderate
+expense.
+
+PONTO DEL GADA
+
+As we had started at an early hour from Villa Franca, the clocks were
+just striking ten when we alighted at Mrs. Currie’s hotel;
+consequently, there was a long day yet before us, in which we might see
+everything that was to be seen in the place. Having discharged our
+muleteers, therefore, who seemed overjoyed at the receipt of one dollar
+a-piece, swallowed a hasty breakfast, and made ourselves somewhat
+comfortable, we lost no time in setting out upon a stroll of
+examination and discovery.
+
+Ponto del Gada is, on the whole, rather a neat town, containing from
+twelve to fourteen thousand inhabitants; but being built, especially in
+the outskirts, without much regard to compactness, it covers more
+ground than many places of double the amount in population. It stands
+upon a little bay, formed by two projecting headlands, and can boast of
+a tolerable harbour excellent roadstead. In its immediate vicinity the
+country a more uniformly level than any I had yet observed; the vale
+extending to the distance of four or five miles on every side, had
+ending in an amphitheatre of low green hills, which resemble
+appearance, the downs as they are seen from Eastbourne in Sussex. The
+whole of this flat is in a state of high cultivation, being cleared,
+perhaps too completely, of wood, and portioned off into different
+fields and parks by hedges and stone walls. Judging from the appearance
+of the crops, I should conceive that the soil was here of some depth,
+as well as fertility, the whole valley being covered with wheat,
+barley, and Indian corn. And in truth, if the aspect of the country
+beyond the downs, where rocks tower one above another in rude and
+barren grandeur, furnish a legitimate criterion by which to determine
+respecting the general fertility of the island, I should be almost
+tempted to believe that the whole industry of its people has been
+expended upon this spot, simply because it was the only one capable of
+rewarding it. I was assured, however, by the natives, that such is not
+the case; and that, in the interior, and towards the opposite coast,
+the rugged magnificence of mountain scenery gives place to a more
+profitable though less picturesque champaign.
+
+The principal streets of Ponto del Gada are paved, and kept once cool
+and clean by a. constant sprinkling of water, which is the business of
+two or three men stationed at pumps within obtain distance of one
+another, to scatter over them. Of the by-streets little can be said in
+praise, they being, like those of other Portuguese towns, composed of
+mean cottages, unpaved, and extremely dirty. There is, however, an air
+of elegance given to the town, particularly when looked at from a
+distance, by the intermixture of orange-groves among the houses; the
+largest of these, wherever they happen to stand, being, in general,
+surrounded by extensive gardens, all of which are abundantly stocked
+with that graceful and odoriferous plant. Add to this the number of
+towers and spires with which its numerous churches and convents are
+supplied, and the first aspect of the whole may be conceived to be
+extremely striking and imposing.
+
+As soon as we had taken a hurried survey of the streets, the next
+object of attention was the religious houses. In these there was but
+little to admire, the architecture being of the plainest kind, and even
+the chapels as much wanting in ornament as can be imagined. There were,
+indeed, in most of them some trifling attempts at carved work and
+gilding upon the roof, a little stained glass, neither rich nor
+ancient, in the windows, and a few tawdry pictures suspended above the
+altars; but the general appearance was decidedly that of buildings
+which did not even aim at beauty or grandeur. The monks we found a
+good-natured, obliging set of men, very willing to give us any
+information in their power; by one of whom we were fortunate enough to
+be conducted through a convent of Augustine friars. Into their mode of
+living it is not to be supposed that we could obtain much insight. It
+seemed, however, to be less indolent than that of some convents which
+we had visited in the old country, and approached proportionably nearer
+to a college life among ourselves; though it must be admitted that the
+fellows and undergraduates of Oxford and Cambridge have a better notion
+of both comfort and elegance than the Augustine friars of St.
+Michael’s. Of the nuns we of course saw nothing, excepting through the
+grates. We found them full of curiosity, and eager to know as much as
+they could learn of the world from which they were excluded; but quite
+as fond of flirting as any set of young ladies at a boarding-school. It
+was amusing to observe their mode of begging, for all the nuns in this
+part of the world are licensed beggars. The younger and fairer members
+of the sisterhood came to the grate first; chatted, sung, and presented
+us with artificial flowers, and then retiring, made way for the old and
+the ugly, who requested a little money for the good of our souls and
+their bodies. To solicitations thus expressed it was impossible to turn
+a deaf ear, and the consequence was, that we soon discovered it to be
+quite as expensive an amusement to flirt with a nun, as with any other
+belle in London or elsewhere.
+
+Besides the churches and convents, amounting in all to not fewer than
+nine, there is a fort erected for the protection of the harbour, which
+we likewise endeavoured to see, but were prevented by the sentinel at
+the gate, who refused us admittance. The disappointment, however, was
+not great, as it was easy to perceive, from its outward appearance,
+that the fort could possess few points worthy of observation; and,
+indeed, we attributed the reluctance evinced in admitting strangers to
+its utter uselessness as a place of defence.
+
+To describe all this occupies but a small portion of time; but to see
+it was the laborious employment of an entire day. Wearied out at length
+with my exertions, and not feeling much rewarded, at least for the
+latter part of my trouble, I returned in the evening to the hotel,
+where, as the ships were still at anchor, taking on board water and
+fresh provisions, I ventured to spend the night.
+
+Having thus discovered that there was little in the works of art, and a
+great deal in those of nature, throughout St. Michael’s, to interest
+the traveller, a friend and myself determined to set off next morning
+on a visit to the volcano. With this design we ordered asses, for asses
+are the only animals for hire, to be in readiness by daybreak; and
+finding them in waiting at the time appointed, we took a guide with us
+and pushed forward in the direction of the dark smoke. The mountain
+with its crater being distinctly visible from Ponto del Gada, we took
+it for granted the distance between the two places could not exceed
+twelve or fourteen miles; but, on inquiring of our guide, we learned
+that the nearest road would carry us at least twenty-seven miles from
+the town. This was at once a startling and unpleasant piece of
+intelligence, affecting our arrangements in no trifling degree. To
+proceed was dangerous, because, mounted as we were, to go and return in
+one day was impossible; and, if we remained so far from the shipping
+during the night, the fleet might sail before we should be able to get
+back. On the the other hand, to give up our design, and quit a country
+where a volcano was to be seen, without seeing it, appeared rather a
+mortifying prospect. After weighing for a few minutes the chances on
+both sides, I shall not say with the utmost impartiality, curiosity
+finally prevailed over apprehension; and, in order to prevent any
+further repentance and consequent change of mind, we put our donkeys
+into a gallop, and hurried on as fast as they could carry us. But the
+speed of the asses and our own venturous determination proved, after
+all, equally unavailing; for, on gaining the summit of the downs, and
+looking back upon the fleet, we beheld, to our great sorrow, the signal
+for sailing displayed at the topmasts of all the ships. Mortified at
+our disappointment, and at the same time rejoicing that we had got no
+farther on our journey, we were compelled to turn our asses’ heads, and
+to retrace our steps towards Ponto del Gada, where we found everything
+in the bustle and confusion of a re-embarkation. The beach was covered
+with sailors, soldiers, bullocks, and casks of fresh water, hurrying,
+and being hurried, indiscriminately into the boats which had arrived to
+take them off. The townspeople were running about upon the strand, some
+offering their skiffs to convey the officers on board the ships, some
+helping to swing the bullocks into the barges, and others shouting and
+hallooing apparently from the disinterested love of noise. In short, it
+was a scene of great liveliness and bustle, perhaps rather too much so
+to be agreeable.
+
+Seeing this universal eagerness to reach the fleet, we, like the rest,
+threw ourselves into the first boat we could approach, and in a short
+time found ourselves on board our own ship. But here a very tantalizing
+piece of intelligence awaited us, for we learnt that, in spite of all
+this show of preparation, the Admiral had not begun to weigh anchor;
+and that no intention of moving was entertained, at soonest, before the
+morrow. The opportunity, however, was lost; it could not be recovered,
+and we were obliged to submit as cheerfully as we could, though it was
+impossible to help regretting, what had at first been a source of
+consolation, the circumstance of our having caught a view of the signal
+at the time we did. But, as the event proved, all had turned out for
+the best; for on the day following the signal was again repeated; and
+by way of giving additional weight to it, the Admiral began to shake
+loose his topsails. Nor did it prove, like that of yesterday, a false
+alarm. By mid-day, the victualling and watering being complete, the
+fleet immediately began to get under weigh; and, as the wind blew fair
+and fresh, before dark the mountains of St. Michael’s could be seen
+only like a thin vapour in the sky. Next morning nothing but the old
+prospect of air and water met the gaze, as we stood our course, at a
+rapid rate, towards Bermuda.
+
+AT SEA
+
+The voyage from St. Michael’s to Bermuda occupied the space of almost
+an entire month, the first having been lost sight of on the 27th of
+June, and it being the 24th of July before the low shores of the last
+could be discerned. It was, however, a passage of more interest and
+productive of more variety than that from Bordeaux to the Azores. We
+had now arrived within the influence of the tropical climate, and were
+not unfrequently amused with water-spouts, and other phenomena peculiar
+to warm regions. The flying-fish, likewise, and its pursuer, the
+dolphin, afforded at least something to look at; whilst many idle hours
+were whiled away in attempts to catch or strike the latter with
+harpoons. In these we were not always unsuccessful, consequently we
+enjoyed several opportunities of watching the change of colour which
+that fish undergoes whilst it is dying; and though the description
+generally given of it is certainly indebted in some degree to the
+imagination of voyagers, I must confess that the transitions from blue
+to purple, and from purple to green, with all their intermediate
+shades, are extremely beautiful. When the fish is in the water, it is
+by no means remarkable for brilliancy of hue, and as soon as it is dead
+it returns to its original colour—a dingy sea-green; but whilst it is
+floundering and flapping upon the deck, it is impossible to say what is
+its real appearance, so many and so different are the hues which it
+assumes. Nor did we escape without the occasional occurrence of a less
+agreeable species of variety; I mean squalls, thunder-storms, and
+whirlwinds. As we approached Bermuda, indeed, these became too frequent
+to excite any interest beyond an earnest desire that they would cease:
+but while we were yet a good way off, and the incident rare, they were
+witnessed with more of admiration than terror.
+
+Besides these amusements with which nature supplied us, we were not
+backward in endeavouring to amuse ourselves. Being now pretty well
+accustomed to the atmosphere of a ship, we began to consider ourselves
+at home, and to give balls and other public entertainments through the
+fleet. One of these I shall take leave to describe, because I am sure
+it must interest from its novelty. On the 19th of July, at an early
+hour in the morning, a signal was made from the Royal Oak, that the
+Admiral would be happy to see the officers of the fleet on board his
+ship that evening. Boats were accordingly sent off from the different
+vessels, loaded with visitors; and on mounting the gangway, a stage,
+with a green curtain before it, was discovered upon the quarter-deck.
+The whole of the deck, from the poop to the mainmast, was hung round
+with flags, so as to form a moderate-sized theatre; and the carronades
+were removed from their port-holes, in order to make room for the
+company. Lamps were suspended from all parts of the rigging and
+shrouds, casting a brilliant light upon this singular playhouse; and
+the crew, arrayed in their best attire, crowded the booms, yards, and
+fore part of the deck; whilst the space from the mainmast to the foot
+of the stage was set with benches for the more genteel part of the
+audience.
+
+At seven o’clock the curtain drew up, and discovered a scene painted
+with such taste as would not have disgraced any theatre in London. The
+play was the ‘Apprentice,’ with the ‘Mayor of Garret’ as an afterpiece,
+performed by the officers of the ship and of the artillery, and went
+off in high style, applauded, as it deserved to be applauded, with the
+loudest acclamations. The quarter-deck of a British line-of-battle ship
+has often enough been a stage for the exhibition of bloody tragedies;
+but to witness a comedy and a farce upon that stage, and in the middle
+of the Atlantic Ocean, was delightful from its very singularity. When
+the performance came to an end, the stage was knocked down, the seats
+removed, and everything cleared for dancing. The music was excellent,
+being composed of the band of the Royal Oak; and the ball was opened by
+Admiral Malcolm and the Honourable Mrs. Mullens, in a country dance,
+followed by as many couples as the space would permit; the greater
+number of officers dancing, as necessity required, with one another. In
+this amusement every person, from the Admiral and General, down to the
+youngest ensign and midshipman, joined, laying aside for the time all
+restraint or form of discipline; and having kept it up with great
+spirit till considerably beyond midnight, a blue light was hoisted as a
+signal for the different boats to come off for the strangers, and each
+returned to his own ship highly gratified with the evening’s
+entertainment.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+BERMUDA
+
+
+By employing ourselves in this manner, and by keeping up what is
+emphatically called a good heart, we contrived to pass out time
+agreeably enough. As often as the weather would permit, and the fleet
+lay well together, we made parties of pleasure to the different ships;
+when the wind was too high, and the fleet too much scattered for such
+proceedings, we remained at home, and amused ourselves in the best way
+we could. Some of the captains, and ours among the number, were
+possessed of very tolerable libraries, the doors of which they politely
+threw open for the benefit of their military guests; and thus, by
+reading, fishing, and boating, we were enabled to make head, with some
+success, against the encroachments of ennui. It must be confessed,
+however, that in spite of strenuous efforts to the contrary, that
+determined enemy of all idle persons was beginning to gain ground upon
+us, when, about mid-day on the 24th of July, a cry of land was heard
+from the mast-head. All eyes were immediately turned in the direction
+to which the sailor pointed, and as wind blew fair and moderately
+fresh, no great length of time before the same object was
+distinguishable from the deck. A signal was immediately hoisted for a
+pilot, who lost no time in coming off to us; and before dark we were at
+anchor opposite to the tanks in Bermuda.
+
+The appearance of Bermuda is altogether as different from that of St.
+Michael’s as one thing can be from another. Whilst the last, with its
+lofty mountains and bold shores, can be seen at the distance of many
+leagues, a ship must be within a few miles of the first before the
+slightest symptom of land is discernible. On this account it is that
+mariners find greater difficulty in making Bermuda than perhaps any
+other island or continent in the known world; the most experienced
+seaman frequently sailing past it, and not a few suffering shipwreck
+every year upon its numerous shoals and rocks. For not only is the land
+itself low, and thus apt to be run against by vessels which may have
+approached in stormy weather too near to put about, but for many miles
+round, reefs of sunken rocks stretch out into the sea in every
+direction; insomuch, that even the approach to the principal anchorage
+is no more than a narrow channel between two reefs, in many places
+scarcely exceeding a mile or a mile and a half in width. The
+navigation, even in calm weather, is therefore attended with
+considerable danger; the idea of which is greatly heightened by the
+remarkable clearness of the water and the peculiar brightness of the
+rocks. In some places this is so much the case, that the bottom may be
+seen at the depth of six or seven fathoms; whilst the aspect of the
+reefs which lie on each side, as you steer towards the anchorage, is
+such, as almost to persuade you, contrary to the evidence of reason,
+that a man might leap upon them from a boat without incurring the
+danger of being wet above the knees. Yet these very reefs are seldom
+covered with less than six, and sometimes with fourteen and fifteen
+feet of water.
+
+Low as they are, the shores of Bermuda are nevertheless extremely
+beautiful. They are covered with cedar, a tree which here, at least,
+seldom exceeds the height of twenty feet, and from which, before the
+sun has risen and after he has set, the land breeze comes loaded with
+the most delicious perfume. Under the wood there grows a rich short
+turf, apparently struggling to spread itself over the chalky rocks, of
+which the entire island, or rather islands, seem to be composed; and,
+as the houses of the better orders are chiefly built within reach of
+the cool air from the water, they, with their little lawns and gardens,
+produce a lively and pleasing effect.
+
+As darkness had come on before the ship could be properly moored, no
+boats were permitted to leave her that night; but at an early hour next
+morning I embraced the first opportunity of going on shore. To reach
+St. George’s, the capital of the colony, you are obliged to row for
+several miles up a narrow frith called the ferry, immediately on
+entering which the scenery becomes in the highest degree picturesque.
+Though still retaining its character of low, the ground on each side
+looks as if it were broken into little swells, the whole of them
+beautifully shaded with groves of cedar, and many of them crowned with
+country-houses as white as the drifted snow. But the fact is, that this
+appearance of hill and dale is owing to the prodigious number of
+islands which compose the cluster; there being in all, according to
+vulgar report, not fewer than three hundred and sixty-five, of which
+the largest exceeds not seven or eight miles in diameter. Yet it is
+only when you follow what at first you are inclined to mistake for a
+creek or the mouth of a river, that you discover the absence of valleys
+from between these hills; and even then you are more apt to fancy
+yourself upon the bosom of a lake studded with islets, than steering
+amid spots of earth which stand, each of them distinct, in the middle
+of the Atlantic Ocean.
+
+In the town of St. George’s there is nothing to be seen at all worthy
+of record. It consists of about fifty or sixty houses, the glare from
+which, as they are all built of the chalk stone, is extremely dazzling
+to the eyes. It is called the capital, because here the court-house
+stands and the magisterial sittings are held; but in point of size,
+and, as far as I could learn, in every other respect, it is greatly
+inferior to Hamilton, another town at the opposite extremity of the
+cluster, which I did not visit. A little way from St. George’s, and on
+the summit of a bare rock, stand the barracks, fitted up for the
+accommodation of a thousand men; and about a mile and a half beyond
+them are the tanks, well worth the notice of travellers. The object of
+this work is to catch and preserve the rain—a measure which the total
+deficiency of fresh springs throughout the colony renders absolutely
+necessary. There are, indeed, wells dug upon the beach, but the water
+in these is nothing more than sea-water, filtered and rendered brackish
+in making its way through the sand, and by no means fit to be used, at
+least in any quantity. To supply this deficiency, the bad effects of
+which were experienced in the unhealthiness of many of the crews upon
+the American station, Government was induced to build these tanks;
+consequently the water contained in them is the property of the king,
+and none but king’s ships, with the troops in garrison, are permitted,
+except in extreme cases, to be supplied from thence.
+
+The climate of Bermuda has been extolled by many, and among the rest by
+Mr. Moore in his odes and epistles, as salubrious and delightful. It is
+possible that he, and the rest of its eulogists, may have visited these
+islands at a season of the year different from that in which I visited
+them, but to me the heat was beyond measure oppressive. Lying, as they
+do, under the influence of a vertical sun, and abounding in all
+directions with cliffs of white chalk, it is obvious that the constant
+reflection of the sun’s rays thereby occasioned must be quite
+overpowering. If these panegyrists mean to say, that as long as you
+contrive to keep in the shade, and take care not to stir abroad till
+after sunset, you will find the Bermudas deserving of their title of
+summer-islands, then I will agree with them; but I believe there is no
+man who ever walked the street of St. George’s at noon, or any other
+spot where the sun-beams could reach him, that did not consider the
+heat as anything rather than temperate.
+
+But whatever may be thought of the climate, there can, I think, be but
+one opinion as to the soil. It is generally admitted that there is no
+more unproductive spot of earth upon the face of the deep than Bermuda.
+The only animals which appear to thrive are the goat and the duck; the
+cedar and a few calabash-trees are the only wood, and, except the most
+common kinds of vegetables, such as cabbages, onions, and sweet
+potatoes; I know of hardly another thing brought to perfection, even in
+the gardens. The fruits which a stranger may meet with are no doubt
+delicious, since among them he will find the shaddock and the
+pine-apple; but for these, as well as for almost all their other
+comforts and luxuries, the Bermudians are indebted to the continent of
+America or to the West Indies. Whether this be owing to the natural
+sterility of the soil, or to the extreme indolence of the inhabitants,
+I cannot pretend to decide; though I should be inclined to suspect that
+both were, in some degree, to blame; but its consequences are felt by
+all visitors, in a very sensible manner, every article of living being
+here sold for thrice its intrinsic value. That provisions should be
+dear in this country cannot surprise, when it is considered that this
+small colony is the general depot and place of resort for repairs and
+stores to a large proportion of the British navy, scattered along the
+coast of America; but, surely, if the natives were a little more
+industrious, they might afford to sell their goods at a cheaper rate,
+and at the same time secure an equal, if not a greater profit. But
+their indolence is beyond all conception, and can be attributed only
+to, what I believe is its real cause, the facility with which they
+acquire fortunes, from men who are necessitated to give whatever they
+demand for the most trifling article. The poorest and meanest freeman
+upon the island never dreams of applying his own hand, or even his own
+head, to the cultivation of the ground; and being abundantly supplied
+with negro slaves, they leave everything, even the care of providing
+necessaries for themselves, to the industry of that ill-used race. I
+may perhaps be considered as expressing myself with too much severity
+towards the Bermudians, but, in truth, I repeat only what I was told by
+some of themselves; nor did I, from my own personal observation,
+discover any cause to question the veracity of my informers.
+
+In the praise bestowed by Mr. Moore upon the beauty of these regions, I
+do, however, most cordially join. There is something bewitchingly
+pretty, for pretty is perhaps the most appropriate epithet to be used,
+in every one of the many views which you may obtain from different
+points. The low and elegant cedar, the green short turf, the frequent
+recurrence of the white and dazzling rock, the continual rise and fall
+of the numerous small islands, but above all, the constant
+intermingling of land and water, seem more like a drawing of fairy land
+than a reality. There is nothing grand, nothing imposing, or calculated
+to excite any feeling bordering upon the awful, throughout the whole;
+but it is soft, gentle, and exquisitely pleasing.
+
+Having spent the day at St. George’s, I returned on board to sleep; and
+on the morrow removed, with my baggage, to a transport then lying at
+anchor within the ferry, which was thenceforth to be my head-quarters.
+Thither my friend Grey also removed, and as our ship was well stored,
+and its commander civil and accommodating, we had no reason to complain
+of any suffering consequent upon our change of residence.
+
+It will be readily believed that a very small portion of our time was
+now wasted on board ship; for economy’s sake we usually slept there,
+because at the inn the charge for beds, as well as for everything else,
+was enormous; but all the hours of daylight were devoted to rowing
+round the different islands, and climbing the different eminences, from
+whence the most extensive prospects were to be obtained. Among other
+curiosities, we were informed of two caves in one of the little isles,
+distant about four or five miles from the place where we lay. Being
+assured that they were highly deserving of notice, we determined to
+visit them; and setting off one evening for that purpose, we reached
+the spot which had been pointed out to us a little before dark. We
+fastened the boat to the stump of a tree, and were proceeding towards
+the caves, when a fine manly voice, singing one of the Irish melodies,
+attracted our attention. Being rather curious to discover who, in this
+extramundane place, had learnt to sing with so much taste, we followed
+the direction of the sound, till we came upon a party sitting under the
+shade of a tent, and, like ourselves, enjoying the cool of the evening;
+on perceiving us, some of them came forward, and the satisfaction was
+mutual when we recognised one another as old acquaintances. They urged
+us to relinquish our design, and to partake of their good cheer, with
+which, as the hour was late, we had small reluctance in complying; and
+it was agreed, that instead of going on without proper guides, and at
+so unseasonable a time, we should breakfast together at the same spot
+in the morning, and proceed in a body to examine the caverns. Here,
+therefore, we remained till the moon had risen, when we returned to our
+boat, and sailed back to the ship.
+
+Next morning everything was prepared for the expedition, but a heavy
+squall coming on, prevented us from setting out as early as we had
+intended; as soon, however, as this blew over, we took to our boat, and
+reached the place of rendezvous in time to share the remains of a good
+breakfast which our friends had prepared for themselves and us. When
+our meal was finished, we supplied ourselves with torches from some dry
+branches of the calabash-tree, and, headed by a guide, moved towards
+the mouth of the nearest and largest of the two caves. We descended
+into this by a ladder of sixteen steps, and arrived upon a broad ledge
+of rock, where we halted for a few minutes to light the torches, and
+accustom our vision to the gloom; when, both of these ends being
+attained, we advanced a few paces into the cave, and a sight of the
+most indescribable sublimity burst upon us. The appearance was that of
+a huge Gothic cathedral, having its roof supported upon pillars of
+spar, moulded into the most regular shapes, and fluted and carved after
+the most exact models of architecture. The roof itself was indeed too
+lofty to be discerned, nor could the eye penetrate to anything like an
+extremity, all beyond a certain extent being wrapped in the most
+profound darkness; but the flashes of light which at intervals streamed
+out, as the glare of the torches fell upon pieces of spar as clear as
+crystal, and the deep echo of our own voices as we spoke, inspired us
+with a feeling of awe bordering upon superstition. It is in such a
+situation as this, that the poverty of the mightiest monument of human
+art becomes conspicuous. The most magnificent churches and abbeys, with
+their sculptured pillars and vaulted ceilings, were thought of as mean
+in comparison of what was now before us; indeed, I for one could not
+help imagining that these very churches and abbeys had been built in
+humble imitation of this, which looked like a temple reared by some
+beings more powerful than men. It seemed a shrine worthy of the genii
+of old, while yet they were in the zenith of their glory, ere they had
+been driven from their thrones and oracles of darkness by the light of
+Christianity.
+
+As we moved onward we found the sides of the cave gradually narrow upon
+us, and the roof become lower and lower. There was, however, a
+continuance of the same fane-like appearance to the last, though
+growing more and more contracted; till, finally, we were compelled to
+advance one by one, and to stoop in order to prevent our heads from
+coming into contact with the rock. We had proceeded as far as it was
+possible to proceed with any degree of comfort, and were informed by
+the guide that we were upwards of three hundred yards from the
+entrance, when we found it expedient to wheel about, and to return to
+the open air. But the effect of so sudden a change from darkness to
+light was exceedingly disagreeable; insomuch that we hastened into the
+smaller cave, as well for the purpose of deferring the moment of
+suffering as to continue our search after the sublime.
+
+The entrance to this cavern is extremely dangerous, and not to be
+ventured upon without either a trusty guide or a thorough knowledge of
+the ground. After descending a ladder, not quite so deep as that which
+leads into the larger cave, we arrived at the brink of a fearful chasm,
+across which a flat stone, about two feet in width, was laid,
+connecting the edges by a bridge four or five feet in length. To what
+depth the chasm may reach, the guide could not inform us; but that it
+is considerable we discovered by dropping a large stone, which we could
+hear for some time as it dashed against the projecting edges of the
+rock, and at length splashed with a tremendous echo into water. The man
+maintained that the sea beat under the foundation of the island as far
+as the spot where we now stood, and his story was rendered at least
+probable by the number of pools of salt water which we met with in the
+interior of the cave.
+
+After having visited the larger cavern, this certainly appeared to
+disadvantage; though in truth it is in its dimensions only that the one
+can be pronounced inferior to the other. The spar is equally clear and
+proportionably as abundant in both: the pillars are quite as regularly
+formed, and the lesser has an advantage over its rival in two or three
+broken columns, which give to it the semblance of a temple in ruins.
+There is also in this cave a strange propinquity of salt and fresh
+water pools, the situation of two of which struck me as peculiarly
+curious. They were divided from each other by a piece of rock not much
+thicker than a man’s hand; and yet the water from the one tasted as if
+it had been taken from the German Ocean, whilst that from the other was
+as fresh and pleasant as possible.
+
+We had by this time fully gratified our curiosity, and once more
+ascended to the world of sunshine, the splendour of which was at first
+almost insupportable. By degrees, however, our eyes became accustomed
+to the change and recovered their original tone, when we separated,
+each party returning to its respective ship in high good humour with
+the day’s employment.
+
+But to dine quietly on board was no longer endurable. A tent was
+accordingly carried on shore, and having sought out the most shady and
+agreeable nook within a moderate distance of the vessel, our dinner was
+brought thither, and we spent the evening, as we had done the morning,
+among the works of nature. Here we remained till a late hour, talking
+over the adventures of the day, and occasionally attempting a blind
+peep into futurity, till our friend the moon having risen, we again
+pulled on board by her light, and lay down to dream of sparry domes and
+enchanted temples.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+AMERICA
+
+
+Some apology is due to the reader, whose attention has been thus long
+withdrawn from other and more important matters, to follow the
+adventures of an humble individual like myself. The fault, however, of
+which I have been guilty may be at once repaired, when I inform him
+that on our arrival at Bermuda we found Sir Alexander Cochrane, in the
+Tonnant, of eighty guns, waiting to receive us, and to take the command
+of the whole fleet. The secret of our destination likewise, which up to
+that moment had been kept, transpired almost as soon as we cast anchor
+off the island; and it was publicly rumoured that our next point of
+debarkation would be somewhere on the shores of the Bay of Chesapeake.
+Nor are these the only interesting public occurrences of which no
+notice has as yet been taken. On the 4th of June our little army was
+reinforced by the arrival of the 21st Fusiliers, a fine battalion,
+mustering nine hundred bayonets, under the command of Colonel
+Patterson. On the evening of the 29th a squadron of four frigates and
+several transports appeared in the offing, which by mid-day on the day
+following were all at anchor in the roads. They proved to be from the
+Mediterranean, having the 21st, 29th, and 62nd Regiments on board, of
+which the two latter were proceeding to join Sir George Prevost’s army
+in Canada, whilst the former attached itself to that under the command
+of General Ross. By this very acceptable reinforcement, our numbers
+were increased to upwards of three thousand effective men, and a
+greater confidence in themselves, as well as a better grounded hope of
+success in whatever they might undertake, was at the same time given to
+the troops.
+
+Having already dwelt sufficiently upon my own personal Adventures at
+Bermuda, I shall not waste time by a particular detail of the various
+preparations which during this interval were making throughout the
+fleet. Stores of provisions, fresh water, ammunition, clothing, &c.,
+were provided, and magazines for the future supply of the expedition
+established; when, on the 3rd of August, all things being complete, the
+ships once more got under weigh, and stood towards America.
+
+THE CHESAPEAKE
+
+During the whole of this day the wind was light and unsteady,
+consequently little progress was made, nor did the white rocks of
+Bermuda disappear till darkness concealed them; but towards morning a
+fresher and more favourable breeze springing up, the rest of the voyage
+was performed in reasonable time, and without the occurrence of any
+incident worthy of notice. The heat, indeed, became more and more
+oppressive every day, and the irksomeness of renewed confinement was
+more sensibly experienced from the long holiday which we had enjoyed on
+shore; but, in other respects, everything returned to its former state,
+till towards evening on the 14th, when a signal was made by the Admiral
+that land was in sight. As yet, however, there was no appearance of it
+from the deck of our transport, nor for a full half-hour could our
+anxious gaze be rewarded by the slightest trace of what it sought; but
+at the end of that time the low sandy point of Cape Charles began to
+show itself, and we rejoiced in the prospect of a speedy release from
+the ennui of a seafaring life.
+
+The coast of America, at least in this quarter, is universally low and
+uninteresting; insomuch, that for some time before the land itself can
+be discerned, forests of pines appear to rise, as it were, out of the
+water. It is also dangerous from the numerous shoals and sandbanks
+which run out in many places to a considerable extent into the sea, and
+which are so formidable that no master of a vessel, unless he chance to
+be particularly well acquainted with the navigation, will venture to
+approach after dark. The fleet was accordingly anchored within a few
+miles of the shore, but no sooner had the day begun to break than the
+sails were again hoisted, and the ships, steering under the influence
+of a leading wind, between the Capes Charles and Henry, stood in
+gallant style up the Chesapeake.
+
+This noble bay is far too wide, and the land on each side too flat, to
+permit any but an indistinct glimpse of the shore from the deck of a
+vessel which keeps well towards the middle. On the present occasion we
+could distinguish nothing, on either hand, except the tops of trees,
+with occasionally a windmill or a lighthouse; but the view of our own
+fleet was in truth so magnificent as to prevent any murmuring on that
+account. Immediately on entering, we were joined by Admiral Cockburn
+with three line-of-battle ships, several frigates, and a few sloops of
+war and gun-brigs, by which means the squadron could now muster above
+twenty vessels entitled to display the pendant, besides an equal if not
+a greater number of victuallers and transports. Nor were we
+strengthened by this addition in the naval part of the expedition
+alone. On board these ships was embarked a powerful reinforcement for
+the army, consisting of a battalion of seven hundred marines, a hundred
+negroes lately armed and disciplined, and a division of marine
+artillery, so that we could now calculate on landing a corps of at
+least four thousand men. The spectacle was therefore as agreeable and
+imposing as might be; because we could not help remembering that this
+magnificent fleet was sailing in an enemy’s bay, and that it was filled
+with troops for the invasion of that enemy’s country. Thus, like a
+snowball, we had gathered as we went on, and from having set out a mere
+handful of soldiers, were now become an army, formidable as well from
+its numbers as its discipline.
+
+The shoals and sandbanks which abound on the outside of the bay,
+continue to encumber the navigation after it is entered, and the fleet
+was in consequence compelled to anchor every night. This proceeding
+unavoidably occasioned much delay. The first day’s sail carried us only
+to the mouth of the James river, and the second to the mouth of the
+Potomac; but, on both occasions, we brought up at too great a distance
+from the beach to permit perfect or distinct view of either of these
+rivers. Opposite to the latter, indeed, we remained for a night and a
+considerable part of the following day, and the sky being remarkably
+clear, we saw something more of it than we had been able to see of the
+other river. It appeared to be a fine piece of water making its way
+through the centre of huge forests, and, though the current is in
+reality strong, flowing on without any apparent motion. But it would
+have been impossible to trace its course, even had we been nearer to
+the shore, above a few miles, on account of its numerous windings, the
+first of which, overshadowed as it is with wood, shuts it out from
+further observation. By continuing here so long, we had begun to
+conjecture that a landing somewhere on the banks of this river was in
+contemplation. In this, however, we were deceived, for about one
+o’clock the fleet was again under sail, and moving towards the
+Patuxent, a river which empties itself into the bay, several miles
+above the Potomac.
+
+THE PATUXENT.
+
+It was singular enough, that the ships had scarcely begun to lift their
+anchors, when the sky, which had hitherto continued clear and serene,
+became suddenly darkened and overcast with heavy clouds: and the water,
+which before had been as smooth and bright as a mirror, began to rise
+in black waves tipped with foam, though there was not a breath of air
+to fill the sails. Hurricanes are, I believe, not unfrequent in this
+part of the world, and it was expected that these changes in the sea
+and sky foreboded the arrival of one; but they passed by without
+producing any violent results, and when we brought up, which was done
+in the evening, the clouds had dispersed, and the water was again like
+a glassy lake.
+
+The 18th of August had now arrived, and as yet we had advanced no
+farther than to the mouth of the Patuxent. There we lay, as we had done
+the day before, anxiously expecting a breeze; till about noon, the wind
+beginning to blow fair, the fleet entered the river and made its way
+slowly and majestically against the stream. The voyage soon became
+picturesque and interesting in the highest degree. Fields of Indian
+corn, with meadows of the most luxuriant pasture, stretched along the
+margin of the stream on either hand; whilst the neat wooden houses of
+the settlers, all of them painted white, and surrounded with orchards
+and gardens, presented a striking contrast to the boundless forests
+which formed a background to the scene. Of the prodigious extent and
+gloomy appearance of these forests, it is impossible for any language
+to convey an adequate conception. There is nothing, at least nothing
+which I have seen, in the Old World, at all resembling or to be
+compared with them; and hemming in, as they do, on every side, the tiny
+spots of cultivation, they certainly convey no very enlarged idea of
+the power of human industry. The cleared fields on the banks of the
+Patuxent, for example, could in no direction measure above half a mile
+across,—in many places their breadth fell short of that, from the river
+to the woods; and then all was one vast forest, through which no eye
+could penetrate, nor any traveller venture to seek his way. We were, as
+may be imagined, greatly taken by scenery so novel; and we continued to
+gaze upon it with the liveliest interest, till our attention was drawn
+away to other and more important matters.
+
+ST. BENEDICT’S.
+
+We had not proceeded many miles from the river’s mouth when a telegraph
+from the Admiral gave orders for the troops to be in readiness to land
+at a moment’s notice. Everything was forthwith put in a state of
+forwardness; provisions for three days, that is to say, three pounds of
+pork, with two pounds and a half of biscuit, were cooked and given to
+the men; the cartouch-boxes were supplied with fresh ammunition, and
+the arms and accoutrements handed out. The fleet, however, continued to
+move on, without showing any inclination to bring to; till at length,
+having ascended to the distance of ten leagues from the bay, the ships
+of the line began to take the ground; and in a little while after, even
+the frigates could proceed no farther. But by this time the sun had
+set, and darkness was coming on; consequently, there was no
+possibility, for that day, of getting the troops on shore without much
+confusion, if not danger. All therefore remained quiet for the night,
+with this exception, that the soldiers were removed from the large
+ships into such as drew least water; which running up as high as
+prudence would permit, under convoy of the gun-brigs and sloops of war,
+there cast anchor.
+
+As soon as the dawn began to appear, on the morning of the 19th, there
+was a general stir throughout the fleet. A gun-brig had already taken
+her station within a hundred and fifty yards of a village called St.
+Benedict’s, on the left bank of the river, where it was determined that
+the disembarkation should be effected. Her broadside was turned towards
+the shore, and her loaded with grape and round shot, were pointed at
+the beach, to cover the landing of the boats; and being moored and aft
+with spring-cables, she was altogether as manageable as if she had been
+under sail. The rest of the ships were several miles lower down the
+stream, some of them being aground the distance of four leagues from
+this point; but the boats were quickly hoisted out from every one of
+them, and the river as covered in a trice with a well-manned and
+warlike flotilla. The disembarkation was conducted with the greatest
+regularity and dispatch. Though the stream ran strong against them, and
+some of them were obliged to row fourteen or fifteen miles backwards
+and forwards, so strenuously did the sailors exert themselves, that by
+three o’clock in the afternoon the whole army was landed, and occupied
+a strong position about two miles above the village.
+
+From what I have stated respecting the gun-brig, it will be seen that
+all things were in readiness to meet and repel opposition, should such
+be offered. Her broadside being pointed directly towards the village,
+whilst it hindered the enemy from bringing down troops in that
+direction, gave to our people an opportunity of forming, and being able
+to meet, in good order, whatever force might be posted to check their
+advance up the country. Had a few pieces of artillery been mounted,
+indeed, upon the high ground, afterwards taken possession of by us,
+some execution might have been done upon the boats as they drew towards
+the beach; but even that would have been trifling, because, unless they
+had had leisure to heat their shot, no artillery, in the open country
+could have long stood before the fire of even a gun-brig, armed as this
+was for the occasion with long thirty-two pounders. Each boat-load of
+soldiers, likewise, drew up the moment they stepped on shore, forming
+line without any regard to companies or battalions; whilst parties were
+instantly dispatched to reconnoitre, and to take possession of every
+house, as well as to line every hedge, in front of the shore where
+their comrades were arriving. But these preparations, though no more
+than common prudence required, were unnecessary; since there was not
+only no opposition to the landing, but, apparently, no enemy within
+many miles of the place.
+
+So much time was unavoidably expended in establishing the different
+regiments on the ground allotted to them, in bringing up the hospital
+and commissariat stores, and arranging the materiel, that when all
+things were ready, the day appeared too far spent to permit an advance
+into a country, of the nature and military situation of which we were
+of course ignorant. The afternoon was accordingly devoted to a proper
+distribution of the force; which was divided into three brigades, in
+the following order:—
+
+The first, or light brigade, consisted of the 85th, the light infantry
+companies of the 4th, 21st, and 44th regiments, with the party of
+disciplined negroes, and a company of marines, amounting in all to
+about eleven hundred men; to the command of which Colonel Thornton, of
+the 85th regiment, was appointed.
+
+The second brigade, composed of the 4th and 44th regiments, which
+mustered together fourteen hundred and sixty bayonets, was intrusted to
+the care of Colonel Brooke, of the 44th; and the third, made up of the
+21st, and the battalion of marines, and equalling in number the second
+brigade, was commanded by Colonel Patterson, of the 21st. The whole of
+the infantry may, therefore, be estimated at four thousand and twenty
+men. Besides these, there were landed about a hundred artillery-men,
+and an equal number of drivers; but for want of horses to drag them, no
+more than one six-pounder and two small three-pounder guns were brought
+on shore. Except those belonging to the General and staff-officers,
+there was not a single horse in the whole army. To have taken on shore
+a large park of artillery would have been, under such circumstances,
+absolute folly, indeed, the pieces which were actually landed, proved
+in the end of very little service, and were drawn by seamen sent from
+the different ships for the purpose. The sailors, thus employed, may be
+rated at a hundred, and those occupied in carrying stores, ammunition,
+and other necessaries, at a hundred more; and thus, by adding these,
+together with fifty sappers and miners, to the above amount, the whole
+number of men landed at St. Benedict’s may be computed at four thousand
+five hundred.
+
+This little army was posted upon a height which rises at the distance
+of two miles from the river. In front was a valley, cultivated for some
+way, and intersected with orchards; at the further extremity of which
+the advanced piquets took their ground; pushing forward a chain of
+sentinels to the very skirts of the forest. The right of the position
+was protected by a farm-house with its enclosure and outbuildings, and
+the left rested upon the edge of the hill, or rather mound, which there
+abruptly ended. On the brow of the hill, and about the centre of the
+line were placed the cannon, ready loaded, and having lighted fusees
+beside them; whilst the infantry bivouacked immediately under the
+ridge, or rather upon the slope of the hill which looked towards the
+shipping, in order to prevent their disposition from being seen by the
+enemy; should they come down to attack. But as we were now in a country
+where we could not calculate upon being safe in rear, any more than in
+front, the chain of piquets was carried round both flanks, and so
+arranged, that no attempt could be made to get between the army and the
+fleet, without due notice, and time given to oppose and prevent it.
+Everything, in short, was arranged with the utmost skill, and every
+chance of surprise provided against; but the night passed in quiet, nor
+was an opportunity afforded of evincing the utility of the very
+soldier-like dispositions which had been made.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+NOTTINGHAM
+
+
+Next morning the troops, as is customary during a state of active
+warfare, were under arms an hour before daylight, and remained in
+position till after the sun had risen. It was then confidently expected
+that the column would be put in motion, though in what direction it was
+to proceed, or what was the object of the descent, none but the General
+himself appeared to know. A rumour, indeed, prevailed, that a flotilla
+of gun-boats upon the Patuxent, commanded by the American Commodore
+Barney, was the point of attack; and that while the land force advanced
+up the river to prevent their retreat, armed boats from the fleet were
+to engage them in front. That such was in reality the primary object of
+the landing, I have every reason to believe, though circumstances
+afterwards occurred to bring about a change in the plan of operations.
+Into these, however, I shall not now enter, because they are in no way,
+connected with the present stage of my narrative, but shall merely
+observe, that in their expectations of an immediate advance the troops
+were disappointed. Whether it was that the arrangements had not been
+completed, or that intelligence respecting the state of the country and
+the enemy’s preparations was wanting, I do not know; but the regiments
+returned to the ground which they had occupied during the night, and
+everything resumed the same face which it had worn on the evening
+before.
+
+In this state affairs continued till four o’clock in the afternoon,
+when the General suddenly made his appearance in the camp, the bugles
+sounded, and the regiments formed in order for marching. Nor did many
+minutes elapse before the word was given, and the army began to move,
+taking the direction of Nottingham, a town situated on the river, where
+it was understood that the flotilla lay at anchor. The march was
+conducted with the same caution and good order that had marked the
+choice of ground for encamping and the disposition of the troops in
+position. The advanced-guard, consisting of three companies of
+infantry, led the way. These, however, were preceded by a section of
+twenty men, moving before them at the distance of a hundred yards; and
+even these twenty were but the followers of two files, sent forward to
+prevent surprise, and to give warning of the approach of the enemy.
+Parallel with the head of the three companies marched the flank
+patrols; parties of forty or fifty men, which, extending in files from
+each side of the road, swept the woods and fields to the distance of
+nearly half a mile. After the advanced guard, leaving an interval of a
+hundred or a hundred and fifty yards, came the light brigade; which, as
+well as the advance, sent out flankers to secure itself against
+ambuscades. Next to it, again, marched the second brigade, moving
+steadily on, and leaving the skirmishing and reconnoitring to those in
+front; then came the artillery, consisting, as I have already stated,
+of one six and two three-pounder guns, drawn by seamen; and last of all
+came the third brigade, leaving a detachment at the same distance from
+the rear of the column, as the advanced guard was from its front.
+
+In moving through an enemy’s country, the journeys of an army will,
+except under particular circumstances, be regulated by the nature of
+the ground over which it passes: thus, though eight, ten, or even
+twelve miles may be considered as a short day’s march, yet if at the
+end of that space an advantageous position occur (that is, a piece of
+ground well defended by natural or accidental barriers, and at the same
+time calculated for the operations of that species of force of which
+the army may be composed), it would be the height of imprudence to push
+forward, merely because a greater extent of country might be traversed
+without fatiguing the troops. On the other hand, should an army have
+proceeded eighteen, twenty, or even twenty-five miles, without the
+occurrence of any such position, nothing except the prospect of losing
+a large proportion of his men from weariness ought to induce a general
+to stop, until he has reached some spot at least more tenable than the
+rest. Our march to-day was, upon this principle, extremely short, the
+troops halting when they had arrived at a rising ground distant not
+more than six miles from the point whence they set out; and having
+stationed the piquets, planted the sentinels, and made such other
+arrangements as the case required, fires were lighted, and the men were
+suffered to lie down.
+
+It may seem strange, but it is nevertheless true, that during this
+short march of six miles a greater number of soldiers dropped out of
+the ranks, and fell behind from fatigue, than I recollect to have seen
+in any march in the Peninsula of thrice its duration. The fact is that
+the men, from having been so long cooped up in ships, and unused to
+carry their baggage and arms, were become relaxed and enervated to a
+degree altogether unnatural; and this, added to the extreme sultriness
+of the day, which exceeded anything we had yet experienced, quite
+overpowered them. The load which they carried, likewise, was far from
+trifling, since, independent of their arms and sixty rounds of
+ball-cartridge, each man bore upon his back a knapsack, containing
+shirts, shoes, stockings, &c., a blanket, a haversack, with provisions
+for three days, and a canteen or wooden keg filled with water. Under
+these circumstances, the occurrence of the position was extremely
+fortunate, since not only would the speedy failure of light have
+compelled a halt, whether the ground chanced to be favourable or the
+reverse, but even before darkness had come on scarcely two-thirds of
+the soldiers would have been found in their places.
+
+The ground upon which we bivouacked, though not remarkable for its
+strength, was precisely such as might tempt a General to halt, who
+found his men weary and in danger of being benighted. It was a gentle
+eminence, fronted by an open and cultivated country, and crowned with
+two or three houses, having barns and walled gardens attached to them.
+Neither flank could be said to rest upon any point peculiarly well
+defended, but they were not exposed; because, by extending or
+condensing the line, almost any one of these houses might be converted
+into a protecting redoubt. The outposts, again, were so far arranged
+differently from those of yesterday, that, instead of covering only the
+front and the two extremities, they extended completely round the
+encampment, enclosing the entire army within a connected chain of
+sentinels; and precluding the possibility of even a single individual
+making his way within the lines unperceived.
+
+These precautions were, however, like those of the preceding day,
+unnecessary; no enemy making his appearance, even to reconnoitre: and
+yet it cannot be said that the night was passed in uninterrupted quiet,
+for the troops had scarcely lain down when they were disturbed by a
+tremendous storm of thunder and lightning, accompanied by a heavy fall
+of rain. The effect of the lightning, as it glanced for a moment upon
+the bivouac, and displayed the firelocks piled in regular order, and
+the men stretched like so many corpses beside them, was extremely fine.
+The effect of the rain, however, was not so agreeable, for, being
+perfectly destitute of shelter, we were speedily wet to the skin; and
+the remainder of our resting-time was rendered thereby the reverse of
+comfortable. But the feeling of fretfulness, natural on such an
+occasion, lasted no longer than till the day dawned, and the line of
+march was again formed; when their former good-humour returning, and
+seasoned in some degree by the fatigues of yesterday, the troops moved
+on in excellent order and in the highest spirits.
+
+The route to-day was different, in many respects, from that of
+yesterday. In the first place, we had now got beyond the stretch of
+cultivation, and were proceeding through forests of immeasurable
+extent; this, of itself, gave a very different aspect to all around,
+because hitherto we had seen houses and fields of corn on each side of
+the road, and now we could discover nothing but wild savannahs,
+apparently untenanted by a single human being. In the next place, we
+learnt from some of the country people, who had been impressed as
+guides into our service, that numerous detached bodies of riflemen lay
+in ambush among the thickets; and the very expectation of having
+something to do, created a degree of excitement which, till now, we had
+not experienced. In consequence of that information, the flank patrols
+were strengthened and commanded to extend to a greater distance; the
+advanced guard marched at a greater interval from the head of the
+column, and the whole army moved forward with more caution and
+circumspection than had hitherto been used.
+
+In the course of this day’s march a little adventure occurred to
+myself, which, in the illiberality of my heart, I could not but regard
+as strikingly characteristic of the character of the people to whom we
+were now opposed, and which, as at the time it had something in it
+truly comical, I cannot resist the inclination of repeating, though
+aware that its title to drollery must in a great measure be lost in the
+relation. Having been informed that in a certain part of the forest a
+company of riflemen had passed the night, I took with me a party of
+soldiers, and proceeded in the direction pointed out, with the hope of
+surprising them. On reaching the place, I found that they had retired,
+but I thought I could perceive something like the glitter of arms a
+little farther towards the middle of the wood. Sending several files of
+soldiers in different directions, I contrived to surround the spot, and
+then moving forward, I beheld two men dressed in black coats, and armed
+with bright firelocks and bayonets, sitting under a tree; as soon as
+they observed me, they started up and took to their heels, but being
+hemmed in on all sides, they quickly perceived that to escape was
+impossible, and accordingly stood still. I hastened towards them, and
+having arrived within a few paces of where they stood, I heard the one
+say to the other, with a look of the most perfect simplicity, “Stop,
+John, till the gentlemen pass.” There was something so ludicrous in
+this speech, and in the cast of countenance which accompanied it, that
+I could not help laughing aloud; nor was my mirth diminished by their
+attempts to persuade me that they were quiet country people, come out
+for no other purpose than to shoot squirrels. When I desired to know
+whether they carried bayonets to charge the squirrels, as well as
+muskets to shoot them, they were rather at a loss for a reply; but they
+grumbled exceedingly when they found themselves prisoners, and
+conducted as such to the column.
+
+But to return to the principal narrative. The army had now advanced
+within a few miles of Nottingham, and the men were beginning to look
+forward with some anxiety to a halt; whilst as yet nothing beyond the
+capture of a few stragglers had occurred to confirm the rumours which,
+in the morning, and during the whole of the march, had occasioned so
+much more circumspection than appeared to be requisite. The day was
+likewise far spent, and, as was to be expected, the ranks were
+beginning to be less carefully preserved, when a smart firing in the
+wood upon the right of the road gave new life and energy to the
+soldiers. It was now confidently expected that the enemy would make a
+stand. The column closed its order, ready to wheel into line in a
+moment, and everything was on the qui vive: but it proved to be no more
+than a rencounter between a party of American riflemen and the flank
+patrol. After firing a few shots, the enemy gave way, and our main
+body, which had continued to move on during the skirmish, came in
+without the slightest opposition to the town of Nottingham.
+
+We found this place (a town or large village, capable of containing
+from a thousand to fifteen hundred inhabitants) completely deserted.
+Not an individual was to be seen in the streets, or remained in the
+houses; whilst the appearance of the furniture, &c., in some places the
+very bread left in the ovens, showed that it had been evacuated in
+great haste, and immediately before our arrival. The town itself stands
+upon the banks of the Patuxent, and consists of four short streets, two
+running parallel with the river, and two others crossing them at right
+angles, The houses are not such as indicate the existence of much
+wealth or grandeur among the owners, being in general built of wood,
+and little superior to cottages; but around the village are others of a
+far better description, which convey the idea of good substantial
+farm-houses, a species of mansion very common in the United States. For
+several miles in every direction the country was in a high state of
+cultivation; though, instead of the maize and wheat which we had
+hitherto seen, the fields were covered with an abundant and luxuriant
+crop of tobacco. This plant seems, indeed, to be at all times the
+staple commodity of that district; for, besides what was growing and
+unripe, we found numerous barns filled with the remains of last year’s
+crop; the whole of which was, of course, seized in the name of His
+Majesty King George the Third. But in the main object of our pursuit we
+were disappointed. The flotilla, which had been stationed opposite to
+Nottingham, retired, on our approach, higher up the stream; and we were
+consequently in the situation of a huntsman who sees his hounds at
+fault, and has every reason to apprehend that his game will escape.
+
+MARLBOROUGH
+
+In this posture the army continued during the night, having its right
+defended by the river, and its left extending considerably beyond the
+town, and secured, as usual, by a connected chain of outposts; nor was
+it put in motion, as had been done the day before, as soon as there was
+sufficient light to distinguish objects. There seemed, indeed, to be
+something like hesitation as to the course to be pursued,—whether to
+follow the gun-boats, or to return to the shipping; but, at last, the
+former proceeding was resolved upon, and the column set forward about
+eight o’clock, in the direction of Marlborough, another village, about
+ten miles beyond Nottingham. The road by which we travelled, as well
+to-day as during the whole of the excursion, was remarkably good; in
+some places rather heavy, from being cut through a sandy soil, but in
+general hard, dusty, and, to use an expressive phrase, having a sound
+bottom. Running, as it did for the most part, through the heart of
+thick forests, it was also well sheltered from the rays of the sun; a
+circumstance which, in a climate like this, is of no slight importance.
+To-day, our whole journey was of this description, nor did we reach a
+single cultivated spot till we approached the vicinity of Marlborough;
+when we found ourselves in a country not more fertile than beautiful.
+The ground, which had been hitherto perfectly flat, was now broken into
+the most graceful swells, generally cleared of wood to within a short
+space of the summits, and then crowned with hoar and venerable forests.
+The village itself lies in a valley formed by two green hills; the
+distance from the base of one hill to the base of the other may be
+about two miles, the whole of which was laid out in fields of corn,
+hay, and tobacco; whilst the slopes themselves were covered with sheep,
+for whose support they furnished ample means. But Marlborough is not,
+like an English village, compact, and consisting of one or two lanes
+the houses are scattered over the plain, and along the sides of the
+hills, at considerable intervals from one another, and are all
+surrounded by orchards and gardens, abounding in peaches and other
+fruits of the most delicious flavour. To add to the beauty of the
+place, a small rivulet makes its way through the bottom, and winding
+round the foot of one of these ridges, falls into the Patuxent, which
+flows at its back.
+
+During our progress to-day the same caution was observed which had been
+practised yesterday. Nor was it altogether unnecessary, several bodies
+of the enemy’s horse occasionally showing themselves, and what appeared
+to be the rear-guard of a column of infantry evacuating Marlborough, as
+our advance entered.
+
+MARCH TO WASHINGTON.
+
+There was, however, little or no skirmishing, and we were allowed to
+remain in the village all night without molestation. But if we were not
+harassed, we were at least startled on the march by several heavy
+explosions. The cause of these we were at first unable to discover; but
+we soon learnt that they were occasioned by the blowing up of the very
+squadron of which we were in pursuit, and which Commodore Barney,
+perceiving the impossibility of preserving, prudently destroyed, in
+order to prevent its falling into our hands.
+
+In Marlborough we remained not only during the night, but till past
+noon on the following day. The hesitation which had caused the loss of
+a few hours at Nottingham again interfered, and produced a delay which
+might have been attended with serious consequences. At length, however,
+orders were given to form, and we quitted Marlborough about two in the
+afternoon, taking the road to Washington. During this day’s march there
+was more skirmishing than had yet occurred. We had scarcely got above
+three miles from the village, when the advanced guard fell in with a
+party of riflemen, who maintained a sharp contest before they gave way.
+The column, however, continued to move on without molestation, till
+arriving at a point where two roads meet, the one leading to
+Washington, the other to Alexandria, a strong body of troops, with some
+artillery, were observed upon the slope of a height opposite. The
+capture of Washington was now the avowed object of our invasion; but
+the General, like an experienced officer, was desirous of keeping his
+enemy in the dark as to his plan of operations. Whilst the advanced
+guard, therefore, reinforced by two additional companies, marched
+directly forward to dislodge the party from the heights, the rest of
+the army wheeled to the left, taking the road which leads, not to
+Washington, but to Alexandria. These movements were not lost upon the
+enemy, who, observing by the dust in what direction the main body had
+filed off, immediately began to retreat, without waiting for the
+approach of the detachment sent against them. As they ascended the
+hill, however, they made a show of halting and forming a line. Our men
+moved steadily on in column, covered by one company in extended order
+along the front; but the enemy, having merely thrown a few round shot
+with great precision among the skirmishers, broke once again into
+marching order, and were quickly hid by the rising ground. As soon as
+they had disappeared, the advance halted; and having remained for about
+an hour on a little hill to watch their motions, turned to the left,
+and followed the rest of the army, which they found advantageously
+posted at a place called Woodyard.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+
+I had almost forgotten to state that, from the first moment of our
+landing, the want of cavalry, so useful in obtaining information and
+reconnoitring the open country, was very sensibly felt. To remedy this
+evil, as far as it could by such means be remedied, orders had been
+issued to catch and bring in all the horses that were found in the
+fields or stables of any houses along the road; and these orders being
+punctually obeyed, there were now fifty or sixty in the camp. Upon
+these some of the artillery-drivers were mounted, and the command of
+the troop being given to an officer of experience, it was found of
+great service during the remainder of the march.
+
+The advanced guard having joined the main body, the whole army, with
+the exception of a party which had been sent to the rear to bring up a
+convoy of provisions, was now bivouacked upon a rising ground, well
+defended by hedge-rows and thickets. The night, however, was not spent
+in as much quietness as usual. It was late before the troops got to
+their ground, consequently the piquets, for want of light, could not be
+posted in their customary good order, neither had there been time to
+examine the country in the neighbourhood of the position. The outposts
+were, therefore, kept in a state of constant anxiety by the frequent
+appearance of small parties of the enemy, who hovered about, probably
+with the design of cutting off stragglers, or perhaps of surprising, if
+they could, some of the piquets themselves. But whatever their
+intentions might be, the vigilance of the sentries contrived to render
+them abortive; nor did anything occur during the night productive of
+serious alarm; and the following day, being joined by the convoy which
+came up in safety, the column was again in motion, hastening across the
+country into the highroad, which had been deserted for no other purpose
+than to mislead the Americans.
+
+Having started on the 24th at an early hour, our march was for some
+time both cool and agreeable. The road—if road it could be called—wound
+for the first five miles through the heart of an immense forest, and
+being, in every sense of the word, a by-path, was completely
+overshadowed by projecting branches of trees, so closely interwoven, as
+to prevent a single sunbeam from making its way, even at noon, within
+the arch. We continued to move on, therefore, long after the sun had
+risen, without being sensible that there was not a cloud in the sky to
+screen us from his influence; whilst a heavy moisture continually
+emitted from the grass and weeds on both sides of us, produced a
+coolness which, had it been less confined, would have proved extremely
+pleasant. So far, then, we proceeded without experiencing any other
+inconvenience than what was produced by the damp and fetid atmosphere
+which we breathed; but no sooner had we begun to emerge from the woods
+and to enter the open country, than an overpowering change was
+perceived. The sun, from which we had been hitherto defended, now beat
+upon us in full force; and the dust rising in thick masses from under
+our feet, without a breath of air to disperse it, flew directly into
+our faces, occasioning the greatest inconvenience both to the eyes and
+respiration. I have stated this at length, because I do not recollect a
+period of my military life during which I suffered more severely from
+heat and fatigue; and as a journey of a few miles, under such
+circumstances, tells more than one of thrice the distance in a cool day
+and along a firm wintry road, it is not surprising that before many
+hours had elapsed numbers of men began to fall behind from absolute
+inability to keep up.
+
+Yet, in spite of all this, there was that in to-day’s march which
+rendered it infinitely more interesting than any we bad performed since
+the landing. We had learnt, from various quarters, that the enemy was
+concentrating his forces for the purpose of hazarding a battle in
+defence of his capital. The truth of these rumours we had no cause to
+doubt, confirmed as they were by what we had ourselves witnessed only
+the evening before; indeed the aspect of various fields on each side of
+the high road (which we had now regained), where smoking ashes, bundles
+of straw, and remnants of broken victuals were scattered about,
+indicated that considerable bodies of troops had passed the night in
+this neighbourhood. The appearance of the road itself, likewise,
+imprinted as it was with fresh marks of many feet and hoofs, proved
+that these troops could be no great way before us; whilst our very
+proximity to Washington, being now distant from it not more than ten or
+twelve miles, all tended to assure us that we should at least see an
+American army before dark.
+
+It was now that we experienced the great usefulness of our badly
+mounted troopers, or as they were called by the private soldiers, our
+Cossacks. The country, from being extremely close, had become open on
+every side to a considerable extent, although thick groves, instead of
+hedges, frequently separated one field from another. This was exactly
+the ground on which cavalry could act with advantage; because they
+might lie in ambush behind these groves, totally unperceived, and when
+an opportunity offered, charge the column, before it had time to
+prepare for their reception. There were one or two places, indeed,
+where such events were confidently anticipated; whole rows of paling
+having been pulled up from the side of the road, and open spaces left,
+through which several squadrons of horse might gallop; and the
+consequence was that every man held his breath in expectation, and
+prepared himself to form square in a moment. It was here that the
+mounted drivers became peculiarly useful. They were divided into small
+parties of six or eight, and sent out in different directions to
+reconnoitre, two of them generally taking post at every suspicious
+corner, that one might give notice to the column, whilst the other
+watched the motions of an enemy.
+
+It so happened that these precautions were unnecessary, for whatever
+might be the strength of the Americans in cavalry, their General did
+not think fit to employ it in harassing our march. But the very
+knowledge that every danger was provided against, and that they could
+not be attacked without having time to make ready, gave to the soldiers
+a degree of steady confidence which they would otherwise have wanted;
+and the want of which, had the case been different, might have been
+productive of disorder at a moment when good order was of vital
+importance.
+
+BLADENSBURG.
+
+We had now proceeded about nine miles, during the last four of which
+the sun’s rays had beat continually upon us, and we had inhaled almost
+as great a quantity of dust as of air. Numbers of men had already
+fallen to the rear, and many more could with difficulty keep up;
+consequently, if we pushed on much farther without resting, the chances
+were that at least one half of the army would be left behind. To
+prevent this from happening, and to give time for the stragglers to
+overtake the column, a halt was determined upon, and being led forward
+to a spot of ground well wooded, and watered by a stream which crossed
+the road, the troops were ordered to refresh themselves. Perhaps no
+halt ever arrived more seasonably than this, or bid fair to be
+productive of more beneficial effects; yet so oppressive was the heat,
+that we had not resumed our march above an hour, when the banks by the
+way side were again covered with stragglers; some of the finest and
+stoutest men in the army being literally unable to go on.
+
+The hour of noon was approaching, when a heavy cloud of dust,
+apparently not more than two or three miles distant, attracted our
+attention. From whence it originated there was little difficulty in
+guessing, nor did many minutes expire before surmise was changed into
+certainty: for on turning a sudden angle in the road, and passing a
+small plantation, which obstructed the vision towards the left, the
+British and American armies became visible to one another. The position
+occupied by the latter was one of great strength and commanding
+attitude. They were drawn up in three lines upon the brow of a hill,
+having their front and left flank covered by a branch of the Potomac,
+and their right resting upon a thick wood and a deep ravine. This
+river, which may be about the breadth of the Isis at Oxford, flowed
+between the heights occupied by the American forces and the little town
+of Bladensburg. Across it was thrown a narrow bridge, extending from
+the chief street in that town to the continuation of the road, which
+passed through the very centre of their position; and its right bank
+(the bank above which they were drawn up) was covered with a narrow
+stripe of willows and larch trees, whilst the left was altogether bare,
+low, and exposed. Such was the general aspect of their position as at
+the first glance it presented itself; of which I must endeavour to give
+a more detailed account, that my description of the battle may be in
+some degree intelligible.
+
+I have said that the right bank of the Potomac was covered with a
+narrow stripe of willow and larch trees. Here the Americans had
+stationed strong bodies of riflemen, who, in skirmishing order, covered
+the whole front of their army. Behind this plantation, again, the
+fields were open and clear, intersected, at certain distances, by rows
+of high and strong palings. About the middle of the ascent, and in the
+rear of one of these rows, stood the first line, composed entirely of
+infantry; at a proper interval from this, and in a similar situation,
+stood the second line; while the third, or reserve, was posted within
+the skirts of a wood, which crowned the heights. The artillery, again,
+of which they had twenty pieces in the field, was thus arranged on the
+high road, and commanding the bridge, stood two heavy guns; and four
+more, two on each side of the road, swept partly in the same direction,
+and partly down the whole of the slope into the streets of Bladensburg.
+The rest were scattered, with no great judgment, along the second line
+of infantry, occupying different spaces between the right of one
+regiment and the left of another; whilst the cavalry showed itself in
+one mass, within a stubble field, near the extreme left of the
+position. Such was the nature of the ground which they occupied, and
+the formidable posture in which they waited our approach; amounting, by
+their own account, to nine thousand men, a number exactly doubling that
+of the force which was to attack them.
+
+In the mean time, our column continued to advance in the same order
+which it had hitherto preserved. The road, having conducted us for
+about two miles in a direction parallel with the river, and of
+consequence with the enemy’s line, suddenly turned, and led directly
+towards the town of Bladensburg. Being of course ignorant whether this
+town might not be filled with American troops, the main body paused
+here till the advanced guard should reconnoitre. The result proved that
+no opposition was intended in that quarter, and that the whole of the
+enemy’s army had been withdrawn to the opposite side of the stream,
+whereupon the column was again put in motion, and in a short time
+arrived in the streets of Bladensburg, and within range of the American
+artillery. Immediately on our reaching this point, several of their
+guns opened upon us, and kept up a quick and well-directed cannonade,
+from which, as we were again commanded to halt, the men were directed
+to shelter themselves as much as possible behind the houses. The object
+of this halt, it was conjectured, was to give the General an
+opportunity of examining the American line, and of trying the depth of
+the river; because at present there appeared to be but one practicable
+mode of attack, by crossing the bridge, and taking the enemy directly
+in front. To do so, however, exposed as the bridge was, must be
+attended with bloody consequences, nor could the delay of a few minutes
+produce any mischief which the discovery of a ford would not amply
+compensate.
+
+But in this conjecture we were altogether mistaken; for without
+allowing time to the column to close its ranks, or to be joined by such
+of the many stragglers as were now hurrying, as fast as weariness would
+permit, to regain their places, the order to halt was countermanded,
+and the word given to attack; and we immediately pushed on at double
+quick time, towards the head of the bridge. While we were moving along
+the street, a continued fire was kept up, with some execution, from
+those guns which stood to the left of the road; but it was not till the
+bridge was covered with our people that the two-gun battery upon the
+road itself began to play.—Then, indeed, it also opened, and with
+tremendous effect; for at the first discharge almost an entire company
+was swept down; but whether it was that the guns had been previously
+laid with measured exactness, or that the nerves of the gunners became
+afterwards unsteady, the succeeding discharges were much less fatal.
+The riflemen likewise began to gall us from the wooded bank with a
+running fire of musketry; and it was not without trampling upon many of
+their dead and dying comrades that the light brigade established itself
+on the opposite side of the stream.
+
+When once there, however, everything else appeared easy. Wheeling off
+to the right and left of the road, they dashed into the thicket, and
+quickly cleared it of the American skirmishers; who, falling back with
+precipitation upon the first line, threw it into disorder before it had
+fired a shot. The consequence was, that our troops had scarcely shown
+themselves when the whole of that line gave way, and fled in the
+greatest confusion, leaving the two guns upon the road in possession of
+the victors.
+
+But here it must be confessed that the light brigade was guilty of
+imprudence. Instead of pausing till the rest of the army came up, the
+soldiers lightened themselves by throwing away their knapsacks and
+haversacks; and extending their ranks so as to show an equal front with
+the enemy, pushed on to the attack of the second line. The Americans,
+however, saw their weakness, and stood firm, and having the whole of
+their artillery, with the exception of the pieces captured on the road,
+and the greater part of their infantry in this line, they first checked
+the ardour of the assailants by a heavy fire, and then, in their turn,
+advanced to recover the ground which was lost. Against this charge the
+extended order of the British troops would not permit them to offer an
+effectual resistance, and they were accordingly borne back to the very
+thicket upon the river’s brink; where they maintained themselves with
+determined obstinacy, repelling all attempts to drive them through it;
+and frequently following, to within a short distance of the cannon’s
+mouth, such parts of the enemy’s line as gave way.
+
+In this state the action continued till the second brigade had likewise
+crossed, and formed upon the right bank of the river; when the 44th
+regiment moving to the right, and driving in the skirmishers, debouched
+upon the left flank of the Americans, and completely turned it. In that
+quarter, therefore, the battle was won; because the raw militia-men,
+who were stationed there as being the least assailable point, when once
+broken could not be rallied. But on their right the enemy still kept
+their ground with much resolution; nor was it till the arrival of the
+4th regiment, and the advance of the British forces in firm array to
+the charge, that they began to waver. Then, indeed, seeing their left
+in full flight, and the 44th getting in their rear, they lost all
+order, and dispersed, leaving clouds of riflemen to cover their
+retreat; and hastened to conceal themselves in the woods, where it
+would have been madness to follow them. The rout was now general
+throughout the line. The reserve, which ought to have supported the
+main body, fled as soon as those in its front began to give way; and
+the cavalry, instead of charging the British troops, now scattered in
+pursuit, turned their horses’ heads and galloped off, leaving them in
+undisputed possession of the field, and of ten out of the twenty pieces
+of artillery.
+
+This battle, by which the fate of the American capital was decided,
+began about one o’clock in the afternoon, and lasted till four. The
+loss on the part of the English was severe, since, out of two-thirds of
+the army, which were engaged, upwards of five hundred men were killed
+and wounded; and what rendered it doubly severe was, that among these
+were numbered several officers of rank and distinction. Colonel
+Thornton, who commanded the light brigade, Lieutenant-Colonel Wood,
+commanding the 85th regiment, and Major Brown, who led the advanced
+guard, were all severely wounded; and General Ross himself had a horse
+shot under him. On the side of the Americans the slaughter was not so
+great. Being in possession of a strong position, they were of course
+less exposed in defending, than the others in storming it; and had they
+conducted themselves with coolness and resolution, it is not
+conceivable how the battle could have been won. But the fact is, that,
+with the exception of a party of sailors from the gun-boats, under the
+command of Commodore Barney, no troops could behave worse than they
+did. The skirmishers were driven in as soon as attacked, the first line
+gave way without offering the slightest resistance, and the left of the
+main body was broken within half an hour after it was seriously
+engaged. Of the sailors, however, it would be injustice not to speak in
+the terms which their conduct merits. They were employed as gunners,
+and not only did they serve their guns with a quickness and precision
+which astonished their assailants, but they stood till some of them
+were actually bayoneted, with fuzes in their hands; nor was it till
+their leader was wounded and taken, and they saw themselves deserted on
+all sides by the soldiers, that they quitted the field. With respect to
+the British army, again, no line of distinction can be drawn. All did
+their duty, and none more gallantly than the rest; and though the brunt
+of the affair fell upon the light brigade, this was owing chiefly to
+the circumstance of its being at the head of the column, and perhaps
+also, in some degree, to its own rash impetuosity. The artillery,
+indeed, could do little; being unable to show itself in presence of a
+force so superior; but the six-pounder was nevertheless brought into
+action, and a corps of rockets proved of striking utility.
+
+Our troops being worn down from fatigue, and of course as ignorant of
+the country as the Americans were the reverse, the pursuit could not be
+continued to any distance. Neither was it attended with much slaughter.
+Diving into the recesses of the forests, and covering themselves with
+riflemen, the enemy were quickly beyond our reach; and having no
+cavalry to scour even the high road, ten of the lightest of their guns
+were carried off in the flight. The defeat, however, was absolute, and
+the army which had been collected for the defence of Washington was
+scattered beyond the possibility of, at least, an immediate reunion;
+and as the distance from Bladensburg to that city does not exceed four
+miles, there appeared to be no further obstacle in the way to prevent
+its immediate capture.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+WASHINGTON
+
+
+An opportunity so favourable was not endangered by any needless delay.
+While the two brigades which had been engaged remained upon the field
+to recover their order, the third, which had formed the reserve, and
+was consequently unbroken, took the lead, and pushed forward at a rapid
+rate towards Washington.
+
+As it was not the intention of the British Government to attempt
+permanent conquests in this part of America, and as the General was
+well aware that, with a handful of men, he could not pretend to
+establish himself, for any length of time, in an enemy’s capital, he
+determined to lay it under contribution, and to return quietly to the
+shipping. Nor was there anything unworthy of the character of a British
+officer in this determination. By all the customs of war, whatever
+public property may chance to be in a captured town, becomes,
+confessedly, the just spoil of the conqueror; and in thus proposing to
+accept a certain sum of money in lieu of that property, he was showing
+mercy rather than severity to the vanquished. It is true that if they
+chose to reject his terms he and his army would be deprived of their
+booty, because without some more convenient mode of transporting it
+than we possessed, even the portable part of the property itself could
+not be removed. But, on the other hand, there was no difficulty in
+destroying it; and thus, though we should gain nothing, the American
+Government would lose probably to a much greater amount than if they
+had agreed to purchase its preservation by the money demanded.
+
+Such being the intention of General Ross, he did not march the troops
+immediately into the city, but halted them upon a plain in its
+immediate vicinity, whilst a flag of truce was sent forward with terms.
+But whatever his proposal might have been, it was not so much as heard;
+for scarcely had the party bearing the flag entered the street, when it
+was fired upon from the windows of one of the houses, and the horse of
+the General himself, who accompanied it, killed. The indignation
+excited by this act throughout all ranks and classes of men in the
+army, was such as the nature of the case could not fail to occasion.
+Every thought of accommodation was instantly laid aside; the troops
+advanced forthwith into the town, and having first put to the sword all
+who were found in the house from which the shots were fired, and
+reduced it to ashes, they proceeded without a moment’s delay to burn
+and destroy everything in the most distant degree connected with
+Government. In this general devastation were included the Senate-house,
+the President’s palace, an extensive dock-yard and arsenal, barracks
+for two or three thousand men, several large storehouses filled with
+naval and military stores, some hundreds of cannon of different
+descriptions, and nearly twenty thousand stand of small-arms. There
+were also two or three public ropewalks which shared the same fate, a
+fine frigate pierced for sixty guns, and just ready to be launched,
+several gun brigs and armed schooners, with a variety of gun-boats and
+small craft. The powder-magazines were set on fire, and exploded with a
+tremendous crash, throwing down many houses in their vicinity, partly
+by pieces of the walls striking them, and partly by the concussion of
+the air; whilst quantities of shot, shell, and hand-grenades, which
+could not otherwise be rendered useless, were cast into the river. In
+destroying the cannon a method was adopted which I had never before
+witnessed, and which, as it was both effectual and expeditious, I
+cannot avoid relating. One gun of rather a small calibre was pitched
+upon as the executioner of the rest, and being loaded with ball and
+turned to the muzzles of the others, it was fired, and thus beat out
+their breechings. Many, however, not being mounted, could not be thus
+dealt with; these were spiked, and having their trunnions knocked off,
+were afterwards cast into the bed of the river.
+
+All this was as it should be, and had the arm of vengeance been
+extended no further, there would not have been room given for so much
+as a whisper of disapprobation. But unfortunately it did not stop here;
+a noble library, several printing-offices, and all the national
+archives were likewise committed to the flames, which, though no doubt
+the property of Government, might better have been spared. It is not,
+however, my intention to join the outcry which was raised at the time
+against what the Americans and their admirers were pleased to term a
+line of conduct at once barbarous and unprofitable. On the contrary, I
+conceive that too much praise cannot be given to the forbearance and
+humanity of the British troops, who, irritated as they had every right
+to be, spared, as far as possible, all private property, neither
+plundering nor destroying a single house in the place, except that from
+which the General’s horse had been killed.
+
+Whilst the third brigade was thus employed, the rest of the army,
+having recalled its stragglers, and removed the wounded into
+Bladensburg, began its march towards Washington. Though the battle came
+to a close by four o’clock, the sun had set before the different
+regiments were in a condition to move, consequently this short journey
+was performed in the dark. The work of destruction had also begun in
+the city before they quitted their ground; and the blazing of houses,
+ships, and stores, the report of exploding magazines, and the crash of
+falling roofs, informed them, as they proceeded, of what was going
+forward. It would be difficult to conceive a finer spectacle than that
+which presented itself as they approached the town. The sky was
+brilliantly illumined by the different conflagrations; and a dark red
+light was thrown upon the road, sufficient to permit each man to view
+distinctly his comrade’s face. Except the burning of St. Sebastian’s, I
+do not recollect to have witnessed at any period of my life a scene
+more striking or more sublime.
+
+Having advanced as far as the plain, where the reserve had previously
+paused, the first and second brigades halted; and forming into close
+column, passed the night in bivouac. At first this was agreeable
+enough, because the air was mild, and weariness made up for what was
+wanting in comfort. But towards morning a violent storm of rain,
+accompanied with thunder and lightning, came on, which disturbed the
+rest of all who were exposed to it. Yet in spite of the inconvenience
+arising from the shower, I cannot say that I felt disposed to grumble
+at the interruption, for it appeared that what I had before considered
+as superlatively sublime, still wanted this to render it complete. The
+flashes of lightning vied in brilliancy with the flames which burst
+from the roofs of burning houses, whilst the thunder drowned for a time
+the noise of crumbling walls, and was only interrupted by the
+occasional roar of cannon, and of large depots of gunpowder, as they
+one by one exploded.
+
+I need scarcely observe, that the consternation of the inhabitants was
+complete, and that to them this was a night of terror. So confident had
+they been of the success of their troops, that few of them had dreamt
+of quitting their houses or abandoning the city; nor was it till the
+fugitives from the battle began to rush in, filling every place as they
+came with dismay, that the President himself thought of providing for
+his safety. That gentleman, as I was credibly informed, had gone forth
+in the morning with the army, and had continued among his troops till
+the British forces began to make their appearance. Whether the sight of
+his enemies cooled his courage or not I cannot say, but according to my
+informant, no sooner was the glittering of our arms discernible, than
+he began to discover that his presence was more wanted in the senate
+than in the field; and having ridden through the ranks, and exhorted
+every man to do his duty, he hurried back to his own house, that he
+might prepare a feast for the entertainment of his officers, when they
+should return victorious. For the truth of these details I will not be
+answerable; but this much I know, that the feast was actually prepared,
+though, instead of being devoured by American officers, it went to
+satisfy the less delicate appetites of a party of English soldiers.
+When the detachment sent out to destroy Mr. Maddison’s house, entered
+his dining parlour, they found a dinner-table spread, and covers laid
+for forty guests. Several kinds of wine in handsome cut-glass decanters
+were cooling on the sideboard; plate-holders stood by the fire-place,
+filled with dishes and plates; knives, forks, and spoons, were arranged
+for immediate use; everything in short was ready for the entertainment
+of a ceremonious party. Such were the arrangements in the dining-room,
+whilst in the kitchen were others answerable to them in every respect.
+Spits loaded with joints of various sorts turned before the fire; pots,
+saucepans, and other culinary utensils stood upon the grate; and all
+the other requisites for an elegant and substantial repast were in the
+exact state which indicated that they had been lately and precipitately
+abandoned.
+
+The reader will easily believe that these preparations were beheld, by
+a party of hungry soldiers, with no indifferent eye. An elegant dinner,
+even though considerably over-dressed, was a luxury to which few of
+them, at least for some time back, had been accustomed; and which,
+after the dangers and fatigues of the day, appeared peculiarly
+inviting. They sat down to it, therefore, not indeed in the most
+orderly manner, but with countenances which would not have disgraced a
+party of aldermen at a civic feast; and having satisfied their
+appetites with fewer complaints than would have probably escaped their
+rival gourmands, and partaken pretty freely of the wines, they finished
+by setting fire to the house which had so liberally entertained them.
+
+I have said that to the inhabitants of Washington this was a night of
+terror and dismay. From whatever cause the confidence arose, certain it
+is that they expected anything rather than the arrival among them of a
+British army; and their consternation was proportionate to their
+previous feeling of security, when an event, so little anticipated,
+actually came to pass. The first impulse naturally prompted them to
+fly, and the streets were speedily crowded with soldiers and senators,
+men, women, and children, horses, carriages, and carts loaded with
+household furniture, all hastening towards a wooden bridge which
+crosses the Potomac. The confusion thus occasioned was terrible, and
+the crowd upon the bridge was such as to endanger its giving way. But
+Mr. Maddison, as is affirmed, having escaped among the first, was no
+sooner safe on the opposite bank of the river, than he gave orders that
+the bridge should be broken down; which being obeyed, the rest were
+obliged to return, and to trust to the clemency of the victors.
+
+In this manner was the night passed by both parties; and at daybreak
+next morning the light brigade moved into the city, whilst the reserve
+fell back to a height about half a mile in the rear. Little, however,
+now remained to be done, because everything marked out for destruction
+was already consumed. Of the Senate-house, the President’s palace, the
+barracks, the dockyard, &c., nothing could be seen, except heaps of
+smoking ruins; and even the bridge, a noble structure upwards of a mile
+in length, was almost entirely demolished. There was, therefore, no
+further occasion to scatter the troops, and they were accordingly kept
+together as much as possible on the Capitol Hill.
+
+Of the city of Washington I have purposely declined attempting any
+minute description, because it possesses no leading features, by
+catching which I might hope to convey to a person who has not seen it,
+something like an accurate notion of the whole. It was then, and is, I
+believe, still in its infancy, few of the streets being finished, and
+many containing not more than three or four houses, at wide intervals
+from each other. But its situation gives to it advantages such as few
+capitals either in the new or old world can boast of, and if it
+continue to be the head of the American States for another century, it
+will become, I doubt not, one of the most flourishing cities in
+existence. America is, and always will be, a commercial nation, nor can
+a single town throughout the whole of that vast continent boast of a
+better harbour than Washington. Standing upon the Potomac, one of the
+most navigable of all the rivers that empty themselves into the
+Chesapeake, the depth of which is sufficient to float a frigate for
+some way above the town, it possesses unrivalled facilities for the
+carrying on of an extensive trade; whilst its distance from the coast
+is such as to place it, in a great measure, beyond reach of insult from
+an enemy. Such an assertion, coming from one who has just detailed the
+particulars of its capture, may, indeed, appear to partake not slightly
+of the nature of a paradox; but there is no denying that the fall of
+Washington ought to be attributed much more to the misconduct of the
+Americans themselves, than to the skill or enterprise of those who
+effected it. Had the emergency been contemplated, and in a proper
+manner provided against, or had the most moderate ingenuity and courage
+been displayed in retarding the progress of our troops, the design, if
+formed at all, would have been either abandoned immediately, or must
+have ended in the total destruction of the invaders.
+
+Like other infant towns, Washington is but little ornamented with fine
+buildings; except the Senate-house, I really know of none worthy to be
+noticed. This however is, or rather was, an edifice of some beauty. It
+stood, where its ruins now stand, upon a mound called the Capitol Hill,
+and near a trifling stream named the Tiber; from which circumstances
+these modern republicans are led to flatter themselves that the days
+are coming when it will rival in power and grandeur the Senate-house of
+ancient Rome herself. It was built entirely of freestone, tastefully
+worked and highly polished; and, besides its numerous windows, was
+lighted from the top by a large and handsome cupola. Perhaps it could
+not be said to belong to any decided style of architecture; but its
+central appearance was light, airy, and elegant. After traversing a
+wide and spacious entrance-hall, you arrived at the foot of a handsome
+spiral hanging staircase; on the right of which were two spacious
+apartments, one above the other, which were occupied as sitting
+chambers by the two houses of representatives. From these branched off
+several smaller rooms, fitted up as offices, and probably used as such
+by the various officers of state. On the right of the staircase, again,
+were two other apartments equal in size to those on the left, with a
+like number of smaller rooms branching off from them. These were
+furnished as a public library, the two larger being well stocked with
+valuable books, principally in modern languages, whilst the others,
+filled with archives, national statutes, acts of legislature, &c., were
+used as the private rooms of the librarians.
+
+The President’s house, on the other hand, though likewise a public
+building, was remarkable for nothing except the absence of taste
+exhibited in its structure. It was small, incommodious, and plain; in
+no respect likely to excite the jealousy of a people peculiarly averse
+to all pomp or parade, even in their chief magistrate. Besides these,
+there were also a custom-house, several banking-houses, and a school or
+college, all claiming to themselves the destruction of public works;
+but in them there was a plainness amounting almost to coarseness, and a
+general air of republicanism, by no means imposing. With respect to the
+number of inhabitants which Washington contained, I confess that I
+cannot pretend to give an opinion: but if any judgment may be formed
+from the extent of ground covered by what is considered as the town, I
+should say that they amounted to somewhere about sixty thousand. George
+Town, the quarter where the President’s house stood, is compact and
+regular, containing, I should conceive, at least twenty thousand souls
+within itself; nor can the population of the other quarters be
+estimated at less than double that number.
+
+Such was then the city of Washington, of which our hasty and unfriendly
+visit did not allow us to take a very minute survey. I return now to
+the movements of the British army.
+
+I have stated above that our troops were this day kept as much together
+as possible upon the Capitol Hill. But it was not alone on account of
+the completion of their destructive labours that this was done. A
+powerful army of Americans already began to show themselves upon some
+heights, at the distance of two or three miles from the city; and as
+they sent out detachments of horse even to the very suburbs, for the
+purpose of watching our motions, it would have been unsafe to permit
+more straggling than was absolutely necessary. The army which we had
+overthrown the day before, though defeated, was far from annihilated;
+it had by this time recovered its panic, began to concentrate itself in
+our front, and presented quite as formidable an appearance as ever. We
+learnt, also, that it was joined by a considerable force from the back
+settlements, which had arrived too late to take part in the action, and
+the report was, that both combined amounted to nearly twelve thousand
+men.
+
+Whether or not it was their intention to attack, I cannot pretend to
+say, because it was noon before they showed themselves; and soon after,
+when something like a movement could be discerned in their ranks, the
+sky grew suddenly dark, and the most tremendous hurricane ever
+remembered by the oldest inhabitant in the place came on. Of the
+prodigious force of the wind it is impossible for one who was not an
+eye-witness to its effects to form a conception. Roofs of houses were
+torn off by it, and whirled into the air like sheets of paper; whilst
+the rain which accompanied it resembled the rushing of a mighty
+cataract rather than the dropping of a shower. The darkness was as
+great as if the sun had long set, and the last remains of twilight had
+come on, occasionally relieved by flashes of vivid lightning streaming
+through it; which, together with the noise of the wind and the thunder,
+the crash of falling buildings, and the tearing of roofs as they were
+stript from the walls, produced the most appalling effect I ever have,
+and probably ever shall, witness. The storm lasted for nearly two hours
+without intermission, during which time many of the houses spared by us
+were blown down, and thirty of our men, besides several of the
+inhabitants, buried beneath their ruins. Our column was as completely
+dispersed as if it had received a total defeat; some of the men flying
+for shelter behind walls and buildings, and others falling flat upon
+the ground, to prevent themselves from being carried away by the
+tempest; nay, such was the violence of the wind, that two pieces of
+light cannon, which stood upon the eminence, were fairly lifted from
+the ground, and borne several yards to the rear.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+
+When the hurricane had blown over, the camp of the Americans appeared
+to be in as great a state of confusion as our own; nor could either
+party recover themselves sufficiently during the rest of the day to try
+the fortune of a battle. Of this General Ross did not fail to take
+advantage. He had already attained all that he could hope, and perhaps
+more than he originally expected to attain; consequently, to risk
+another action would only be to spill blood for no purpose. Whatever
+might be the issue of the contest, he could derive from it no
+advantage. If he were victorious, it would not do away with the
+necessity which existed of evacuating Washington; if defeated, his ruin
+was certain. To avoid fighting was therefore his object, and perhaps he
+owed its accomplishment to the fortunate occurrence of the storm. Be
+that, however, as it may, a retreat was resolved upon; and we now only
+waited for night, to put the resolution into practice.
+
+There was, however, one difficulty to be surmounted in this proceeding.
+Of the wounded, many were so ill as to preclude all possibility of
+their removal, and to leave them in the hands of an enemy whom we had
+beaten was rather a mortifying anticipation. But for this there was no
+help; and it now only remained to make the best arrangements for their
+comfort, and to secure for them, as far as could be done, civil
+treatment from the Americans.
+
+It chanced that, among other prisoners taken at Bladensburg, was
+Commodore Barney, an American officer of much gallantry and high sense
+of honour. Being himself wounded, he was the more likely to feel for
+those who were in a similar condition, and having received the kindest
+treatment from our medical attendants, as long as he continued under
+their hands, he became, without solicitation, the friend of his
+fellow-sufferers. To him, as well as to the other prisoners, was given
+his parole, and to his care were our wounded, in a peculiar manner,
+intrusted,—a trust which he received with the utmost willingness, and
+discharged with the most praiseworthy exactness. Among other
+stipulations, it was agreed that such of our people as were left behind
+should be considered as prisoners of war, and should be restored to us
+as soon as they were able to travel; and that, as soon as they reached
+the ships, the Commodore and his countrymen would, in exchange, be
+released from their engagements.
+
+As soon as these arrangements were completed, and darkness had come on,
+the third brigade, which was posted in the rear of our army, began to
+withdraw. Then followed the guns, afterwards the second, and last of
+all the light brigade, exactly reversing the order which had been
+maintained during the advance. Instead of an advanced guard, this last
+now furnished a party to cover the retreat, and the whole procession
+was closed by the mounted drivers.
+
+It being a matter of great importance to deceive the enemy and to
+prevent pursuit, the rear of the column did not quit its ground upon
+the Capitol till a late hour. During the day an order had been issued
+that none of the inhabitants should be seen in the streets after eight
+o’clock; and as fear renders most men obedient, the order was
+punctually attended to. All the horses belonging to different officers
+were removed to drag the guns, no one being allowed to ride, lest a
+neigh, or even the trampling of hoofs, should excite suspicion. The
+fires were trimmed, and made to blaze brightly; fuel enough was left to
+keep them so for some hours; and finally, about half-past nine o’clock
+the troops formed in marching order, and moved off in the most profound
+silence. Not a word was spoken, nor a single individual permitted to
+step one inch out of his place, by which means they passed along the
+streets perfectly unnoticed, and cleared the town without any alarm
+being given. Our pace, it will be imagined, was none of the most tardy,
+consequently it was not long before we reached the ground which had
+been occupied by the other brigades. Here we found a second line of
+fires blazing in the same manner as those deserted by ourselves; and
+the same precautions in every respect adopted, to induce a belief that
+our army was still quiet.—Beyond these, again, we found two or three
+solitary fires, placed in such order as to resemble those of a chain of
+piquets. In a word, the deception was so well managed, that even we
+ourselves were at first doubtful whether the rest of the troops had
+fallen back.
+
+When we reached the ground where yesterday’s battle had been fought,
+the moon rose, and exhibited a spectacle by no means enlivening.—The
+dead were still unburied, and lay about in every direction completely
+naked. They had been stripped even of their shirts, and having been
+exposed in this state to the violent rain in the morning, they appeared
+to be bleached to a most unnatural degree of whiteness. The heat and
+rain together had likewise affected them in a different manner; and the
+smell which rose upon the night air was horrible.
+
+There is something in such a scene as this extremely humbling, and
+repugnant to the feelings of human nature. During the agitation of a
+battle, it is nothing to see men fall in hundreds by your side. You may
+look at them, perhaps, for an instant, but you do so almost without
+being yourself aware of it, so completely are your thoughts carried
+away by the excitation of the moment and the shouts of your
+companions.—But when you come to view the dead in an hour of calmness,
+stripped as they generally are, you cannot help remembering how frail
+may have been the covering which saved yourself from being the
+loathsome thing on which you are now gazing.—For myself, I confess that
+these reflections rose within my mind on the present occasion; and if
+any one should say that, similarly situated, they would not rise in
+his, I should give him no credit for a superior degree of courage,
+though I might be inclined to despise him for his want of the common
+feelings of a reasonable being.
+
+BLADENSBURG.
+
+In Bladensburg the brigade halted for an hour, while those men who had
+thrown away their knapsacks endeavoured to recover them. During this
+interval I strolled up to a house which had been converted into an
+hospital, and paid a hasty visit to the wounded. I found them in great
+pain, and some of them deeply affected at the thought of being
+abandoned by their comrades, and left to the mercy of their enemies.
+Yet, in their apprehension of evil treatment from the Americans, the
+event proved that they had done injustice to that people; who were
+found to possess at least one generous trait in their character,
+namely, that of behaving kindly and attentively to their prisoners.
+
+As soon as the stragglers had returned to their ranks, we again moved
+on, continuing to march without once stopping to rest during the whole
+of the night. Of the fatigue of a night march none but those who have
+experienced it can form the smallest conception. Oppressed with the
+most intolerable drowsiness, we were absolutely dozing upon our legs;
+and if any check at the head of the column caused a momentary delay,
+the road was instantly covered with men fast asleep. It is generally
+acknowledged that no inclination is so difficult to resist as the
+inclination to sleep; but when you are compelled not only to bear up
+against that, but to struggle also with weariness, and to walk at the
+same time, it is scarcely possible to hold out long. By seven o’clock
+in the morning, it was found absolutely necessary to pause, because
+numbers had already fallen behind, and numbers more were ready to
+follow their example; when throwing ourselves upon the ground, almost
+in the same order in which we had marched, in less than five minutes
+there was not a single unclosed eye throughout the whole brigade.
+Piquets were of course stationed, and sentinels placed, to whom no rest
+was granted, but, except these, the entire army resembled a heap of
+dead bodies on a field of battle, rather than living men.
+
+ARLBOROUGH
+
+In this situation we remained till noon, when we were again roused to
+continue the retreat. Though the sun was oppressively powerful, we
+moved on without resting till dark, when having arrived at our old
+position near Marlborough, we halted for the night. During this day’s
+march we were joined by numbers of negro slaves, who implored us to
+take them along with us, offering to serve either as soldiers or
+sailors, if we would but give them their liberty; but as General Ross
+persisted in protecting private property of every description, few of
+them were fortunate enough to obtain their wishes.
+
+We had now proceeded a distance of thirty-five miles, and began to
+consider ourselves beyond the danger of pursuit. The remainder of the
+retreat was accordingly conducted with more leisure; our next march
+carrying us no farther than to Nottingham, where we remained during an
+entire day, for the purpose of resting the troops. It cannot, however,
+be said that this resting-time was spent in idleness. A gun-brig, with
+a number of ships’ launches and long-boats, had made their way up the
+stream, and were at anchor opposite to the town. On board the former
+were carried such of the wounded as had been able to travel, whilst the
+latter were loaded with flour and tobacco, the only spoil which we
+found it practicable to bring off.
+
+Whilst the infantry were thus employed, the cavalry was sent back as
+far as Marlborough, to discover whether there were any American forces
+in pursuit; and it was well for the few stragglers who had been left
+behind that this recognizance was made. Though there appeared to be no
+disposition on the part of the American General to follow our steps and
+to harass the retreat, the inhabitants of that village, at the
+instigation of a medical practitioner called Bain, bad risen in arms as
+soon as we departed; and falling upon such individuals as strayed from
+the column, put some of them to death, and made others prisoners. A
+soldier whom they had taken, and who had escaped, gave information of
+these proceedings to the troopers, just as they were about to return to
+head-quarters; upon which they immediately wheeled about, and galloping
+into the village, pulled the doctor out of his bed (for it was early in
+the morning), compelled him, by a threat of instant death, to liberate
+his prisoners; and mounting him before one of the party, brought him in
+triumph to the camp.
+
+ST. BENEDICT’S.
+
+The wounded, the artillery, and plunder, being all embarked on the
+28th, at daybreak on the 29th we took the direction of St. Benedict’s,
+where we arrived, without any adventure, at a late hour in the evening.
+Here we again occupied the ground of which we had taken possession on
+first landing, passing the night in perfect quiet; and next day, the
+boats of the fleet being ready to receive us, the regiments, one by
+one, marched down to the beach. We found the shore covered with sailors
+from the different ships of war, who welcomed our arrival with loud
+cheers; and having contrived to bring up a larger flotilla than had
+been employed in the disembarkation, they removed us within a few
+hours, and without the occurrence of any accident, to our respective
+vessels.
+
+Such is a plain impartial account of the inroad upon Washington, an
+affair than which the whole war produced none more brilliant or more
+daring. In whatever light we may regard it, whether we look to the
+amount of difficulties which it behoved him to overcome, the inadequacy
+of the force which he commanded, or the distance which he was called
+upon to march, in the midst of a hostile population, and through deep
+and trackless forests, we cannot deny to General Ross the praise which
+is his due, of having planned and successfully accomplished an
+expedition which none but a sagacious mind could have devised, and none
+but a gallant spirit carried into execution. Among the many important
+transactions which then occupied the public attention, the campaign at
+Washington was, I believe, but little spoken of; and even now, it is
+overwhelmed in the recollections of the all-engrossing Waterloo; but
+the time will probably come, when he who at the head of four thousand
+men penetrated upwards of sixty miles into an enemy’s country;
+overthrew an army more than double his own in point of numbers; took
+possession of the capital of a great nation, and having held it as long
+as it suited his own purposes to hold it, returned again in triumph to
+his fleet, will be ranked, as he deserves to be ranked, among the
+number of those who have most successfully contributed to elevate Great
+Britain to the height of military glory on which she now stands.
+
+It has been said that the entire merit of this brilliant expedition is
+due, not so much to the brave man who conducted it, as to Sir George
+Cockburn, at whose suggestion it was undertaken. To the great gallantry
+and high talents of Sir George Cockburn no one who served within the
+compass of the Bay of Chesapeake will refuse to bear testimony, nor is
+it improbable that in attributing to him the original, design of laying
+Washington itself under contribution, common report speaks truly. But
+with whomsoever the idea first originated, to General Ross belongs the
+undivided of having, carried it into effect. From Sir George Cockburn,
+and indeed from the whole fleet, the army received every assistance
+which it was in the power of the the fleet to bestow; but had no Ross
+been at the head of the land forces, the capital of the United States
+would have suffered no insult. I have ventured to make these remarks,
+not with any design of taking away, in the slightest degree, from the
+well-earned reputation of the living; but merely as an act of justice
+towards the memory of the gallant dead, whose services have hardly
+received all the notice, either from the Government or the country,
+which they deserved.
+
+Of the degree of military sagacity exhibited on both sides, during the
+progress of hostilities, it scarcely becomes me to speak. Perhaps our
+leader delayed something too long in making, up his mind as to the
+ultimate end to be pursued, after the troop had penetrated so far into
+the interior as Marlborough. Had he pushed on at once, it is barely
+possible that Washington might have fallen at a less expense of human
+life than actually occurred. Perhaps, too, he commenced the attack at
+Bladensburg with a degree of precipitancy which hindered him from,
+taking advantage of an open ford, and compelled him to expose his
+troops to the fire of the enemy’s artillery whilst crossing a narrow
+bridge in a single column. But these errors, if errors they may be
+termed, were amply compensated by the perfect success of his
+operations; whilst in every other particular his conduct was beyond the
+reach of censure. In his choice of ground for halting, in the order
+both of his advance and retreat, and in the rapidity of his movements
+as soon as his plans had been arranged, General Ross exhibited himself
+in the light of an able and diligent commander. No man could possess,
+more than he a soldier’s eye in examining the face of a country; and in
+what little manoeuvring the circumstances permitted, he displayed the
+proficiency of one well practised in the arts of campaigning. It will
+be recollected, that on the 23rd, the day previous to the battle, we
+fell in with a strong body of the enemy, to deceive whom we wheeled off
+from the main road, and took the direction of Alexandria. The plan was
+attended by the most perfect success; the party deceived, being in fact
+the advanced guard of the main army. Thinking that Alexandria, and not
+Washington, was threatened, the American General abandoned a strong
+position, which he had seized on the main road, harassed his troops by
+a needless march towards that town; and discovered his mistake only
+time enough to occupy the heights of Bladensburg a very few minutes
+before we came in sight.
+
+With respect to the Americans, again, criticism necessarily degenerates
+into unqualified censure. From the beginning to the end of the affair,
+they acted in no one instance like prudent or sagacious men. In the
+first place, they ought on no account to have risked a general action
+in an open country, however strong and steep; and, secondly, they
+deserved to suffer much more severely than they did suffer, for
+permitting an enemy’s army to penetrate beyond Nottingham. In allowing
+us to land without opposition, they were perhaps guilty of no great
+mistake; but having done so, instead of concentrating their forces in
+one place, they ought to have harassed us with continual skirmishing;
+felled trees on each side, and thrown them across the road; dug deep
+ditches at certain intervals; in a word, it was their wisdom to adopt
+the mode of warfare to which their own habits, as, well as the nature
+of their country, invited them.
+
+In America, every man is a marksman from his very boyhood, and every
+man serves in the militia; but to bring an army of raw militia-men,
+however excellent they might be as marksmen, into a fair field against
+regular troops, could end in nothing but defeat. When two lines oppose
+each other, very little depends upon the accuracy with which
+individuals take aim. It is then that the habit of acting in concert,
+the confidence which each man feels in his companions, and the rapidity
+and good order in which different movements can be executed, are alone
+of real service. But put these raw militia-men into thick woods, and
+send your regular troops to drive them out, and you will immediately
+lose all the advantages of discipline, and reduce your battle to so
+many single combats.
+
+Here, therefore, lay their principal error: had they left all clear,
+and Permitted us to advance as far as Nottingham, then broken up the
+roads, and covered them with trees, it would have been impossible for
+us to go a step beyond. As soon as this was effected, they might have
+skirmished with us in front, and kept our attention alive with part of
+their troops, till the rest, acquainted as they doubtless were with
+every inch of the country, had got into our rear, and, by a similar
+mode of proceeding, cut off our retreat. Thus we should have been taken
+in a snare, from which it would have been no easy task to extricate
+ourselves, and might, perhaps, have been obliged in the end to
+surrender at discretion.
+
+But so obvious and so natural a plan of defence they chose to reject
+and determining to trust all to the fate of a battle, they were guilty
+of a monstrous error again. Bladensburg ought not to have been left
+unoccupied. The most open village, if resolutely defended, will cost
+many men before it falls; whereas Bladensburg, being composed of
+substantial brick houses, might have been maintained for hours against
+all our efforts. In the next place, they displayed great want of
+military knowledge in the disposition of both their infantry and
+artillery. There was not, in the whole space of their position, a
+single point where an enemy would be exposed to a cross fire. The
+troops were drawn up in three straight lines, like so many regiments
+upon a gala parade; whilst the guns were used as connecting links to a
+chain, being posted in the same order, by ones and twos, at every
+interval.
+
+In maintaining themselves, likewise, when attacked, they exhibited
+neither skill nor resolution. Of the personal courage of the Americans
+there can be no doubt; they are, individually taken, as brave a nation
+as any in the world. But they are not soldiers; they have not the
+experience nor the habits of soldiers. It was the height of folly,
+therefore, to bring them into a situation where nothing except that
+experience and those habits will avail; and it is on this account that
+I repeat what I have already said, that the capture of Washington was
+more owing to the blindness of the Americans themselves than to any
+other cause.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+ALEXANDRIA
+
+
+Whilst the army was thus actively employed, the fleet did not remain
+idle. A squadron of frigates, with two bomb-ships, under the command of
+Captain Gordon, of the Sea-horse, penetrated up the Potomac, and
+appeared before Alexandria. The whole of the militia of the district
+was at this time called away for the defence of the capital,
+consequently no place could be less prepared to resist an invader than
+that city. A party accordingly landed from the ships without
+opposition, and having destroyed the barracks, public works, and all
+the cannon which they found on shore, they seized a number of schooners
+and other small craft then lying in the harbour, and loading them with
+flour and tobacco to a considerable amount, prepared to rejoin the
+fleet in the bay.
+
+But by this time the country was alarmed; a detachment was sent from
+the main army, and being joined by the reserve of militia, it was
+determined to intercept the squadron on its return. With this view,
+several pieces of heavy cannon were mounted upon a steep part of the
+bank, where the river, in making an angle, narrows considerably in its
+channel. Thither also hastened large bodies of infantry; and before the
+frigates had begun to weigh anchor nearly 5000 men were assembled to
+prevent their passage.
+
+Of these preparations Captain Gordon did not long remain ignorant; nor
+was he backward in making the best arrangements possible to meet the
+danger. By shifting the ballast in each of the vessels entirely to one
+side, he caused them to lean in such a manner as that their artillery
+could be elevated to a surprising degree, and the shot rise even to the
+summit of the hill. The guns were then stuffed, rather than loaded,
+with grape and musket-balls; and the ships, taking their stations
+according to their draft of water, the lightest keeping nearest to the
+enemy’s shore, set sail, and, favoured by a leading breeze, stood
+leisurely down the river.
+
+As soon as they arrived within tangible distance, a brisk cannonade was
+opened upon them from the heights, and the whole of the infantry
+appeared in line along, the brow of the eminence. Regardless of these
+formidable salutations, the ships continued to hold their course
+without changing their order or returning a shot, till they reached the
+base of the hill upon which the infantry stood, and received a volley
+of musketry into their decks. Then, indeed, they answered the fire; and
+with such effect, that at the first broadside the enemy’s guns were
+abandoned, and their infantry took to flight. The Americans had
+persuaded themselves that no ship could point her guns so as to sweep
+the top of the hill; and under this idea had drawn up their troops
+along the ridge, with the intention of overawing the squadron by a
+display of their numbers. But in the event they found themselves
+mistaken, for so well had Captain Gordon arranged matters, that not a
+single shot fell under its mark; and as the ships’ artillery had been
+loaded for the occasion, a shower of balls of every size and
+description came amongst them, such as it was impossible to withstand.
+A single broadside was sufficient to secure the safe passage of his
+squadron; but with this Captain Gordon was not contented. Seeing the
+enemy driven from their cannon, he immediately landed his marines,
+spiked the guns, and blew up the expense magazines; when, having
+received them all safely on board again, he continued his voyage, and
+regained the Chesapeake without further molestation.
+
+Nor was this the only operation in which the navy were employed.
+Cruising about in every direction, they threatened the whole line of
+coast, from the entrance to the very bend of the bay; and thus kept the
+Americans in a constant state of alarm. Whenever a favourable
+opportunity presented itself, parties landed, plundered or destroyed
+the Government stores, laid towns and districts under contribution, and
+brought off all the shipping which could be reached. In a word, the
+hostilities carried on in the Chesapeake resembled the expeditions of
+the ancient Danes against Great Britain, rather than a modern war
+between civilized nations. But these hasty excursions, though generally
+successful, were not always performed without loss to the invaders.
+Many men and some officers were killed and wounded, among whom was
+Captain Sir Peter Parker, of the Menelaus frigate, an officer
+distinguished for his gallantry and knowledge of naval tactics. Having
+learnt that an encampment of 300 men and six pieces of cannon had been
+formed, at the distance of a few miles from the banks of the Potomac,
+and about nine leagues below Alexandria, he determined, with part of
+his ship’s crew, to surprise it, and to capture the guns. Running his
+frigate with this view up the river, he cast anchor opposite to the
+place where the American forces lay; and leaving on board only a
+sufficient number of sailors to manage the ship, and to guard against
+surprise, with the rest, amounting to 200 seamen and marines, he
+landed, and marched rapidly towards the enemy’s camp. But intelligence
+of his proceedings had already reached them; patrols of horse hovering
+continually along the coast for the purpose of watching the motions of
+our fleet. When, therefore, he arrived at the point of destination, he
+found the bivouac deserted, and the rear-guard in full retreat. With
+these a little skirmishing ensued, and he received a rifle-ball in the
+thigh. Not suspecting that the wound was dangerous, he continued to
+push forward, till he fell exhausted from loss of blood; when, on
+examining the hurt, it was found that the femoral artery had been cut;
+and before any proper assistance could be afforded, he literally bled
+to death. Seeing their leader killed, and the enemy retiring,
+apparently with the design of drawing them away from the coast, the
+sailors now halted; and taking up their dead commander, returned to the
+river without being able to effect anything which might, in any degree,
+console them for their loss.
+
+THE PATUXENT.
+
+In the meantime the army continued, for some days, quietly on board the
+ships in the Patuxent. The wounded whose cases appeared most desperate
+were removed to vessels fitted up for their reception, and sailed, some
+for Halifax, and others for England. The dispatches were likewise made
+out and sent off in the Iphigenia, whilst a sort of breathing-time was
+given to those who had been of late so actively employed. Whilst this
+sabbath continued, I amused myself by landing; and under the pretext of
+shooting, strolled sometimes farther up the country than prudence
+exactly warranted. The houses and villas, upon the immediate banks of
+the river, I found universally deserted, and thoroughly plundered. The
+corn, however, was uninjured; and even flocks of sheep were seen
+grazing within a short distance of the water, protected only by negro
+slaves. Of these none were taken without an equivalent being as
+faithfully paid as if they had been sold in the market-place of New
+York; a circumstance which favoured the belief that the houses had been
+ransacked, not by the British troops, but by the inhabitants
+themselves. Whether it was really so or not I cannot say, but this I
+know, that from the time of our arrival in the Chesapeake, all acts of
+individual plunder or violence were strictly prohibited, and severely
+punished.
+
+But this appearance of ruin and desertion extended not more than a mile
+or two from the coast. Beyond that, I found the cottages occupied by
+their owners, and everything remaining as if no enemy were within a
+hundred miles. The young men, indeed, were generally absent, because
+every man fit to bear arms was now serving with the army; but the old
+men and the women seemed to live as comfortably as if the most profound
+peace had reigned throughout the State. Nor did I find them altogether
+so hostile to our interest as I had expected. They professed to be
+Federalists; and though they regretted the events of the war, they
+blamed their own rulers for its commencement. Tempted by this show of
+quietness, I one day continued my walk to a greater distance from the
+fleet than I had yet ventured to do. My servant was with me, but had no
+arms, and I was armed only with a double-barrelled fowling-piece.
+Having wearied myself with looking for game, and penetrated beyond my
+former landmarks, I came suddenly upon a small hamlet, occupying a
+piece of cleared ground in the very heart of a thick wood. With this,
+to confess the truth, I was by no means delighted, more especially as I
+perceived two stout-looking men sitting at the door of one of the
+cottages. To retire unobserved was, however, impossible, because the
+rustling which I had made among the trees attracted their attention,
+and they saw me; probably, before I had seen them. Perceiving that
+their eyes were fixed upon me, I determined to put a bold face upon the
+matter; and calling aloud, as if to a party to halt, I advanced, with
+my servant, towards them. They were dressed in sailors’ jackets and
+trowsers, and rose on my approach, taking off their hats with much
+civility. On joining them, I demanded to be informed whether they were
+not Englishmen, and deserters from the fleet, stating that I was in
+search of two persons very much answering their description. They
+assured me that they were Americans, and no deserters, begging that I
+would not take them away; a request to which, after some time, I
+assented. They then conducted me into the house, where I found an old
+man and three women, who entertained me with bread, cheese, and new
+milk. While I was sitting here, a third youth, in the dress of a
+labourer, entered, and whispered to one of the sailors, who immediately
+rose to go out, but I commanded him to sit still, declaring that I was
+not satisfied, and should certainly arrest him if he attempted to
+escape. The man sat down sulkily; and the young labourer coming
+forward, begged permission to examine my gun. This was a request which
+I did not much relish, and with which I, of course, refused to comply;
+telling the fellow that it was loaded, and that I was unwilling to
+trust it out of my own band, on account of a weakness in one of the
+locks.
+
+I had now kept up appearances as long as they could be kept up, and
+therefore rose to withdraw; a measure to which I was additionally
+induced by the appearance of two other countrymen at the opposite end
+of the hamlet. I therefore told the sailors that, if they would pledge
+themselves to remain quietly at home, without joining the American
+army, I would not molest them; warning them, at the same time, not to
+venture beyond the village, lest they should fall into the hands of
+other parties, who were also in search of deserters. The promise they
+gave, but not with much alacrity, when I rose, and keeping my eye fixed
+upon them, and my gun ready cocked in my hand, walked out, followed by
+my servant. They conducted us to the door, and stood staring after us
+till we got to the edge of the wood; when I observed them moving
+towards their countrymen, who also gazed upon us, without either
+advancing or flying. The reader will readily believe, that as soon as
+we found ourselves concealed by the trees, we lost no time in
+endeavouring to discover the direct way towards the shipping; but
+plunging into the thickets, ran with all speed, without thinking of
+aught except an immediate escape from pursuit. Whether the Americans
+did attempt to follow, or not, I cannot tell. If they did, they took a
+wrong direction, for in something more than an hour I found myself at
+the edge of the river, a little way above the shipping, and returned
+safely on board, fully resolved not again, to expose myself to such
+risks, without necessity.
+
+THE PATAPSCO.
+
+In this manner the time was spent till daybreak on the 6th of
+September, when the whole fleet got under weigh, and stood towards the
+Chesapeake. The wind was fair, and we speedily cleared the river; but
+instead of standing up the bay, as we had expected, we ran down a few
+miles below the mouth of the Patuxent, and there anchored. A signal was
+then made by telegraph for all ships to send in a return of the number
+of seamen whom, in addition to marines, they could land with
+small-arms. Every ship’s crew was accordingly mustered, and it was
+found that, besides the numbers necessary for conveying stores and
+dragging guns, one thousand sailors could be spared from the fleet.
+Thus, in spite of our loss at Bladensburg, we were enabled on our next
+debarkation to bring into the field about five thousand fighting men.
+
+Next morning we again weighed, and directed our course towards the
+Potomac. We entered this river soon after midday, and continued to stem
+the stream during the night, and till dusk on the following evening,
+when we again brought up. Here we were joined by Admiral Cockburn, who
+had quitted the anchorage some days before the rest of the fleet, with
+a large flotilla of prizes and small craft; and having on the 9th once
+more set sail, and steered for a few hours in the direction of
+Alexandria, we suddenly put about, and, favoured by a fresh breeze, ran
+down to the bay, turning our heads upwards towards the Patapsco.
+Baltimore, it was now understood, was the point of attack; and towards
+the river upon which that town is built we hastened under a heavy press
+of sail.
+
+The object of this manoeuvring was evidently to deceive the enemy, and
+by keeping him in suspense as to the place threatened, to prevent his
+concentrating his forces, or throwing up works for its defence. But in
+the attainment of our object, the event proved that we were but
+partially successful. Certain it is, however, that the utmost
+consternation prevailed in every town or village opposite to which we
+made our appearance. In passing Anapolis, a considerable town built
+upon the bay, and possessing a tolerable harbour, we stood in so close
+as to discern the inhabitants flying from their houses; carts and
+waggons loaded with furniture hurrying along the roads, and horsemen
+galloping along the shore, as if watching the fearful moment when the
+boats should be hoisted out, and the troops quit the vessels. Wherever
+a lighthouse or signal station was erected, alarm-guns were fired and
+beacons lighted. In a word, all the horrors of doubt and apprehension
+seemed to oppress the inhabitants of this devoted district.
+
+The fair wind continuing to blow without interruption, on the 11th we
+came in sight of the projecting headland, where it was designed to
+disembark the troops. It was a promontory washed by the Patapsco on one
+side, and a curvature of the bay itself on the other. It was determined
+to land here, rather than to ascend the river, because the Patapsco,
+though broad, is far from deep. It is, in fact, too shallow to admit a
+line-of-battle ship; and, as no one could guess what impediments might
+be thrown in the way to obstruct the navigation, prudence forbade that
+five thousand men should be intrusted to the convoy of the smaller
+vessels alone. Besides, the distance from the point to Baltimore did
+not exceed fourteen or fifteen miles, a space which might easily be
+traversed in a day.
+
+But while the land forces moved in this direction upon Baltimore, it
+was resolved that the frigates and bomb-ships should endeavour to force
+their way through every obstacle, and to obtain possession of the
+navigation of the river, so as, if possible, to co-operate with the
+army by bombarding the place from the water. A frigate was accordingly
+dispatched to try the depth, and to take soundings of the channel,
+whilst the remainder of the fleet came to an anchor off the point. In
+the meantime all was again bustle and preparation on board the
+troop-ships and transports. Three days’ provisions were cooked, as
+before, and given to the men; and as we were now to carry everything by
+a coup-de-main, twenty rounds of ammunition were added to the sixty
+with which soldiers are usually loaded; whilst a smaller quantity of
+other baggage was directed to be taken on shore. A blanket, with a
+spare shirt and pair of shoes, was considered enough for each man on an
+expedition of so rapid a nature; whilst brushes and other articles of
+that description were divided between comrades, one carrying what would
+suffice for both. Thus the additional load of twenty cartridges was
+more than counterbalanced by the clothing and necessaries left behind.
+
+It was dusk when we reached the anchorage, consequently no landing
+could take place before the morrow. But as the boats were ordered to be
+in readiness at dawn, every man slept in his clothes, that he might be
+prepared to start at a moment’s warning. There was something in this
+state of preparation at once solemn and exciting. That we should obtain
+possession of a place so important as Baltimore without fighting was
+not to be expected; and, therefore, this arming and this bustle seemed
+in fact to be the prelude to a battle. But no man of the smallest
+reflection can look forward to the chance of a sudden and violent death
+without experiencing sensations very different from those which he
+experiences under any other circumstances. When the battle has fairly
+begun, I may say with truth that the feelings of those engaged are
+delightful; because they are in fact so many gamblers playing for the
+highest stake that can be offered. But the stir and noise of equipping,
+and then the calmness and stillness of expectation, these are the
+things which force a man to think. On the other hand, the warlike
+appearance of everything about you, the careless faces and rude jokes
+of the private soldiers, and something within yourself, which I can
+compare to nothing more seemly than the mirth which criminals are said
+sometimes to experience and to express previous to their execution; all
+these combine to give you a degree of false hilarity, I had almost said
+painful from its very excess. It is an agitation of the nerves, such as
+we may suppose madmen feel, which you are inclined to wish removed,
+though you are not unwilling to admit that it is agreeable.
+
+And yet, as if in mockery of these deadly preparations, I do not
+recollect to have seen a more heavenly night than the present. The heat
+of the day was past, a full clear moon shone brightly in a sky where
+not a cloud could be discerned, and a heavy dew falling appeared to
+refresh the earth, which had been parched and burnt up by the sun. We
+lay at this time within two miles of the shore, consequently every
+object there was distinctly visible. Around us were moored numerous
+ships, which, breaking the tide as it flowed gently onwards, produced a
+ceaseless murmur like the gushing of a mountain stream. The voices of
+the sentinels too, as they relieved one another on the decks, and the
+occasional splash of oars, as a solitary boat rowed backwards and
+forwards to the Admiral’s ship for orders, sounded peculiarly musical
+in the perfect stillness of a calm night. Though I am far from giving
+the preference, in all respects, to a sailor’s life, it must
+nevertheless be confessed that it has in it many moments of exquisite
+enjoyment, and the present seemed to me to be of the number.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+MARCH
+
+
+But the stillness of night soon passed away, and at three o’clock in
+the morning every ship in the fleet began to lower her boats, and the
+soldiers were roused from their slumbers. The same precautions which
+had been formerly used to cover the landing were again adopted, several
+gun-brigs laying themselves within cable’s length of the beach, and the
+leading boats in every division being armed with carronades, loaded and
+ready for action. But, as had been the case at St. Benedict’s, they
+were unnecessary, for the troops reached the shore without opposition,
+and leisurely formed in an open field close to the river.
+
+It was seven o’clock before the whole army was disembarked and in order
+for marching. The same arrangements which had been made on the late
+expedition were, as far as circumstances would permit, again adopted on
+this. The light brigade, now commanded by Major Jones of the 4th
+regiment, led the advance; then followed the artillery, amounting to
+six field-pieces and two howitzers, all of them drawn by horses; next
+came the second brigade, then the sailors, and last of all the third
+brigade. Flank patrols and reconnoitring parties were likewise sent
+out; in short, the same admirable dispositions regulated the present
+march which had governed our march to Washington.
+
+The column being put in motion, advanced, without the occurrence of any
+incident deserving of notice, for about an hour, when it arrived at a
+piece of ground which appeared as if it had been lately in possession
+of the enemy. It was a narrow neck of land, confined between the river
+on one side, and the head of a creek on the other, measuring, perhaps,
+a mile across. From the river to the creek a breastwork had been begun,
+and was partly completed. In front of it there were lines drawn,
+apparently for the purpose of marking out the width of a ditch; in some
+places the ditch itself was dug, and the commencement of what resembled
+an enfilading battery in the centre, showed that a considerable degree
+of science had been displayed in the choice of this spot as a military
+position. And, in truth, it was altogether such a position as, if
+completed, might have been maintained by a determined force against
+very superior numbers. Both flanks were completely protected, not only
+by water, but by thick wood, while a gentle eminence in the very middle
+of the line offered the most desirable situation for the projecting
+battery which had been begun; because a fire from it would have swept
+the whole, both to the right and left. In its present state, however,
+it was untenable, unless by a force as able to attack as to defend;
+consequently the Americans, who acted solely on the defensive, did
+wisely in choosing another.
+
+But the aspect of the ground was such as led us to conclude that the
+enemy could not be very distant. The troops were accordingly halted,
+that the rear might be well up, and the men fresh and ready for action.
+Whilst this was done part of the flank patrol came in, bringing with
+them three light-horse men, as prisoners. These were young gentlemen
+belonging to a corps of volunteers, furnished by the town of Baltimore,
+who had been sent out to watch our motions, and convey intelligence to
+the American General. Being but little accustomed to such service, they
+had suffered themselves to be surprised; and, instead of reporting to
+their own leader as to the number and dispositions of their
+adversaries, they were now catechized by General Ross respecting the
+strength and preparations of their friends. From them we learned that a
+force of no less than twenty thousand men was embodied for the defence
+of Baltimore; but as the accounts of prisoners are generally
+over-rated, we took it for granted that they made their report only to
+intimidate.
+
+ATTACK
+
+Having rested for the space of an hour, we again moved forward, but had
+not proceeded above a mile when a sharp fire of musketry was heard in
+front, and shortly afterwards a mounted officer came galloping to the
+rear, who desired us to quicken our pace, for that the advanced guard
+was engaged. At this intelligence the ranks were closed, and the troops
+advanced at a brisk rate, and in profound silence. The firing still
+continued, though, from its running and irregular sound, it promised
+little else than a skirmish; but whether it was kept up by detached
+parties alone, or by the outposts of a regular army, we could not tell;
+because, from the quantity of wood with which the country abounded, and
+the total absence of all hills or eminences, it was impossible to
+discern what was going on at the distance of half a mile from the spot
+where we stood.
+
+We were already drawing near to the scene of action, when another
+officer came at full speed towards us, with horror and dismay in his
+countenance, and calling loudly for a surgeon. Every man felt within
+himself that all was not right, though none was willing to believe the
+whispers of his own terror. But what at first we would not guess at,
+because we dreaded it so much, was soon realized; for the aide-de-camp
+had scarcely passed, when the General’s horse, without its rider, and
+with the saddle and housings stained with blood, came plunging onwards.
+Nor was much time given for fearful surmise as to the extent of our
+misfortune. In a few moments we reached the ground where the
+skirmishing had taken place, and beheld General Ross laid by the side
+of the road, under a canopy of blankets, and apparently in the agonies
+of death. As soon as the firing began, he had ridden to the front, that
+he might ascertain from whence it originated, and, mingling with the
+skirmishers, was shot in the side by a rifleman. The wound was mortal:
+he fell into the arms of his aide-de-camp, and lived only long enough
+to name his wife, and to commend his family to the protection of his
+country. He was removed towards the fleet, but expired before his
+bearers could reach the boats.
+
+It is impossible to conceive the effect which this melancholy spectacle
+produced throughout the army. By the courteousness and condescension of
+his manners, General Ross had secured the absolute love of all who
+served under him, from the highest to the lowest; and his success on a
+former occasion, as well as his judicious arrangements on the present,
+had inspired every one with the most perfect confidence in his
+abilities. His very error, if error it may be called, in so young a
+leader—I mean that diffidence in himself which had occasioned some loss
+of time on the march to Washington, appeared now to have left him. His
+movements were at once rapid and cautious; nay, his very countenance
+indicated a fixed determination, and a perfect security of success. All
+eyes were turned upon him as we passed, and a sort of involuntary groan
+ran from rank to rank, from the front to the rear of the column.
+
+By the fall of our gallant leader, the command now devolved upon
+Colonel Brook, of the 44th regiment, an officer of decided personal
+courage, but, perhaps, better calculated to lead a battalion than to
+guide an army. Being informed of his unexpected and undesired
+elevation, he came to the front, and under him we continued to move on;
+sorrowful, indeed, but not dejected. The skirmishing had now ceased,
+for the American riflemen were driven in; and in a few minutes we found
+ourselves opposite to a considerable force, drawn up with some skill,
+and occupying a strong position. Judging from appearances, I should say
+that the corps now opposed to us amounted to six or seven thousand men.
+They covered a neck of land, very much resembling that which we had
+passed; having both flanks defended by little inland lakes; the whole
+of their position was well wooded, and in front of their line was a
+range of high palings, similar to those which intersected the field of
+Bladensburg. About the centre, though some way advanced, was a
+farm-house, with its outbuildings and stack-yard; and near to the right
+ran the main road. Their artillery, which could not greatly exceed our
+own, either in weight of metal or number of guns, was scattered along
+the line of infantry in nearly the same order as had been preserved at
+Bladensburg, and their reserve was partly seen, and partly hid by a
+thick wood.
+
+The whole of this country is flat and unbroken. About half a mile in
+rear of the enemy’s position were some heights, but to occupy these as
+they should be occupied would have required a much greater number of
+men than the American army could muster. Their General, therefore,
+exhibited some judgment in his choice of ground, but, perhaps, he would
+have exhibited more had he declined a pitched battle altogether. Yet,
+to do him justice, I repeat that the ground was well chosen; for,
+besides the covering of wood which he secured for his own people, he
+took care to leave open fields in his front; by which means we were of
+necessity exposed to a galling fire, as soon as we came within range.
+Of one error, however, he was guilty. Either he did not possess himself
+of the farm-house at all, or he suffered it to be taken from him with
+very little resistance; for on the arrival of the column at the ground
+where it was to form, it was in the occupation of our advanced guard.
+He was likewise to blame in not filling the wood upon our left with
+skirmishers. In short, he acted unwisely in merely attempting to repel
+attacks, without ever dreaming that the most effectual mode of so doing
+is to turn the tables, and attack the assailants.
+
+As our troops came up they filed off to the right and left, and drew up
+just within cannon shot in the following order. The light brigade,
+consisting, as I have formerly stated, of the 85th regiment and the
+light companies of the other corps, in extended order, threatened the
+whole front of the American army. The 21st remained in column upon the
+road; the 4th moved off to the right, and advanced through a thicket to
+turn the enemy’s left; and the 44th, the seamen and marines, formed
+line in rear of the light brigade.
+
+While this formation was going on, the artillery being brought up,
+opened upon the American army, and a smart cannonade ensued on both
+sides. That our guns were well served I myself can bear witness; for I
+saw the Shrapnel shells which were thrown from them strike among the
+enemy, and make fearful gaps in the line. Our rockets likewise began to
+play, one of which falling short, lighted upon a haystack in the
+barn-yard belonging to the farm-house, and immediately set it on fire.
+The house itself, the stables, barns, and outhouses, as well as all the
+other stacks, one after another caught the flames, and were quickly in
+a state of conflagration; and the smoke and blaze which they emitted,
+together with the roar of cannon and flashes of the guns, produced
+altogether a very fine effect.
+
+In the meantime the American artillery was not idle. Pushing forward
+two light field-pieces upon the road, they opened a destructive fire of
+grape upon the 21st regiment, and such of the sailors as occupied that
+point. Three other guns were directed against our artillery, between
+which and several of our pieces a sort of duel was maintained; and the
+rest played without ceasing upon the 85th and the light companies, who
+had lain down while the other regiments took up their ground. Neither
+was their infantry altogether quiet. They marched several strong bodies
+from the right to the left, and withdrew others from the left to the
+right of their line, though for what end this marching and
+countermarching was undertaken I am at a loss to conceive. While thus
+fluctuating it was curious to observe their dread of every spot where a
+cannon-ball had struck. Having seen the shots fall, I kept my eye upon
+one or two places, and perceived that each company as it drew near to
+those points hung back; and then assuming as it were a momentary
+courage, rushed past, leaving a vacancy between it and the company
+which next succeeded.
+
+All this while the whole of our infantry, except the 4th regiment, lay
+or stood in anxious expectation of an order to advance. This, however,
+was not given till that corps had reached the thicket through which it
+was to make its way; when Colonel Brook, with his staff, having
+galloped along the line to see that all was ready, commanded the signal
+to be made. The charge was accordingly sounded, and echoed back from
+every bugle in the army, when, starting from the ground where they had
+lain, the troops moved on in a cool and orderly manner. A dreadful
+discharge of grape and canister shot, of old locks, pieces of broken
+muskets, and everything which they could cram into their guns, was now
+sent forth from the whole of the enemy’s artillery, and some loss was
+on our side experienced. Regardless of this, our men went on without
+either quickening or retarding their pace, till they came within a
+hundred yards of the American line. As yet not a musket had been fired,
+nor a word spoken on either side, but the enemy, now raising a shout,
+fired a volley from right to left, and then kept up a rapid and
+ceaseless discharge of musketry. Nor were our people backward in
+replying to these salutes; for giving them back both their shout and
+their volley, we pushed on at double-quick, with the intention of
+bringing them to the charge.
+
+The bayonet is a weapon peculiarly British; at least it is a weapon
+which in the hands of a British soldier is irresistible. Though they
+maintained themselves with great determination, and stood to receive
+our fire till scarcely twenty yards divided us, the Americans would not
+hazard a charge. On the left, indeed, where the 21st advanced in
+column, it was not without much difficulty and a severe loss that any
+attempt to charge could be made; for in that quarter seemed to be the
+flower of the enemy’s infantry, as well as the main body of their
+artillery; towards the right, however, the day was quickly won. The
+only thing to be regretted, indeed, was that the attack had not been
+for some time longer deferred; because the Americans were broken and
+fled, just as the 4th regiment began to show itself upon the brink of
+the water which covered their flank; and before a shallow part could be
+discovered, and the troops were enabled to pass, they had time to
+escape.
+
+As soon as their left gave way, the whole American army fell into
+confusion; nor do I recollect on any occasion to have witnessed a more
+complete rout. Infantry, cavalry, and artillery were huddled together,
+without the smallest regard to order or regularity. The sole object of
+anxiety seemed to be, which should escape first from the field of
+battle; insomuch, that numbers were actually trodden down by their
+countrymen in the hurry of the flight. Yet, in spite of the short
+duration of the action, which lasted little more than two hours from
+its first commencement, the enemy’s loss was severe. They stood in some
+respects better than at Bladensburg, consequently we were more mingled
+with them when they gave way, and were thus enabled to secure some
+prisoners, an event which their more immediate flight had on the other
+occasion prevented. In the capture of guns, however, we were not so
+fortunate. Their pieces being light, and well supplied with horses,
+they contrived to carry off all except two; both of which would have
+also escaped but for the shooting of the leaders.
+
+I have said that the number of killed and wounded in the American army
+was very great; in ours, on the other hand, the casualties were fewer
+by far than might have been expected. The 21st and seamen suffered a
+good deal, the 85th and light companies a little; but had our gallant
+General been spared, we should have pronounced this a glorious, because
+a comparatively bloodless day. In the loss of that one man, however, we
+felt ourselves more deeply wounded than if the best battalion in the
+army had been sacrificed.
+
+In following up the flying enemy the same obstacles which presented
+themselves at Bladensburg again came in the way. The thick woods
+quickly screened the fugitives, and as even our mounted drivers were
+wanting, their horses having been taken for the use of the artillery,
+no effectual pursuit could be attempted. We accordingly halted upon the
+field of battle, of necessity content with the success which we had
+obtained; and having collected the stragglers and called in the
+pursuers, it was resolved to pass the night in this situation. Fires
+were speedily lighted, and the troops distributed in such a manner as
+to secure a tolerable position in case of attack; and the wounded being
+removed into two or three houses scattered along the ground, the
+victors lay down to sleep under the canopy of heaven.
+
+Having thus given a distinct and connected detail of this affair, I
+shall beg leave to finish the present chapter with one or two
+anecdotes, which may not be unamusing. It is said that when Admiral
+Cockburn, who accompanied the army, and attended General Ross with the
+fidelity of an aide-de-camp, was in the wood where the latter fell, he
+observed an American rifleman taking deliberate aim at him from behind
+a tree. Instead of turning aside, or discharging a pistol at the
+fellow, as any other man would have done, the brave Admiral, doubling
+his fist, shook it at his enemy, and cried aloud, “O you d—d Yankee,
+I’ll give it you!” upon which the man dropped his musket in the
+greatest alarm, and took to his heels.
+
+It is likewise told of an officer of engineers, that having overtaken
+an American soldier, and demanded his arms, the fellow gave him his
+rifle very readily, but being ordered to resign a handsome
+silver-hilted dagger and silver-mounted cartouch-box, which graced his
+side, he refused to comply, alleging that they were private property,
+and that, by our own proclamations, private property should be
+respected. This was an instance of low cunning which reminded me of my
+own adventure with the squirrel-hunters, and which was attended with
+equal success.
+
+One other anecdote, of a different nature, and for the truth of which I
+can myself answer, may likewise be related. In strolling over the field
+of battle, I came unexpectedly upon a wounded American, who lay among
+some bushes with his leg broken. I drew near to offer him assistance,
+but on seeing me the wretch screamed out, and appeared in the greatest
+alarm; nor was it without some difficulty that I could persuade him he
+had nothing to fear. At last, being convinced that I intended him no
+harm, the fellow informed me that it was impressed upon the minds of
+the American levies that from the British they might expect no quarter;
+and that it was consequently their determination to give no quarter to
+the British troops. The fellow might belie his countrymen, and I hope
+and believe he did, but such was his report to me. To convince him of
+the erroneousness of his notions, I removed him to one of our
+hospitals, where his leg was amputated; and he saw himself, as well as
+many others of his wounded comrades, treated with the same attention
+which was bestowed upon our own soldiers.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+
+At an early hour on the 13th the troops were roused from their lairs,
+and forming upon the ground, waited till daylight should appear. A
+heavy rain had come on about midnight, and now fell with so much
+violence, that some precautions were necessary, in order to prevent the
+firelocks from being rendered useless by wet. Such of the men as were
+fortunate enough to possess leathern cases, wrapped them round the
+locks of their muskets, whilst the rest held them in the best manner
+they could, under their elbows; no man thinking of himself, but only
+how he could best keep his arms in a serviceable condition.
+
+As soon as the first glimmering of dawn could be discerned, we moved to
+the road, and took up our wonted order of march; but before we pushed
+forward, the troops were desired to lighten themselves still further,
+by throwing off their blankets, which were to be left under a slender
+guard till their return. This was accordingly done; and being now
+unencumbered, except by a knapsack almost empty, every man felt his
+spirits heightened in proportion to the diminution of his load. The
+grief of soldiers is seldom of long duration, and though I will not
+exactly say that poor Ross was already forgotten, the success of
+yesterday had reconciled at least the privates to the guidance of their
+new leader; nor was any other issue anticipated than what would have
+attended the excursion had he still been its mainspring and director.
+
+The country through which we passed resembled, in every particular,
+that already described. Wood and cultivation succeeded each other at
+intervals, though the former surpassed the latter in tenfold extent;
+but instead of deserted villages and empty houses, which had met us on
+the way to Washington, we found most of the inhabitants remaining
+peaceably in their homes, and relying upon the assurance of protection
+given to them in our proclamations. Nor had they cause to repent of
+that confidence. In no instance were they insulted, plundered, or
+ill-treated; whereas every house which was abandoned fell a prey to the
+scouts and reconnoitring parties.
+
+But our march to-day was not so rapid as our motions generally were.
+The Americans had at last adopted an expedient which, if carried to its
+proper length, might have entirely stopped our progress. In most of the
+woods they had felled trees, and thrown them across the road; but as
+these abattis were without defenders, we experienced no other
+inconvenience than what arose from loss of time; being obliged to halt
+on all such occasions till the pioneers had removed the obstacle. So
+great, however, was even this hinderance, that we did not come in sight
+of the main army of the Americans till evening, although the distance
+travelled could not exceed ten miles.
+
+It now appeared that the corps which we had beaten yesterday was only a
+detachment, and not a large one, from the force collected for the
+defence of Baltimore; and that the account given by the volunteer
+troopers was in every respect correct. Upon a ridge of hills, which
+concealed the town itself from observation, stood the grand army,
+consisting of twenty thousand men. Not trusting to his superiority in
+numbers, their General had there entrenched them in the most formidable
+manner, having covered the whole face of the heights with breastworks,
+thrown back his left so as to rest it upon a strong fort erected for
+the protection of the river, and constructed a chain of field redoubts
+which covered his right and commanded the entire ascent. Along the side
+of the hill were likewise _flèches_ and other projecting works, from
+which a cross fire might be kept up; and there were mounted throughout
+this commanding position no less than one hundred pieces of cannon.
+
+It would be absurd to suppose that the sight of preparations so warlike
+did not in some degree damp the ardour of our leader; at least it would
+have been madness to storm such works without pausing to consider how
+it might best be attempted. The whole of the country within cannon-shot
+was cleared from wood, and laid out in grass and corn-fields;
+consequently there was no cover to shelter an attacking army from any
+part of the deadly fire which would be immediately poured upon it. The
+most prudent plan, therefore, was to wait till dark; and then, assisted
+by the frigates and bombs, which he hoped were by this time ready to
+co-operate, to try the fortune of a battle.
+
+Having resolved thus to act, Colonel Brook halted his army; and,
+secured against surprise by a well-connected line of piquets, the
+troops were permitted to light fires and to cook their provisions. But
+though the rain still fell in torrents, no shelter could be obtained;
+and as even their blankets were no longer at hand, with which to form
+gipsy-tents, this was the reverse of an agreeable bivouac to the whole
+army.
+
+Darkness had now come on, and as yet no intelligence had arrived from
+the shipping. To assail such a position, however, without the aid of
+the fleet, was deemed impracticable; at least our chance of success
+would be greatly diminished without their co-operation. As the left of
+the American army extended to a fort built upon the very brink of the
+river, it was clear that could the ships be brought to bear upon that
+point, and the fort be silenced by their fire, that flank of the
+position would be turned. This once effected, there would be no
+difficulty in pushing a column within their works; and as soldiers
+entrenched always place more reliance upon the strength of their
+entrenchments than upon their own personal exertions, the very sight of
+our people on a level with them would in all probability decide the
+contest. At all events, as the column was to advance under cover of
+night, it might easily push forward and crown the hill above the enemy,
+before any effectual opposition could be offered; by which means they
+would be enclosed between two fires, and lose the advantage which their
+present elevated situation bestowed. All, however, depended upon the
+ability of the fleet to lend their assistance; for without silencing
+the fort, this flank could scarcely be assailed with any chance of
+success, and, therefore, the whole plan of operations must be changed.
+
+SEARCH.
+
+Having waited till it was considered imprudent to wait longer, without
+knowing whether he was to be supported, Colonel Brook determined, if
+possible, to open a communication with the fleet. That the river could
+not be far off we knew, but how to get to it without falling in with
+wandering parties of the enemy was the difficulty. The thing, however,
+must be done; and as secrecy, and not force, was the main object, it
+was resolved to dispatch for the purpose a single officer without an
+escort. On this service a particular friend of mine chanced to be
+employed. Mounting his horse, he proceeded to the right of the army,
+where, having delayed a few minutes till the moon rising gave light
+enough through the clouds to distinguish objects, he pushed forward at
+a venture, in as straight a line as he could guess at. It was not long
+before his progress was stopped by a high hedge. Like knight-errants of
+old, he then gave himself up to the guidance of his horse, which taking
+him towards the rear, soon brought him into a narrow lane, that
+appeared to wind in the direction of the enemy’s fort: this lane he
+determined to follow, and holding a cocked pistol in his hand, pushed
+on, not perhaps entirely comfortable, but desirous at all hazards of
+executing his commission. He had not ridden far, when the sound of
+voices through the splashing of the rain arrested his attention.
+Pulling up, he listened in silence, and soon discovered that they came
+from two American soldiers, whether stragglers or sentinels it was
+impossible to divine; but whoever they were, they seemed to be
+approaching. It now struck him that his safest course would be to
+commence the attack, and having therefore waited till he saw them stop
+short, as if they had perceived him, he rode forward, and called out to
+them to surrender. The fellows turned and fled, but galloping after
+them, he overtook one, at whose head he presented a pistol, and who
+instantly threw down his rifle, and yielded himself prisoner; whilst
+the other, dashing into a thicket, escaped, probably to tell that he
+had been attacked by a whole regiment of British cavalry. Having thus
+taken a prisoner, my friend resolved to make him of some use; with this
+view he commanded him to lay hold of his thigh, and to guide him
+directly to the river, threatening, if he attempted to mislead or
+betray him into the hands of the Americans, that he would instantly
+blow out his brains. Finding himself completely in my friend’s power,
+the fellow could not refuse to obey; and accordingly, the man resting
+his hand upon the left thigh of the officer, they proceeded along the
+lane for some time, till they came to a part where it branched off in
+two directions. My friend here stopped for a moment; and again repeated
+his threat, swearing that the instant his conduct became suspicious
+should be the last of his life. The soldier assured him that he would
+keep his word, and moreover informed him that some of our ships were
+almost within gun-shot of the fort; a piece of information which was
+quickly confirmed by the sound of firing, and the appearance of shells
+in the air. They now struck to the right, and in half an hour gained
+the brink of the river: where my friend found a party just landed from
+the squadron, and preparing to seek their way towards the camp. By them
+he was conducted to the Admiral, from whom he learnt that no effectual
+support could be given to the land force; for such was the shallowness
+of the river, that none except the very lightest craft could make their
+way within six miles of the town; and even these were stopped by
+vessels sunk in the channel, and other artificial bars, barely within a
+shell’s longest range of the fort. With this unwelcome news he was
+accordingly forced to return; and taking his unwilling guide along with
+him, he made his way, without any adventure, to our advanced posts;
+where, having thanked the fellow for his fidelity, he rewarded it more
+effectually by setting him at liberty.
+
+Having brought his report to head-quarters, a council of war was
+instantly summoned to deliberate upon what was best to be done. Without
+the help of the fleet, it was evident that, adopt what plan of attack
+we could, our loss must be such as to counterbalance even success
+itself; whilst success, under existing circumstances, was, to say the
+least of it, doubtful. And even if we should succeed, what would be
+gained by it? We could not remove anything from Baltimore, for want of
+proper conveyances. Had the ships been able to reach the town, then,
+indeed, the quantity of booty might have repaid the survivors for their
+toil, and consoled them for the loss of comrades; but as the case now
+stood, we should only fight to give us an opportunity of reacting
+/re-enacting?/ the scenes of Washington. To distress an enemy is, no
+/doubt,
+desirable, but, in the present instance, that distress, even if brought
+upon the Americans, would cost us dear; whereas, if we failed, it was
+hardly possible to avoid destruction.
+
+MARCH.
+
+Such was the reasoning which influenced the council of war to decide
+that all idea of storming the enemy’s lines should be given up. To draw
+them from their works would require manoeuvring, and manoeuvring
+requires time; but delays were all in their favour, and could not
+possibly advantage us. Every hour brought in reinforcements to their
+army, whereas ours had no source from which even to recruit its losses;
+and it was, therefore, deemed prudent, since we could not fight at
+once, to lose no time in returning to the shipping.
+
+About three hours after midnight the troops were accordingly formed
+upon the road, and began their retreat, leaving the piquets to deceive
+the enemy, and to follow, as a rear-guard. The rain, which had
+continued with little interruption since the night before, now ceased,
+and the moon shone out bright and clear. We marched along, therefore,
+not in the same spirits as if we had been advancing, but feeling no
+debasement at having thus relinquished an enterprise so much beyond our
+strength.
+
+When the day broke, our piquets, which had withdrawn about an hour
+before, rejoined us, and we went on in a body. Marching over the field
+where the battle of the 12th had been fought, we beheld the dead
+scattered about, and still unburied; but so far different from those
+which we had seen at Bladensburg, that they were not stripped, every
+man lying as he had fallen. One object, however, struck me as curious.
+I saw several men hanging lifeless among the branches of trees, and
+learnt that they had been riflemen, who chose, during the battle, to
+fix themselves in these elevated situations, for the combined purposes
+of securing a good aim and avoiding danger. Whatever might be their
+success in the first of these designs, in the last they failed; for our
+men soon discovered them, and, considering the thing as unfair, refused
+to give them quarter, and shot them on their perches.
+
+Here we paused for about an hour, that the soldiers might collect their
+blankets and refresh themselves; when we again moved forward, passing
+the wood where the gallant Ross was killed. It was noon, and as yet all
+had gone on smoothly with out any check or alarm. So little indeed was
+pursuit dreamt of, that the column began to straggle, and to march
+without much regard to order; when suddenly the bugle sounded from the
+rear, and immediately after some musket shots were heard. In an instant
+the men were in their places, and the regiments wheeled into line,
+facing towards the enemy. The artillery turned round and advanced to
+the front; indeed I have never seen a manoeuvre more coolly or more
+steadily performed on a parade in England than this rally. The alarm,
+however, turned out to be groundless, being occasioned only by the
+sudden appearance of a squadron of horse, which had been sent out by
+the American General to track our steps. These endeavoured to charge
+the rear-guard, and succeeded in making two prisoners; but a single
+Shrapnel checked their farther advance, and sent them back at full
+speed to boast of the brave exploit which they had performed.
+
+Seeing that no attack was seriously intended, the army broke once more
+into the line of march, and proceeded to a favourable piece of ground,
+near the uncompleted position which I have already described, where we
+passed the night under little tents made with blankets and ramrods. No
+alarm occurring, nor any cause of delay appearing, at daybreak we again
+got under arms, and pushed on towards the shipping, which in two hours
+were distinguishable.
+
+RE-EMBARKATION.
+
+The infantry now halted upon a narrow neck of land, while the artillery
+was lifted into boats, and conveyed on board the fleet. As soon as this
+was done, brigade after brigade fell back to the water’s edge and
+embarked, till finally all, except the light troops, were got off.
+These being left to cover the embarkation, were extended across the
+entire space which but a little before contained the whole army; but as
+no attempt was made to molest them, they had only the honour of being
+the last to quit the shore.
+
+Were I to enter into a review of the military proceedings in this
+expedition, I should be condemned to repeat, almost word for word, the
+remarks which I ventured to make upon the operations previous to the
+capture of Washington. On the present occasion, however, neither
+hesitation nor precipitancy was displayed by the British General. He
+threw his valuable life away, indeed, by exposing his person
+unnecessarily in a trifling skirmish; but who will blame a soldier for
+excess of courage, or a leader for excess of alertness? Like other able
+men, he was unwilling to trust to the report of his subalterns, when it
+was in his power to ascertain what he sought to know by personal
+observation; and, like other brave men, he would not be deterred from
+prosecuting his design by the apprehension of danger. In the plan of
+the expedition here, he displayed both skill and resolution. Instead of
+wasting time by an attempt to ascend the river, he chose to land where
+he was least likely to meet with immediate opposition; and such was the
+celerity of his motions, that, had he lived, the chances are that we
+should have fought two battles in one day. But of what a man might have
+done, I have nothing to say; let me rather do justice to his successor
+and his advisers. Of these latter, there is one whom it would be
+improper not to mention by name—I mean Lieutenant Evans,
+Deputy-Assistant Quartermaster-General. The whole arrangement of our
+troops in order of battle was committed to him; and the judicious
+method in which they were drawn up, proved that he was not unworthy of
+the trust. With respect to the determination of the council of war, I
+choose to be silent. Certain it is, that the number of our forces would
+hardly authorise any desperate attempt; yet had the attempt been made,
+I have very little doubt that it would have been made successfully.
+
+On the part of the Americans, again, the same blunders were committed
+which marked their proceedings during the incursion to Washington, with
+this exception, that more science was displayed now than formerly in
+the distribution of their forces along their principal position. At
+Bladensburg, indeed, there existed no works, and the troops were badly
+arranged in an open country: here there were not only fortifications,
+but fortifications constructed in a scientific manner, and troops drawn
+up in such order, as that, even without their works, many cross fires
+would have protected their front. But they neglected numerous
+favourable opportunities of harassing both our advance and retreat.
+They felled trees, but left no guards to keep them from being removed,
+and took no advantage of the delays which their removal created. They
+risked a battle with a part of their army, when there was no necessity
+for it; in a word, they committed all those errors which men generally
+commit who are not soldiers, and yet love war.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XV.
+
+THE PATUXENT.
+
+
+Having once more received the troops on board, the fleet remained
+quietly at anchor till the 17th, when, at an early hour, we set sail
+and stood towards the Patuxent. In this voyage we passed close to Sent
+Island, and again threw the inhabitants of Anapolis into alarm by
+approaching almost within gun-shot of their town; but at neither place
+were hostilities attempted, and on the 19th we arrived, without any
+adventure, at our former anchorage in the river. Here we brought up,
+and parties were sent on shore to dig wells in the sand, to which the
+boats resorted in great numbers for water. Cattle and sheep were
+likewise purchased from the natives; some of the flour which had been
+captured was converted into biscuit; and every preparation seemed to be
+making for a long voyage.
+
+To facilitate these operations, the fleet now separated, part remaining
+here, and part proceeding under Admiral Malcolm to the Potomac; whilst
+Sir Alexander Cochrane, in the Tonnant, with several frigates and
+gun-brigs, quitted us altogether, and set sail, as it was given out,
+for Halifax. But our situation was by no means agreeable. The climate
+of this part of America is, at certain seasons, far from healthy; and
+the prevalence of dysentery through the armament proved that the
+unhealthy season had already commenced. Neither did there appear to be
+any prospect of further employment. No one talked of a future
+enterprise, nor was the slightest rumour circulated as to the next
+point of attack. The death of General Ross seemed to have disorganized
+the whole plan of proceedings, and the fleet and army rested idle, like
+a watch without its main spring.
+
+Whilst things were in this state, whilst the banks of the rivers
+continued in our possession, and the interior was left unmolested to
+the Americans, a rash confidence sprang up in the minds of all,
+insomuch that parties of pleasure would frequently land without arms,
+and spend many hours onshore. On one of these occasions, several
+officers from the 85th regiment agreed to pass a day together at a
+farm-house, about a quarter of a mile from the stream; and taking with
+them ten soldiers, unarmed, to row the boat, a few sailors, and a young
+midshipman, not more than twelve years of age, they proceeded to put
+their determination into practice. Leaving the men, under the command
+of their youthful pilot, to take care of the boat, the officers went on
+to the house; but they had not remained there above an hour, when they
+were alarmed by a shout, which sounded as if it came from the river.
+Looking, out, they beheld their party surrounded by seventy or eighty
+mounted riflemen; the boat dragged upon the beach, and set on fire.
+Giving themselves up for lost, they continued for an instant in a sort
+of stupor; but the master of the house, to whom some kindness had been
+shown by our people, proved himself grateful, and, letting them out by
+a back door, directed them to bide themselves in the wood, whilst he
+should endeavour to turn their pursuers on a wrong scent. As they had
+nothing to trust to except the honour of this American, it cannot be
+supposed that they felt much at ease; but, seeing no better course
+before them, they resigned themselves to his guidance, and plunging
+into the thicket, concealed themselves as well as they could among the
+underwood. In the mean time the American soldiers, having secured all
+that were left behind, except the young midshipman, who fled into the
+wood in spite of their fire, divided into two bodies, one of which
+approached the house, whilst the other endeavoured to overtake the
+brave boy. It so chanced that the party in pursuit passed close to the
+officers in concealment, but by the greatest good fortune failed to
+observe them. They succeeded, however, in catching a glimpse of the
+midshipman, just as he had gained the water’s edge, and was pushing off
+a light canoe which he had loosened from the stump of a tree. The
+barbarians immediately gave chase, firing at the brave lad, and calling
+out to surrender; but the gallant youth paid no attention either to
+their voices or their bullets. Launching his little bark, he put to sea
+with a single paddle, and, regardless of the showers of balls which
+fell about him, returned alone and unhurt to the ship. Whilst one party
+was thus employed, the other hastened to the house in full expectation
+of capturing the British officers. But their host kept his word with
+great fidelity, and, having directed his countrymen towards another
+farm-house at some distance from his own, and in an opposite quarter
+from the spot where his guests lay, he waited till they were out of
+sight, and then joined his new friends in their lurking-place. Bringing
+with him such provisions as he could muster, he advised them to keep
+quiet till dark, when, their pursuers having departed, he conducted
+them to the river, supplied them with a large canoe, and sent them off
+in perfect safety to the fleet.
+
+On reaching their ship, they found the 85th regiment under arms, and
+preparing to land, for the purpose of either releasing their comrades
+from captivity, or inflicting exemplary punishment upon the farmer by
+whose treachery it was supposed that they had suffered. But when the
+particulars of his behaviour were related, the latter alternative was
+at once abandoned; and it was determined to force a dismissal of the
+captives, by advancing up the country, and laying waste every thing
+with fire and sword. The whole of the light brigade was accordingly
+carried on shore, and halted on the beach, whilst a messenger was sent
+forward to demand back the prisoners. Such, however, was the effect of
+his threatening, that the demand was at once complied with, and they
+returned on board without having committed any ravages, or marched
+above two miles from the boats.
+
+THE POTOMAC
+
+Besides this trifling debarkation, another little excursion was made by
+the second and third brigades, the light troops being left most
+unaccountably on board of ship, Colonel Brook, having heard that an
+encampment was formed a few miles from the left bank of the Potomac,
+determined, if possible, to come up with and engage the force there
+stationed. With this view, two brigades were landed on the night of the
+4th of October, and pushed forward at a brisk pace; but the enemy,
+being on the alert, had timely notice of the movement, and retired; by
+which means our people returned on the 5th, without effecting anything.
+
+THE CHESAPEAKE.
+
+By this time the whole fleet was once more collected together; and
+crowded the Potomac with their keels. The Diadem being an old ship and
+a bad sailer, it was determined to remove from her the troops which she
+had formerly carried, to fill her with American prisoners, and to send
+her to England. The Menelaus was likewise dispatched with such officers
+and soldiers as required the benefit of their native air to complete
+the cure of their wounds; and the rest, getting under weigh on the 6th,
+stood directly towards the mouth of the Chesapeake. When we reached the
+James River, we anchored, and were joined by an American schooner
+bearing a flag of truce. She brought with her Colonel Thornton, Lieut.
+Colonel Wood, with the rest of the officers and men who had been left
+behind at Bladensburg, and, being under the guidance of Commodore
+Barney, that gentleman was enabled to discharge his trust even to the
+very letter.
+
+It may readily be supposed that the meeting between friends thus
+restored to each other was very agreeable. But there was another source
+of comfort which this arrival communicated, of greater importance than
+the pleasure bestowed upon individuals. In Colonel Thornton we felt
+that we had recovered a dashing and enterprising officer; one as well
+calculated to lead a corps of light troops, and to guide the advance of
+an army, as any in the service. On the whole, therefore, the American
+schooner was as welcome as if she had been a first-rate man-of-war
+filled with reinforcements from England.
+
+The wounded being now sent off, and Colonel Wood among the number, the
+remainder of the fleet again set sail, and reached the mouth of the bay
+without interruption. Here they were met by a frigate and two brigs,
+which spoke to the Admiral, and apparently communicated some important
+intelligence; for we immediately put about and stood once more up the
+Chesapeake. The wind, however, blew with great violence, and directly
+against us. After beating about, therefore, for some time, without
+making any progress, we turned our heads towards the ocean, and flying
+between the Capes with amazing velocity, stood out to sea, directing
+our course towards the S.S.E., and proceeding at the rate of seven
+miles an hour under bare poles. The sea ran tremendously high, and the
+sky was dark and dreary; insomuch that by a landsman the gale might
+safely be accounted a storm. Under these circumstances, the ship
+rolling as if she would dip her topmasts in the water, and the waves
+breaking in at the back windows of the cabin, nothing remained to be
+done but to go to bed. Thither most of us accordingly repaired, and
+holding ourselves in our berths by clinging to the posts, we amused
+ourselves by watching the motions of stools, books, trunks, and other
+articles, as they floated majestically from one side of the cabin to
+the other. But the effects of the gale were not in every respect
+ludicrous. Two small schooners, which had been captured at Alexandria
+and converted into tenders, foundered and went down, without an
+opportunity being afforded of saving an individual of their crews.
+
+AT SEA.
+
+At length the wind began to moderate, and on the 18th there was a dead
+calm. In point of comfort, however, I cannot say that much change was
+experienced; for though the gale had ceased, the swell still continued;
+and the motion produced by a heavy sea after a storm is even more
+disagreeable than that occasioned by the storm itself. But on this day
+the minds of all were set at ease as to the place whither we were
+going, a telegraph signal being made to steer for Jamaica. It was
+likewise understood that we should be there joined by strong
+reinforcements, and proceed upon a secret expedition against some place
+on the southern borders of the United States.
+
+The calm which had succeeded the storm did not last long, for on the
+19th a fair breeze sprang up, and sent us at a moderate and agreeable
+rate upon our course. The heat, however, was most oppressive; even
+awnings being unable to afford sufficient shelter. We were fast
+approaching the tropic of Cancer, and every day experienced a greater
+degree of sultriness; till at length, on the 25th, we crossed that
+imaginary boundary. Here we were visited, according to custom, by
+Neptune and his wife; and as the ceremony of shaving may be unknown to
+some of my readers, I shall beg leave to relate the particulars of that
+operation.
+
+A clever active seaman, dressed up grotesquely in party-coloured rags,
+adorned with a long beard made of the stuff which sailors call
+spun-yarn, and armed with a tri-pronged harpoon, personates the God of
+the Ocean. Another seaman, arrayed in like manner, except that, instead
+of a beard, he wears a hideous mask, performs the part of the lady.
+These are attended by a troop of sea-gods and nymphs, similarly
+equipped; and advancing from the bow of the vessel, as if just stepped
+on board, they come forward to the mainmast, and summon before them all
+such persons as have never sworn the oaths or previously visited their
+capital. At the foot of the mast is placed a large tub full of
+sea-water, and covered by a piece of canvas, which is held tight by
+four of their attendants. Upon this unsteady throne is the luckless
+wight, whom they design to initiate, compelled to sit; and being asked
+several questions, which he cannot answer, and taking several oaths,
+very much resembling those said to be administered at Highgate, Neptune
+proceeds to confer upon him the honour of filiation, by rather an
+extraordinary process. Two of the sea-nymphs, generally tall stout
+fellows, pinion his arms to his sides; and another, bringing a bucket
+filled with grease and slops from the kitchen, sets it down at his
+godship’s feet, putting a small painting-brush into his hand. Neptune
+now dips his brush into the filth, and proceeds to spread a lather over
+the face of the novice, taking care to ask questions during the whole
+process; and if the adopted be simple enough to reply, the brush is
+instantly thrust into his mouth. As soon as a sufficient quantity of
+grease is laid upon the face, Neptune seizes a piece of rusty iron,
+generally the broken hoop of some water-cask, with which he scrapes off
+all that has been applied. If the novice take all this patiently, his
+face is washed, and he is permitted to descend from his throne in
+peace; but if he lose his temper, which most men are apt to do, a
+bucket of sea-water is poured upon his head. If this be sufficient to
+cool his wrath, he suffers no more; but if it only increase his
+indignation, bucket after bucket is emptied over him, and at last, the
+holders of the sail-cloth suddenly retiring, he is plunged overhead
+into the tub. To crown all, the unfortunate wretch who has endured
+these miseries is fined by his tormentor in a gallon of ruin; a fine
+which the force of custom compels him to pay. It must be confessed that
+this is a barbarous amusement, much resembling that of the boys in the
+fable of the boys and the frogs. Though very agreeable to those who act
+and to the lookers on, it is not so to him that suffers.
+
+In this manner many persons were treated, till at length Neptune,
+growing weary from the number of novices, was content to admit the rest
+to the privileges of initiation, on condition that the fines should be
+punctually paid; an agreement into which most of us very thankfully
+entered.
+
+THE WEST INDIES.
+
+Next morning, the first object which met our eyes was the land of
+Caycos island. We were so close to the shore, when daylight discovered
+it, that had the wind been at all adverse we must unquestionably have
+struck; but being assisted by a fair and gentle breeze, the ships put
+about immediately, and escaped the danger. Standing out to sea, the
+fleet now doubled the promontory, and steering round by the other side,
+sailed on without losing sight of the land till late in the evening.
+
+On the following day, a signal was made from the Admiral’s ship, that
+the Golden Fleece transport, under convoy of the Volcano bomb, should
+proceed to Port Royal, whilst the rest of the fleet held their course
+towards Negril Bay. These two vessels accordingly set all sail, and
+pushed forward by themselves; the others keeping on at a more moderate
+rate, that none might stray from the convoy: for the West India seas at
+this time swarmed with American privateers, and it was of great
+consequence to keep the store-ships and heavy transports in the middle
+of the squadron.
+
+It so chanced that I took my passage in one of the two ships which
+proceeded forward by themselves. The wind was fair, and we made great
+progress, insomuch that before dark the high land of St. Domingo on one
+side, and the mountains of Cuba on the other, were discernible. In
+spite of the heat, therefore, our voyage soon became truly delightful.
+Secure of getting on under the influence of the trade winds, we had
+nothing to distract our thoughts, or keep us from feasting our eyes
+upon the glorious shores of these two islands; whilst in addition to
+the sight of land, which of itself was cheering, we were amused with
+water-spouts, apparently playing about us in every direction. One of
+these, however, began to form within a little distance of the ship, and
+as they are dangerous as well as interesting, a cannon was got ready to
+break it before it should reach us. But it did not complete its
+formation, though I cannot tell why; for, after one spout had risen
+into the air some height, and another bent down from the clouds to meet
+it, they were suddenly carried away in different directions, and fell
+into the sea with the noise of a cataract.
+
+Among other sources of amusement, our attention was drawn, on the 29th,
+to a shark, which made its appearance at the stern of the vessel. A
+strong hook was immediately prepared, and baited with a piece of salt
+pork, which being thrown over, was instantly gulped by the voracious
+monster. But as soon as he felt the pain occasioned by the book in his
+jaws, he plunged towards the bottom of the sea with such violence, as
+to render the very tafferel hot, by the rapidity of the cord gliding
+over it. Having permitted him to go a certain length, he was again
+hauled up to the surface, where he remained without offering further
+resistance, till a boat was lowered, and a strong noose thrown over his
+head. Being thus made fast to the gunwale of the boat, he was brought
+round to the gangway, when the end of the noose being cast over the
+main-yard, he was lifted out of the sea and swung upon the ship’s deck.
+Hitherto he had suffered quietly enough, in apparent stupefaction from
+the pain of his jaw; but he began now to convince us that neither life
+nor strength had deserted him; lashing his tail with such violence as
+speedily to clear the quarter-deck, and biting in the most furious
+manner at everything within his reach. One of the sailors, however, who
+seemed to understand these matters more than his comrades, took an axe,
+and watching his opportunity, at one, blow chopped off his tail. He was
+now perfectly harmless, unless, indeed, one had chosen to thrust one’s
+hand into his mouth; and the same sailor accordingly proceeded to lay
+him open, and to take out his entrails. And now it was that the
+tenacity of life, peculiar to these animals, displayed itself. After
+his heart and bowels were taken out; the shark still continued to
+exhibit proofs of animation, by biting with as much force as ever at a
+bag of carpenter’s tools that happened to lie within his reach.
+
+Being cut up, he was distributed in portions among the soldiers and the
+ship’s crew. The tail part only was reserved as the chief delicacy for
+our cabin, which, though dry and hard, with little flavour or taste,
+was on the present occasion considered as agreeable food, because it
+was fresh.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+
+But what I principally relished, in this part of our voyage, was the
+exquisite beauty of its night-scenery. To an inhabitant of Great
+Britain, the splendour of a night-scene in these climates is altogether
+unknown. Shining broad and full in a sky perfectly cloudless, the moon
+sends forth a clear and mellow lustre, little inferior, in point of
+brilliancy, to the full twilight in England. By this means you never
+lose sight of land, either by night or day, as long as your course lies
+between Cuba and St. Domingo; whilst the delicious coolness, which
+follows the setting of the sun, tempts you, in spite of all the
+whispers of prudence, to expose yourself to dews and damps, rather than
+forego the pleasures of which they are the bane. Besides, you have
+constantly the satisfaction of observing yourself move steadily on at
+the most agreeable of all rates, about five or six miles an hour; a
+satisfaction far from trifling in a sea-life. Then the ocean is so
+smooth, that scarcely a ripple is seen to break the moon-beams as they
+fall; whilst the quiet dash of little waves against the ship’s side,
+and the rushing noise occasioned by the moving of her bow through the
+water, produce altogether an effect which may, without affectation, be
+termed absolutely refreshing. It was my common practice to sit for
+hours after night-fall upon the tafferel, and strain my eyes in the
+attempt to distinguish objects on shore or strange sails in the
+distance.
+
+It happened that, on the 30th, I was tempted to indulge in this idle
+but bewitching employment, even beyond my usual hour for retiring, and
+did not quit the deck till towards two o’clock in the morning of the
+31st. I had just entered my cabin, and was beginning to undress, when a
+cry from above, of an enemy in chase, drew me instantly to the
+quarter-deck. On looking astern, I perceived a vessel making directly
+after us, and was soon convinced of the justice of the alarm, by a shot
+which whistled over our heads. All hands were now called to quarters,
+the small sails were taken in, and having spoken to our companion, and
+made an agreement as to position, both ships cleared for action. But
+the stranger, seeing his signal obeyed with so much alacrity, likewise
+slackened sail, and, continuing to keep us in view, followed our wake
+without approaching nearer. In this state things continued till
+daybreak, we still holding our course, and he hanging back; but as soon
+as it was light, he set more sail and ran to windward, moving just out
+of gun-shot, in a parallel direction with us. It was now necessary to
+fall upon some plan of deceiving him, otherwise there was little
+probability that he would attack. In the bomb, indeed, the height of
+the bulwark served to conceal some of the men; but in the transport no
+such screen existed. The troops were, therefore, ordered below, and
+only the sailors, a few blacks, and the officers, kept the deck. The
+same expedient was likewise adopted, in part, by Captain Price, of the
+Volcano; and in order to give to his ship a still greater resemblance
+than it already had to a merchantman, he displayed an old faded scarlet
+ensign, and drew up his fore and mainsail in what sailors term a
+lubberly manner.
+
+As yet the stranger had shown no colours, but, from her build and
+rigging, there was little doubt as to her country. She was a beautiful
+schooner, presenting seven ports on a side, and apparently crowded with
+men, circumstances which immediately led us to believe that she was an
+American privateer. The Volcano, on the other hand, was a clumsy
+strong-built ship, carrying twelve guns; and the Golden Fleece mounted
+eight; so that, in point of artillery, the advantage was rather on our
+side; but the American’s sailing was so much superior to that of either
+of us, that this advantage was more than counterbalanced.
+
+Having dodged us till eight o’clock, and reconnoitred with great
+exactness, the stranger began to steer gradually nearer and nearer,
+till at length it was judged that she had arrived within range. A gun
+was accordingly fired from the Volcano, and another from the transport,
+the balls from both of which passed over her and fell into the sea.
+Finding herself thus assaulted, she instantly threw off her disguise,
+and hung out an American ensign; when, putting her helm up, she poured
+a broadside, with a volley of musketry, into the transport; and ran
+alongside of the bomb, which sailed to windward.
+
+As soon as her flag was displayed, and her intention of attacking
+discerned, all hands were ordered up, and she received two
+well-directed broadsides from the Volcano, as well as a warm salute
+from the Golden Fleece. But such was the celerity of her motion, that
+she was alongside of the bomb in less time than can be imagined; and
+actually dashing her bow against the other, attempted to carry her by
+boarding. Captain Price, however, was ready to receive them. The
+boarders were at their posts in an instant, and the enemy discovering,
+when it was too late, the mistake into which he had fallen, left about
+twenty of his men upon the Volcano’s bowsprit, all of whom were thrown
+into the sea; and filling his sails, sheered off with the same speed
+with which he had borne down. In attempting to escape, he unavoidably
+fell somewhat to leeward, and exposed the whole of his deck to the fire
+of the transport. A tremendous discharge of musketry saluted him as he
+passed; and it was almost laughable to witness the haste with which his
+crew hurried below, leaving none upon deck except such as were
+absolutely wanted to work his vessel.
+
+The Volcano had by this time filled, and gave chase, firing with great
+precision at the privateer’s yards and rigging, in the hope of
+disabling him. But as fortune would have it, none of his important
+ropes or yards were cut; and we had the mortification to see him, in a
+few minutes, beyond our reach.
+
+In this affair, a marine officer and two men were killed on board the
+bomb; and some of the tackling was shot away. The transport suffered
+nothing in killed or wounded, having been in a great degree protected
+from the enemy’s fire by her commodore; and only one rope, not, I
+believe, an important one, was destroyed.
+
+The battle having ended, and the chase being given up as fruitless, we
+continued our course without any other adventure; and before dark were
+able to distinguish the blue mountains of Jamaica. St. Domingo and Cuba
+had both disappeared, and this was now the only land visible; but it
+was not till the 1st of November that we could obtain a distinct view
+of it. Then, indeed, we found ourselves within a few miles of the
+shore, and seldom has landscape appeared more attractive to the eyes of
+a voyager, than the romantic shores of Jamaica now appeared to ours.
+
+Jamaica is in general a bold and mountainous island, but on this side
+it is peculiarly so. It appeared to me that even the Pyrenees,
+magnificent as they are, were not to be compared, in point of altitude,
+to the hills now before me; and early in the morning, while yet the
+mists hung upon their summits and concealed them, no prospect can be
+imagined more sublime than that which they presented. It was, in truth,
+a glorious scene; and as the wind blew light and uncertain, we were
+permitted, from the slowness of the ship’s progress, to enjoy it to the
+full. Towards evening, indeed, the breeze died entirely away, which
+compelled us to anchor about eight miles from the harbour of Port
+Royal.
+
+PORT ROYAL.
+
+In spite of the little rest which I had procured during the two
+preceding nights, having sat up till an early hour this morning, to
+watch several strange sails that hovered about us, I could not bring
+myself to quit the deck till after midnight, so beautiful, in all
+respects, were the objects around me. The moon shone with her
+accustomed brilliancy, and exhibited every crag and tree upon the land,
+changed and confounded in shape, but still plainly; whilst the perfume,
+borne off upon the breeze, was odoriferous in the highest degree. The
+sound of the waves, likewise, breaking upon the rocks, and the
+occasional cry of seamen, as they adjusted ropes and sails, together
+with the sight of several vessels which took advantage of the
+night-wind and stood to sea, with canvas glittering in the moonbeams,
+produced so delightful a combination, as completely riveted me to my
+seat; nor was it without much reluctance that I at length yielded to
+the drowsy god, and descended to my cabin.
+
+Next morning, the ship got under weigh at an early hour, but, owing to
+the unsteadiness of the breeze, it was ten o’clock before we made any
+satisfactory progress. As we approached the bay which forms the harbour
+of Port Royal, a novel and pleasing sight presented itself. The hills
+dying gradually away, gave place to gentle slopes and green knolls,
+till, towards the entrance, the coast became perfectly level. Pushing
+forward, we soon found ourselves in a narrow channel between two
+projecting headlands, beautifully ornamented with cocoa-nut trees, and
+so near to each other, that I could with ease have thrown a biscuit
+from the ship’s deck upon either. At the extremity of these necks, just
+where the bay begins its sweep, stand two well-built forts, bristling
+with cannon; and at the opposite side may be seen a third, ready to
+sink whatever hostile fleet should be fortunate enough to force an
+entrance. But these were not the most striking parts of the scene. The
+water in this strait is remarkably clear, and exhibits with great
+distinctness the tops and chimneys of houses at the bottom. It will be
+recollected, that many years ago, an earthquake not only demolished
+great part of the town of Port Royal, but likewise covered it with the
+sea; by which means, the site of the harbour was completely changed,
+and that which was formerly dry land, and a town, became part of the
+entrance of the bay.
+
+Having doubled the promontories, a rich and extensive prospect meets
+the eye. You find yourself, as it were, in a large inland lake, the
+banks of which are covered with plantations of sugar cane, groves of
+cocoa-nut and plantain trees, and other woods peculiar to these
+regions, beautifully interspersed with seats and villages. On your
+right is the town of Port Royal, lying almost on a level with the
+water, and strongly protected by fortifications, whilst in various
+other directions are castles and batteries, adding an appearance of
+security to that of plenty. The banks, though not lofty, slope gently
+upwards, with occasional falls or glens, and the background is composed
+in general of the rugged tops of distant mountains.
+
+Having waited till the ship dropped anchor, I put myself into a a sort
+of barge rowed by four negroes, and proceeded to Kingston. Though not
+the capital of the island, Kingston is the largest town in Jamaica. It
+stands upon the brink of a frith, about nine miles above Port Royal,
+and thence enjoys all the advantages of the chief mart in this trading
+country. Like most other mercantile seaports, it is built without much
+regard to regularity. The streets, though wide, are in general the
+reverse of elegant, being composed almost entirely of wooden houses,
+and by no means remarkable for cleanliness. Of public buildings it
+possesses none worthy of notice. Its inns are, however, excellent; and
+though certainly not moderate in their charges, they are at least more
+so than those of Bermuda. In a word, it is exactly such a town as one
+would expect to find holding the principal commercial rank in a colony
+where men’s minds seldom aspire beyond the occupations of trade.
+
+Of the intense heat in this place, none but those who have experienced
+it can form a notion. It is impossible to walk out with any comfort,
+except before the sun has risen, or after he has set; and even within
+doors, with the aid of thorough draughts and all the other expedients
+usually adopted on such occasions, it is with the utmost difficulty
+that you can contrive to keep your blood in a moderate degree of
+temperature. In the town itself, therefore, few of the higher classes
+reside, the closeness produced by a proximity of houses being in this
+climate peculiarly insupportable. These inhabit for the most part
+little villas, called Pens, about three or four miles in the country,
+the master of each family generally, retaining a suite of apartments,
+or, perhaps an entire mansion, in some open street for his own use,
+when business obliges, him, to exchange the comfort of fresh air for
+the suffocating atmosphere of Kingston. Towards the outskirts, indeed,
+in one direction, a few gentile families inhabit one or two handsome
+houses, surrounded by extensive gardens and shrubberies; but these are
+not numerous, and they are so far removed from the heart of the town,
+as to be in great measure beyond the influence of its smoke and other
+nuisances.
+
+During our sojourn in this place we received the most hospitable
+attention from several persons of the first distinction. Balls and
+other entertainments were given, at which all the beauty and fashion in
+this part of the island attended; and for some days I had little
+leisure or inclination for any other pursuit than the enjoyment of
+civilized pleasure, a pursuit which, from long disuse, possessed more
+than ordinary zest. But at length having seen as much of Kingston and
+its vicinity as, I desired to see, I determined to take advantage of
+the opportunity which fortune had placed within my reach, and to make
+an excursion into the heart of the Blue Mountains. To this I was
+additionally induced by an invitation from an old friend to visit him
+at Annotto bay; and as, along with his letter, he sent a horse for my
+own conveyance, and a mule for the conveyance of my baggage, no
+difficulty respecting a mode of being transported stood in the way to
+obstruct my design.
+
+Having made up my mind to this journey, I waited, till sunset on the
+9th, when, starting in the cool of the evening, I reached a little
+tavern called the Plum Tree, about half an hour after dark. My ride
+carried me through an open and fertile country covered with
+sugar-canes, coffee, and such other plants as are cultivated in the low
+grounds of Jamaica. It was a short one, not more than twelve miles in
+extent, but I was forced to halt where I did, because I had gained the
+foot of the mountains; and if I had passed the Plum Tree, well known as
+a sort of half-way house on such tours, I might have travelled all
+night without finding any place of accommodation.
+
+As darkness set in, one of the, beautiful peculiarities of a tropical
+climate, which I had not previously witnessed, came under my
+observation. The air was filled with fire-flies, which, emitting a
+phosphoric light something similar to the light of the glow-worm, only
+more red and brilliant, danced around me like sparks from a smith’s
+anvil when he is beating a bar of red-hot iron. These creatures flutter
+about with a humming noise, and frequently settle in large swarms upon
+branches of trees, giving them the semblance of so many pieces of
+timber taken newly out of a fire. When viewed by daylight they are in
+no way remarkable for their elegance, resembling in the shape of the
+body a long beetle which may be seen in the fields after sunset,
+without wings or scales. In colour they are a dingy brown, and, like
+the glow-worm, carry their light in the tail.
+
+As I had not before chanced to see anything of the kind, and forgot at
+the moment that such an insect as the fire-fly existed, I was for a few
+minutes at a loss to what cause to attribute the phenomenon, and was at
+last indebted to my negro guide for refreshing my memory on the
+subject. The effect, however, cannot be conceived without being
+witnessed. A cluster of two or three glow-worms shine so brilliantly,
+that they will furnish subject for the commendatory eloquence of any
+one fortunate enough to perceive them together; but their brilliancy is
+to a farthing candle to the sun, when compared with that of the
+fire-fly. Not two, or three, but thousands of these creatures dance
+around, filling the air with a wavering and uncertain glimmer, of the
+extreme beauty of which no words can convey an adequate conception.
+
+THE BLUE MOUNTAINS.
+
+Having passed the night at this tavern, a small cottage kept by a free
+negro and his wife, I rose two hours before dawn, and prosecuted my
+journey. From the moment I quitted the Plate Tree I began gradually to
+ascend, till at daybreak I found myself in the midst of the most
+glorious scenery that the imagination of man can conceive. Everything
+around was new and romantic. The hills, towering into the very sky,
+were covered from top to bottom with the richest herbage and the most
+luxuriant wood. Rarely could a barren crag be discerned, and when it
+did appear it was only a sharp point, or a bald projection pushing
+itself forward from the midst of the thickest foliage. But what to me
+formed the most bewitching part of the prospect was the elegance of the
+trees and their perfect dissimilitude to any which had previously
+beheld. The cocoa-nut and plantain were mingled with the wild pine and
+lime-tree; while the cashew and wild coffee, with numberless other
+shrubs, loaded at once with fruit and blossom, formed the underwood to
+these graceful forests.
+
+As yet I had been favoured with a wide and good road, but now it began
+gradually to narrow, till at last it ended in a path little more
+distinct than the sheep-tracks over the hills in Scotland. Winding
+along the sides of the mountains, it brought me frequently to spots
+where the wood parting, as if artificially, displayed deep ravines, to
+look down which, without becoming dizzy, required no little strength of
+head; whilst above, the same hill continued to stretch itself to a
+height far beyond any I had before gazed upon. Presently after it
+conducted me gently down into valleys completely shut out from the rest
+of the world; and as I descended I could hear the roar of water, though
+neither, the stream nor the bottom of the glen could be perceived. On
+one of these occasions, after passing through a thick grove, I beheld a
+river of some width dashing along the glen, and chafing so as to
+produce the noise of a mighty waterfall. Towards the brink of this
+river my guide conducted me; when, plunging in, we made our way with
+some difficulty to the opposite bank, and again began to ascend.
+
+For several hours, the same scenery surrounded me, only varied by the
+occasional appearance of clusters of negro huts. Than these, it is
+impossible to imagine any species of huts or dwellings more beautifully
+picturesque. They are constructed of strong limbs of trees, thatched
+over with straw, and usually ending in a cone; having no windows, but
+only two, or sometimes four doors, for the purpose of admitting a free
+current of air. The spots chosen for their erection, are generally
+small platforms or terraces in the sides of the hills. A little path,
+similar to that along which I travelled, winds down from their doors to
+the bottom of the valley, and conducts to the edge of the river, from
+whence the inhabitants are supplied with water. Other tracks likewise
+branch off in different directions, some towards the summit, and others
+along the sides of the mountains; leading, probably, to the fields or
+spots where the inhabitants labour. These huts have no chimney, but
+only a large hole in the roof, to give free passage to the smoke; and I
+could perceive, by its rise at present, that fires were now burning.
+
+It would be labour lost, were I to attempt any more minute description
+of this delightful journey. Every step I took presented something new,
+and something more grand and sublime than I had just quitted; whilst
+the continual fording of the swollen river (for I crossed the same
+stream no fewer than eight-and-twenty times) gave an additional
+interest to the scene, arising from the sense of danger. The rainy
+season having just ended, this stream, the Wag-water, a most
+appropriate name, had not as yet returned to its natural size; but at
+the fords, which in general would not cover a horse’s knees, the depth
+was such as to moisten the saddle-girths. So great a quantity of water,
+in a furious mountain-torrent, pouring on with all the violence
+produced by a steep descent, occasioned no slight pressure upon my
+steed; nor was it without considerable floundering on his part, and
+some anxiety on mine, that once or twice we succeeded in making good
+our passage.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+
+Noon was approaching when my sooty fellow-traveller directed my
+attention to a neat cottage, romantically situated on the top of a low
+mound, which stood alone in the middle of stupendous mountains. It
+commanded one of the most exquisite prospects that fancy can represent.
+A sort of glen surrounded it on every side, richly and beautifully
+wooded; behind, rose some of the most lofty of the Blue Mountains; on
+the right there was an opening, which admitted a fine view of Annotto
+Bay; whilst in the other direction, the hills sloping gradually
+upwards, presented an inclined plane, covered with fields of
+sugar-cane, and ending, at a considerable distance, in one abrupt and
+broken ridge.
+
+The cottage in question was the residence of my friend, and the
+resting-place whither my steps were turned; nor did I experience any
+regret at finding myself so near my journey’s end. The heat had for
+some time been almost intolerable, and having eaten nothing since the
+night before, nature began to cry out for repose and repletion; and, in
+truth, the welcome which I experienced, was of a nature to take away
+all desire of wandering farther. We had not met for several years—not,
+indeed, since I was a child—and in the interval, some melancholy
+changes had occurred in the family of my host; but he received me with
+the cordial hospitality which a warm heart produces, and forgot his
+private sorrows for a time, that he might not throw a damp upon my
+enjoyments.
+
+The remainder of this day I spent, as a powerful sensation of fatigue
+warned me to spend it, within doors; but on the following morning I set
+out at an early hour, for the purpose of gratifying my curiosity on a
+number of points which had frequently exercised it. In this excursion,
+and indeed in all the excursions which I undertook during my residence
+at his Pen, my friend accompanied me; and an excellent and most
+intelligent guide he proved to be. We made the tour of several estates,
+saw the process of making sugar, visited the sugar and coffee
+plantations, and inspected several hospitals, with one of which each
+estate is supplied, for the accommodation and cure of sick negroes. In
+the course of these rambles, I made it my business to inquire into the
+condition and treatment of the slave population; inspecting their huts,
+and even examining their provisions; and I frankly confess that, though
+I began my researches under the influence of as many prejudices as, on
+such a subject, are wont to be entertained by Englishmen in general,
+the result of the whole was to convince me that I had done glaring
+injustice to the character of the Jamaica planters, as well as fostered
+notions of the wretchedness of the negroes, utterly and iniquitously
+erroneous. It is no business of mine, and, if it were, this is no
+proper place to take part in what has of late been termed the
+West-Indian controversy; but, as an eye-witness, I may venture to speak
+out on one point, by affirming, that a countless proportion of the
+stories with which the British public is amused, touching the barbarous
+treatment of slaves by owners and overseers, are, if not absolute
+fables, at all events gross exaggerations. I am aware that my residence
+in the island was too brief, and my acquaintance with it too limited,
+to entitle my opinions to the weight which a more protracted sojourn
+might have obtained for them; but it is but justice to state, that
+whilst I was there, I enjoyed opportunities of seeing the negro at all
+times, and under all circumstances, such as few casual visitors can
+boast of. My host was not a planter, but a medical practitioner; and
+one prejudiced rather against the slave system than in favour of it:
+there was therefore no disposition on his part to cast dust into my
+eyes, or to present to them only the bright side of the picture. Under
+his guidance, I beheld the negro at work in the fields, in the bosom of
+his family, in the sick ward, and at market; and I never saw him other
+than a contented and light-hearted being. No doubt there are instances
+of cruelty on the part of overseers in Jamaica, exactly as there are
+instances of tyranny on the part of parish officers and county
+magistrates in England; but had these been as numerous, or as flagrant,
+as they are represented to be, I cannot doubt but that something of the
+kind must have passed under my eyes, even within the space of one week.
+No such event, however, took place; and, as far as I could learn, no
+such event was to be expected.
+
+Far be it from me to stand forward as the advocate of personal bondage
+in the abstract—it is a grievous evil; and wherever men are so far
+civilized as to render its abolition desirable, it is an evil which
+ought to be abolished. But it is an evil of long standing, authorized
+in the Bible, and therefore, we may presume, not without its
+counterbalancing benefits. He, therefore, who would seek, at all
+hazards and under all circumstances, to dissolve the tie which binds a
+master to his slave, and a slave to his master—whilst he would be doing
+that which the Apostles never did, and which Christians are nowhere
+commanded to do—would run no slight hazard of causing a quantity of
+mischief to both parties, for which the benefits bestowed upon either
+would not compensate. With respect to our own colonies, in particular,
+it is manifest that the whole matter resolves itself into one
+consideration. If the negroes be in such a state, as that the boon of
+universal freedom would be productive to them of universal benefit, by
+all means let it be bestowed at once, even though it be attended by so
+much national expense, as the fair demands of the proprietors for
+compensation shall impose upon us. If they be not thus situated, let
+every practicable method be adopted to advance them on the scale of
+civilization; but till they be advanced far beyond their present
+station, let no false hopes be excited that the moment of their
+liberation is at hand. Many measures for their improvement have been
+adopted since the year 1814, and many more are in daily process of
+adoption; but it is greatly to be apprehended that much of the benefit
+which these measures promised to bring about, has been obstructed by
+the indiscreet zeal of those who profess, and probably feel, the
+liveliest interest in their welfare.
+
+Besides adding to my stock of knowledge as to the cultivation of the
+sugar-cane, the making of sugar, rum, &c. &c.; I had an opportunity of
+seeing something of the Maroons, or free Negroes, who inhabit the
+mountains. These people dwell apart from the European settlers, holding
+very little intercourse with them, though a single European generally
+resides in each of their villages, as a sort of chief or magistrate.
+They struck me to be a lazy, indolent, and harmless race of human
+beings; and they formed, in all their habits, a striking contrast with
+their enslaved brethren. Whilst the latter devote their spare hours to
+the culture of their own little spots, to cudgel-playing, dancing, or
+other gambols, the former appear to spend their whole time in a state
+between sleeping and waking, at the doors of their huts, or under the
+shelter of trees. Some of the Maroon females, I observed, were really
+handsome, their features being high, and their persons elegantly
+formed; but in general they differed nothing from the other negroes,
+from whom, indeed, they are principally descended.
+
+I heard that the men carry on a petty trade in feathers, but that their
+principal occupation, at least that from which they derive the largest
+emolument, consists in apprehending, and leading back to their masters,
+run-away slaves. For their services in this department, they were wont
+to receive a pension from the Government; and they are still, I
+believe, supplied with muskets and ammunition at the expense of the
+colonial authorities. But enough of these details.
+
+My sojourn in St. Mary’s having extended considerably beyond the limits
+which prudence would have imposed upon it, I set out on the morning of
+the 13th, on my return towards Kingston. The country through which I
+travelled differed in many respects from that which I had crossed in my
+way hither: it was in general less wild, and less mountainous; but it
+possessed features of striking beauty, rich corn-fields being
+interspersed amidst graceful forests, and here and there a wild
+hill-side rising as a contrast to both. The most remarkable variety,
+and not perhaps the least agreeable, was, however, to be found in the
+absence of the Wag-water; my guide having led me in a direction by
+which its tortuous course was avoided.
+
+As it was late before I started, my ride soon became toilsome on
+account of the heat, and I was fain to stop short for the night at a
+place called Stoney Hill, about twelve miles from Kingston. Here I was
+hospitably entertained by the officers of the 102nd regiment; and,
+rising at an early hour on the following morning, I contrived to
+complete my journey before breakfast. And it was well that no further
+time had been expended in my progress. The ships, I found, were
+preparing to put to sea; the stock was all embarked, and the crews on
+board; nothing therefore remained for me but to follow the general
+example, and to establish myself with as little delay as possible in my
+cabin.
+
+PORT ROYAL—NEGRIL BAY.
+
+In spite of these preparations, the 15th and 16th of November both
+passed away without any movement being made. It was, however, my custom
+not to neglect any opportunities which chanced to come in my way of
+viewing strange places, and obtaining an acquaintance with strange
+people; neither on the present occasion did I fail to make the most of
+the interval, by landing and wandering over the town of Port Royal. But
+to describe minutely a place so little deserving of description, would
+hardly repay me for the labour of writing, or the reader for the toil
+of perusing what I write. It is sufficient to observe, that except to
+him who takes delight in beholding a well-constructed military work,
+there is nothing in the busy, bustling town of Port Royal which will at
+all compensate for the heat and fatigue which he must undergo who, like
+myself, traverses its streets and lanes at noon-day.
+
+The long looked-for signal to weigh was hung out at last; and at an
+early hour on the 17th we put to sea. Our point of destination was
+Negril Bay, the appointed place of rendezvous for the whole armament;
+and we reached it without the occurrence of mishap or adventure on the
+evening of the 19th. We found here a large fleet already assembled; but
+the horses were all landed, many officers were dwelling in tents on the
+shore, and everything gave indication that some further delay might be
+expected. To say the truth, I experienced no degree of satisfaction at
+this prospect; for the point of the island opposite to which we now lay
+was neither remarkable for its natural beauty nor very thickly
+inhabited; and had the contrary been the case, I had seen as much of
+Jamaica and its people as I was at all desirous to see. Besides, it was
+impossible not to feel that whatever the object of our expedition might
+be, it was not likely to be furthered by this tardy mode of entering
+upon it; and rumours already began to spread abroad, of discoveries
+incautiously and untimely made. It was, therefore, with no slight
+degree of pleasure that, on the morning of the 24th, the topmasts of a
+numerous squadron were seen over the eastern promontory, in full sail
+towards us; and it was with still greater delight that in a short time
+we were able to discern the flags of Sir Alexander Cochrane and Admiral
+Malcolm floating in the breeze. By and bye the Tonnant and Royal Oak
+showed their hulls in the offing; and a short while afterwards, these
+ships, followed by a large fleet of troopers and transports,
+majestically entered the bay. As may be imagined, our curiosity was
+strongly excited to learn what reinforcements they contained, and what
+intelligence they brought; insomuch, that they had scarcely dropped
+anchor when they were boarded from almost every one of the ships which
+they came to join.
+
+NEGRIL BAY.
+
+It appeared that this powerful reinforcement consisted of the following
+corps:—the 93rd regiment, a fine battalion of Highlanders, mustering
+nine hundred bayonets; six companies of the 95th rifle corps; two West
+India regiments, each eight hundred strong; two squadrons of the 14th
+Dragoons dismounted; detachments of artillery, rockets, sappers, and
+engineers; recruits for the different corps already in this part of the
+world; and though last, not least, Major-General Keane to take upon
+himself the command of the whole. The intelligence brought was likewise
+interesting, for it informed us of the point whither we were to
+proceed; and it was soon known throughout the fleet, that the conquest
+of New Orleans was the object in view.
+
+But before I pursue my narrative further, having arrived, as it were,
+at a second commencement, it may be well if I state in full the number
+of men of which the army now consisted. In the first place, then, there
+were the 4th, 44th, and 85th regiments, originally dispatched from
+Bordeaux, and the 21st, which joined the expedition at Bermuda. These
+battalions, being considerably reduced by past service, could not at
+present muster conjunctly above two thousand two hundred men; and being
+likewise deprived of the Marine battalion, which had fought beside them
+in the Chesapeake, they retained no followers except the artillery,
+sappers, &c. which had accompanied them from the first. The whole
+amount of this corps may, therefore, be estimated at two thousand five
+hundred men.
+
+Without computing the individual strength of each detachment now
+arrived, I will venture to fix the aggregate at two thousand five
+hundred; and thus the whole, taken collectively, will amount to five
+thousand combatants. That it might somewhat exceed or fall under this
+computation, I do not deny; but neither the excess nor deficiency could
+be considerable; and therefore my statement may be received as correct,
+with very little allowance.
+
+This, it must be confessed, was a formidable force, and such as, had
+all its parts been trustworthy, might have done much. But on the black
+corps little reliance could be placed, especially if the climate should
+prove colder than was anticipated; consequently, there were not more
+than three thousand four hundred men upon whom a General could fully
+depend.
+
+Together with these forces were brought out abundant stores of
+ammunition, some clothing for the troops, and tents to be used when an
+opportunity should offer. There were also numerous additions to the
+commissariat and medical departments; in short, the materiel of the
+army was increased in proportion to its increase in number.
+
+To find himself in the chief command of the army, exceeded the
+expectation, and perhaps the desire, of General Keane. Being a young
+and dashing officer, he had been selected as most fit to serve under
+General Ross; and having sailed from England before the death of that
+gallant chief was known, he reached Madeira before his elevation was
+communicated to him. Young as he was, however, his arrival produced
+much satisfaction throughout the armament; for though no one
+entertained a doubt as to the personal courage of Colonel Brook, it was
+felt that a leader of more experience was wanted on the present
+expedition.
+
+As soon as the newly-arrived squadron had anchored, the Bay was covered
+with boats, which conveyed parties of officers from ship to ship,
+hastening to salute their comrades, and to inquire into the state of
+things at home. Greetings and hearty embraces were interchanged between
+friends thus again brought together; and a few passing ejaculations of
+sorrow bestowed upon those who could not now take part in the meeting.
+Many questions were put, relative to persons and places in England; in
+a word, the day was spent in that species of employment, which can be
+completely known only to those who have been similarly situated.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+AT SEA.
+
+
+But the period granted for such indulgence was not of long duration,
+for on the following morning the Tonnant, Ramilies, and two brigs stood
+to sea; and on the 26th the rest of the fleet got under weigh and
+followed the Admiral. It is impossible to conceive a finer sea-view
+than this general stir presented. Our fleet amounted now to upwards of
+fifty sail, many of them vessels of war, which shaking loose their
+topsails, and lifting their anchors at the same moment, gave to Negril
+Bay an appearance of bustle such as it has seldom been able to present.
+In half an hour all the canvas was set, and the ships moved slowly and
+proudly from their anchorage, till, having cleared the headlands, and
+caught the fair breeze which blew without, they bounded over the water
+with the speed of eagles, and long before dark the coast of Jamaica had
+disappeared.
+
+There is something in rapidity of motion, whether it be along a high
+road or across the deep, extremely elevating; nor was its effect
+unperceived on the present occasion. It is true that there were other
+causes for the high spirits which now pervaded the armament, but I
+question if any proved more efficient in their production than the
+astonishing rate of our sailing. Whether the business we were about to
+undertake would prove bloody or the reverse entered not into the
+calculations of a single individual in the fleet. The sole subject of
+remark was the speed with which we got over the ground, and the
+probability that existed of our soon reaching the point of debarkation.
+The change of climate, likewise, was not without its effect in
+producing pleasurable sensations. The farther we got from Jamaica, the
+more cool and agreeable became the atmosphere; from which circumstance
+we were led to hope that, in spite of its southern latitude, New
+Orleans would not be found so oppressively hot as we had been taught to
+expect.
+
+The breeze continuing without interruption, on the 29th we came in
+sight of the island of Grand Cayman. It is a small speck in the middle
+of the sea, lying so near the level of the water as to be unobservable
+at any considerable distance. Though we passed along with prodigious
+velocity, a canoe nevertheless ventured off from the shore, and making
+its way through waves which looked as if they would swallow it up,
+succeeded in reaching our vessel. It contained a white man and two
+negroes, who brought off a quantity of fine turtle, which they gave us
+in exchange for salt pork; and so great was the value put upon salt
+provisions, that they bartered a pound and a half of the one for a
+pound of the other. To us the exchange was very acceptable, and thus
+both parties remained satisfied with their bargain.
+
+Having lain-to till our turtle-merchants left us, we again filled and
+stood our course. The land of Cayman was soon invisible; nor was any
+other perceived till the 2nd of December, when the western shores of
+Cuba presented themselves. Towards them we now directed the ship’s
+head, and reaching in within a few miles of the beach, coasted along
+till we had doubled the promontory, which forms one of the jaws of the
+Mexican Gulf. Whilst keeping thus close to the shore, our sail was more
+interesting than usual, for though this side of Cuba be low, it is
+nevertheless picturesque, from the abundance of wood with which it is
+ornamented. There are likewise several points where huge rocks rise
+perpendicularly out of the water, presenting the appearance of old
+baronial castles, with their battlements and lofty turrets; and it will
+easily be believed that none of these escaped our observation. The few
+books which we had brought to sea were all read, many of them twice and
+three times through; and there now remained nothing to amuse except
+what the variety of the voyage could produce.
+
+But the shores of Cuba were quickly passed, and the old prospect of sea
+and sky again met the gaze. There was, however, one circumstance from
+which we experienced a considerable diminution of comfort. As soon as
+we entered the gulf, a short disagreeable swell was perceptible;
+differing in some respects from that in the Bay of Biscay, but to my
+mind infinitely more unpleasant. So great was the motion, indeed, that
+all walking was prevented; but as we felt ourselves drawing every hour
+nearer and nearer to the conclusion of our miseries, this additional
+one was borne without much repining. Besides, we found some amusement
+in watching, from the cabin windows, the quantity and variety of weed
+with which the surface of the gulf is covered. The current being here
+extremely rapid, the weed sails continually in the same direction; that
+is to say, it goes round by the opposite side of Cuba towards the banks
+of Newfoundland, and is carried sometimes as far as Bermuda, and even
+to the Western Isles.
+
+It is not, however, my intention to continue the detail of this voyage
+longer than may be interesting; I shall therefore merely state that,
+the wind and weather having undergone some variations, it was the 10th
+of December before the shores of America could be discerned. On that
+day we found ourselves opposite to the Chandeleur Islands, and near the
+entrance of Lake Borgne. There the fleet anchored, that the troops
+might be removed from the heavy ships into such as drew least water;
+and from this and other preparations it appeared that to ascend this
+lake was the plan determined upon.
+
+NEW ORLEANS.
+
+But before I pursue my narrative further, it will be well if I
+endeavour to give some account of the situation of New Orleans, and of
+the nature of the country against which our operations were directed.
+
+New Orleans is a town of some note, containing from twenty to thirty
+thousand inhabitants. It stands upon the eastern bank of the
+Mississippi, in 30 degrees north latitude, and about 110 miles from the
+Gulf of Mexico. Though in itself unfortified, it is difficult to
+conceive a place capable of presenting greater obstacles to an invader;
+and at the same time more conveniently situated with respect to trade.
+Built upon a narrow neck of land, which is confined on one side by the
+river, and on the other by impassable morasses, its means of defence
+require little explanation; and as these morasses extend to the
+distance of only a few miles, and are succeeded by Lake Pontchartrain,
+which again communicates through Lake Borgne[2] with the sea, its
+peculiar commercial advantages must be equally apparent. It is by means
+of the former of these lakes, indeed, that intercourse is maintained
+between the city and the northern parts of West Florida, of which it is
+the capital; a narrow creek, called in the language of the country a
+bayo or bayouke, navigable for vessels drawing less than six feet
+water, running up through the marsh, and ending within two miles of the
+town. The name of this creek is the Bayouke of St. John, and its
+entrance is defended by works of considerable strength.
+
+ [2] These are, properly speaking, one and the same lake. From the
+ entrance, however, as far as Ship Island, is called by the inhabitants
+ Lake Borgne, whilst all above that point goes under the name of Lake
+ Pontchartrain. They are both extremely shallow, varying from 12 to 6
+ feet in depth.
+
+
+But to exhibit its advantages in a more distinct point of view, it will
+be necessary to say a few words respecting that mighty river upon which
+it stands. The Mississippi (a corruption of the word Mechasippi,
+signifying, in the language of the natives, “the father of rivers”) is
+allowed to be inferior, in point of size and general navigability, to
+few streams in the world. According to the Sioux Indians it takes its
+rise from a large swamp, and is increased by many rivers emptying
+themselves into its course as far as the Fall of St. Anthony, which, by
+their account, is upwards of 700 leagues from its source. But this
+fall, which is formed by a rock thrown across the channel, of about
+twelve feet perpendicular height, is known to be 800 leagues from the
+sea; and therefore the whole course of the Mississippi, from its spring
+to its mouth, may be computed at little short of 5000 miles.
+
+Below the fall of St. Anthony, again, the Mississippi is joined by a
+number of rivers, considerable in point of size, and leading out of
+almost every part of the continent of America. These are the St.
+Pierre, which comes from the west; St. Croix, from the east; the
+Moingona, which is said to run 150 leagues from the west, and forms a
+junction about 250 below the fall; and the Illinois, which rises near
+the lake Michigan, 200 leagues east of the Mississippi.
+
+But by far the most important of these auxiliary streams is the
+Missouri, the source of which is as little known as that of the Father
+of Rivers himself. It has been followed by traders upwards of 400
+leagues, who traffic with the tribes which dwell upon its banks, and
+obtain an immense return for European goods. The mouth of this river is
+five leagues below that of the Illinois, and is supposed to be 800 from
+its source, which, judging from the flow of its waters, lies in a
+north-west direction from the Mississippi. It is remarkable enough that
+the waters of this river are black and muddy, and prevail over those of
+the Mississippi, which running with a clear and gentle stream till it
+meets with this addition, becomes from that time both dark and rapid.
+
+The next river of note is the Ohio, which taking its rise near Lake
+Erie, runs from the north-east to the south-west, and joins the
+Mississippi about 70 leagues below the Missouri. Besides this there are
+the St. Francis, an inconsiderable stream, and the Arkansas, which is
+said to originate in the same latitude with Santa Fe in New Mexico, and
+which, holding its course nearly 300 leagues, falls in about 200 above
+New Orleans. Sixty leagues below the Arkansas, comes the Yazous from
+the northeast; and about 58 nearer to the city is the Rouge, so called
+from the colour of its waters, which are of a reddish dye, and tinge
+those of the Mississippi at the time of the floods. Its source is in
+New Mexico, and after running about 200 leagues it is joined by the
+Noir 30 miles above the place where it empties itself into the
+Mississippi.
+
+Of all these rivers there is none which will not answer the purposes of
+commerce, at least to a very considerable extent; and as they join the
+Mississippi above New Orleans, it is evident that this city may be
+considered as the general mart of the whole. Whatever nation,
+therefore, chances to possess this place, possesses in reality the
+command of a greater extent of country than is included within the
+boundary-line of the whole United States since from every direction are
+goods, the produce of East, West, North, and South America, sent down
+by the Mississippi to the Gulf. But were New Orleans properly supplied
+with fortifications, it is evident that no vessels could pass without
+the leave of its governor; and therefore is it that I consider that
+city as of greater importance to the American government than any other
+within the compass of their territories.
+
+Having said so much on its commercial advantages, let me now point out
+more distinctly than I have yet done the causes which contribute to its
+safety from all hostile attempts. The first of these is the shallowness
+of the river at its mouth, and the extreme rapidity of the current.
+After flowing on in one prodigious sheet of water, varying in depth
+from one hundred to thirty fathoms, the Mississippi, previous to its
+joining the Mexican Gulf, divides into four or five mouths, the most
+considerable of which is encumbered by a sandbank continually liable to
+shift. Over this bank no vessel drawing above seventeen feet water can
+pass; when once across, however, there is no longer a difficulty in
+being floated; but to anchor is hazardous, on account of the huge logs
+which are constantly carried down the stream. Should one of these
+strike the bow of the ship, it would probably dash her to pieces;
+whilst, independent of this, there is always danger of drifting or
+losing anchors, owing to the number of sunken logs which the
+under-current bears along within a few feet of the bottom. All vessels
+ascending the river are accordingly obliged, if the wind be foul, to
+make fast to the trees upon the banks; because without a breeze at once
+fair and powerful, it is impossible to stem the torrent.
+
+But besides this natural obstacle to invasion, the mouth of the river
+is defended by a fort, which from its situation may be pronounced
+impregnable. It is built upon an artificial causeway, and is surrounded
+on all sides by swamps totally impervious, which extend on both sides
+of the river to a place called the Detour des Anglais, within twenty
+miles of the city. Here two other forts are erected, one on each bank.
+Like that at the river’s mouth, these are surrounded by a marsh, a
+single narrow path conducting from the commencement of firm ground to
+the gates of each. If, therefore, an enemy should contrive to pass both
+the bar and the first fort, he must here be stopped, because all
+landing is prevented by the nature of the soil; and however fair his
+breeze may have hitherto been, it will not now assist his further
+progress. At this point the Mississippi winds almost in a circle,
+insomuch that vessels which arrive are necessitated to make fast till a
+change of wind occur.
+
+From the Detour des Anglais towards New Orleans the face of the country
+undergoes an alteration. The swamp does not indeed end, but it narrows
+off to the right, leaving a space of firm ground, varying, from three
+to one mile in, width, between it and the river. At the back of this
+swamp, again, which may be about six or eight miles across, come up the
+waters of Lake Pontchartrain, and thus a neck of arable land is formed,
+stretching for some way above the city. The whole of these morasses are
+covered as far as the Detour with tall reeds; a little wood now
+succeeds, skirting the open country, but the wood measures no more than
+one mile in depth, when it again gives place to reeds. Such is the
+aspect of that side of the river upon which the city is built; with
+respect to the other I can speak with less confidence, having seen it
+but cursorily. It appears, however, to resemble this in almost every
+particular, except that it is more wooded and less confined with marsh.
+Both sides are flat, containing no broken ground, nor any other cover,
+for military movements; for on the open shore there are no trees,
+except a few in the gardens of those houses which skirt the rivers; the
+whole being laid out in large fields of sugar-cane; separated from one
+another by rails and ditches.
+
+From the preceding brief account of the country, the advantages
+possessed by a defending army must; be apparent. To approach by the
+river is out of the question, and therefore an enemy can land only from
+the lake. But this can be done nowhere, except where creeks or bayos
+offer convenience for that purpose, because the banks of the lake are
+universally swampy; and can hardly supply footing for infantry, far
+less for the transportation of artillery. Of these, however, there are
+not above one or two which could be so used. The Bayo of St. John is
+one; but it is too well defended, and too carefully guarded for any
+attempts; and the Bayo of Catiline is another, about ten miles below
+the city. That this last might be found useful in an attack, was proved
+by the landing affected by our army at that point; but what is the
+consequence? The invaders arrive upon a piece of ground, where the most
+consummate generalship will be of little avail. If the defenders can
+but retard their progress—which, by crowding the Mississippi with armed
+vessels, may very easily be done, the labour of a few days will cover
+the narrow neck with entrenchments; whilst the opposite bank remaining
+in their hands, can at all times gall their enemy with a close and
+deadly cannonade. Of wood, as I have already said, or broken ground
+which might conceal an advance, there exists not a particle. Every
+movement of the assailants must, therefore, be made under their eyes;
+and as one flank of their army will be defended by a morass, and the
+other by the river, they may bid defiance to all attempts at turning.
+
+Such are the advantages of New Orleans; and now it is only fair that I
+should state its disadvantages: these are owing solely the climate.
+From the swamps with which it is surrounded, there arise, during the
+summer months, exhalations extremely fatal to the health of its
+inhabitants. For some months of the year, indeed, so deadly are the
+effects of the atmosphere, that the garrison is withdrawn, and most of
+the families retire from their houses to more genial spots, leaving the
+town as much deserted as if it had been visited by a pestilence. Yet,
+in spite of these cautions, agues and intermittent fevers abound here
+at all times. Nor is it wonderful that the case should be so; for
+independent of the vile air which the vicinity of so many putrid swamps
+occasions, this country is more liable than perhaps any other to sudden
+and severe changes of temperature. A night of keen frost sufficiently
+powerful to produce ice a quarter of an inch in thickness, frequently
+follows a day of intense heat; whilst heavy rains and bright sunshine
+often succeed each other several times in the course of a few hours.
+But these changes, as may supposed, occur only during the winter; the
+summer being one continued series of intolerable heat and deadly fog.
+
+LAKE BORGNE.
+
+Of all these circumstances the conductors of the present expedition
+were not ignorant. To reduce the forts which command the navigation of
+the river was regarded as a task too difficult to be attempted; and for
+any ships to pass without their reduction seemed impossible. Trusting,
+therefore, that the object of the enterprise was unknown to the
+Americans, Sir Alexander Cochrane and General Keane determined to
+effect a landing somewhere on the banks of the lake; and pushing
+directly on, to take possession of the town, before any effectual
+preparation could be made for its defence. With this view the troops
+were removed from the larger into the lighter vessels, and these, under
+convoy of such gun-brigs as the shallowness of the water would float,
+began on the 13th to enter Lake Borgne. But we had not proceeded far,
+when it was apparent that the Americans were well acquainted with our
+intentions, and ready to receive us. Five large cutters, armed with six
+heavy guns each, were seen at anchor in the distances: and as all
+endeavours to land, till these were captured, would have been useless,
+the transports and largest of the gun-brigs cast anchor, whilst the
+smaller craft gave chase to the enemy.
+
+But these cutters were built purposely to act upon the lake. They
+accordingly set sail as soon as the English cruisers arrived within a
+certain distance, and running on, were quickly out of sight, leaving
+the pursuers fast aground. To permit them to remain in the hands of the
+enemy, however, would be fatal, because, as long as they commanded the
+navigation of the lake, no boats could venture to cross. It was
+therefore determined at all hazards, and at any expense, to take them;
+and since our lightest craft could not float where they sailed, a
+flotilla of launches and ships’ barges was got ready for the purpose.
+
+This flotilla consisted of fifty open boats; most of them armed with a
+carronade in the bow, and well manned with volunteers from the
+different ships of war. The command was given to Captain Lockier, a
+brave and skilful officer, who immediately pushed off; and about noon
+came in sight of the enemy, moored fore and aft, with broadsides
+pointing towards him. Having pulled a considerable distance, he
+resolved to refresh his men before he hurried them into action; and,
+accordingly, letting fall grapplings just beyond the reach of the
+enemy’s guns, the crews of the different boats coolly ate their dinner.
+
+As soon as that meal was finished, and an hour spent in resting, the
+boats again got ready to advance. But, unfortunately, a light breeze
+which had hitherto favoured them, now ceased to blow, and they were in
+consequence compelled to make way only with the oar. The tide also ran
+strong against them, at once increasing their labour and retarding
+their progress; but all these difficulties appeared trifling to British
+sailors; and, giving a hearty cheer, they moved steadily onward in one
+extended line.
+
+It was not long before the enemy’s guns opened upon them, and a
+tremendous shower of balls saluted their approach. Some boats were
+sunk, others disabled, and many men were killed and wounded; but the
+rest pulling with all their might, and occasionally returning the
+discharges from their carronades, succeeded, after an hour’s labour, in
+closing with the Americans. The marines now began a deadly fire of
+musketry; whilst the seamen, sword in hand, sprang up the vessels’
+sides in spite of all opposition; and sabring every man that stood in
+their way, hauled down the American ensign, and hoisted the British
+flag in its place.
+
+One cutter alone, which bore the commodore’s broad pendant, was not so
+easily subdued. Having noted its pre-eminence, Captain Lockier directed
+his own boat against it; and happening to have placed himself in one of
+the lightest and fastest sailing barges in the flotilla, he found
+himself alongside of his enemy before any of the others were near
+enough to render him the smallest support. But nothing dismayed by odds
+so fearful, the gallant crew of this small bark, following their
+leader, instantly leaped on board the American. A desperate conflict
+ensued, in which Captain Lockier received several severe wounds; but
+after fighting from the bow to the stern, the enemy were at length
+overpowered; and other barges coming up to the assistance of their
+commander, the commodore’s flag shared the same fate with the others.
+
+PINE ISLAND.
+
+Having destroyed all opposition in this quarter, the fleet again
+weighed anchor, and stood up the lake. But we had not been many hours
+under sail, when ship after ship ran aground: such as still floated
+were, therefore, crowded with the troops from those which could go no
+farther, till finally the lightest vessel stuck fast; and the boats
+were of necessity hoisted out, to carry us a distance of upwards of
+thirty miles. To be confined for so long a time as the prosecution of
+this voyage would require, in one posture, was of itself no very
+agreeable prospect; but the confinement was but a trifling misery when
+compared with that which arose from the change in the weather. Instead
+of a constant bracing frost, heavy rains, such as an inhabitant of
+England cannot dream of, and against which no cloak could furnish
+protection, began. In the midst of these were the troops embarked in
+their new and straitened transports, and each division, after an
+exposure of ten hours, landed upon a small desert spot of earth, called
+Pine Island, where it was determined to collect the whole army,
+previous to its crossing over to the main.
+
+Than this spot it is scarcely possible to imagine any place more
+completely wretched. It was a swamp, containing a small space of firm
+ground at one end, and almost wholly unadorned with trees of any sort
+or description. There were, indeed, a few stinted [sic] firs upon the
+very edge of the water, but these were so diminutive in size as hardly
+to deserve a higher classification than among the meanest of shrubs.
+The interior was the resort of wild ducks and other water-fowl; and the
+pools and creeks with which it was intercepted abounded in dormant
+alligators.
+
+Upon this miserable desert the army was assembled, without tents or
+huts, or any covering to shelter them from the inclemency of the
+weather; and in truth we may fairly affirm that our hardships had here
+their commencement. After having been exposed all day to a cold and
+pelting rain, we landed upon a barren island, incapable of furnishing
+even fuel enough to supply our fires. To add to our miseries, as night
+closed, the rain generally ceased, and severe frosts set in, which,
+congealing our wet clothes upon our bodies, left little animal warmth
+to keep the limbs in a state of activity; and the consequence was, that
+many of the wretched negroes, to whom frost and cold were altogether
+new, fell fast asleep, and perished before morning.
+
+For provisions, again, we were entirely dependent upon the fleet. There
+were here no living creatures which would suffer themselves to be
+caught; even the water-fowl being so timorous that it was impossible to
+approach them within musket-shot. Salt meat and ship biscuit were,
+therefore, our food, moistened by a small allowance of rum; fare which,
+though no doubt very wholesome, was not such as to reconcile us to the
+cold and wet under which we suffered.
+
+On the part of the navy, again, all these hardships were experienced in
+a four-fold degree. Night and day were boats pulling from the fleet to
+the island, and from the island to the fleet; for it was the 21st
+before all the troops were got on shore; and as there was little time
+to inquire into men’s turns of labour, many seamen were four or five
+days continually at the oar. Thus they had not only to bear up against
+variety of temperature, but against hunger, fatigue, and want of sleep
+in addition; three as fearful burdens as can be laid upon the human
+frame. Yet in spite of all this, not a murmur nor a whisper of
+complaint could be heard throughout the whole expedition. No man
+appeared to regard the present, whilst every one looked forward to the
+future. From the General, down to the youngest drum-boy, a confident
+anticipation of success seemed to pervade all ranks; and in the hope of
+an ample reward in store for them, the toils and grievances of the
+moment were forgotten. Nor was this anticipation the mere offspring of
+an overweening confidence in themselves. Several Americans had already
+deserted, who entertained us with accounts of the alarm experienced at
+New Orleans. They assured us that there were not at present 5000
+soldiers in the State; that the principal inhabitants had long ago left
+the place; that such as remained were ready to join us as soon as we
+should appear among them; and that, therefore, we might lay our account
+with a speedy and bloodless conquest. The same persons likewise dilated
+upon the wealth and importance of the town, upon the large quantities
+of Government stores there collected, and the rich booty which would
+reward its capture; subjects well calculated to tickle the fancy of
+invaders, and to make them unmindful of immediate afflictions, in the
+expectation of so great a recompense to come.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+
+It is well known that, at the period to which my narrative refers, an
+alliance, offensive and defensive, subsisted between the Government of
+Great Britain and the heads of as many Indian nations or tribes as felt
+the aggressions of the settlers upon their ancient territories, and
+were disposed to resent them. On this side of the continent our
+principal allies were the Chaktaws and Cherokees, two nations whom war
+and famine had reduced from a state of comparative majesty to the
+lowest ebb of feebleness and distress. Driven from hunting-ground to
+hunting-ground, and pursued like wild beasts wherever seen, they were
+now confined to a narrow tract of country, lying chiefly along the
+coasts of the gulf and the borders of the lakes which adjoin to it. For
+some time previous to the arrival of the expedition, the warriors of
+these tribes put themselves under the command of Colonel Nickolls, of
+the Royal Marines, and continued to harass the Americans by frequent
+incursions into the cultivated districts. It so happened, however,
+that, being persuaded to attempt the reduction of a fort situated upon
+Mobile Point, and being, as might be expected, repulsed with some loss,
+their confidence in their leader, and their dependence upon British
+aid, had begun of late to suffer a serious diminution. Though not very
+profitable as friends, their local position and desultory mode of
+warfare would have rendered them at this period exceedingly annoying to
+us as enemies; it was accordingly determined to dispatch an embassy to
+their settlements, for the purpose of restoring them to good humour, or
+at least discovering their intentions.
+
+Whilst the troops were assembling upon Pine Island, a cutter, having
+proper officers on board, and carrying presents of clothing, arms, and
+rum, was dispatched upon this business. It reached its place of
+destination in safety, and the ambassadors found very little difficulty
+in bringing back the fickle Indians to their wonted reliance upon
+British support. Several of the chiefs and warriors, indeed, requested
+and obtained permission to visit our Admiral and General, and to follow
+the fortunes of our troops; and a very grotesque and singular
+appearance they presented as they stood upon the quarter-deck of the
+Tonnant. But the costume, habits, and customs of these savages have
+been too frequently and too accurately described elsewhere, to render
+any account of them on the present occasion desirable. It is sufficient
+to observe, that whilst they gazed upon everything around them with a
+look expressive of no astonishment whatever, they were themselves
+objects of eager curiosity to us; and that they bore our close
+inspection and somewhat uncourteous deportment with the most perfect
+philosophy. But to my tale.
+
+The enemy’s cutters having fallen into our hands, at an early hour on
+the morning of the 16th the disembarkation of the troops began. So
+deficient, however, was the fleet in boats and other small craft fit to
+navigate the lakes, that it was late on the evening of the 21st before
+the last division took up its ground upon Pine Island, and even then
+the inconveniences of our descent were but beginning. The troops had
+yet to be arranged in corps and brigades; to each of these its
+proportion of Commissaries, Purveyors, and Medical attendants, &c.,
+&c., required to be allotted; and some attempt at establishing depots
+of provisions and military stores behoved to be made. In adjusting
+these matters the whole of the 22nd was occupied, on which day the
+General likewise reviewed the whole of the army. This being ended, the
+force was next distributed into divisions, or corps; and the following
+is the order it assumed.
+
+Instead of a light brigade, the General resolved to set apart three
+battalions as an advanced guard. The regiments nominated to that
+service were the 4th, the 85th Light Infantry, and the 95th. Rifles;
+and he selected Colonel Thornton of the 85th, as an officer of talent
+and enterprise, to command them. Attached to this corps were a party of
+rocket-men, with two light three-pounders— a species of gun convenient
+enough, where celerity of movement is alone regarded, but of very
+little real utility in the field. The rest of the troops were arranged,
+as before, into two brigades. The first, composed of the 21st, 44th,
+and one black regiment, was intrusted to Colonel Brook; and the second,
+containing the 93rd and the other black corps, to Colonel Hamilton, of
+the 7th West India regiment. To each of these, a certain proportion of
+artillery and rockets was allotted: whilst the dragoons, who had
+brought their harness and other appointments on shore, remained as a
+sort of bodyguard to the General, till they should provide themselves
+with horses.
+
+The adjustment of these matters having occupied a considerable part of
+the 22nd, it was determined that all things should remain as they were
+till next morning. Boats, in the mean time, began to assemble from all
+quarters, supplies of ammunition were packed, so as to prevent the
+possibility of damage from moisture, and stores of various descriptions
+were got ready. But it appeared that, even now, many serious
+inconveniences must be endured, and obstacles surmounted, before the
+troops could reach the scene of action. In the first place, from Pine
+Island to that part of the main towards which prudence directed us to
+steer, was a distance of no less than 80 miles. This, of itself, was an
+obstacle, or at least an inconvenience, of no slight nature; for should
+the weather prove boisterous, open boats, heavily laden with soldiers,
+would stand little chance of escaping destruction in the course of so
+long a voyage. In the next place, and what was of infinitely greater
+importance, it was found that there were not, throughout the whole
+fleet, a sufficient number of boats to transport above one third of the
+army at a time. But to land in divisions would expose our forces to be
+attacked in detail, by which means one party might be cut to pieces
+before the others could arrive to its support. The undertaking was,
+therefore, on the whole, extremely dangerous, and such as would have
+been probably abandoned by more timid leaders. Ours, however, were not
+so to be alarmed. They had entered upon a hazardous business, in
+whatever way it should be prosecuted; and since they could not work
+miracles, they resolved to lose no time in bringing their army into the
+field in the best manner which circumstances would permit.
+
+THE LAKE.
+
+With this view, the advance, consisting of 1600 men and two pieces of
+cannon, was next morning embarked. I have already stated that there is
+a small creek, called the Bayo de Catiline, which runs up from Lake
+Pontchartrain through the middle of an extensive morass, about ten
+miles below New Orleans. Towards this creek were the boats directed,
+and here it was resolved to effect a landing. When we set sail, the sky
+was dark and lowering, and before long a heavy rain began to fall.
+Continuing without intermission during the whole of the day, towards
+night, it, as usual, ceased, and was succeeded by a sharp frost; which,
+taking effect upon men thoroughly exposed, and already cramped by
+remaining so long in one posture, rendered our limbs completely
+powerless. Nor was there any means of dispelling the benumbing
+sensation, or effectually resisting the cold. Fires of charcoal,
+indeed, being lighted in the sterns of the boats, were permitted to
+burn as long as daylight lasted; but as soon as it grew dark, they were
+of necessity extinguished, lest the flame should be seen by row-boats
+from the shore, and an alarm be thus communicated. Our situation was,
+therefore, the reverse of agreeable; since even sleep was denied us,
+from the apprehension of fatal consequences.
+
+THE LAKE—LANDING.
+
+Having remained in this uncomfortable state till midnight, the boats
+cast anchor and hoisted awnings. There was a small piquet of the enemy
+stationed at the entrance of the creek by which it was intended to
+effect our landing. This it was absolutely necessary to surprise; and
+whilst the rest lay at anchor, two or three fast-sailing barges were
+pushed on to execute the service. Nor did they experience much
+difficulty in accomplishing their object. Nothing, as it appeared, was
+less dreamt of by the Americans than an attack from this quarter,
+consequently no persons could be less on their guard than the party
+here stationed. The officer who conducted the force sent against them,
+found not so much as a single sentinel posted! but having landed his
+men at two places, above and below the but which they inhabited,
+extended his ranks so as to surround it, and closing gradually in, took
+them all fast asleep, without noise or resistance.
+
+When such time had been allowed as was deemed sufficient for the
+accomplishment of this undertaking, the flotilla again weighed anchor,
+and without waiting for intelligence of success, pursued their voyage.
+Hitherto we had been hurried along at a rapid rate by a fair breeze,
+which enabled us to carry canvas; but this now left us, and we made way
+only by rowing. Our progress was therefore considerably retarded, and
+the risk of discovery heightened by the noise which that labour
+necessarily occasions; but in spite of these obstacles, we reached the
+entrance of the creek by dawn; and about nine o’clock, were safely on
+shore.
+
+The place where we landed was as wild as it is possible to imagine.
+Gaze where we might, nothing could be seen except one huge marsh
+covered with tall reeds; not a house nor a vestige of human industry
+could be discovered; and even of trees there were but a few growing
+upon the banks of the creek. Yet it was such a spot as, above all
+others, favoured our operations. No eye could watch us, or report our
+arrival to the American General. By remaining quietly among the reeds,
+we might effectually conceal ourselves from notice; because, from
+appearance of all around, it was easy to perceive that the place which
+we occupied had been seldom, if ever before, marked with a human
+footstep. Concealment, however, was the thing of all others which we
+required; for be it remembered that there were now only sixteen hundred
+men on the mainland. The rest were still at Pine Island, where they
+must remain till the boats which had transported us should return for
+their conveyance, consequently many hours must elapse before this small
+corps could be either reinforced or supported. If, therefore, we had
+sought for a point where a descent might be made in secrecy and safety,
+we could not have found one better calculated for that purpose than the
+present; because it afforded every means of concealment to one part of
+our force, until the others should be able to come up.
+
+MARCH.
+
+For these reasons, it was confidently expected that no movement would
+be made previous to the arrival of the other brigades; but, in our
+expectations of quiet, we were deceived. The deserters who had come in,
+and accompanied us as guides, assured the General that he had only to
+show himself, when the whole district would submit. They repeated, that
+there were not five thousand men in arms throughout the State: that of
+these, not more than twelve hundred were regular soldiers, and that the
+whole force was at present several miles on the opposite side of the
+town, expecting an attack on that quarter, and apprehending no danger
+on this. These arguments, together with the nature of the ground on
+which we stood, so ill calculated for a proper distribution of troops
+in case of attack, and so well calculated to hide the movements of an
+army acquainted with all the passes and tracks which, for aught we
+knew, intersected the morass, induced our leader to push forward at
+once into the open country. As soon, therefore, as the advance was
+formed, and the boats had departed, we began our march, following an
+indistinct path along the edge of the ditch or canal. But it was not
+without many checks that we were able to proceed. Other ditches,
+similar to that whose course we pursued, frequently stopped us by
+running in a cross direction, and falling into it at right angles.
+These were too wide to be leaped, and too deep to be forded;
+consequently, on all such occasions, the troops were obliged to halt,
+till bridges were hastily constructed of such materials as could be
+procured, and thrown across.
+
+Having advanced in this manner for several hours, we at length found
+ourselves approaching a more cultivated region. The marsh became
+gradually less and less continued, being intersected by wider spots of
+firm ground; the reeds gave place, by degrees, to wood, and the wood to
+inclosed fields. Upon these, however, nothing grew, harvest having long
+ago ended. They accordingly presented but a melancholy appearance,
+being covered with the stubble of sugar-cane, which resembled the reeds
+which we had just quitted, in everything except altitude. Nor as yet
+was any house or cottage to be seen. Though we knew, therefore, that
+human habitations could not be far off, it was impossible to guess
+where they lay, or how numerous they might prove; and as we could not
+tell whether our guides might not be deceiving us, and whether
+ambuscades might not be laid for our destruction as soon as we should
+arrive where troops could conveniently act, our march was insensibly
+conducted with increased caution and regularity.
+
+But in a little while some groves of orange-trees presented selves; on
+passing which two or three farm-houses appeared. Towards these, our
+advanced companies immediately hastened, with the hope of surprising
+the inhabitants, and preventing any from being raised. Hurrying on at
+double-quick time, they surrounded the buildings, succeeded in securing
+the inmates, capturing several horses; but becoming rather careless in
+watching their prisoners, one man contrived to effect his escape. Now,
+then, all hope of eluding observation might be laid aside. The rumour
+of our landing would, we knew, spread faster than we could march; and
+it only remained to make that rumour as terrible as possible.
+
+With this view, the column was commanded to widen its files, and to
+present as formidable an appearance as could be assumed. Changing our
+order, in obedience to these directions, we marched, not in sections of
+eight or ten abreast, but in pairs, and thus contrived to cover with
+our small division as large a tract or ground as if we had mustered
+thrice our present numbers. Our steps were likewise quickened, that we
+might gain, if possible, some advantageous position, where we might be
+able to cope with any force that might attack us; and thus hastening
+on, we soon arrived at the main road which leads directly to New
+Orleans. Turning to the right, we then advanced in the direction of
+that town for about a mile; when, having reached a spot where it was
+considered that we might encamp in comparative safety, our little
+column halted; the men piled their arms, and a regular bivouac was
+formed.
+
+HALT.
+
+The country where we had now established ourselves, answered, in every
+respect, the description which I have already given of the neck of land
+on which New Orleans is built. It was a narrow plain of about a mile in
+width, bounded on one side by the Mississippi, and on the other by the
+marsh from which we had just emerged. Towards the open ground this
+marsh was covered with dwarf wood, having the semblance of a forest
+rather than of a swamp; but on trying the bottom, it was found that
+both characters were united, and that it was impossible for a man to
+make his way among the trees, so boggy was the soil upon which they
+grew. In no other quarter, however, was there a single hedge-row, or
+plantation of any kind; excepting a few apple and other fruit trees in
+the gardens of such houses as were scattered over the plain, the whole
+being laid out in large fields for the growth of sugar-cane, a plant
+which seems as abundant in this part of the world as in Jamaica.
+
+Looking up towards the town, which we at this time faced, the marsh is
+upon your right, and the river upon your left. Close to the latter runs
+the main road, following the course of the stream all the way to New
+Orleans. Between the road and the water is thrown up a lofty and strong
+embankment, resembling the dykes in Holland, and meant to serve a
+similar purpose; by means of which the Mississippi is prevented from
+overflowing its banks, and the entire flat is preserved from
+inundation. But the attention of a stranger is irresistibly drawn away
+from every other object, to contemplate the magnificence of this noble
+river. Pouring along at the prodigious rate of four miles an hour, an
+immense body of water is spread out before you; measuring a full mile
+across, and nearly a hundred fathoms in depth. What this mighty stream
+must be near its mouth, I can hardly imagine, for we were here upwards
+of a hundred miles from the ocean.
+
+Such was the general aspect of the country which we had entered;—our
+own position, again, was this. The three regiments turning off from the
+road into one extensive green field, formed three close columns within
+pistol-shot of the river. Upon our right, but so much in advance as to
+be of no service to us, was a large house, surrounded by about twenty
+wooden huts, probably intended for the accommodation of slaves. Towards
+this house there was a slight rise in the ground, and between it and
+the camp was a small pond of no great depth. As far to the rear as the
+first was to the front, stood another house, inferior in point of
+appearance, and skirted by no outbuildings: this was also upon the
+right; and here General Keane, who accompanied us, fixed his
+head-quarters; but neither the one nor the other could be employed as a
+covering redoubt, the flank of the division extending, as it were,
+between them. A little way in advance, again, where the outposts were
+stationed, ran a dry ditch and a row of lofty palings; affording some
+cover to the front of our line, should it be formed diagonally with the
+main road. The left likewise was well secured by the river; but the
+right and the rear were wholly unprotected. Though in occupying this
+field, therefore, we might have looked very well had the country around
+us been friendly, it must be confessed that our situation hardly
+deserved the title of a military position.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+
+Noon had just passed, when the word was given to halt, by which means
+every facility was afforded of posting the piquet’s leisure and
+attention. Nor was this deemed enough to secure tranquillity: parties
+were sent out in all directions to reconnoitre, who returned with an
+account that no enemy nor any trace of an enemy could be discerned. The
+troops were accordingly suffered to light fires, and to make themselves
+comfortable, only their accoutrements were not taken off, and the arms
+were piled in such form as to be within reach at a moment’s notice.
+
+As soon as these agreeable orders were issued, the soldiers to obey
+them both in letter and in spirit. Tearing up a number of strong
+palings, large fires were lighted in a moment; water was brought from
+the river, and provisions were cooked. But their bare rations did not
+content them. Spreading themselves over the country as far as a regard
+to safety would permit, they entered every house, and brought away
+quantities of hams, fowls, and wines of various descriptions; which
+being divided among them, all fared well, and none received too large a
+quantity. In this division of good things, they were not unmindful of
+their officers; for upon active warfare the officers are considered by
+the privates as comrades, to whom respect and obedience are due, rather
+than as masters.
+
+It was now about three o’clock in the afternoon, and all had as yet
+remained quiet. The troops having finished their meal, lay stretched
+beside their fires, or refreshed themselves by bathing, for to-day the
+heat was such as to render this latter employment extremely agreeable,
+when suddenly a bugle from the advanced posts sounded the alarm, which
+was echoed back from all in the army. Starting up, we stood to our
+arms, and prepared for battle, the alarm being now succeeded by some
+firing; but we were scarcely in order, when intelligence arrived from
+the front that there was no danger, only a few horse having made their
+appearance, who were checked and put to flight at the first discharge.
+Upon this information, our wonted confidence returned, and we again
+betook ourselves to our former occupations, remarking that, as the
+Americans had never yet dared to attack, there was no great probability
+of their doing so on the present occasion.
+
+In this manner the day passed without any further alarm; and darkness
+having set in, the fires were made to blaze with increased splendour,
+our evening meal was eaten, and we prepared to sleep. But about
+half-past seven o’clock, the attention of several individuals was drawn
+to a large vessel, which seemed to be stealing up the river till she
+came opposite to our camp; when her anchor was dropped, and her sails
+leisurely furled. At first we were doubtful whether she might not be
+one of our own cruisers which had passed the fort unobserved, and had
+arrived to render her assistance in our future operations. To satisfy
+this doubt, she was repeatedly hailed; but returning no answer, an
+alarm immediately spread through the bivouac, and all thought of sleep
+was laid aside. Several musket-shots were now fired at her with the
+design of exacting a reply, of which no notice was taken; till at
+length, having fastened all her sails, and swung her broadside towards
+us, we could distinctly hear some one cry out in a commanding voice,
+“Give them this for the honour of America.” The words were instantly
+followed by the flashes of her guns, and a deadly shower of grape swept
+down numbers in the camp.
+
+Against this destructive fire we had nothing whatever to oppose. The
+artillery which we had landed was too light to bring into competition
+with an adversary so powerful; and as she had anchored within a short
+distance of the opposite bank, no musketry could reach her with any
+precision or effect. A few rockets were discharged, which made a
+beautiful appearance in the air; but the rocket is at the best an
+uncertain weapon, and these deviated too far from their object to
+produce even terror amongst those against whom they were directed.
+Under these circumstances, as nothing could be done offensively, our
+sole object was to shelter the men as much as possible from the iron
+hail. With this view, they were commanded to leave the fires, and to
+hasten under the dyke. Thither all accordingly repaired, without much
+regard to order and regularity, and laying ourselves along wherever we
+could find room, we listened in painful silence to the pattering of
+grape-shot among our huts, and to the shrieks and groans of those who
+lay wounded beside them.
+
+ATTACK.
+
+The night was now as dark as pitch, the moon being but young, and
+totally obscured with clouds. Our fires deserted by us, and beat about
+by the enemy’s shot, began to burn red and dull, and, except when the
+flashes of those guns which played upon us cast a momentary glare, not
+an object could be distinguished at the distance of a yard. In this
+state we lay for nearly an hour, unable to move from our ground, or
+offer any opposition to those who kept us there; when a straggling fire
+of musketry called our attention towards the piquets, and warned us to
+prepare for a closer and more desperate struggle. As yet, however, it
+was uncertain from what cause this dropping fire arose. It might
+proceed from the sentinels, who, alarmed by the cannonade from the
+river, mistook every tree for an American; and till the real state of
+the case should be ascertained, it would be improper to expose the
+troops by moving any of them from the shelter which the bank afforded.
+But these doubts were not permitted to continue long in existence. The
+dropping fire having paused for a few moments, was succeeded by a
+fearful yell; and the heavens were illuminated on all sides by a
+semi-circular blaze of musketry. It was now manifest that we were
+surrounded, and that by a very superior force; and that no alternative
+remained, except to surrender at discretion, or to beat back the
+assailants.
+
+The first of these plans was never for an instant thought of; the
+second was immediately put into force. Rushing from under the bank, the
+85th and 95th flew to support the piquets, whilst the 4th, stealing to
+the rear of the encampment, formed close column, and remained as a
+reserve. And now began a battle of which no language were competent to
+convey any distinct idea; because it was one to which the annals of
+modern warfare furnish no parallel. All order, all discipline were
+lost. Each officer, as he succeeded in collecting twenty or thirty men
+about him, plunged into the midst of the enemy’s ranks, where it was
+fought hand to hand, bayonet to bayonet, and sabre to sabre.
+
+I am well aware that he who speaks of his own deeds in the field of
+battle lies fairly open to the charge of seeking to make a hero of
+himself in the eyes of the public; and feeling this, it is not without
+reluctance that I proceed to recount the part which I myself took in
+the affair of this night. But, in truth, I must either play the egotist
+awhile, or leave the reader without any details at all; inasmuch as the
+darkness and general confusion effectually prevented me from observing
+how others, except my own immediate party, were employed.
+
+Offering this as my apology for a line of conduct which I should
+otherwise blush to pursue, and premising that I did nothing, in my own
+person, which was not done by my comrades at least as effectually, I go
+on to relate as many of the particulars of this sanguinary conflict as
+came under the notice of my own senses.
+
+My friend Grey and myself had been supplied by our soldiers with a
+couple of fowls taken from a neighbouring hen-roost, and a few bottles
+of excellent claret, borrowed from the cellar of one of the houses
+near. We had built ourselves a sort of hut, by piling together, in a
+conical form, a number of large stakes and broad rails torn up from one
+of the fences; and a bright wooden fire was blazing at the door of it.
+In the wantonness of triumph, too, we had lighted some six or eight
+wax-candles; a vast quantity of which had been found in the store-rooms
+of the chateaux hard by; and having done ample justice to our luxurious
+supper, we were sitting in great splendour and in high spirits at the
+entrance of our hut, when the alarm of the approaching schooner was
+communicated to us. With the sagacity of a veteran, Grey instantly
+guessed how matters stood: he was the first to hail the suspicious
+stranger; and on receiving no answer to his challenge, he was the first
+to fire a musket in the direction of her anchorage. But he had scarcely
+done so when she opened her broadside, causing the instantaneous
+abandonment of fires, viands, and mirth throughout the bivouac.
+
+As we contrived to get our men tolerably well around us, Grey and
+myself were among the first who rushed forth to support the piquets and
+check the advance of the enemy upon the right. Passing as rapidly as
+might be through the ground of encampment amidst a shower of grape-shot
+from the vessel, we soon arrived at the pond; which being forded, we
+found ourselves in front of the farm-house of which I have already
+spoken as composing the head-quarters of General Keane. Here we were
+met by a few stragglers from the outposts, who reported that the
+advanced companies were all driven in, and that a numerous division of
+Americans was approaching. Having attached these fugitives to our
+little corps, we pushed on, and in a few seconds reached the lower
+extremity of a sloping stubble-field, at the other end of which we
+could discern a long line of men, but whether they were friends or foes
+the darkness would not permit ups to determine. We called aloud for the
+purpose of satisfying our doubts; but the signal being disregarded, we
+advanced. A heavy fire of musketry instantly opened upon us; but so
+fearful was Grey of doing injury to our own troops, that he would not
+permit it to be returned. We accordingly pressed on, our men dropping
+by ones and twos on every side of us, till having arrived within twenty
+or thirty yards of the object of our curiosity, it became to me evident
+enough that we were in front of the enemy. Grey’s humane caution still
+prevailed; he was not convinced, till he, should be convinced it was
+but natural that he should alter his plans. There chanced to be near
+the spot where we were standing a huge dung-heap, or rather a long
+solid stack of stubble, behind which we directed the men to take
+shelter whilst one of us should creep forward alone, for the purpose of
+more completely ascertaining a fact of which all except my brave and
+noble-minded comrade were satisfied. The event proved that my sight had
+not deceived me: I approached within sabre’s length of the line; and
+having ascertained beyond the possibility of doubt that the line was
+composed of American soldiers, I returned to my friend and again urged
+him to charge. But there was an infatuation upon him that night for
+which I have ever been unable to account: he insisted that I must be
+mistaken; he spoke of the improbability which existed that any part of
+the enemy’s army should have succeeded in taking up a position in rear
+of the station of one of our outposts, and he could not be persuaded
+that the troops now before him were not the 95th Rifle corps. At last
+it was agreed between us that we should separate; that Grey with one
+half of the party should remain where he was, whilst I with the other
+half should make a short detour to the right, and come down upon the
+flank of the line from whose fire we had suffered so severely. The plan
+was carried into immediate execution. Taking with me about a dozen or
+fourteen men, I quitted Grey, and we never met again.
+
+How or when he fell I know not; but, judging from the spot and attitude
+in which I afterwards found his body, I conceive that my back could
+have been barely turned upon him when the fatal ball pierced his brain.
+He was as brave a soldier and as good a man as the British army can
+boast of; beloved by his brother officers and adored by his men. To me
+he was as a brother; nor have I ceased even now to feel, as often as
+the 23rd of December returns, that on that night a tie was broken than
+which the progress of human life will hardly furnish one more tender or
+more strong. But to my tale.
+
+Leaving Grey—careless as he ever was in battle of his own person, and
+anxious as far as might be to secure the safety of his followers—I led
+my little party in the direction agreed upon, and fortunately falling
+in with about an equal number of English riflemen, I caused them to
+take post beside my own men, and turned up to the front. Springing over
+the paling, we found ourselves almost at once upon the left flank of
+the enemy; and we lost not a moment in attacking it. But one volley was
+poured in, and then bayonets, musket-butts, sabres, and even fists,
+came instantly into play. In the whole course of my military career
+remember no scene at all resembling this. We fought with the savage
+ferocity of bull-dogs; and many a blade which till to-night had not
+drunk blood became in a few minutes crimsoned enough.
+
+Such a contest could not in the nature of things be of very long
+continuance. The enemy, astonished at the vigour of our assault, soon
+began to waver, and their wavering was speedily converted into flight.
+Nor did we give them a moment’s time to recover from their panic. With
+loud shouts we continued to press upon them; and amidst the most
+horrible din and desperate carnage drove them over the field and
+through the little village of huts, of which notice has already been
+taken as surrounding the mansion on our advanced right. Here we found a
+number of our own people prisoners, and under a guard of Americans. But
+the guard fled as we approached, and our countrymen catching up such
+weapons as came first to hand, joined in the pursuit.
+
+In this spot I halted my party, increased by the late additions to the
+number of forty; among whom were two gallant young officers of the
+95th. We had not yet been joined, as I expected be joined, by Grey; and
+feeling that we were at least far enough in advance of our own line, we
+determined to attempt nothing further except to keep possession of the
+village should it be attacked. But whilst placing the men in convenient
+situations, another dark line was pointed out to us considerably to the
+left our position. That we might ascertain at once of what troops was
+composed, I left my brother officers to complete the arrangements which
+we had begun, and walking down the field, demanded in a loud voice to
+be informed who they were that kept post in so retired a situation. A
+voice from the throng made answer that they were Americans, and begged
+of me not fire upon my friends. Willing to deceive them still further,
+I asked to what corps they belonged; the speaker replied that they were
+the second battalion of the first regiment, and inquired what had
+become of the first battalion. I told him that it was upon my right,
+and assuming a tone of authority, commanded him not to move from his
+present situation till I should join him with a party of which I was at
+the head.
+
+The conversation ended here, and I returned to the village; when,
+communicating the result of my inquiries to my comrades, we formed our
+brave little band into line and determined to attack. The men were
+cautioned to preserve a strict silence, and not to fire a shot till
+orders were given; they observed these injunctions, and with fixed
+bayonets and cautious tread advanced along the field. As we drew near,
+I called aloud for the commanding officer of the second regiment to
+step forward, upon which an elderly man, armed with a heavy dragoon
+sabre, stepped out of the ranks. When he discovered by our dress that
+we were English, this redoubtable warrior lost all self-command; he
+resigned his sword to me without a murmur, and consented at once to
+believe that his battalion was surrounded, and that to offer any
+resistance would but occasion a needless loss of blood. Nor was he
+singular in these respects: his followers, placing implicit reliance in
+our assurances that they were hemmed in on every side by a very
+superior force, had actually begun to lay down their arms, and would
+have surrendered, in all probability, at discretion, but for the
+superior gallantry of one man. An American officer, whose sword I
+demanded, instead of giving it up as his commander had done, made a cut
+at my head, which with some difficulty I managed to ward off; and a few
+soldiers near him, catching ardour from his example, discharged their
+pieces among our troops. The sound of firing was no sooner heard than
+it became general, and as all hope of success by stratagem might now be
+laid aside, we were of necessity compelled to try the effect of
+violence. Again we rushed into the middle of the throng, and again was
+the contest that of man to man, in close and desperate strife; till a
+panic arising among the Americans, they dispersed in all directions and
+left us masters of the field.
+
+In giving a detail so minute of my own adventures this night, I beg to
+repeat what has been stated already, that I have no wish whatever to
+persuade my readers that I was one whit more cool or more daring than
+my companions. Like them I was driven to depend, from first to last,
+upon my own energies; and I believe the energies of few men fail them
+when they are satisfied that on them alone they must depend. Nor was
+the case different with my comrades. Attacked unexpectedly, and in the
+dark, surrounded, too, by a numerous enemy, and one who spoke the same
+language with ourselves, it is not to be wondered at if the order and
+routine of civilised warfare were everywhere set at nought. Each man
+who felt disposed to command was obeyed by those who stood near him,
+without any question being asked as to his authority; and more feats of
+individual gallantry were performed in this single night than many
+regular campaigns might furnish an opportunity to perform.
+
+The night was far spent, and the sound of firing had begun to wax
+faint, when, checking the ardour of our brave followers, we collected
+them once more together and fell back into the village. Here likewise
+considerable numbers from other detachments assembled, and here we
+learned that the Americans were repulsed on every side. The combat had
+been long and obstinately contested: it began at eight o’clock in the
+evening and continued till three in the morning—but the victory was
+ours. True, it was the reverse of a bloodless one, not fewer than two
+hundred fifty of our best men having fallen in the struggle: but even
+at the expense of such a loss, we could not but account ourselves
+fortunate in escaping from the snare in which we had confessedly taken.
+
+To me, however, the announcement of the victory brought no rejoicing,
+for it was accompanied with the intelligence that my friend was among
+the killed. I well recollect the circumstances under which these sad
+news reached me. I was standing with a sword in each hand—my own and
+that of the officer who had surrendered to me, and, as the reader may
+imagine, in no bad humour with myself or with the brave fellows about
+me, when a brother officer stepping forward abruptly told the tale. It
+came me upon me like a thunderbolt; and casting aside my trophy,
+thought only of the loss which I had sustained. Regardless of every
+other matter I ran to the rear, and found Grey lying behind the
+dung-heap, motionless and cold. A little pool of blood which had
+coagulated under his head, pointed out the spot where the ball had
+entered, and the position of his limbs gave proof that he must have
+died without a struggle. I cannot pretend to describe what were then my
+sensations, but of whatever nature they might be, little time was given
+for their indulgence; the bugle sounding the alarm, I was compelled to
+leave him as he lay, and to join my corps. Though the alarm proved to
+be a false one, it had the good effect of bringing all the troops
+together, by which means a regular line was now, for the first time
+since the commencement of the action, formed. In this order, having
+defiled considerably to the left, so as to command the highway, we
+stood in front of our bivouac till dawn began to appear; when, to avoid
+the fire of the schooner, we once more moved to the river’s bank and
+lay down. Here, during the whole of the succeeding day, the troops were
+kept shivering in the cold frosty air, without fires, without
+provisions, and exhausted with fatigue; nor was it till the return of
+night that any attempt to extricate them from their comfortless
+situation could be made.
+
+FIELD OF BATTLE.
+
+Whilst others were thus reposing, I stole away with two or three men
+for the purpose of performing the last sad act of affection which it
+was possible for me to perform to my friend Grey. As we had completely
+changed our ground, it was not possible for me at once to discover the
+spot where he lay; indeed I traversed a large portion of the field
+before I hit upon it. Whilst thus wandering over the arena of last
+night’s contest, the most shocking and most disgusting spectacles
+everywhere met my eyes. I have frequently beheld a greater number of
+dead bodies within as narrow a compass, though these, to speak the
+truth, were numerous enough, but wounds more disfiguring or more
+horrible I certainly never witnessed. A man shot through the head or
+heart lies as if he were in a deep slumber; insomuch that when you gaze
+upon him you experience little else than pity. But of these, many had
+met their deaths from bayonet wounds, sabre cuts, or heavy blows from
+the butt ends of muskets; and the consequence was, that not only were
+the wounds themselves exceedingly frightful, but the very countenances
+of the dead exhibited the most savage and ghastly expressions. Friends
+and foes lay together in small groups of four or six, nor was it
+difficult to tell almost the very hand by which some of them had
+fallen. Nay, such had been the deadly closeness of the strife, that in
+one or two places an English and American soldier might be seen with
+the bayonet of each fastened in the other’s body.
+
+Having searched for some time in vain, I at length discovered my friend
+lying where during the action we had separated, and where, when the
+action came to a close, I had at first found him, shot through the
+temples by a rifle bullet so remarkably small as scarcely to leave any
+trace of its progress. I am well aware that this is no fit place to
+introduce the working of my own personal feelings, but he was my
+friend, and such a friend as few men are happy enough to possess. We
+had known and loved each other for years; our regard had been cemented
+by a long participation in the same hardships and dangers, and it
+cannot; therefore surprise, if even now I pay that tribute to his worth
+and our friendship which, however unavailing it may be, they both
+deserve.
+
+When in the act of looking for him I had flattered myself that I should
+be able to bear his loss with something like philosophy, but when I
+beheld him pale and bloody, I found all my resolution evaporate. I
+threw myself on the ground beside him and wept, like a child. But this
+was no time for the indulgence of useless sorrow. Like the royal bard,
+I knew that I should go to him, but he could not return to me, and I
+knew not whether an hour would pass before my summons might arrive.
+Lifting him therefore upon a cart, I had him carried down to
+head-quarter house, now converted into an hospital, and having dug for
+him a grave at the bottom of the garden, I laid him there as a soldier
+should be laid, arrayed, not in a shroud, but in his uniform. Even the
+privates whom I brought with me to assist at his funeral mingled their
+tears with mine, nor are many so fortunate as to return to the parent
+dust more deeply or more sincerely lamented.
+
+FIELD OF BATTLE—HOSPITAL.
+
+Retiring from the performance of this melancholy duty, I strolled into
+the hospital and visited the wounded. It is here that war loses its
+grandeur and show, and presents only a real picture of its effects.
+Every room in the house was crowded with wretches mangled, and
+apparently in the most excruciating agonies. Prayers, groans, and, I
+grieve to add, the most horrid exclamations, smote upon the ear
+wherever I turned. Some lay at length upon straw, with eyes half closed
+and limbs motionless; some endeavoured to start up, shrieking with
+pain, while the wandering eye and incoherent speech of others indicated
+the loss of reason, and usually foretold the approach of death. But
+there was one among the rest whose appearance was too horrible ever to
+be forgotten. He had been shot through the windpipe, and the breath
+making its way between the skin and the flesh had dilated him to a size
+absolutely terrific. His head and face were particularly shocking.
+Every feature was enlarged beyond what can well be imagined; whilst his
+eyes were so completely hidden by the cheeks and forehead as to destroy
+all resemblance to a human countenance.
+
+Passing through the apartments where the private soldiers lay, I next
+came to those occupied by officers. Of these there were five or six in
+one small room, to whom little better accommodation could be provided
+than to their inferiors. It was a sight peculiarly distressing, because
+all of them chanced to be personal acquaintances of my own. One had
+been shot in the head, and lay gasping and insensible; another had
+received a musket- ball in the belly, which had pierced through and
+lodged in the backbone. The former appeared to suffer but little,
+giving no signs of life, except what a heavy breathing produced; the
+latter was in the most dreadful agony, screaming out, and gnawing the
+covering under which he lay. There were many besides these, some
+severely and others slightly hurt; but as I have already dwelt at
+sufficient length upon a painful subject, I shall only observe, that to
+all was afforded every assistance which circumstances would allow, and
+that the exertions of their medical attendants were such as deserved
+and obtained the grateful thanks of even the most afflicted among the
+sufferers themselves.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+ADVANCE.
+
+
+In the mean time the rest of the troops were landing as fast as
+possible, and hastening to join their comrades. Though the advance had
+set out from Pine Island by themselves, they did not occupy all the
+boats in the fleet. Part of the second brigade, therefore, had embarked
+about twelve hours after their departure; and rowing leisurely on, were
+considerably more than half way across the lakes when the action began.
+In the stillness of night, however, it is astonishing at what distance
+a noise is heard. Though they must have been at least twenty miles from
+the Bayo when the schooner first opened her fire, the sound reaching
+them roused the rowers from their indolence, who, pulling with all
+their might, hurried on, whilst the most profound silence reigned among
+the troops, and, gaining the creek in little more than three hours,
+sent fresh reinforcements to share in the danger and glory of the
+night.
+
+Nor was a moment lost by the sailors in returning to the island.
+Intelligence of the combat spread like wildfire; the boats were loaded
+even beyond what was strictly safe, and thus, by exerting themselves in
+a degree almost unparalleled, our gallant seamen succeeded in bringing
+the whole army into position before dark on the 24th. The second and
+third brigades, therefore, now took up their ground upon the spot where
+the late battle had been fought, and, resting their right upon the
+woody morass, extended so far towards the river, as that the advance by
+wheeling up might continue the line across the entire plain.
+
+But instead of taking part in this formation, the advance was still
+fettered to the bank, from which it was additionally prevented from
+moving by the arrival of another large ship, which, cast anchor about a
+mile above the schooner. Thus were three battalions kept stationary by
+the guns of these two formidable floating batteries, and it was clear
+that no attempt to extricate them could be made without great loss,
+unless under cover of night. During the whole of the 24th, therefore,
+they remained in this uncomfortable situation; but as soon as darkness
+had well set in, a change of position was effected. Withdrawing the
+troops, company by company, from behind the bank, General Keane
+stationed them in the village of huts, by which means the high road was
+abandoned to the protection of a piquet, and the left of the army
+covered by a large chateau.
+
+Being now placed beyond risk of serious annoyance from the shipping the
+whole army remained quiet for the night. How long we were to continue
+in this state nobody appeared to know; not a whisper was circulated as
+to the time of advancing, nor a surmise ventured respecting the next
+step likely to be taken. In our guides to whose rumours we had before
+listened with avidity, no confidence was reposed. It was quite evident,
+either that they had purposely deceived us, or that their information
+was gathered from a most imperfect source; and hence, though they were
+not exactly placed in confinement, they were strictly watched, and
+treated more like spies than deserters. Instead of an easy conquest, we
+had already met with a vigorous opposition; instead of finding the
+inhabitants ready and eager to join us, we found the houses deserted,
+the cattle and horses driven away, and every appearance of hostility.
+To march by the only road was rendered impracticable; so completely was
+it commanded by the shipping. In a word, all things had turned out
+diametrically opposite to what had been anticipated; and it appeared
+that, instead of a trifling affair more likely to fill our pockets than
+to add to our renown, we had embarked in an undertaking which presented
+difficulties not to be surmounted without patience and determination.
+
+Having effected this change of position, and covered the front of his
+army with a strong chain of outposts, General Keane, as I have said,
+remained quiet during the remainder of the night, and on the morrow was
+relieved from further care and responsibility by the unexpected arrival
+of Sir Edward Pakenham and General Gibbs. As soon as the death of Ross
+was known in London, the former of these officers was dispatched to
+take upon himself the command of the army. Sailing immediately with the
+latter as his second in command, he had been favoured during the whole
+voyage by a fresh and fair wind, and now arrived in time to see his
+troops brought into a predicament from which all his abilities could
+scarcely expect to extricate them. Nor were the troops themselves
+ignorant of the unfavourable circumstances in which they stood. Hoping
+everything, therefore, from a change, they greeted their new leader
+with a hearty cheer; whilst the confidence which past events had tended
+in some degree to dispel, returned once more to the bosoms of all. It
+was Christmas-day, and a number of officers, clubbing their little
+stock of provisions, resolved to dine together in memory of former
+times. But at so melancholy a Christmas dinner I do not recollect at
+any time to have been present. We dined in a barn; of plates, knives,
+and forks, there was a dismal scarcity; nor could our fare boast of
+much either in intrinsic good quality or in the way of cooking. These,
+however, were mere matters of merriment; it was the want of many
+well-known and beloved faces that gave us pain; nor were any other
+subjects discussed besides the amiable qualities of those who no longer
+formed part of our mess, and never would again form part of it. A few
+guesses as to the probable success of future attempts alone relieved
+this topic, and now and then a shot from the schooner drew our
+attention to ourselves; for though too far removed from the river to be
+in much danger, we were still within cannon-shot of our enemy. Nor was
+she inactive in her attempts to molest. Elevating her guns to a great
+degree, she contrived occasionally to strike the wall of the building
+within which we sat; but the force of the ball was too far spent to
+penetrate, and could therefore produce no serious alarm.
+
+Whilst we were thus sitting at table a loud shriek was heard after one
+of these explosions, and on running out we found that a shot had taken
+effect in the body of an unfortunate soldier. I mention this incident
+because I never beheld in any human being so great a tenacity of life.
+Though fairly cut in two at the lower part of the belly, the poor
+wretch lived for nearly an hour, gasping for breath and giving signs
+even of pain.
+
+But to return to my narrative. As soon as he reached the camp Sir
+Edward proceeded to examine with a soldier’s eye every point and place
+within view. Of the American army nothing, whatever could be perceived
+except a corps of observation, composed of five or six hundred mounted
+riflemen, which hovered along our front and watched our motions. The
+town itself was completely hid; nor was it possible to see beyond the
+distance of a very few miles either in front or rear, so flat and
+unbroken was the face of the country. Under these circumstances little
+insight into the state of affairs could be obtained by reconnoitring.
+The only, thing, indeed, which he could learn from it was, that while
+the vessels kept their present station upon river no advance could be
+made; and as he felt that every moment’s delay was injurious to us and
+favourable to the enemy, he resolved to remove these incumbrances and
+to push forward as soon as possible.
+
+With this view nine field-pieces, two howitzers, and one mortar were
+brought down to the brink of the stream as soon as it was dark. Working
+parties were likewise ordered out, by whom was thrown up opposite to
+the schooner; and having got all things in readiness, at dawn on the
+26th a heavy cannonade was opened upon her with red-hot shot. It was
+not long before we could perceive her crew hastening into their boats,
+whilst the smoke which began to rise from her decks proved that the
+balls had taken effect. She was, in fact, on fire, and being abandoned
+without resistance, in little more than an hour she blew up. In itself
+the sight was a fine one, but to us it was peculiarly gratifying, for
+we could not but experience something like satiated revenge at the
+destruction of a vessel from which we had suffered so much damage. A
+loud shout accordingly followed the explosion, and the guns were
+immediately turned against the ship. But the fate of her companion had
+warned her not to remain till she herself should be attacked. Setting
+every inch of canvas, and hoisting out her boats, she began, to stem
+the stream at the very instant the schooner took fire, and being
+impelled forward both by towing and sailing, she succeeded in getting
+beyond the range of shot before the guns could be brought to bear. One
+shell, however, was thrown with admirable precision, which falling upon
+her deck caused considerable execution; but excepting this, she escaped
+without injury, and did not anchor again till she had got too far for
+pursuit.
+
+Having thus removed all apparent obstacles to his future progress, the
+General made dispositions for a speedy advance. Dividing the army into
+two columns, he appointed General Gibbs to the command of one, and
+General Keane to the command of the other. The left column, led on by
+the latter officer, consisted of the 95th, the 85th, the 93rd, and one
+black corps; the right, of the 4th, 21st, 44th, and the other black
+corps. The artillery, of which we had now ten pieces in the field,
+though at present attached to the left column, was designed to act as
+circumstances and the nature of the ground would permit; whilst the
+dragoons, few of whom had as yet provided themselves with horses, were
+appointed to guard the hospitals, and to secure the wounded from any
+sudden surprise or molestation from the rear.
+
+But the day was too far spent in making these arrangements, and in
+clearing the way for future operations, to permit any movement before
+the morrow. The whole of the 26th was therefore spent in bringing up
+stores, ammunition, and a few heavy guns from the ships, which being
+placed in battery upon the banks of the river, secured us against the
+return of our floating adversary. All this was done quietly enough, nor
+was there any cause of alarm till after sunset; but from that time till
+towards dawn, we were kept in a constant state of anxiety and
+agitation. Sending down small bodies of riflemen, the American General
+harassed our piquets, killed and wounded a few of the sentinels, and
+prevented the main body from obtaining any sound refreshing sleep.
+Scarcely had the troops lain down when they were roused by a sharp
+firing at the outposts, which lasted only till they were in order, and
+then ceased; but as soon as they had dispersed and had once more
+addressed themselves to repose, the same cause of alarm returned, and
+they were again called to their ranks. Thus was the entire night spent
+in watching, or at best in broken and disturbed slumbers, than which
+nothing is more trying, both to the health and spirits of an army.
+
+With the piquets, again, it fared even worse. For the outposts of an
+army to sleep is at all times considered as a thing impossible; but in
+modern and civilized warfare they are nevertheless looked upon as in
+some degree sacred. Thus, whilst two European armies remain inactively
+facing each other, the outposts of neither are molested, unless a
+direct attack upon the main body be intended; nay, so far is this tacit
+good understanding carried, that I have myself seen French and English
+sentinels not more than twenty yards apart. But the Americans
+entertained no such chivalric notions. An enemy was to them an enemy,
+whether alone or in the midst of five thousand companions; and they
+therefore counted the death of every individual as so much taken from
+the strength of the whole. In point of fact they no doubt reasoned
+correctly, but to us at least it appeared an ungenerous return to
+barbarity. Whenever they could approach unperceived within proper
+distance of our watch-fires, six or eight riflemen would fire amongst
+the party that sat around them, while one or two, stealing as close to
+each sentinel as a regard to their own safety would permit, acted the
+part of assassins rather than that of soldiers, and attempted to murder
+him in cold blood. For the officers, likewise, when going their rounds,
+they constantly lay in wait, and thus, by a continued dropping fire,
+they not only wounded some of those against whom their aim was
+directed, but occasioned considerable anxiety and uneasiness throughout
+the whole line.
+
+It was on this night, and under these circumstances, that I was
+indebted to the vigilance of my faithful dog for my life. Amid all the
+bustle of landing, and throughout the tumult of the nocturnal battle,
+she never strayed from me; at least if she did lose me for a time, she
+failed not to trace me out again as soon as order was restored, for I
+found her by my side when the dawn of the 24th came in, and I never
+lost sight of her afterwards. It was my fortune on the night of the
+26th to be put in charge of an outpost on the left front of the army;
+on such occasions I seldom experienced the slightest inclination to
+sleep; and on the present, I made it a point to visit my sentinels at
+least once in every, half-hour. Going my rounds for this purpose, it
+was necessary that I should pass a little copse of low underwood, just
+outside the line of our videttes; and I did pass it again and again,
+without meeting with any adventure. But about an hour after midnight,
+my dog, which, as usual, trotted a few paces before me, suddenly
+stopped short at the edge of the thicket, and began to bark violently,
+and in great apparent anger. I knew the animal well enough to be aware
+that some cause must exist for such conduct; and I too stopped short,
+till I should ascertain whether danger were near. It was well for me
+that I had been thus warned; for at the instant of my halting, about
+half a dozen muskets were discharged from the copse, the muzzles of
+which, had I taken five steps forward, must have touched my body. The
+balls whizzed harmlessly past my head; and, on my returning the fire
+with the pistol which I carried in my hand, the ambuscade broke up, and
+the party composing it took to their heels. I was Quixote enough to
+dash sword in hand into the thicket after them: but no one waited for
+me; so I continued my perambulations in peace.
+
+MARCH.
+
+Having continued this detestable system of warfare till towards
+morning, the enemy retired and left us at rest. But as soon as day
+began to break, our piquets were called in, and the troops formed in
+order of attack. The right column, under General Gibbs, took post near
+the skirts of the morass, throwing out skirmishers half way across the
+plain, whilst the left column drew up upon the road covered by the
+rifle corps, which in extended order met the skirmishers from the
+other. With this last division went the artillery, already well
+supplied with horses; and, at the signal given the whole moved forward.
+
+It was a clear frosty morning, the mists had dispersed, and the sun
+shone brightly upon our arms when we began our march. The enemy’s corps
+of observation fell back as we advanced, without offering in any way to
+impede our progress, and it was impossible to guess, ignorant as we
+were of the position of his main body, at what moment opposition might
+be expected. Nor, in truth, was it matter of much anxiety. Our spirits,
+in spite of the troubles of the night, were good, and our expectations
+of success were high, consequently many rude jests were bandied about,
+and many careless words spoken: for soldiers are, of all classes of
+men, the freest from care, and on that account, perhaps, the most
+happy. By being continually exposed to it, danger, with them, ceases to
+be frightful; of death they have no more terror than the beasts that
+perish; and even hardships, such as cold, wet, hunger, and broken rest,
+lose at least part of their disagreeableness, by the frequency of their
+recurrence.
+
+Moving on in this merry mood, we advanced about four or five miles
+without the smallest check or hindrance; when, at length, we found
+ourselves in view of the enemy’s army, posted in a very advantageous
+manner. About forty yards in their front was a canal, which extended
+from the morass to within a short distance of the high road. Along
+their line were thrown up breastworks, not indeed completed, but even
+now formidable. Upon the road at several other points were erected
+powerful batteries; whilst the ship, with a large flotilla of
+gun-boats, flanked the whole position from the river.
+
+ATTACK.
+
+When I say that we came in sight of the enemy, I do not mean that he
+was gradually exposed to us in such a manner as to leave time for cool
+examination and reflection. On the right, indeed, he was seen for some
+time, but on the left a few houses built at a turning in the road
+entirely concealed him; nor was it till they gained that turning, and
+beheld the muzzles of his guns pointed towards them, that those who
+moved in this direction were aware of their proximity to danger. But
+that danger was indeed near they were quickly taught; for scarcely had
+the head of the column passed the houses when a deadly fire was opened
+from both the battery and the shipping. That the Americans are
+excellent marksmen, as well with artillery as with rifles, we have had
+frequent cause to acknowledge; but, perhaps, on no occasion did they
+assert their claim to the title of good artillery-men more effectually
+than on the present. Scarce a ball passed over or fell short of its
+mark, but all striking full into the midst of our ranks, occasioned
+terrible havoc. The shrieks of the wounded, therefore, the crash of
+firelocks, and the fall of such as were killed; caused at first some
+little confusion; and what added to the panic was, that from the houses
+beside which we stood bright flames suddenly burst out. The Americans,
+expecting this attack, had filled them with combustibles for the
+purpose; and directing against them one or two guns, loaded with
+red-hot shot, in an instant set them on fire. The scene was altogether
+very sublime. A tremendous cannonade mowed down our ranks, and deafened
+us with its roar; whilst two large chateaux and their outbuildings
+almost scorched us with the flames, and blinded us with the smoke which
+they emitted.
+
+The infantry, however, was not long suffered to remain thus exposed;
+but being ordered to quit the path and to form line in the fields, the
+artillery was brought up, and opposed to that of the enemy. But the
+contest was in every respect unequal, since their artillery far
+exceeded ours, both in numerical strength and weight of metal. The
+consequence was, that in half an hour two of our field-pieces and one
+field-mortar were dismounted: many of the gunners were killed; and the
+rest, after an ineffectual attempt to silence the fire of the shipping,
+were obliged to retire.
+
+In the mean time the infantry having formed line, advanced under a
+heavy discharge of round and grape shot, till they were checked by the
+appearance of the canal. Of its depth they were of course ignorant, and
+to attempt its passage without having ascertained whether it could be
+forded might have been productive of fatal consequences. A halt was
+accordingly ordered, and the men were commanded to shelter themselves
+as well as they could from the enemy’s fire. For this purpose they were
+hurried into a wet ditch, of sufficient depth to cover the knees,
+where, leaning forward, they concealed themselves behind some high
+rushes which grew upon its brink, and thus escaped many bullets which
+fell around them in all directions.
+
+RETREAT.
+
+Thus fared it with the left of the army, whilst the right, though less
+exposed to the cannonade, was not more successful in its object. The
+same impediment which checked one column forced the other likewise to
+pause; and after having driven in an advanced body of the enemy, and
+endeavoured, without effect, to penetrate through the marsh, it also
+was commanded to halt. In a word, all thought of attacking was for this
+day abandoned; and it now only remained to withdraw the troops from
+their present perilous situation, with as little loss as possible.
+
+The first thing to be done was to remove the dismounted guns. Upon this
+enterprise a party of seamen were employed, who, running forward to the
+spot where they lay, lifted them, in spite of the whole of the enemy’s
+fire, and bore them off in triumph. As soon as this was effected,
+regiment after regiment stole away; not in a body, but one by one,
+under the same discharge which saluted their approach. But a retreat
+thus conducted necessarily occupied much time. Noon had therefore long
+passed before the last corps was brought off; and when we again began
+to muster twilight was approaching. We did not, however, retire to our
+former position; but having fallen back only about two miles from the
+canal, where it was supposed that we should be beyond reach of
+annoyance from the American artillery, we there established ourselves
+for the night, having suffered less during the day than, from our
+exposed situation and the enemy’s heavy fire, might have been expected.
+
+The ground which we now occupied resembled, in almost every particular,
+that which we had quitted. We again extended across the plain, from the
+marsh to the river; no wood or cover of any description concealing our
+line, or obstructing the view of either army; while both in front and
+rear was an open space, laid out in fields and intersected by narrow
+ditches. Our outposts, however were pushed forward to some houses
+within a few hundred yards of the enemy’s works, sending out advanced
+sentinels even farther; and the head-quarters of the army were
+established near the spot where the action of the 23rd had been fought.
+
+PREPARATIONS.
+
+In this state we remained during the 28th, the 29th, and 30th, without
+any efforts being made to fortify our own position, or to annoy that of
+the enemy. Some attempts were, I believe, set on foot to penetrate into
+the wood on the right of our line, and to discover a path through the
+morass, by which the enemy’s left might be turned. But all of these
+proved fruitless, and a few valuable lives having been sacrificed, the
+idea was finally laid aside. In the meanwhile the American General
+directed the whole of his attention to the strengthening of his post.
+Day and night we could observe numerous parties at work upon his lines,
+whilst from the increased number of tents, which almost every hour
+might be discerned, it was evident that strong reinforcements were
+continually pouring into his camp. Nor did he leave us totally
+unmolested. By giving to his guns a great degree of elevation, he
+contrived at last to reach our bivouac; and thus were we constantly
+under a cannonade which, though it did little execution, proved
+nevertheless extremely annoying. Besides this, he now began to erect
+batteries on the opposite bank of the river; from which a flanking fire
+could be thrown across the entire front of his position. In short, he
+adopted every precaution which prudence could suggest, and for the
+reception of which the nature of his ground was so admirably adapted.
+
+Under these circumstances it was evident that the longer an attack was
+delayed the less likely was it to succeed; that something must be done
+immediately every one perceived, but how to proceed was the difficulty.
+If we attempted to storm the American lines, we should expose ourselves
+to almost certain destruction from their artillery; to turn them was
+impossible; and to draw their troops by any manoeuvring from behind
+their entrenchments was a thing altogether out of the question. There
+seemed therefore to be but one practicable mode of assault; which was,
+to treat these field-works as one would treat a regular fortification;
+by erecting breaching batteries against them, and silencing, if it were
+possible, at least some of their guns. To this plan, therefore, our
+leader had recourse; and, in consequence, the whole of these three days
+were employed in landing heavy cannon, bringing up ammunition, and
+making such preparations as might have sufficed for a siege.
+
+At length, having completed his arrangements, and provided such means
+as were considered sufficient to ensure success, General Pakenham
+determined to commence operations without delay. One half of the army
+was accordingly ordered out on the night of the 31st, and marched to
+the front, passing the piquets, and halting about three hundred yards
+from the enemy’s line. Here it was resolved to throw up a chain of
+works; and here the greater part of this detachment, laying down their
+firelocks, applied themselves vigorously to their tasks, whilst the
+rest stood armed and prepared for their defence.
+
+The night was dark, and our people maintained a profound silence; by
+which means, not an idea of what was going on existed in the American
+camp. As we laboured, too, with all diligence, six batteries were
+completed long before dawn, in which were mounted thirty pieces of
+heavy cannon; when, falling back a little way, we united ourselves to
+the remainder of the infantry, and lay down behind some rushes, in
+readiness to act, as soon as we should be wanted.
+
+In the erection of these batteries, a circumstance occurred worthy of
+notice, on account of its singularity. I have already stated that the
+whole of this district was covered with the stubble of sugar-cane; and
+I might have added, that every storehouse and barn, attached to the
+different mansions scattered over it, was filled with barrels of sugar.
+In throwing up these works, the sugar was used instead of earth.
+Rolling the hogsheads towards the front, they were placed upright in
+the parapets of batteries; and it was computed that sugar to the value
+of many thousand pounds sterling was thus disposed of.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+PREPARATIONS—ATTACK.
+
+
+The infantry having retired, and the gunners taken their station, dawn
+was anxiously expected. But the morning of the 1st of January chanced
+to be peculiarly gloomy. A thick haze obscured for a long time the rays
+of the sun, nor could objects be discerned with any accuracy till a
+late hour.
+
+But at length the mist gave way, and the American camp was fully
+exposed to view. Being at this time only three hundred yards distant,
+we could perceive all that was going forward with great exactness. The
+different regiments were upon parade; and being dressed in holiday
+suits, presented really a fine appearance. Mounted officers were riding
+backwards and forwards through the, ranks, bands were playing, and
+colours floating in the air; in a word, all seemed jollity and gala;
+when suddenly our batteries opened, and the face of affairs was
+instantly changed. The ranks were broken; the different corps
+dispersing, fled in all directions, whilst the utmost terror and
+disorder appeared to prevail. Instead of nicely-dressed lines, nothing
+but confused crowds could now be observed; nor was it without much
+difficulty that order was finally restored. Oh, that we had charged at
+that instant!
+
+RETREAT—PAUSE.
+
+Whilst this consternation prevailed among the infantry, their artillery
+remained silent; but as soon as the former rallied, they also recovered
+confidence, and answered our salute with great rapidity and precision.
+A heavy cannonade quickly commenced on both sides, and continued during
+the whole of the day; till, towards evening, our ammunition began to
+fail, and our fire in consequence to slacken. The fire of the
+Americans, on the other hand, was redoubled: landing a number of guns
+from the flotilla, they increased their artillery to a prodigious
+amount; and directing at the same time the whole force of their cannon
+on the opposite bank against the flank of our batteries, they soon
+convinced us that all endeavours to surpass them in this mode of
+fighting would be useless. Once more, therefore, were we obliged to
+retire, leaving our heavy guns to their fate; but as no attempt was
+made by the Americans to secure them, working parties were again sent
+out after dark, and such as had not been destroyed were removed.
+
+Of the fatigue undergone during these operations by the whole army,
+from the General down to the meanest sentinel, it would be difficult to
+form an adequate conception. For two whole nights and days not a man
+had closed an eye, except such as were cool enough to sleep amidst
+showers of cannon-ball; and during the day scarcely a moment had been
+allowed in which we were able so much as to break our fast. We retired,
+therefore, not only baffled and disappointed, but in some degree
+disheartened and discontented. All our plans had as yet proved
+abortive; even this, upon which so much reliance had been placed, was
+found to be of no avail; and it must be confessed that something like
+murmuring began to be heard through the camp. And, in truth, if ever an
+army might be permitted to murmur, it was this. In landing they had
+borne great hardships, not only without repining, but with
+cheerfulness; their hopes had been excited by false reports, as to the
+practicability of the attempt in which they were embarked; and now they
+found themselves entangled amidst difficulties from which there
+appeared to be no escape, except by victory. In their attempts upon the
+enemy’s line, however, they had been twice foiled; in artillery they
+perceived themselves to be so greatly overmatched, that their own could
+hardly assist them; their provisions, being derived wholly from the
+fleet, were both scanty and coarse; and their rest was continually
+broken. For not only did the canon and mortars from the main of the
+enemy’s position play unremittingly upon them both by day and night,
+but they were likewise exposed to a deadly fire from the opposite bank
+of the river, where no less than eighteen pieces of artillery were now
+mounted, and swept the entire line of our encampment. Besides all this,
+to undertake the duty of a piquet was as dangerous as to go into
+action. Parties of American sharpshooters harassed and disturbed those
+appointed to that service from the time they took possession of their
+post till they were relieved; whilst to light fires at night was
+impossible, because they served but as certain marks for the enemy’s
+gunners. I repeat, therefore, that a little murmuring could not be
+wondered at. Be it observed, however, that these were not the murmurs
+of men anxious to escape from a disagreeable situation by any means. On
+the contrary, they resembled rather the growling of a chained dog, when
+he sees his adversary and cannot reach him; for in all their
+complaints, no man ever hinted at a retreat, whilst all were eager to
+bring matters to the issue of a battle, at any sacrifice of loves.
+
+Nor was our gallant leader less anxious to fight than his followers. To
+fight upon something like equal terms was, however, his wish; and for
+this purpose a new scheme was invented, worthy, for its boldness, of
+the school in which Sir Edward had studied his profession. It was
+determined to divide the army, to send part across the river, who
+should seize the enemy’s guns, and turn them on themselves; whilst the
+remainder should at time make a general assault along the whole
+entrenchment. But before this plan could be put into execution, it
+would be necessary to cut a canal across the entire neck of land from
+the Bayo de Catiline to the river, of sufficient width and depth to
+admit of boats being brought up from the lake. Upon this arduous
+undertaking were the troops immediately employed. Being divided into
+four companies, they laboured by turns, day and night; one party
+relieving another after a stated number of hours, in such order as that
+the work should never be entirely deserted. The fatigue undergone
+during the prosecution of this attempt no words can sufficiently
+describe; yet it was pursued without repining, and at length, by
+unremitting exertions, they succeeded in effecting their purpose by the
+6th of January.
+
+Whilst these things were going on, and men’s minds were anxiously
+turned towards approaching events, fresh spirit was given to the army
+by the unexpected arrival of Major-General Lambert, with the 7th and
+43rd; two fine battalions, mustering each 800 effective men. By this
+reinforcement, together with the addition of a body of sailors and
+marines from the fleet, our numbers amounted now to little short of
+6000 men; a force which, in almost any other quarter of America, would
+have been irresistible. Of the numbers of the enemy, again, various
+reports were in circulation; some stating them at 20,000, others at
+30,000; but I believe that I come nearer the truth when I suppose their
+whole force to have comprised 12,000 men of all arms. It is, at least,
+certain that they exceeded us in numbers as much as they did in
+resources; and that scarcely an hour passed which did not bring in new
+levies to their camp.
+
+The canal, as I have stated, being finished on the 6th, it was resolved
+to lose no time in making use of it. Boats were accordingly ordered up
+for the transportation of 1400 men; and Colonel Thornton, with the 85th
+regiment, the marines, and a party of sailors, was appointed to cross
+the river. But a number of untoward accidents occurred, to spoil a plan
+of operations as accurately laid down as any in the course of the war.
+The soil through which the canal was dug being soft, part of the bank
+gave way, and, choking up the channel, prevented the heaviest of the
+boats from getting forward. These again blocked up the passage, so that
+none of those which were behind could proceed; and thus, instead of a
+flotilla for the accommodation of 1400 men, only a number of boats
+sufficient to contain 350 was enabled to reach their destination. Even
+these did not arrive at the time appointed. According to the
+preconcerted plan, Colonel Thornton’s detachment was to cross the river
+immediately after dark. They were to push forward, so as to carry all
+the batteries, and point the guns before daylight; when, on the
+throwing up of a rocket, they were to commence firing upon the enemy’s
+line, which at the same moment was to be attacked by the main off our
+army.
+
+In this manner was one part of the force to act, whilst the rest thus
+appointed:—Dividing his troops into three columns, Sir Edward directed
+that General Keane, at the head of the 95th, the light companies of the
+21st, 4th, and 44th, together with the two black corps, should make a
+demonstration, or sham attack, upon the right; that General Gibbs, with
+the 4th, 21st, 44th, and 93rd, should force the enemy’s left, whilst
+General Lambert, with the 7th and 43rd, remained in reserve, ready to
+act as circumstances might require. But in storming an entrenched
+position, something more than bare courage is required. Scaling ladders
+and fascines had, therefore, been prepared, with which to fill up the
+ditch and mount the wall; and since to carry these a service of danger,
+requiring a corps well worthy of dependence, the 44th was for that
+purpose selected, as a regiment of sufficient numerical strength, and
+already accustomed to American warfare. Thus were all things arranged
+on the night the 7th, for the 8th was fixed upon as the day decisive of
+the fate of New Orleans.
+
+ATTACK.
+
+Whilst the rest of the army lay down to sleep till they should be
+roused up to fight, Colonel Thornton, with the 85th, and a corps of
+marines and seamen, amounting in all to 1400 men, moved down to the
+brink of the river. As yet, however, no boats had arrived; hour after
+hour elapsed before they came; and when they did come, the misfortunes
+which I have stated above were discovered, for out of all that had been
+ordered up, only a few made their appearance. Still it was absolutely
+necessary that this part of the plan should be carried into execution.
+Dismissing, therefore, the rest of his followers, the Colonel put
+himself at the head of his own regiment, about fifty seamen, and as
+many marines, and with this small force, consisting of no more than 340
+men, pushed off. But, unfortunately, the loss of time nothing could
+repair. Instead of reaching the opposite bank at latest by midnight,
+dawn was beginning to appear before the boats quitted the canal. It was
+in vain that they rowed on in perfect silence, and with oars muffled,
+gaining the point of debarkation without being perceived. It was in
+vain that they made good their landing and formed upon the beach,
+without opposition or alarm; day had already broke, and the
+signal-rocket was seen in the air, while they were yet four miles from
+the batteries, which ought hours ago to have been taken.
+
+In the mean time, the main body armed and moved forward some way in
+front of the piquets. There they stood waiting for daylight, and
+listening with the greatest anxiety for the firing which ought now to
+be heard on the opposite bank. But their attention was exerted in vain,
+and day dawned upon them long before they desired its appearance. Nor
+was Sir Edward Pakenham disappointed in this part of his plan alone.
+Instead of perceiving everything in readiness for the assault, he saw
+his troops in battle array, but not a ladder or fascine upon the field.
+The 44th, which was appointed to carry them, had either misunderstood
+or neglected their orders; and now headed the column of attack, without
+any means being provided for crossing the enemy’s ditch or scaling his
+rampart.
+
+The indignation of our brave leader on this occasion may be imagined,
+but cannot be described. Galloping towards Colonel Mullens, who led the
+44th, he commanded him instantly to return with his regiment for the
+ladders, but the opportunity of planting them was lost, and though they
+were brought up, it was only to be scattered over the field by the
+frightened bearers. For our troops were by this time visible to the
+enemy. A dreadful fire was accordingly opened upon them, and they were
+mowed down by hundreds, while they stood waiting for orders.
+
+Seeing that all his well-laid plans were frustrated, Pakenham gave the
+word to advance, and the other regiments, leaving the 44th with the
+ladders and fascines behind them, rushed on to the assault. On the
+left, a detachment under Colonel Rennie, of the 21st regiment, stormed
+a three-gun battery, and took it. Here they remained for some time in
+expectation of support; but none arriving, and a strong column of the
+enemy forming for its recovery, they determined to anticipate the
+attack, and pushed on. The battery which they had taken was in advance
+of the body of the works, being cut off from it by a ditch, across
+which only a single plank was thrown. Along this plank did these brave
+men attempt to pass; but being opposed by overpowering numbers, they
+were repulsed; and the Americans, in turn, forcing their way into the
+battery, at length succeeded in recapturing it with immense slaughter.
+On the right, again, the 21st and 4th, supported by the 93rd, though
+thrown into some confusion by the enemy’s fire, pushed on with
+desperate gallantry to the ditch; but to scale the parapet without
+ladders was a work of no slight difficulty. Some few, indeed, by
+mounting one upon another’s shoulders, succeeded in entering the works,
+but these were speedily overpowered, most of them killed, and the rest
+taken; whilst as many as stood without were exposed to a sweeping fire,
+which cut them down by whole companies. It was in vain that the most
+obstinate courage was displayed. They fell by the hands of men whom
+they absolutely did not see; for the Americans, without so much as
+lifting their faces above the rampart, swung their firelocks by one arm
+over the wall, and discharged them directly upon their heads. The whole
+of the guns likewise, from the opposite bank, kept up a well-directed
+and deadly cannonade upon their flank; and thus were they destroyed
+without an opportunity being given of displaying their valour, or
+obtaining so much as revenge.
+
+Sir Edward saw how things were going, and did all that a general could
+do to rally his broken troops. Riding towards the 44th, which had
+returned to the ground, but in great disorder, he called out for
+Colonel Mullens to advance; but that officer disappeared, and was not
+to be found. He therefore prepared to lead them on himself, and had put
+himself at their head for that purpose, when he received a slight wound
+in the knee from a musket-ball, which killed his horse. Mounting
+another, he again headed the 44th, when a second ball took effect more
+fatally, and he dropped lifeless into the arms of his aide-de-camp.
+
+Nor were Generals Gibbs and Keane inactive. Riding through the ranks,
+they strove by all means to encourage the assailants and recall the
+fugitives; till at length both were wounded, and borne off the field.
+All was now confusion and dismay. Without leaders, ignorant of what was
+to be done, the troops first halted and then began to retire; till
+finally the retreat was changed into a flight, and they quitted the
+ground in the utmost disorder. But the retreat was covered in gallant
+style by the reserve. Making a forward motion, the 7th and 43rd
+presented the appearance of a renewed attack; by which the enemy were
+so much awed, that they did not venture beyond their lines in pursuit
+of the fugitives.
+
+Whilst affairs were thus disastrously conducted in this quarter, the
+party under Colonel Thornton had gained the landing-place. On stepping
+ashore, the first thing they beheld was a rocket thrown up as a signal
+that the battle was begun. This unwelcome sight added wings to their
+speed. Forming in one little column, and pushing forward a single
+company as an advanced guard, they hastened on, and in half an hour
+reached a canal, along the opposite bank of which a detachment of
+Americans was drawn up. To dislodge them was the work of a moment a
+boat, with a carronade in her bow, got upon their flank, gave them a
+single discharge of grape, whilst the advanced guard extended its
+ranks, and approached at double-quick time. But they scarcely waited
+till the latter were within range, when, firing a volley, they fled in
+confusion. This, however, was only an outpost: the main body was some
+way in rear, and amounted to no fewer than 1500 men.
+
+It was not long, however, before they likewise presented themselves.
+Like their countrymen on the other side, they were strongly entrenched,
+a thick parapet with a ditch covering their front; whilst a battery
+upon their left swept the whole position, and two field-pieces
+commanded the road. Of artillery the assailants possessed not a single
+piece, nor any means beyond what nature supplied of scaling the
+rampart. Yet nothing daunted by the obstacles before them, or by the
+immense odds to which they were opposed, dispositions for an immediate
+attack were made. The 85th, extending its files, stretched across the
+entire line of the enemy; the sailors in column prepared to storm the
+battery, whilst the marines remained some little way in rear of the
+centre as a reserve.
+
+These arrangements being completed, the bugle sounded, and our troops
+advanced. The sailors raising a shout, rushed forward, but were met by
+so heavy a discharge of grape and canister that for an instant they
+paused. Recovering themselves, however, they again pushed on; and the
+85th dashing forward to their aid, they received a heavy fire of
+musketry, and endeavoured to charge. A smart firing was now for a few
+minutes kept up on both sides, but our people had no time to waste in
+distant fighting, and accordingly hurried on to storm the works, upon
+which a panic seized the Americans, they lost their order, and fled,
+leaving us in possession of their tents and of eighteen pieces of
+cannon.
+
+In this affair our loss amounted to only three men killed and about
+forty wounded, among the latter of whom was Colonel Thornton. Nor could
+the loss on the part of the enemy greatly exceed our own. Had they
+stood firm, indeed, it is hardly conceivable that so small a force
+could have wrested an entrenched position from numbers so superior; at
+least it could not have been done without much bloodshed. But they were
+completely surprised. An attack on this side was a circumstance of
+which they had not dreamed; and when men are assaulted in a point which
+they deem beyond the reach of danger, it is well known that they defend
+themselves with less vigour than where such an event was anticipated.
+
+When in the act of storming these lines the word was passed through our
+ranks that all had gone well on the opposite bank. This naturally added
+to the vigour of the assault; but we had not followed our flying enemy
+above two miles when we were commanded to halt. The real state of the
+case had now reached us, and the same messenger who brought the
+melancholy news brought likewise an order to return.
+
+The place where we halted was in rear of a canal, across which was
+thrown a wooden bridge, furnishing apparently the only means of
+passing. At the opposite end of this bridge stood a collection of
+wooden cottages and one chateau of some size. Here a company was
+stationed to serve the double purpose of a piquet and a rear-guard;
+whilst the main body, having rested for half an hour, began their march
+towards the point where they had landed.
+
+RE-EMBARKATION—THE CAMP.
+
+As soon as the column had got sufficiently on their way the piquet
+likewise prepared to follow. But in doing so it was evident that some
+risk must be run. The enemy having rallied, began again to show a
+front; that is to say, parties of sixty or a hundred men approached to
+reconnoitre. These, however, must be deceived, otherwise a pursuit
+might be commenced, and the re-embarkation of the whole corps hindered
+or prevented. It so happened that the piquet in question was this day
+under my command; as soon, therefore, as I received information that
+the main body had commenced its retreat, I formed my men, and made a
+show of advancing. The Americans perceiving this, fled; when, wheeling
+about, we set fire to the chateau, and under cover of the smoke
+destroyed the bridge and retreated. Making all haste towards the rear,
+we overtook our comrades just as they had begun to embark; when the
+little corps being once more united, entered their boats, and reached
+the opposite bank without molestation.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+THE CAMP.
+
+
+As soon as the whole army was re-united, and the broken regiments had
+recovered their order, a flag of truce was dispatched with proposals
+for the burial of the dead. To accomplish this end a truce of two days
+was agreed upon, and parties were immediately sent out to collect and
+bury their fallen comrades. Prompted by curiosity, I mounted my horse
+and rode to the front; but of all the sights I ever witnessed, that
+which met me there was beyond comparison the most shocking and the most
+humiliating. Within the narrow compass of a few hundred yards were
+gathered together nearly a thousand bodies, all of them arrayed in
+British uniforms. Not a single American was among them; all were
+English; and they were thrown by dozens into shallow holes, scarcely
+deep enough to furnish them with a slight covering of earth. Nor was
+this all. An American officer stood by smoking a cigar, and apparently
+counting the slain with a look of savage exultation, and repeating over
+and over to each individual that approached him, that their loss
+amounted only, to eight men killed and fourteen wounded.
+
+I confess that when I beheld the scene I hung down my head, half in
+sorrow and half in anger. With my officious informant I had every
+inclination to pick a quarrel; but he was on duty, and an armistice
+existed, both of which forbade the measure. I could not, however, stand
+by and repress my choler, and since to give it vent would have
+subjected me to more serious inconvenience than a mere duel, I turned
+my horse’s head and galloped back to the camp.
+
+But the change of expression visible there in every countenance no
+language can portray. Only twenty hours ago, and all was life and
+animation; wherever you went you were enlivened by the sound of
+merriment and raillery; whilst the expected attack was mentioned in
+terms indicative not only of sanguine hope, but, of the most perfect
+confidence as to its result. Now gloom and discontent everywhere
+prevailed. Disappointment, grief, indignation, and rage, succeeded each
+other in all bosoms; nay, so completely were the troops overwhelmed by
+a sense of disgrace, that for awhile they retained their sorrow without
+so much as hinting at its cause. Nor was this dejection occasioned
+wholly by the consciousness of laurels tarnished. The loss of comrades
+was to the full as afflicting as the loss of honour; for out of more
+than 5000 men brought on this side into the field, no fewer than 1500
+had fallen. Among these were two generals (for Gibbs survived his wound
+but a few hours), and many officers of courage and ability; besides
+which, hardly an individual survived who had not to mourn the loss of
+some particular and well-known companion.
+
+Yet it is most certain that amidst all this variety of conflicting
+passions no feeling bordering upon despair or even terror found room.
+Even among the private soldiers no fear was experienced; for if you
+attempted to converse with them on the subject of the late defeat, they
+would end with a bitter curse upon those to whose misconduct they
+attributed their losses, and refer you to the future, when they hoped
+for an opportunity of revenge. To the Americans they would allow no
+credit, laying the entire blame of the failure upon certain individuals
+among themselves; and so great was the indignation expressed against
+one corps, that the soldiers of other regiments would hardly exchange
+words with those who chanced to wear that uniform. Though deeply
+afflicted, therefore, we were by no means disheartened, and even, yet
+anticipated, with an eagerness far exceeding what was felt before, a
+renewal of the combat.
+
+PREPARATIONS FOR RETREAT.
+
+But General Lambert, on whom the chief command had devolved, very
+prudently determined not to risk the safety of his army by another
+attempt upon works evidently so much beyond their strength. He
+considered, and considered justly, that his chances of success were in
+every respect lessened by the late repulse. In the first place, an
+extraordinary degree of confidence was given to the enemy; in the next
+place, the only feasible plan of attack having been already tried, they
+would be more on their guard to prevent its being again put in
+execution; and lastly, his own force was greatly diminished in numbers,
+whilst theirs continued every day to increase. Besides, it would be
+casting all upon the hazard of a die. If again defeated, nothing could
+save our army from destruction, because unless it retreated in force no
+retreat could be effected. A retreat, therefore, whilst yet the measure
+appeared practicable, was resolved upon, and towards that end were all
+our future operations directed.
+
+To the accomplishment of this desirable object, however, one great
+obstacle existed: by what road were the troops to travel, and in what
+order were they to regain the fleet? On landing we had taken advantage
+of the creek or bayo, and thus come up by water within two miles of the
+cultivated country. But to adopt a similar course in returning was
+impossible. In spite of our losses there were not throughout the
+armament a sufficient number of boats to transport above one-half of
+the army at a time. If, however, we should separate, the chances were
+that both parties would be destroyed; for those embarked might be
+intercepted, and those left behind would be obliged to cope with the
+entire American force. Besides, even granting that the Americans might
+be repulsed, it would be impossible to take to our boats in their
+presence, and thus at least one division, if not both, must be
+sacrificed.
+
+To obviate this difficulty prudence required that the road which we had
+formed on landing should be continued to the very margin of the lake;
+whilst appearances seemed to indicate the total impracticability of the
+scheme. From firm ground to the water’s edge was here a distance of
+many miles, through the very centre of a morass where human foot had
+never before trodden. Yet it was desirable at least to make the
+attempt; for if it failed we should only be reduced to our former
+alternative of gaining a battle or surrendering at discretion.
+
+Having determined to adopt this course, General Lambert immediately
+dispatched strong working parties, under the guidance of engineer
+officers, to lengthen the road, keeping as near as possible to the
+margin of the creek. But the task assigned to them was burthened with
+innumerable difficulties. For the extent of several leagues no firm
+footing could be discovered on which to rest the foundation of a path;
+nor any trees to assist in forming hurdles. All that could be done,
+therefore, was to bind together large quantities of reeds, and lay them
+across the quagmire; by which means at least the semblance of a road
+was produced, however wanting in firmness and solidity. But where broad
+ditches came in the way, many of which intersected the morass, the
+workmen were necessarily obliged to apply more durable materials. For
+these, bridges composed in part of large branches brought with immense
+labour from the woods, were constructed; but they were, on the whole,
+little superior in point of strength to the rest of the path, for
+though the edges were supported by timber, the middle was filled up
+only with reeds.
+
+To complete this road, bad as it was, occupied the space of nine days,
+during which time our army remained in position without making any
+attempt to molest the enemy. The Americans, however, were not so
+inactive. In the course of two days six guns were again mounted upon
+the bank of the river, from which a continual fire was kept up upon our
+camp. The same mode of proceeding was adopted in front, and thus, night
+and day, were we harassed by danger against which there was no
+fortifying ourselves. Of the extreme unpleasantness of our situation it
+is hardly possible to convey any adequate conception. We never closed
+our eyes in peace, for we were sure to be awakened before many minutes
+elapsed, by the splash of a round shot or shell in the mud beside us.
+Tents we had none, but lay, some in the open air, and some in huts made
+of boards, or any materials that could be procured. From the first
+moment of our landing not a man had undressed excepting to bathe; and
+many had worn the same shirt for weeks together, Besides all this,
+heavy rains now set in, accompanied with violent storms of thunder and
+lightning, which lasting during the entire day, usually ceased towards
+dark, and gave place to keen frosts. Thus were we alternately wet and
+frozen: wet all day, and frozen all night. With the outposts again
+there was constant skirmishing. With what view the Americans wished to
+drive them in I cannot tell; but every day were they attacked, and
+compelled to maintain their ground by dint of hard fighting. In one
+word, none but those who happened to belong to this army can form a
+notion of the hardships which it endured and the fatigue which it
+underwent.
+
+Nor were these the only evils which tended to lessen our numbers. To
+our soldiers every inducement was held out by the enemy to desert.
+Printed papers, offering lands and money as the price of desertion,
+were thrown into the piquets, whilst individuals made a practice of
+approaching our posts, and endeavouring to persuade the very sentinels
+to quit their stations. Nor could it be expected that bribes so
+tempting would always be refused. Many desertions began daily to take
+place, and became before long so frequent, that the evil rose to be of
+a serious nature.
+
+There occurred, however, one instance of magnanimous fidelity on the
+part of a British soldier, which I cannot resist the inclination of
+repeating. A private of the 95th, whose name I should have joyfully
+mentioned had I not forgotten it, chanced one day to stand sentinel,
+when he was addressed by an American officer. The American offered him
+a hundred dollars and a quantity of land if he would come over;
+representing, at the same time, the superiority of a democratical
+government, and railing, as these persons generally do, against the
+title of king. Though the Englishman heard what was said distinctly
+enough, he nevertheless pretended to be deaf, and begged his tempter to
+come a little nearer, that, in his own words, “he might tell him all
+about it.” Jonathan, exulting at the prospect of drawing this fine
+fellow from his duty, approached within twenty paces of where he stood,
+when just as he had opened his mouth to renew his offer, the sentinel
+levelled his piece and shot him through the arm. Nor was he contented
+with inflicting this punishment. Walking forward, he seized his wounded
+enemy, and reproaching him with dishonourable dealings, brought him in
+a prisoner to the camp. But, unhappily, conduct such as this was rare;
+in the course of a week many men quitted their colours, and fled to the
+enemy.
+
+RETREAT.
+
+In the mean time the whole of the wounded, except such as were too
+severely hurt to be removed, were embarked upon the canal, and sent off
+to the fleet. Next followed the baggage and stores, with the civil
+officers, commissaries, purveyors, &c.; and last of all, such of the
+light artillery as could be withdrawn with out trouble or the risk of
+discovery. But of the heavy artillery, of which about ten pieces were
+mounted in front of the bivouac, and upon the bank of the river, no
+account was taken. They were ship’s guns, of little value, and
+extremely cumbersome; consequently their removal, had it been
+practicable, would scarcely have rewarded the trouble. It was therefore
+determined to leave them behind; and they were accordingly permitted to
+retain their stations to the last.
+
+These preparations being continued for some days, on the 17th no part
+of our force remained in camp except the infantry. Having therefore
+delayed only till the abandoned guns were rendered unserviceable, on
+the evening of the 18th it also began its retreat. Trimming the fires,
+and arranging all things in the same order as if no change were to take
+place, regiment after regiment stole away, as soon as darkness
+concealed their motions; leaving the piquets to follow as a rear-guard,
+but with strict injunctions not to retire till daylight began to
+appear. As may be supposed, the most profound silence was maintained;
+not a man opening his mouth, except to issue necessary orders, and even
+then speaking in a whisper. Not a cough or any other noise was to be
+heard from the head to the rear of the column; and even the steps of
+the soldiers were planted with care, to prevent the slightest stamping
+or echo. Nor was this extreme caution in any respect unnecessary. In
+spite of every endeavour to the contrary, a rumour of our intended
+movement had reached the Americans for we found them of late watchful
+and prying, whereas they had been formerly content to look only to
+themselves.
+
+For some time, that is to say, while our route lay along the high road
+and beside the brink of the river, the march was agreeable enough; but
+as soon as we began to enter upon the path through the marsh all
+comfort was at an end. Being constructed of materials so slight, and
+resting upon a foundation so infirm, the treading of the first corps
+unavoidably beat it to pieces; those which followed were therefore
+compelled to flounder on in the best way they could; and by the time
+the rear of the column gained the morass all trace of a way had
+entirely disappeared. But not only were the reeds torn asunder and sunk
+by the pressure of those who had gone before, but the bog itself, which
+at first might have furnished a few spots of firm footing, was trodden
+into the consistency of mud. The consequence was, that every step sank
+us to the knees, and frequently higher. Near the ditches, indeed, many
+spots occurred which we had the utmost difficulty in crossing at all;
+and as the night was dark, there being no moon, nor any light except
+what the stars supplied, it was difficult to select our steps, or even
+to follow those who called to us that they were safe on the opposite
+side. At one of these places I myself beheld an unfortunate wretch
+gradually sink till he totally disappeared. I saw him flounder in,
+heard his cry for help, and ran forward with the intention of saving
+him; but before I had taken a second step, I myself sank at once as
+high as the breast. How I contrived to keep myself from smothering is
+more than I can tell, for I felt no solid bottom under me, and
+continued slowly to go deeper and deeper till the mud reached my arms.
+Instead of endeavouring to help the poor soldier, of whom nothing could
+now be seen except the head and hands, I was forced to beg assistance
+for myself: when a leathern canteen strap being thrown to me, I laid
+hold of it, and was dragged out just as my fellow-sufferer became
+invisible.
+
+Over roads such as these did we continue our journey during the whole
+of the night: and in the morning reached a place called Fisherman’s
+huts, upon the margin of the lake. The name is derived from a clump of
+mud-built cottages, situated in as complete a desert as the eye of man
+was ever pained by beholding. They stand close to the water, upon a
+part of the morass rather more firm than the rest. Not a tree or bush
+of any description grows near them. As far as the eye could reach a
+perfect ocean of reeds everywhere presented itself, except on that side
+where a view of the lake changed without fertilizing the prospect. Were
+any set of human beings condemned to spend their lives here, I should
+consider their fate as little superior to that of the solitary captive:
+but during many months of the year these huts are wholly unoccupied,
+being erected, as their name denotes, merely to shelter a few fishermen
+while the fishing season lasts.
+
+Here at length we were ordered to halt; and perhaps I never rejoiced
+more sincerely at any order than at this. Wearied with my exertions,
+and oppressed with want of sleep, I threw myself on the ground without
+so much as pulling off my muddy garments, and in an instant all my
+cares and troubles were forgotten. Nor did I wake from that deep
+slumber for many hours, when I rose cold and stiff, and creeping beside
+a miserable fire of reeds, addressed myself to the last morsel of salt
+pork which my wallet contained.
+
+HALT.
+
+The whole army had now come up, the piquets having escaped without
+notice, or at least without annoyance. Forming along the brink of the
+lake, a line of outposts was planted, and the soldiers were commanded
+to make themselves as comfortable as they could. But, in truth, the
+word comfort is one which cannot in any sense be applied to people in
+such a situation. Without tents or huts of any description (for the few
+from which the place is named were occupied by the General and other
+heads of departments), our bed was the morass, and our sole covering
+the clothes which had not quitted our backs for upwards of a month. Our
+fires, upon the size and goodness of which much of a soldier’s
+happiness depends, were composed solely of reeds; a species of fuel
+which, like straw, soon blazes up, and soon expires again, almost
+without communicating any degree of warmth. But, above all, our
+provisions were expended, and from what quarter to obtain an immediate
+supply it defied the most inventive genius to discover. Our sole
+dependence was upon the boats. Of these a flotilla lay ready to receive
+us, in which were embarked the black corps, with the 44th; but they had
+brought with them only food for their own use. It was therefore
+necessary that they should reach the fleet and return again before they
+could furnish us with what we so much wanted. But the distance to the
+nearest of the shipping could not be less than eighty miles; and if the
+weather should become boisterous or the winds obstinately adverse we
+might starve before any supply could arrive.
+
+These numerous grievances were, however, without remedy, and we bore
+them with patience; though for two whole days the only provisions
+issued to the troops were some crumbs of biscuit and a small allowance
+of rum. For my own part I did not fare so badly as many others. Having
+been always fond of shooting, I took a firelock and went in pursuit of
+wild ducks, which abounded throughout the bog. Wandering along in this
+quest I reached a lake, by the margin of which I concealed myself and
+waited for my prey; nor was it long before I had an opportunity of
+firing. Several large flocks flew over me, and I was fortunate enough
+to kill three birds. But, alas, those birds, upon which I had already
+feasted in imagination, dropped into the water: my dog, more tired than
+her master, would not fetch them out, and they lay about twenty yards
+off, tantalizing me with the sight of a treasure which I could not
+reach. Moving off to another point, I again took my station where I
+hoped for better fortune; but the same evil chance once more occurred,
+and the ducks fell into the lake. This was too much for a hungry man to
+endure; the day was piercingly cold, and the edge of the pool was
+covered with ice; but my appetite was urgent, and I resolved at all
+hazards to indulge it. Pulling off my clothes, therefore, I broke the
+ice and plunged in; and though shivering like an aspen-leaf, I returned
+safely to the camp with a couple of birds. Next day I adopted a similar
+course with like success, but at the expense of what was to me a
+serious misery. My stockings of warm wool were the only part of my
+dress which I did not strip off, and to-day it unfortunately happened
+that one was lost. Having secured my ducks, I attempted to land where
+the bottom was muddy; but my leg stuck fast, and in pulling it out off
+came the stocking; to recover it was beyond my power, for the mud
+closed over it directly, and the consequence was that till I regained
+the transport only one of my feet could be warm at a time. To those who
+can boast of many pairs of fine cotton and woollen hose, this
+misfortune of mine may appear light, but to me, who had only two
+stockings on shore, the loss of one was very grievous; and I therefore
+request that I may not be sneered at when I record it as one of the
+disastrous consequences of this ill-fated expedition.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+THE LAKE.
+
+
+As soon as the boats returned, regiment after regiment embarked and set
+sail for the fleet; but the distance being considerable and the wind
+foul, many days elapsed before the whole could be got off. Excepting in
+one trifling instance, however, no accident occurred, and by the end of
+the month we were all once more on board our former ships. But our
+return was far from triumphant. We, who only seven weeks ago had set
+out in the surest confidence of glory, and I may add of emolument, were
+brought back dispirited and dejected. Our ranks were wofully thinned,
+our chiefs slain, our clothing tattered and filthy, and even our
+discipline in some degree injured. A gloomy silence reigned throughout
+the armament, except when it was broken by the voice of lamentation
+over fallen friends; and the interior of each ship presented a scene
+well calculated to prove the short-sightedness of human hope and human
+prudence.
+
+The accident to which I allude was the capture of a single boat by the
+enemy. About thirty men of the 14th dragoons having crowded into an
+unarmed barge, were proceeding slowly down the lake, when a boat
+mounting a carronade in its bow suddenly darted from a creek and made
+towards them. To escape was impossible, for their barge was too heavily
+laden to move at a rate of even moderate rapidity; and to fight was
+equally out of the question, because of the superiority which their
+cannon gave to the Americans. The whole party was accordingly compelled
+to surrender to six men and an officer; and having thrown their arms
+into the lake, their boat was taken in tow and they were carried away
+prisoners.
+
+This, however, was the only misfortune which occurred. Warned by the
+fate of their comrades, the rest kept together in little squadrons,
+each attended by one or more armed launches; and thus rowing steadily
+on, they gained the shipping without so much as another attempt at
+surprisal being made.
+
+On reaching the fleet, we found that a considerable reinforcement of
+troops had arrived from England. It consisted of the 40th foot, a fine
+regiment, containing nearly a thousand men, which, ignorant of the
+fatal issue of our attack, had crossed the lakes only to be sent back
+to the ships without so much as stepping on shore. The circumstance,
+however, produced little satisfaction. We felt that the coming of
+thrice the number could not recover what was lost or recall past
+events; and therefore no rejoicing was heard, nor the slightest regard
+paid to the occurrence. Nay, so great was the despondency which had
+taken possession of men’s minds, that not even a rumour respecting the
+next point of attack obtained circulation; whilst a sullen
+carelessness, a sort of indifference as to what might happen, seemed to
+have succeeded all our wonted curiosity and confidence of success in
+every undertaking.
+
+THE LAKE—MOBILE.
+
+In this state we remained wind-bound till the 4th of February, when, at
+length getting under weigh, the fleet ran down as far as Cat Island.
+This is a spot of sandy soil at the mouth of the lake, remarkable for
+nothing except a solitary Spanish family which possesses it. Completely
+cut off from the rest of the world, an old man, his wife, two
+daughters, and a son, dwell here in apparent happiness and contentment.
+Being at least one hundred and twenty miles from the main, it is seldom
+that their little kingdom is visited by strangers; and I believe that
+till our arrival the daughters, though grown up to womanhood, had seen
+few faces besides those of their parents and brother. Their cottage,
+composed simply of a few boughs, thatched and in-woven with straw, is
+beautifully situated within a short distance of the water. Two cows and
+a few sheep grazed beside it; whilst a small tract of ground covered
+with stubble, and a little garden well stocked with fruit-trees and
+vegetables, at once gave proof of their industry, and showed the source
+from whence they supplied themselves with bread.
+
+Having remained here till the 7th, we again took advantage of a fair
+wind and stood to sea. As soon as we had cleared the lake, we directed
+our course towards the east, steering, as it was rumoured, upon Mobile;
+nor was it long before we came in sight of the bay which bears that
+name. It is formed by a projecting headland called Point Bayo, and a
+large island called Isle Dauphin. Upon the first is erected a small
+fort, possessing the same title with the promontory which commands the
+entrance; for though the island is, at least five miles from the main,
+there is no water for floating a ship of any burthen except within a
+few hundred yards of the latter. The island is, like Cat Island,
+uninhabited, except by one family, and unprovided with any works of
+defence.
+
+SIEGE.
+
+As the attack of Mobile was professedly our object, it was clear that
+nothing could be done previous to the reduction of the fort. The ships
+accordingly dropped anchor at the mouth of the bay, and immediate
+preparations were made for the siege. But the fort was too
+inconsiderable in point of size to require the employment of all our
+forces in its investment. Whilst one brigade, therefore, was allotted
+to this service, the rest proceeded to establish themselves on the
+island, where, carrying tents and other conveniences on shore, the
+first regular encampment which we had seen since our arrival in this
+hemisphere was formed.
+
+The spot of ground, of which we had now taken possession, extended
+twelve miles in length, and from one to three in width. Its soil is in
+general dry and sandy, well covered with grass, and ornamented by
+continued groves of pine, cedar, oak, and laurel. On one side only is
+there a swamp, but not of sufficient size to contaminate the atmosphere
+of the whole, which is considered so peculiarly healthy, that the place
+is generally used as a depot for the sick in the American army. At
+present, as I have said, it was tenanted by no more than a single
+family, the master of which was a midshipman in the American navy, and
+banished hither for some misdemeanor; but what was to us of much
+greater importance, it was likewise stocked with cattle resembling in
+appearance the black cattle of the Highlands of Scotland, and not
+behind them in point of wildness.
+
+Whilst the remainder of the army spent their time here, the 4th, 21st,
+and 44th, being landed above the fort, were busied in the siege. This
+small work stands, as I have stated, at the extremity of a promontory.
+Towards the sea its fortifications are respectable enough, but on the
+land side it is little better than a blockhouse. The ramparts being
+composed of sand, not more than three feet in thickness, are faced with
+plank barely cannon-proof; whilst a sand-hill rising within pistol-shot
+of the ditch, completely commands them. Within, again, the fort is as
+much wanting in accommodation as it is in strength. There are no
+bomb-proof barracks, nor any hole or arch under which men might find
+protection from shells; indeed, so deficient is it in common
+lodging-rooms, that a great part of the garrison slept in tents. To
+reduce this place, therefore, occupied but a short time. The troops
+having assembled on the 8th, drove the enemy within their lines on the
+9th, and broke ground the same evening. On the 10th, four
+eighteen-pounders with two howitzers were placed in battery upon the
+top of the sand-hill; on the 11th, the fort surrendered; and on the
+12th, the garrison, consisting of four hundred men of the second
+American regiment, marched out with all the honours of war, and laid
+down their arms upon the glacis.
+
+PEACE.
+
+With the reduction of this trifling work ended all hostilities in this
+quarter of America, for the army had scarcely re-assembled when
+intelligence arrived from England of peace. The news reached us on the
+14th, and I shall not deny that it was received with general
+satisfaction. Though war is the soldier’s harvest, yet it must be
+confessed, that when carried on as it had of late been conducted, it is
+a harvest of which men in time become weary; and many of us having been
+absent for several years from our native shores, experienced absolute
+delight at the prospect of returning once more to the bosom of our
+families. The communication was therefore welcomed with unfeigned joy,
+nor could any other topic of conversation gain attention throughout the
+camp, except the anticipated re-embarkation. .
+
+But as the preliminaries only had been signed, and as Mr. Maddison’s
+approval was required before we should be at liberty to depart, our
+army still continued stationary upon the island. Of the President’s
+conduct, however, no doubts were entertained; all thoughts of future
+military operations were in consequence laid aside; and the sole aim of
+every individual thenceforth was to make himself as comfortable as
+circumstances would permit. To effect this end various expedients were
+adopted. Among others a theatre was erected, in which such officers as
+chose to exhibit performed for their own amusement and the amusement of
+their friends. In shooting and fishing, likewise, much of our time was
+spent; and thus, by adopting the usual expedients of idle men, we
+contrived to pass some days in a state of tolerable comfort.
+
+Occupations such as these, however, soon grew insipid, and it was with
+sincere rejoicing that on the 5th of March we were made acquainted with
+Mr. Maddison’s agreement to the terms proposed. All was now hope and
+exultation, an immediate departure was anticipated, and those were
+pitied as unfortunate whose lot it was supposed, might detain them even
+a day behind their fellows. But as yet no movement took place; our
+provisions were not sufficient to authorize the undertaking so long a
+voyage as we must undertake, did we attempt to run for the nearest
+British settlement; we were therefore compelled to remain where we
+were, till a frigate should return, which had been sent forward to
+solicit supplies from the Governor of Cuba.
+
+During this interval, the same occupations were resorted to; and others
+of a less agreeable nature undertaken. As summer came on, the island
+sent forth multitudes of snakes from their lurking- places, which
+infested the camp, making their way in some instances into our very
+beds. This was bad enough, but it was not the only nuisance to which we
+were subject. The alligators, which during the winter months lie in a
+dormant state, now began to awaken, and prowling about the margin of
+the pool, created no little alarm and agitation. Apparently confounded
+at our invasion of their territories, these monsters at first confined
+themselves to the marshy part of the island, but becoming by degrees
+more familiar, they soon ventured to approach the very precincts of the
+camp. One of them at length entered a tent; in which only a woman and
+child chanced to be, and having stared round as if in amazement, walked
+out again without offering to commit any violence. But the visit was of
+too serious a nature to be overlooked. Parties were accordingly formed
+for their destruction, and it was usual on the return of each from an
+excursion, instead of asking how many birds, to demand how many snakes
+and alligators they had shot. Of the former, indeed, great numbers were
+killed,`and of the latter not a few, the largest of which measured
+about nine feet from the snout to the tail.
+
+Another employment, also, deserves to be noted, because it is truly
+characteristic of the boyish jollity of young soldiers. Wearied with a
+state of idleness, the officers of the 7th, 43rd, and 14th dragoons
+made an attack with fir-apples upon those of the 85th, 93rd, and 95th.
+For the space of some days they pelted each other from morning till
+night, laying ambuscades and exhibiting, on a small scale, all the
+stratagems of war; whilst the whole army, not even excepting the
+Generals themselves, stood by and spurred them on.
+
+But to continue a detail of such proceedings would only swell my
+narrative, without amusing my reader; I shall therefore content myself
+with observing, that things remained in this state till the 14th of
+March, when the long-looked for frigate at length arrived, and on the
+15th, the first division of the army embarking, set sail for England.
+The wind, however, was foul, nor did the ships make any way till the
+17th, when a fresh breeze springing up, we stood our course, and by ten
+o’clock on the 21st could distinguish the high land of Cuba. But the
+violence of the gale having driven us considerably to leeward, we were
+forced to bear up, and beat along the coast, on which account it was
+not till the 23rd that we came opposite to the port of Havannah.
+
+HAVANNAH.
+
+Than the approach to this city, and its first appearance from the
+water, it is impossible to conceive anything more grand and imposing. A
+little bay, extremely narrow at the entrance, forms the harbour. On
+each side of it stand forts of prodigious strength, particularly those
+on the left, where the ground is considerably elevated, whilst the city
+itself, with its ramparts and towers, its numerous steeples, spires,
+and public buildings, gives an assurance of wealth and magnificence
+peculiarly striking. When we entered, every tower was surmounted by a
+national banner half-mast high, a circumstance which did not at least
+diminish the effect of a first view; and the guns from the forts
+answering our salute, showed us how desperate must be the condition of
+an enemy that should venture within their range. Why the flags should
+thus indicate a general mourning, we were at a loss to guess, till the
+pilot informed us that this was Holy week. Then, indeed, we remembered
+that we had returned to a Roman Catholic country, and rejoiced at the
+lucky accident which had brought us thither at such a season.
+
+As it was late before we anchored, I was prevented from landing that
+night, but on the morrow I went on shore at an early hour, with the
+intention of seeing as much as my time would allow. But in my proposed
+visits to the different points worthy of attention I was interrupted.
+It was Good-Friday, consequently all public places were shut, and
+neither guides nor carriages could be procured. But if I was
+disappointed in this, my disappointment was amply compensated by a view
+of the religious ceremonies peculiar to that day.
+
+Walking into the largest church in the city, I beheld beside the altar
+a figure of our Saviour as large as life nailed to a cross. Beside this
+figure stood a number of monks, one of whom presented a rod with a
+sponge affixed to its mouth, while a second thrust a spear into its
+side, from which came out a liquor having the colour of blood and
+water. This being carefully caught in a golden dish, the figure was
+taken down from the cross, wrapped round with white linen clothes, and
+laid upon a bier, when an imposing procession began in the following
+order: First marched a military band playing slow and solemn music;
+next came a guard of soldiers with heads bent down and arms reversed;
+then followed about two hundred monks belonging to different orders,
+arrayed in their dark robes, with hands and feet bare, and crucifixes
+suspended from their necks. A short interval now succeeded, and another
+party of monks dressed in white appeared, singing hymns in honour of
+the Virgin. Next came a splendid couch surmounted by a canopy covered
+with white silk and sparkling with gold and jewels, upon which sat a
+waxen image of the Mother of God, clothed in gorgeous apparel.
+Following this was another party of white-robed monks, chanting a
+requiem for a departed soul, and then a second interval. At the
+distance of perhaps twenty yards from these came two monks bearing two
+large silver nails, then two others bearing a spear and a rod, and then
+the body of our Saviour stretched at full length upon the bier. After
+the bier came two monks bearing two other nails, and then another two
+bearing a small cross and a ladder. Here, again, there was another
+interval, which was succeeded by a third white-robed party likewise
+chanting a requiem. Next to these came about twenty canons arrayed in
+scarlet; then another couch covered with crimson velvet, which
+supported a figure of Mary Magdalen, likewise in a sitting posture;
+then a second body of canons, succeeded by about two hundred monks in
+black; after these another guard of soldiers, and last of all a second
+military band.
+
+In spite of prejudice I could not avoid being deeply struck by this
+solemn procession. The airs performed by the bands were slow and
+mournful, the voices of the singers were deep and musical, the dresses
+were rich to a degree of splendour, and the whole was gone through with
+much apparent devotion. No doubt, when regarded with the eye of
+reflection, the whole may seem something worse than ludicrous, but it
+is impossible to witness the scene and to reason on its propriety at
+the same time. As long as the pageant is before your eyes you cannot
+avoid being powerfully impressed by it; nor is it till after it has
+disappeared that you are inclined to ask yourself why you gave way to
+feelings of that nature. Yet among the natives I thought I could
+observe a considerable degree of levity. It is true that as many as
+were in the streets or at the windows dropped upon their knees while
+the procession passed, but their careless looks and suppressed smiles
+sufficiently proved that they knelt only because they were obliged to
+kneel.
+
+Commencing at the door of the church where the representation of the
+crucifixion had been exhibited, the funeral party (for it was neither
+more nor less) proceeded through the principal streets in the town with
+a slow and measured pace. As all except the soldiers walked two and
+two, it covered, I should conceive, little less than a mile in extent,
+and after winding from lane to lane and from square to square, directed
+its steps towards a particular convent, where the waxen image was
+solemnly deposited in a vault. It is said, but with what truth I cannot
+pretend to determine, that a different image is made use of every year,
+and that the vault is now so full of waxen corpses, that it will be
+necessary before long to have some of them destroyed.
+
+Having now got rid of the most sacred part of their burthen, the monks,
+bearing only the two couches, returned in procession by the same route
+and in the same order as they had proceeded, only the bands struck up
+lively airs and the singers chanted hymns of rejoicing and hallelujahs.
+Instead of walking at a slow pace likewise, they stepped out almost in
+a sort of dance, and reaching the door of the great church they there
+separated, each party hastening to its own house to celebrate mass.
+
+Into one or two of the convent chapels I likewise entered, and was
+present during the performance of their very striking service. I found
+them ornamented in the most magnificent manner, the rafters of many
+being gilded over and all the windows crowded with stained glass. Of
+pictures, and what struck me as something better than mere daubs, there
+were also great numbers. In a word, it seemed as if I had reached the
+heart and capital of Roman Catholic splendour. Nothing that I had
+beheld in the mother-country could at all compare with what was now
+before me, and I returned in the evening to my ship, not indeed a
+convert to the principles of that religion, but decidedly astonished
+and confounded at the solemn magnificence of its ceremonies.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+
+At an early hour next morning I returned to the city, and found that
+the face of affairs had undergone a complete revolution. No more
+melancholy countenances, no closed shops and vacant streets were now to
+be seen; all was bustle and rejoicing, bells ringing, carriages
+rattling along, flags flying, and guns firing. The solemnity of
+Good-Friday ends, it appeared, at ten o’clock on Saturday morning, and
+from that time the merriments of Easter have their commencement.
+
+The whole of this day I spent in strolling over the different walks and
+points of view from whence the town and surrounding country may be seen
+to most advantage; and I certainly must pronounce it to be by far the
+most magnificent colonial capital which I have visited. The streets are
+in general wide, clean, and airy; the houses, except in the suburbs,
+are composed entirely of stone, and being occasionally intermingled
+with convents, churches, and other public buildings, produce a very
+striking and handsome effect. Though surrounded by a rampart, Havannah
+has little of the confined and straitened appearance by which fortified
+towns are generally disfigured. The works being of great extent, have
+left within their circumference abundant room for the display of
+elegance and neatness in its construction, an advantage which has not
+been neglected; whilst from their situation they command as glorious a
+prospect as can well be imagined.
+
+When you ascend a bastion which overhangs the harbour, the city, with
+all its towers and spires, lies immediately and distinctly beneath your
+gaze. Beyond it, again, you perceive a winding of the bay, which washes
+three sides of the promontory where the city stands; numerous fields of
+sugar-cane and Indian corn succeed, intersected by groves of orange and
+other fruit trees, which extend for some miles in a sort of inclined
+plane, and are at length bounded by lofty and rugged mountains. On your
+left, again, is the creek or entrance to the bay, separating you from
+the Moro, a line of castles remarkable for their strength and extent.
+Behind sweep the waters of the Gulf of Mexico; and on the right is
+another view much resembling that which lies before you, only that it
+is more narrowed; the high ground bearing in this direction closer upon
+the city. On the whole I do not remember to have been more forcibly
+struck by any scenery than that which I beheld from this bastion; so
+well were town and country, castles and convents, land and water, hill
+and valley combined.
+
+Having spent some hours in wandering through the city, I endeavoured to
+make my way into the forts, and to examine the state of the works. But
+in both of these attempts I was interrupted. Without an order from the
+Governor, I was informed, that none, even of the natives, are permitted
+to enter the Moro, and all applications on the part of foreigners are
+uniformly refused. There was a degree of jealousy in this, as needless
+as it was illiberal; but indeed the whole conduct of the Spanish
+authorities gave proof of their reluctance to admit their old allies,
+even to the common rites of hospitality. From the moment we entered the
+harbour the militia of the island were called out, many of the guns
+which commanded our shipping were shotted, and artillerymen with
+lighted fuzes stood constantly beside them. An order was likewise
+issued, prohibiting more than two persons to land at the same time from
+each vessel, and many other precautions were taken, little
+complimentary to the good faith of those to whom Spain must feel that
+she owes her very existence. In spite of these drawbacks, however, I
+contrived to spend a week in this city with much satisfaction. The
+opera and theatre opening on Easter Sunday, and continuing open during
+the remainder of our stay, furnished sufficient amusement for the
+evenings, whilst in walking or riding about, in examining the different
+churches and chapels, and in chatting with nuns through the grate, or
+monks within their cells, my mornings passed away more quickly than I
+desired.
+
+At length our victualling and watering being complete, on the 9th of
+April we bade adieu to the shores of Cuba, and running along with the
+Gulf-stream, took our course towards Bermuda. The wind favoured us
+greatly, and on the 17th we again reached these islands; where we
+delayed till the 23rd, when, once more setting sail, we steered
+directly for England. During the remainder of the voyage nothing of
+importance occurred till the 7th of May, when, reaching in towards the
+shores of Brest, we were astonished by beholding the tri-coloured flag
+floating from the citadel. Of the mighty events which had taken place
+in Europe, we were as yet in perfect ignorance. Though surprised,
+therefore, at the first view of that beacon of war, we naturally
+concluded it to be no more than a signal, and passed on without
+inquiry. As we ascended the channel, however, we were hailed by a
+schooner, which professed to communicate some news concerning
+Buonaparte; but the wind being high, we could not distinctly tell what
+was said; nor was it till the 9th, when we had anchored off Spithead,
+that the reappearance of that wonderful man was made known.
+
+The effect of this intelligence it would be difficult to describe. At
+first it was received with acclamations, but by and bye those who had
+dreamed of home began to perceive in it the destruction of their
+visions. Yet we considered that we were soldiers, and certainly no
+regret was experienced when we were ordered to re-embark, and sail for
+the Downs.
+
+REMARKS.
+
+Having thus brought my narrative to a conclusion, I cannot lay aside my
+pen without offering a few remarks upon the events of this busy year,
+and the nature of an American war in general. In doing so, I shall
+begin with the unfortunate attack upon New Orleans, and endeavour, in
+as few words as possible, to assign the true causes of its failure.
+
+From the account which I have given of this affair, it will appear
+that, from its very commencement, it was replete with error, and gave
+promise of no better result than actually occurred. I do not here
+allude to the spot fixed upon for landing, because that was as
+appropriate as could be chosen. Neither do I refer to the groundless
+rumours brought in by deserters; for to such all assailants are liable;
+but the error lay in the steps subsequently taken; in the unhappy
+advance of the first division from a place of concealment into the open
+country, without pushing forward to the extent required. The fact is,
+that having reached the main land in safety, one out of two plans might
+have been selected by General Keane; which, in all probability, would
+have been equally attended with success. Either he might have remained
+in the morass till the whole army was assembled, or, if this were
+deemed too dangerous, he ought to have advanced upon the city with the
+first division alone. If it be objected that a force of 1600 men was
+incompetent for an undertaking so important as the latter, I reply that
+there could be no more hazard in it than in the course actually
+pursued. New Orleans is not a regular fortification requiring a large
+army and a powerful battering train for its reduction. In obtaining
+possession of such a place there would have been no difficulty, because
+it has since been ascertained that the American troops were, at the
+time of our landing, some miles above the city; and surely it would not
+have been more difficult to repulse an attack within a town than in the
+open country. But neither of these courses was adopted. The advance was
+drawn from concealment, and halted just where it became most exposed,
+as if it had been our design to warn the American General of his
+danger; the consequence of which was a well-directed attack upon our
+bivouac, and an immediate commencement of those works which afterwards
+resisted and repelled all our efforts.
+
+The second error evident in this business was the selection of the
+schooner instead of the ship for destruction. Had the latter, which lay
+farther up the stream been destroyed, the former never could have
+passed our battery, nor been of further annoyance to us; whereas, the
+schooner being burnt, the ship was only removed out of the reach of
+danger, and posted where she could be infinitely more advantageous to
+her friends and detrimental to her enemies. This in itself was a grave
+error, which beyond all doubt contributed, in some degree, to our
+repulse on the 29th of December.
+
+The third error, and one which continued to exert its influence
+throughout the whole campaign, was the delay in bringing on a general
+action. Why our troops fell back on the 29th I confess is to me a
+mystery. It was not to be supposed that an officer who had shown so
+much judgment as the American General, Jackson, in his first endeavours
+to check our advance, would lose the advantage which the nature of his
+position afforded. That he would fortify the neck of land, indeed, was
+exactly what might have been expected: and, therefore, every hour
+during which an attack was deferred, contributed so much to his
+strength and to our weakness. It is true that we should have suffered,
+and perhaps suffered severely; but our chances of suffering were
+certainly not diminished by delay. We ought, therefore, instead of
+falling back, to have pursued our operations with vigour on that day;
+because the American lines, being then incomplete, would have assisted
+rather than retarded our progress.
+
+It has been said, and perhaps truly, that the movement on the 29th was
+never intended for more than a reconnoissance: and that the scheme
+subsequently adopted, of overpowering the enemy’s fire by a superior
+artillery brought from the fleet, was a wise one. All this may be true;
+but as we did not succeed in silencing the enemy’s batteries, who, on
+the contrary, put ours to silence, either the project was faulty in its
+design, or some grievous error was committed in its execution. As far
+as our position was affected by it, the results were these:—Three days
+more were lost in making preparations, which ended in nothing; while,
+by the enemy, these same days were judiciously and indefatigably
+employed to improve their deficiency and recruit their force.
+
+At last came the idea of digging a canal from the lakes to the river,
+by means of which a portion of our army might be thrown to the other
+side; a project which is said to have been suggested by Sir Alexander
+Cochrane; but which, wheresoever originating, was at once bold and
+judicious. The canal was accordingly formed; not, however, with
+sufficient attention to the rules of art in like cases, as was shown by
+the falling in of the banks, and the consequent impossibility of
+bringing up boats to transport the whole detachment. Still there it
+was, and 350 men, instead of 1400, made good their landing on the right
+bank of the river. It is deeply to be regretted that Sir Edward
+Pakenham did not delay his own advance with the main body till this
+fact had been ascertained. His plan of battle was to carry the enemy’s
+works on the right bank, to turn their own guns from that flank against
+themselves, and to alarm them for their communications, ere he should
+attack the main position on the left. Nor can it be doubted, that had
+the detached corps arrived at the hour first named, an easy triumph
+would have been achieved. But Pakenham was too fiery to restrain his
+troops, after they had assumed their ground on his own side. Instead,
+therefore, of causing the columns to fall back out of gun-shot, and
+wait quietly till the battle began on the left, he hurried them into
+action as soon as the day dawned; and they became exposed to the whole
+of that volume of fire which it was one main object of his movement
+across the Mississippi to destroy. Moreover, from all the moral effects
+of a partial defeat the enemy were saved; and I need not say how
+serious such things are to irregular and undisciplined bodies. I do not
+mean to assert that, in spite of all this, the American lines ought not
+to have been carried. On the contrary, had every officer and man done
+his duty, the victory would have been complete, though purchased,
+beyond a doubt, at a severe cost. Yet it is absurd to deny that,
+speaking of the movement as an operation of war, the attack on the
+right ought to have been withheld till that on the left had either
+failed or succeeded. So far, therefore, the General is liable to
+censure; and chivalrous and high-minded as he was, it is just that he
+should receive it. But there were other causes of defeat than this;
+among which, the gross misconduct of one individual deserves to be
+especially noticed.
+
+To Lieutenant-Colonel Mullens, with the 44th regiment, of which he was
+in command, was intrusted the arduous and therefore honourable duty of
+carrying the fascines and ladders. The orders were given in good time
+over night; and Colonel Mullens received them as if they had conveyed a
+sentence of death. He stated, in the hearing of the private soldiers,
+that his corps was devoted to destruction; and conducted himself, in
+every respect, like a condemned criminal on the night previous to his
+execution. When the troops got under arms, instead of bringing his
+battalion to the redoubt, where he had been instructed to find the
+ladders, he marched directly past it, and led them into the field
+without a single ladder or fascine. When the day dawned, and he was
+sent back for these instruments, he headed his corps in its retrograde
+movement, but left it to return as it could to the front; and when
+sought for to guide the attack, he was nowhere to be found. That a
+regiment thus abused and deserted by its commanding officer should fall
+into confusion, cannot occasion any surprise; it would have been
+surprising indeed, had a different result ensued. But the melancholy
+effect of such confusion was, that other regiments were likewise
+broken; and before order could be restored, all the Generals were borne
+dead or wounded from the field. A large share, therefore, of the blame
+attachable to this failure must rest where fidelity of narration has
+obliged me to place it.
+
+Again, the recall of the victorious detachment from the left to the
+right bank of the Mississippi, and the consequent abandonment of that
+complete command of the river which this partial success had obtained,
+was a military error of the gravest kind. Great as our numerical loss
+had been in the principal action of the 8th, the advantages of position
+were at the close of the day so decidedly with us, that for General
+Jackson to maintain himself any longer in front of New Orleans was
+physically impossible. His own dispatch, indeed, addressed to the
+Secretary-at-War, shows that he felt the truth so forcibly, that he had
+actually issued orders for a retreat, when the removal of the English
+from his menaced flank was reported to him; and his battalions, which
+had begun to get under arms, were directed to resume their places. It
+is, however, but just to state, that such was the miserable condition
+of our commissariat, that the fleet contained not provisions enough to
+feed the people on half rations during a quick passage to Cuba; and
+General Lambert did not feel that he would be justified in risking the
+total loss of his army, which, had the campaign been prolonged another
+fortnight, must under such circumstances have taken place. That he
+erred in this supposition is certain; but his was probably an error
+into which most men similarly circumstanced would have fallen.
+
+But the primary cause of all our disasters may be traced to a source
+even more distant than any yet mentioned; I mean, to the disclosure of
+our designs to the enemy. How this occurred I shall not take it upon me
+to declare, though several rumours bearing at least the guise of
+probability have been circulated. The attack upon New Orleans was
+professedly a secret expedition; so secret, indeed, that it was not
+communicated to the inferior officers and soldiers in the armament till
+immediately previous to our quitting Jamaica. To the Americans,
+however, it appears to have been known long before; and hence it was
+that, instead of taking them unawares, we found them fully prepared for
+our reception. Nor is this all. It appears difficult to account for the
+degree of negligence which affected the naval heads of the present
+expedition, as far as the providing a competent number of boats and
+small craft to transport the troops is concerned. Throughout the whole
+fleet, barges enough to carry one-half of the army could not be found;
+whereas there ought to have been a sufficient quantity to contain not
+only the entire force, but all its stores and ammunition. To this
+neglect, indeed, more perhaps than to any other circumstances, is the
+failure of the attempt to be attributed; since not a doubt can exist
+that, if General Keane had been enabled to bring the whole of his army
+to land on the morning of the 23rd, he would have reached New Orleans,
+without firing a shot, before nightfall. But the opportunity is past,
+it cannot be recalled, and therefore to point out errors on the part of
+my countrymen can serve no good end. That the failure is to be lamented
+no one will deny, since the conquest of New Orleans would have proved
+beyond all comparison the most valuable acquisition that could be made
+to the British dominions throughout the whole western hemisphere. In
+possession of that post we should have kept the entire southern trade
+of the United States in check, and furnished means of commerce to our
+own merchants of incalculable value.
+
+The fact, however, is, that when we look back upon the whole series of
+events produced by the late American war, we shall find little that is
+likely to flatter our vanity or increase our self-importance. Except a
+few successes in Canada at its very commencement, and the brilliant
+inroad upon Washington, it will be found that our arms have been
+constantly baffled or repulsed on shore; whilst at sea, with the
+exception of the capture of the Chesapeake and one or two other affairs
+towards its conclusion, we have been equally unsuccessful. From what
+cause does this proceed? Not from any inferiority in courage or
+discipline, because in these particulars British soldiers and sailors
+will yield to none in the world. There must, then, be some other cause
+for these misfortunes, and the cause is surely one which has
+continually baffled all our plans of American warfare.
+
+We have long been habituated to despise the Americans as an enemy
+unworthy of serious regard. To this alone it is to be attributed that
+frigates half manned were sent out to cope with ships capable of
+containing them within their hulls; and to this also the trifling
+handfuls of troops dispatched to conduct the war by land. Instead of
+fifteen hundred, had ten thousand men sailed from the Garonne under
+General Ross, how differently might he have acted! There would have
+been then no necessity for a reembarkation after the capture of
+Washington, and consequently no time given for the defence of
+Baltimore; but, marching across the country, he might have done to the
+one city what he did to the other. And it is thus only that a war with
+America can be successfully carried on. To penetrate up the country
+amidst pathless forests and boundless deserts, and to aim at permanent
+conquest, is out of the question. America must be assaulted only on her
+coasts. Her harbours destroyed, her shipping burned, and her seaport
+towns laid waste, are the only evils which she has reason to dread; and
+were a sufficient force embarked with these orders, no American war
+would be of long continuance.
+
+A melancholy experience has now taught us that such a war must not be
+entered into, unless it be conducted with spirit; and there is no
+conducting it with spirit, except with a sufficient numerical force. To
+the plan proposed of making desert the whole line of coast, it may be
+objected, that by so doing we should distress individuals, and not the
+Government. But they who offer this objection, forget the nature both
+of the people whose cause they plead, and of the Government under which
+they live. In a democratical Government, the voice of the people must
+at all times prevail. The members of the House of Representatives are
+the very persons who, from such proceedings, would suffer most
+severely, and we all know how far private suffering goes to influence a
+man’s public opinions. Besides, the principle upon which the advocates
+for the sacredness of private property proceed, is erroneous. Every one
+will allow that, in absolute monarchies, where war is more properly the
+pastime of kings than the desire of subjects, non-combatants ought to
+be dealt with as humanely as possible. Not so, how ever, in States
+governed by popular assemblies. By compelling the constituents to
+experience the real hardships and miseries of warfare, you will compel
+the representatives to a vote of peace; and surely that line of conduct
+is, upon the whole, most humane, which puts the speediest period to the
+cruelties of war. There are few men who would not rather endure a
+raging fever for three days, than a slow and lingering disease for
+three months. So it is with a democracy at war. Burn their houses,
+plunder their property, block up their harbours, and destroy their
+shipping in a few places; and before you have time to proceed to the
+rest, you will be stopped by entreaties for peace. Whereas, if you do
+no mischief that can be avoided, if you only fight their fleets and
+armies wherever you meet them, and suffer the inhabitants to live in
+undisturbed tranquillity, they will continue their hostilities till
+they have worn out the means of one party, and greatly weakened those
+of both.
+
+Should another war break out between Great Britain and America, this is
+the course to be adopted by the former. Besides which, I humbly
+conceive that a second attempt might be hazarded upon New Orleans,
+because the importance of the conquest would authorise almost any
+sacrifice for its attainment; and once gained, it could easily be
+defended. The neck of land, upon which it is built, extends in the same
+form above as below the town; and the same advantages which it holds
+out to its present defenders would, of course, be afforded to us. A
+chain of works thrown across from the river to the marsh would render
+it inaccessible from above; whilst by covering the lakes and the
+Mississippi with cruisers, all attacks from below would be sufficiently
+guarded against.
+
+THE END.
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Campaigns of the British Army at Washington and New Orleans, 1814-1815, by G. R. Gleig
+
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+<pre>
+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Campaigns of the British Army at Washington and New Orleans, 1814-1815, by G. R. Gleig
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most
+other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
+whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of
+the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at
+www.gutenberg.org.  If you are not located in the United States, you'll have
+to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook.
+
+Title: The Campaigns of the British Army at Washington and New Orleans, 1814-1815
+
+Author: G. R. Gleig
+
+Release Date: June 1, 2006 [EBook #18479]
+[Most recently updated: February 16, 2020]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: UTF-8
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE CAMPAIGNS OF THE BRITISH ARMY AT WASHINGTON AND NEW ORLEANS ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Geoffrey Cowling
+
+
+
+
+
+
+</pre>
+
+<h1>The Campaigns of the British Army at Washington and New Orleans,<br/>1814-1815</h1>
+
+<h2>by Rev. G. R. Gleig, M.A.,</h2>
+
+<p class="center">
+Chaplain-General to the forces;<br/>
+Author of <i>The Subaltern</i>; <i>Story of the Battle of Waterloo</i>;<br/>
+<i>Life of Lord Clive</i>; <i>Life of Sir Thomas Munro</i>, etc.<br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="center">
+NEW EDITION<br/>
+1879
+</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<p class="center">
+ADVERTISEMENT.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The following Narrative contains, it is believed, the only connected and
+authentic account, which has yet been given, of the expedition directed against
+Washington and New Orleans, towards the close of the late American war. It has
+been compiled, not from memory alone, but from a journal kept by the author
+whilst engaged in the enterprise; and as the adventures of each were faithfully
+noted down as they occurred, and such remarks made upon passing events as
+suggested themselves to his mind at the moment, the public may rely with
+confidence upon general correctness of the details. The issues of the
+expedition were not, indeed, of the most gratifying nature, but it is hoped
+that a plain relation of the proceedings of those to whom it was intrusted,
+will not, on that account, prove uninteresting; whilst nothing can be more
+evident than that the portion of our history which it embraces ought not to be
+overlooked because it is little conducive to the encouragement of national
+vanity. It was chiefly, indeed, upon this account, as well as with a view to
+redeem from an oblivion which they hardly merit, the actions and sufferings of
+a few brave men, that the Narrative now submitted to the public was written.
+</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<h2>Contents</h2>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap01">CHAPTER I.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+Cessation of Hostilities&mdash;Expected Embarkation for
+America&mdash;Encampment near Passages&mdash;March towards Bordeaux-Anglet
+<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap02">CHAPTER II.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+Bayonne&mdash;St. Etienne&mdash;March through Bayonne, to Ondres<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap03">CHAPTER III.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+Les Landes&mdash;March to Bordeaux&mdash;Bordeaux&mdash;Macan&mdash;La
+Moe&mdash;At Sea<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap04">CHAPTER IV.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+At Sea&mdash;St. Michael&rsquo;s&mdash;Villa Franca<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap05">CHAPTER V.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+St Michael&rsquo;s&mdash;Ponto del Gada&mdash;At Sea<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap06">CHAPTER VI.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+Bermuda<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap07">CHAPTER VII.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+America&mdash;The Chesapeake&mdash;The Partuxent&mdash;St. Benedicts<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap08">CHAPTER VIII.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+Nottingham&mdash;Marlborough<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap09">CHAPTER IX.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+March to Washington&mdash;Bladensburg<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap10">CHAPTER X.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+Washington<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap11">CHAPTER XI.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+Washington&mdash;Bladensburg&mdash;Marlborough&mdash;St Benedicts<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap12">CHAPTER XII.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+Alexandria&mdash;The Patuxent&mdash;The Patapsco<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap13">CHAPTER XIII.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+March&mdash;Attack&mdash;Halt<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap14">CHAPTER XIV.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+March&mdash;Halt&mdash;Search&mdash;March&mdash;Rally&mdash;Halt<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap15">CHAPTER XV.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+The Patuxent&mdash;The Potomac&mdash;The Chesapeake&mdash;At Sea&mdash;The West
+Indies<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap16">CHAPTER XVI.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+The West Indies&mdash;Port Royal&mdash;Kingston&mdash;Jamaica&mdash;The Blue
+Mountains<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap17">CHAPTER XVII.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+The Blue Mountains&mdash;Port Royal&mdash;Negril Bay<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap18">CHAPTER XVIII.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+At Sea&mdash;New Orleans&mdash;Lake Borgne&mdash;Pine Island<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap19">CHAPTER XIX.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+Pine Island&mdash;The Lake&mdash;Landing&mdash;March&mdash;Halt<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap20">CHAPTER XX.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+Halt&mdash;Attack&mdash;Field of Battle&mdash;Hospital<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap21">CHAPTER XXI.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+Advance&mdash;Attack&mdash;March&mdash;Attack&mdash;Retreat&mdash;Preparations
+<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap22">CHAPTER XXII.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+Attack&mdash;Retreat&mdash;Pause&mdash;Attack&mdash;Re-embarkation<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap23">CHAPTER XXIII.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+The Camp&mdash;Preparations for Retreat&mdash;Retreat&mdash;Halt<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap24">CHAPTER XXIV.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+The Lake&mdash;Mobile&mdash;Siege&mdash;Peace&mdash;Havannah<br/><br/>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+<a href="#chap25">CHAPTER XXV.</a>
+</p>
+
+<p class="noindent">
+Havannah&mdash;Remarks
+</p>
+
+<hr />
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2>THE BRITISH ARMY<br/>
+AT<br/>
+WASHINGTON AND NEW ORLEANS.
+</h2>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap01"></a>CHAPTER I.</h2>
+
+<p>
+A revolution must occur in the condition and sentiments of mankind more decided
+than we have any reason to expect that the lapse of ages will produce, before
+the mighty events which distinguished the spring of 1814 shall be spoken of in
+other terms than those of unqualified admiration. It was then that Europe,
+which during so many years had groaned beneath the miseries of war, found
+herself at once, and to her remotest recesses, blessed with the prospect of a
+sure and permanent peace. Princes, who had dwelt in exile till the very hope of
+restoration to power began to depart from them, beheld themselves unexpectedly
+replaced on the thrones of their ancestors; dynasties, which the will of one
+man had erected, disappeared with the same abruptness with which they had
+arisen; and the influence of changes which a quarter of a century of rapine and
+conquest had produced in the arrangements of general society, ceased, as if by
+magic, to be felt, or at least to be acknowledged. It seemed, indeed, as if all
+which had been passing during the last twenty or thirty years, had passed not
+in reality, but in a dream; so perfectly unlooked for were the issues of a
+struggle, to which, whatever light we may regard it, the history of the whole
+world presents no parallel.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At the period above alluded to, it was the writer&rsquo;s fortune to form one
+of a body of persons in whom the unexpected cessation of hostilities may be
+supposed to have excited sensations more powerful and more mixed than those to
+which the common occurrences of life are accustomed to give birth. He was then
+attached to that portion of the Peninsular army to which the siege of Bayonne
+had been intrusted; and on the 28th of April beheld, in common with his
+comrades, the tri-coloured flag, which, for upwards of two months, had waved
+defiance from the battlements, give place to the ancient drapeau blanc of the
+Bourbons. That such a spectacle could be regarded by any British soldier
+without stirring up in him strong feelings of national pride and exultation, is
+not to be imagined. I believe, indeed, that there was not a man in our ranks,
+however humble his station, to whose bosom these feelings were a stranger. But
+the excitation of the moment having passed away, other and no less powerful
+feelings succeeded; and they were painful, or the reverse, according as they
+ran in one or other of the channels into which the situations and prospects of
+individuals not unnaturally guided them. By such as had been long absent from
+their homes, the idea of enjoying once more the society of friends and
+relatives, was hailed with a degree of delight too engrossing to afford room
+for the occurrence of any other anticipations; to those who had either no homes
+to look to, or had quitted them only a short time ago, the thoughts of
+revisiting England came mixed with other thoughts, little gratifying, because
+at variance with all their dreams of advancement and renown. For my own part I
+candidly confess, that though I had just cause to look forward to a return to
+the bosom of my family with as much satisfaction as most men, the restoration
+of peace excited in me sensations of a very equivocal nature. At the age of
+eighteen, and still enthusiastically attached to my profession, neither the
+prospect of a reduction to half-pay, nor the expectation of a long continuance
+in a subaltern situation, were to me productive of any pleasurable emotions;
+and hence, though I entered heartily into all the arrangements by which those
+about me strove to evince their gratification at the glorious termination of
+the war, it must be acknowledged that I did so, without experiencing much of
+the satisfaction with the semblance of which my outward behaviour might be
+marked.
+</p>
+
+<h3>EXPECTED EMBARKATION FOR AMERICA.</h3>
+
+<p>
+Such being my own feelings, and the feelings of the great majority of those
+immediately around me, it was but natural that we should turn our views to the
+only remaining quarter of the globe in which the flame of war still continued
+to burn. Though at peace with France, England, we remembered; was not yet at
+peace with the United States; and reasoning, not as statesmen but as soldiers,
+we concluded that she was not now likely to make peace with that nation till
+she should be able to do so upon her own terms. Having such an army on foot,
+what line of policy could appear so natural or so judicious as that she should
+employ, if not the whole, at all events a large proportion of it, in chastising
+an enemy, than whom none had ever proved more vindictive or more ungenerous?
+Our view of the matter accordingly was, that some fifteen or twenty thousand
+men would be forthwith embarked on board of ship and transported to the other
+side of the Atlantic; that the war would there be carried on with a vigour
+conformable to the dignity and resources of the country which waged it; and
+that no mention of peace would be made till our general should be in a
+situation to dictate its conditions in the enemy&rsquo;s capital.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Whether any design of the kind was ever seriously entertained, or whether men
+merely asserted as a truth what they earnestly desired to be such, I know not;
+but the white flag had hardly been hoisted on the citadel of Bayonne, when a
+rumour became prevalent that an extensive encampment of troops, destined for
+the American war, was actually forming in the vicinity of Bordeaux. A variety
+of causes led me to anticipate that the corps to which I was attached would
+certainly be employed upon that service. In the progress of the war which had
+been just brought to a conclusion, we had not suffered so severely as many
+other corps; and though not excelling in numbers, it is but justice to affirm
+that a more effective or better organized battalion could not be found in the
+whole army. We were all, moreover, from our commanding officer down to the
+youngest ensign, anxious to gather a few more laurels, even in America; and we
+had good reason to believe that those in power were not indisposed to gratify
+our inclinations. Under these circumstances we clung with fondness to the hope
+that our martial career had not yet come to a close; and employed the space
+which intervened between the eventful 28th of April and the 8th of the
+following month, chiefly in forming guesses as to the point of attack towards
+which it was likely that we should be turned.
+</p>
+
+<h3>ENCAMPMENT NEAR PASSAGES.</h3>
+
+<p>
+Though there was peace between the French and British nations, the form of
+hostilities was so far kept up between the garrison of Bayonne and the army
+encamped around it, that it was only by an especial treaty that the former were
+allowed to send out parties for the purpose of collecting forage and provisions
+from the adjacent country. The foraging parties, however, being permitted to
+proceed in any direction most convenient to themselves, the supplies of corn
+and grass, which had heretofore proved barely sufficient for our own horses and
+cattle, soon began to fail, and it was found necessary to move more than one
+brigade to a distance from the city. Among others, the brigade of which my
+regiment formed a part, received orders on the 7th of May to fall back on the
+road towards Passages. These orders we obeyed on the following morning; and
+after an agreeable march of fifteen or sixteen miles, pitched our tents in a
+thick wood, about half-way between the village of Bedart and the town of St.
+Jean de Luz. In this position we remained for nearly a week, our expectations
+of employment on the other side of the Atlantic becoming daily less and less
+sanguine, till at length all doubts on the subject were put an end to by the
+sudden arrival of a dispatch, which commanded us to set out with as little
+delay as possible towards Bordeaux.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was on the evening of the 14th that the route was received, and on the
+following morning, at daybreak, we commenced our march. The country through
+which we moved had nothing in it, unconnected with past events, calculated in
+any extraordinary degree to attract attention. Behind us, indeed, rose the
+Pyrenees in all their grandeur, forming, on that side, a noble boundary to the
+prospect; and on our left was the sea, a boundary different it is true in kind,
+though certainly not less magnificent. But, excepting at these two extremities,
+there was nothing in the landscape on which the eye loved particularly to rest,
+because the country, though pretty enough, has none of that exquisite richness
+and luxuriance which we had been led to expect as characteristic of the South
+of France. The houses, too, being all in a ruinous and dilapidated condition,
+reminded us more forcibly of the scenes of violence and outrage which had been
+lately acted among them, than of those ideas of rural contentment and innocence
+which various tales and melodramas had taught us to associate in our own minds
+with thoughts of the land of the vine.
+</p>
+
+<h3>MARCH TOWARDS BORDEAUX</h3>
+
+<p>
+Regarded, however, in connexion with past events, the scene was indeed most
+interesting; though to a stranger fresh from England&mdash;a man, we will
+suppose, of retired and peaceful habits, I can readily imagine that it would
+have been productive of much pain; for on each side of the road, in whatever
+direction we cast our eyes, and as far as the powers of vision extended, we
+beheld cottages unroofed and in ruins, chateaux stripped of their doors and
+windows, gardens laid waste, the walls demolished, and the fruit-trees cut
+down; whole plantations levelled, and vineyards trodden under foot. Here and
+there, likewise, a redoubt or breastwork presented itself; whilst caps, broken
+firelocks, pieces of clothing, and accoutrements scattered about in profusion,
+marked the spots where the strife had been most determined, and where many a
+fine fellow had met his fate. Our journey lay over a field of battle, through
+the entire extent of which the houses were not only thoroughly gutted (to use a
+vulgar but most expressive phrase), but for the most part were riddled with
+cannon-shot. Round some of the largest, indeed, there was not a wall nor a tree
+which did not present evident proofs of its having been converted into a
+temporary place of defence, whilst the deep ruts in what had once been lawns
+and flower-gardens, showed that all their beauty had not protected them from
+being destroyed by the rude passage of heavy artillery.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Immediately beyond the village of Bedart such spectacles were particularly
+frequent. It was here, it may be remembered, that in the preceding month of
+December there had been fighting for four successive days; and the number of
+little hillocks now within our view; from under most of which legs and arms
+were beginning to show themselves, as well as the other objects which I have
+attempted to describe, sufficiently attested the obstinacy with which that
+fighting had been maintained.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In the bosom of a man of peace it is very conceivable that all this would have
+excited feelings exceedingly painful; in ours, such feelings were overborne by
+others of a very different nature. If we gazed with peculiar interest upon one
+hovel more than upon another, it was because some of us had there maintained
+ourselves; if we endeavoured to count the number of shot-holes in any wall, or
+the breaks in any hedge, it was because we had stood behind it when &ldquo;the
+iron hail&rdquo; fell thick and fast around us. Our thoughts, in short, had
+more of exultation in them than of sorrow; for though now and then, when the
+name of a fallen comrade was mentioned, it was accompanied with a &ldquo;poor
+fellow&rdquo; the conversation soon returned again to the exploits and
+hair-breadth escapes of the survivors. On the whole, therefore, our march was
+one of deep interest and high excitement, feelings which did not entirely
+evaporate when we halted, about two hours after noon, at the village of Anglet.
+</p>
+
+<h3>MARCH TOWARDS BORDEAUX&mdash;ANGLET</h3>
+
+<p>
+We found this village in the condition in which it was to be expected that a
+place of so much importance during the progress of the late siege would be
+found, in other words, completely metamorphosed into a chain of petty posts.
+Being distant from the outworks of Bayonne not more than a mile and a half, and
+standing upon the great road by which all the supplies for the left of the
+British army were brought up, no means, as may be supposed, had been neglected,
+which art or nature could supply, towards rendering it as secure against a
+sudden excursion of the garrison as might be. About one hundred yards in front
+of it felled trees were laid across the road, with their branches turned
+towards the town, forming what soldiers, in the language of their profession,
+term an abattis. Forty or fifty yards in rear of this a ditch was dug, and a
+breastwork thrown up, from behind which a party might do great execution upon
+any body of men struggling to force their way over that impediment. On each
+side of the highway again, where the ground rises into little eminences,
+redoubts and batteries were erected, so as to command the whole with a heavy
+flanking fire; while every house and hovel lying at all within the line of
+expected operations was loop-holed, and otherwise put in a posture of defence.
+But upon the fortification of the church a more than ordinary degree of care
+seemed to have been bestowed. As it stood upon a little eminence in the middle
+of the hamlet, it was no hard matter to convert it into a tolerably regular
+fortress, which might serve the double purpose of a magazine for warlike stores
+and a post of defence against the enemy. With this view the churchyard was
+surrounded by a row of stout palings, called in military phraseology stockades,
+from certain openings in which the muzzles of half a dozen pieces of light
+artillery protruded. The walls of the edifice itself were, moreover,
+strengthened by an embankment of earth to the height of perhaps four or five
+feet from the ground, above which narrow openings were made, in order to give
+to its garrison an opportunity of levelling their muskets; while on the top of
+the tower a small howitzer was mounted, from which either shot or shell could
+be thrown with effect into any of the lanes or passes near. It is probably
+needless to add that the interior arrangements of this house of God had
+undergone a change as striking as that which affected its exterior. Barrels of
+gunpowder, with piles of balls of all sizes and dimensions, now occupied the
+spaces where worshippers had often crowded; and the very altar was heaped up
+with spunges, wadding, and other implements necessary in case of an attack.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+I have been thus minute in my description of Anglet, because what has been said
+of it will apply more or less exactly to every village, hamlet, or cluster of
+cottages, within the compass of what were called the lines. It is true that
+neither here nor elsewhere, excepting at one particular point, and that on the
+opposite side of the river, were any serious intentions entertained of
+broaching or storming the place; and that the sole object of these preparations
+was to keep the enemy within his works, and to cut him off from all
+communication with the surrounding country. But to effect even this end, the
+utmost vigilance and precaution were necessary, not only because the number of
+troops employed on the service was hardly adequate to discharge it, but because
+the garrison hemmed in was well known to be at once numerous and enterprising.
+The reader may accordingly judge what appearance a country presented which, to
+the extent of fifteen or twenty miles round, was thus treated; where every
+house was fortified, every road blocked up, every eminence mined with
+fieldworks, and every place swarming with armed men. Nor was its aspect less
+striking by night than by day. Gaze where he might, the eye of the spectator
+then rested upon some portion of one huge circle of fires, by the glare of
+which the white tents or rudely constructed huts of the besiegers were from
+time to time made visible.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+While things continued thus, the condition of the peaceful inhabitant of this
+district could hardly fail to be one of extreme discomfort. Of these the
+greater number had indeed fled on the advance of the British army, leaving
+their houses and effects a prey to the conquerors; but there were some who,
+having probably no place of refuge to retire to, remained in their homes, and
+threw themselves upon our mercy for protection. It is not requisite that I
+should now inform the reader of the strict discipline which Lord Wellington
+preserved in every division of his army; his first step, on entering France,
+had been to inform the people that against them no violence was intended; and
+the assurance thus given, was in no instance, at least wantonly, violated. But,
+however orderly the conduct of an invading force may be, their very presence
+must occasion a thousand inconveniences to those upon whom they are quartered;
+not the least distressing of which is, perhaps, the feeling of degradation
+which the consciousness of being in the power of armed foreigners can hardly
+fail to produce. Then there is the total destruction of all domestic comfort,
+which the occupation of a man&rsquo;s house by large bodies of soldiers
+produces; the liability to which the females, in particular, are exposed to
+insult from the common troopers; and the dread of vengeance from any delinquent
+on whom their complaints may have brought down chastisement, all these things
+must and do create a degree of misery, of which the inhabitants of Great
+Britain may thank God that they know nothing except by name. In the vicinity of
+Bayonne, moreover, the country people lived in daily and nightly expectation of
+finding themselves involved in all the horrors and dangers of a battle. Sorties
+were continually looked for, and however these might terminate, the
+non-combatants felt that they must be equally the sufferers. Nay, it was no
+uncommon ground of complaint among them, that even the total defeat of our
+forces would bring with it no relief, because, by remaining to receive us, they
+had disobeyed the proclamations of Marshal Soult, and were consequently liable
+to punishment as traitors.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap02"></a>CHAPTER II.</h2>
+
+<p>
+A soon as the bustle of encamping was over, and my time absolutely at my own
+disposal, I took advantage of an offered passport, and proceeded into Bayonne.
+It will be readily believed that I entered this city with feelings very
+different from those of a common traveller. Having lain before it as a besieger
+for upwards of two months, its shops, its trade, its public buildings and
+places of amusement were to me objects of, comparatively speaking, little
+interest or curiosity. Its fortifications and means of defence were, in truth,
+what I was principally anxious to examine. Hitherto I could judge of them only
+from outward appearances and vague reports; and now that an opportunity offered
+of so doing with greater accuracy, I confess that my inclination prompted me to
+embrace that opportunity, rather than to hunt for pictures which I could not
+value, or fatigue my imagination by endeavouring to discover fine specimens of
+architecture amidst heavy and ill-built churches.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It is not my intention to attempt any scientific or technical review of the
+works which a very natural curiosity tempted me to examine; partly because I
+confess myself little competent to the task and partly because, were the
+contrary the case, I am inclined to believe that such a review would not prove
+very interesting to the public in general. Enough is done if I endeavour to
+impress my reader with as many of the feelings which I then experienced, as may
+be done by detailing them; and, at the same time, enable him to form some
+general idea of a place before whose walls no trifling quantity of British
+blood has been spilt.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The city of Bayonne stands, as everybody knows, upon the Adour, about six or
+eight miles from the point where that river falls into the sea. On the southern
+or Spanish bank, where the whole of the city, properly so called, is built, the
+country, to the distance of two or three miles from the walls, is perfectly
+flat and the soil sandy, and apparently not very productive. On the bank the
+ground rises rather abruptly from the brink of the stream, sloping upwards
+likewise from the sea, till you arrive at the pinnacle upon which the citadel
+is erected, and which hangs immediately over the town. Thus, though the Adour
+in fact separates the city from the suburbs and citadel, yet as the ramparts of
+the former extend to the water&rsquo;s edge on both sides, and as those of the
+latter continue the sweep from points immediately opposite, the general
+appearance presented is that of one considerable town, with a broad river
+flowing through the middle of it.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It will be seen, even from this short and imperfect sketch, that its situation
+gives to Bayonne, considered as a military post, a superiority over most
+cities; inasmuch as it affords peculiar facilities towards rendering it a place
+of great strength. On one side there is a plain, always accounted by engineers
+the most convenient for the construction of fortifications; on the other an
+eminence, lofty enough to command the surrounding country, and at the same time
+sufficiently level at the summit to receive the walls of a fortress, powerful
+at once from its position and regularity. But the great strength of Bayonne
+arose at this juncture not so much from its original defences as from the
+numerous outworks which had been lately added to it. It was along the course of
+the Adour, as the reader will probably recollect, or rather between the Adour
+and the Nieve, that Soult formed his famous intrenched camp. The right of this
+chain of stupendous works rested upon the city, the importance of which was
+consequently much increased; and as the capture of it would have occasioned not
+only the loss of a town, but the turning of the whole position, no pains were
+spared in rendering it as nearly impregnable as possible. That I may convey
+some notion to the minds of others of the nature of these works, I will
+describe the aspect which they presented to myself, as I rode from Anglet
+towards the city.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+When I had proceeded about a mile and a half beyond our advanced posts, I found
+myself in front of the first line of defence. This consisted of a battery
+mounting three eighteen-pounders, upon the road, flanked by other batteries,
+one on each side; all so placed as that whichsoever of them should be attacked,
+it might be defended by a cross-fire from the rest. These were of course
+additionally strengthened by ditches and felled trees; but they were open in
+the rear; and though very formidable to an assailing party, yet, when taken,
+could have been of small service to the conquerors, being themselves exposed to
+the fire of the second line. The situation of the second line, again, was
+similar in every respect to that of the first, being, like it, open in the
+rear, and placed under the guns of the town. Thus, after having forced two
+powerful lines of defence, the besiegers would find themselves almost as far as
+ever from the attainment of their object, being then only arrived at the point
+where the labours of a siege could commence.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But the maintenance of Bayonne must at all times depend upon keeping possession
+of the citadel. The city lying upon a plain, and the castle standing upon an
+eminence immediately above it, it is clear that, were the latter taken, the
+former must either surrender or be speedily reduced to ruins. It is true that,
+by destroying the bridge which connects them, all communication between the two
+places would be cut off; but the distance from the one to the other being not
+more than half-musket shot, and the guns of the fort pointing directly down
+upon the streets and of the city, any attempt to hold out could cause only the
+destruction of the town, and the unavenged slaughter of its garrison. Of the
+truth of this the French were as much aware as their enemies, nor did they
+neglect any means which an accurate knowledge of engineering could point out,
+for the defence of what they justly considered as the key of the entire
+position. In addition to its own very regular and well-constructed
+fortifications, two strong redoubts were thrown up, on two sides of the fort,
+upon the only spots of ground calculated for the purpose; both of which, I was
+informed by my guide, were undermined and loaded with gunpowder, ready to be
+sprung as soon as they should fill into our hands. They had judged, and judged
+correctly, that if ever the place should be invested, it would be that the
+trenches would be opened and the breaching batteries erected; and they made
+every preparation to meet the danger which great prudence and military skill
+could suggest.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Bayonne, though a populous place, does not cover so much ground as a stranger
+would be led to suppose. Like most walled towns, its streets, with the
+exception of one or two, are in general narrow, and the houses lofty: but it is
+compact, and, on the whole, clean, and neatly built. The number of inhabitants
+I should be inclined to estimate at somewhere about thirty thousand, exclusive
+of the garrison, which at this time amounted to fourteen or fifteen thousand
+men; but as most of the families appear to live in the style of those in the
+old town of Edinburgh, that is to say, several under the same roof, though each
+in a separate story or flat, it is not difficult to conceive how they contrive
+to find sufficient room, within a compass apparently so narrow. Of its commerce
+and manufactures I can say little, except that I should not imagine either to
+be extensive. I am led to form this opinion, partly from having seen no
+shipping at the wharfs, and partly because the Adour, though here both wide and
+deep, is rendered unnavigable to vessels of any size, by a shallow or bar at
+its mouth. There was, indeed, a sloop of war close to the town, but how it got
+there I am at a loss to conceive, unless it were built upon the river, and kept
+as an additional protection against a surprise from the water. The shops are,
+however, good, particularly those where jewellery is sold; an article in the
+setting and adorning of which the French, if they do not excel us in really
+substantial value, undoubtedly surpass us in elegance.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+When I had taken as complete a survey of the town as I felt disposed to take, I
+crossed the bridge with the intention of inspecting the interior of the
+citadel. Here, however, I was disappointed, no strangers being admitted within
+its gates; but as there was no objection made to my reconnoitring it from
+without, I proceeded towards the point where our trenches had been dug, and
+where it had been designed to breach and storm the place. To this I was urged
+by two motives, partly from the desire of obtaining the best view possible of
+the fort, and partly that I might examine the ground upon which the desperate
+affair of the 14th of April took place. The reader cannot have forgotten, that
+some hours before daylight on the morning of that day, a vigorous and
+well-arranged sortie was made by the garrison, and that it was not without hard
+fighting and a severe loss on both sides that the attack was finally repulsed.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Mounting the heights, I soon arrived at St. Etienne, a little village nearly on
+a level with the citadel, and not more than a quarter of a mile from its walls.
+From this point I could satisfy my curiosity to the full, and as the account
+may not, perhaps, be uninteresting, I shall describe, as well as I am able, the
+scene which here met my eyes.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+St. Etienne
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The ridge of little hills upon which the fort and village are built, though it
+rises by gentle gradation from the sea, towards the spot where I now stood, is
+nevertheless intersected and broken here and there by deep glens or ravines.
+Two of these glens, one to the right, the other to the left, chance to occur
+immediately under the ramparts of the fortress, supplying, in some measure, the
+purposes of a ditch, and leaving a sort of table or elevated neck of land
+between them, the extremity of which is occupied by the village. On this neck
+of land the besieged had constructed one of the redoubts to which I alluded as
+having been lately thrown up; whilst on another table, at the opposite side of
+the left ravine, which winds round in the direction of the wall, as nearly as
+if it were the work of art, stands the other redoubt. Beyond this, again, there
+is a perpendicular precipice, the hills there abruptly ending; so that on two
+sides the walls of the fort skirt the extremity of a bare rock. It was along
+the outer ridges of these ravines, and through the churchyard of St. Etienne,
+that our trenches were drawn, the village itself being the most advanced
+British post; and it was along these ridges, and in the street of this village,
+that the action of the 14th of April was fought.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It is not my business, neither indeed is it my intention, to relate here the
+particulars of that affair. The French, having contrived, in a dark night, to
+elude the vigilance of our sentinels, came upon the piquets unperceived, and
+took them completely by surprise. The battle was maintained on both sides with
+great determination, and had it not been for the unfortunate capture of Sir
+John Hope and the fall of General Hay, the assailants would have had little
+cause to rejoice at the result: for though the loss of the English was
+certainly great, that of the French was at least not inferior. Yet the business
+was an unfortunate one to both parties, since, before it took place, Buonaparte
+had already abdicated, and the preliminaries of peace were already signed
+between the two nations.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+I found the village, in which the fighting had been most obstinately
+maintained, in the condition of most villages where such dramas have been
+acted. The street had been barricaded, but the barricade was almost entirely
+torn down; the houses, trees, and church, like those we had passed upon the
+march, were covered with the marks of cannon and musket balls, whilst
+quantities of round and grape shot, of musket and pistol bullets, broken
+bayonets, swords, &amp;c. &amp;c., lay scattered about in every direction. Nor
+were these the only evidences of strife discernible. In many places&mdash;on
+the pavement of the street, in the churchyard, but above all, on the floor of
+the church itself, &mdash;the traces of blood were still distinctly visible.
+Beside the remains of the barricade there stood a solitary six-pounder, which
+had been taken and re-taken nine times during the struggle; and a sprinkling of
+what looked like a mixture of blood and brains still adhering to its carriage
+and breech, showed that it had never been given up without the most desperate
+resistance. The mounds, too, under which the dead were buried, presented a
+peculiarly striking appearance; for the field of action having been narrow,
+those that fell, fell in heaps together, and being buried in the same way, one
+was led to form an idea of greater slaughter than if double the number of
+graves had been distinguishable in a more extended space.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having now accomplished my wishes as far as I could, and beginning to feel
+somewhat fatigued with strolling about, I adjourned to an hotel in the city,
+from whence, in the evening, I went to the play. The house was poor and the
+performance miserable, consequently there was no great inducement to sit out
+the whole of the piece. After witnessing an act or two, therefore, I returned
+to the inn, where I slept, and at an early hour next morning rejoined my
+regiment, already under arms and making preparations for the continuance of the
+march.
+</p>
+
+<h3>MARCH THROUGH BAYONNE&mdash;TO ONDRES</h3>
+
+<p>
+As it would have been considerably out of our way to go round by the floating
+bridge<a href="#linknote-1" name="linknoteref-1"
+id="linknoteref-1"><sup>[1]</sup></a>, permission was applied for and granted,
+to pass directly through Bayonne. With bayonets fixed, band playing, and
+colours flying, we accordingly marched along the streets of that city; a large
+proportion of the garrison being drawn up to receive us, and the windows
+crowded with spectators, male and female, eager to behold the troops from whom
+not long ago they had probably expected a visit of a very different nature. The
+scene was certainly remarkable enough, and the transition from animosity to
+good-will as singular as it was sudden; nor do I imagine that it would be easy
+to define the sensations of either party, on being thus strangely brought n
+contact with the other. The females, indeed, waved their handkerchiefs, whilst
+we bowed and kissed our hands; but I thought I could discover something like a
+suppressed scowl upon the countenances of the military. Certain it is, that in
+whatever light the new state of affairs might be regarded by the great bulk of
+the nation, with the army it was by no means popular; and at this period they
+appeared to consider the passage of British troops through their lines as the
+triumphal entrance of a victorious enemy.
+</p>
+
+<p class="footnote">
+<a name="linknote-1" id="linknote-1"></a> <a href="#linknoteref-1">[1]</a>
+The bridge here alluded to was thrown across the Adour by the Duke of
+Wellington at the commencement of the siege. It was composed of a number of
+small fishing vessels fastened together with cords, and planked from one to
+another, the whole firmly moored about three miles below Bayonne. Whether the
+daringness of the attempt, or the difficulties surmounted in its completion, be
+considered, the construction of this bridge may be looked upon as one of the
+most extraordinary actions of that extraordinary man.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As soon as we had cleared the entrenchments of Bayonne, and got beyond the
+limits of the allied camps, we found ours in a country more peaceful and more
+picturesque than any we had yet traversed. There were here no signs of war or
+marks of violence. The cottages were covered with honeysuckle and roses, the
+gardens were blooming in the most perfect order; the corn was growing in great
+plenty and richness, and the vines were clustering round their poles like the
+hops in the gardens of Kent. It is impossible to describe the feeling of
+absolute refreshment which such a sight stirred up in men who, for so long a
+time, had looked upon nothing but ruin and devastation. It is true that with
+respect to grandeur, or even beauty, the scenery through which we now travelled
+was not to be compared with the sublime passes of the Pyrenees, or with many
+spots which we had beheld; but in truth, a hamlet uninjured and tenanted by its
+own rude peasantry, a field of Indian corn exhibiting no wasteful track of
+foragers, nay, a single cottage with its flowers and evergreens budding around
+it, was at this a more welcome object to our eyes than the wildest mountains or
+most romantic valleys displaying no habitations except white tents and no
+inhabitants except soldiers. For my own part I felt as if I had once more
+returned into the bosom of civilized and domestic life, after having been for
+many months a wanderer and a savage.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The road along which we proceeded had been made by Napoleon, and was remarkably
+good. It was sheltered, on each side, from the rays of the sun, by groves of
+cork-trees mingled with fir; by which means, though the day was overpoweringly
+hot, we did not suffer so much as we should otherwise have done. Our march was,
+therefore, exceedingly agreeable, and we came in, about noon, very little
+fatigued, to the village of Ondres, where the tents were pitched, and we
+remained till the morrow.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap03"></a>CHAPTER III.</h2>
+
+<h3>LES LANDES</h3>
+
+<p>
+The dawn was just beginning to appear, when the bugles sounded, and the tents
+were struck. For the first few leagues, our route to-day resembled that of
+yesterday, in almost every particular. There was the same appearance of
+peaceful quiet, the same delightful intermingling of woods, corn-fields,
+vineyards, and pasture; but we had not proceeded far, when a marked difference
+was perceptible; every step we trod, the soil became more and more sandy, the
+cultivation less frequent, and the wood more abundant, till at last we found
+ourselves marching through the heart of an immense forest of pines. We had
+diverged, it appeared, from the main road, which carries the traveller through
+a rich and open country, and were pursuing another through the middle of those
+deserts and savannahs which lie towards the coast; a district known by the name
+of les Landes. There was something, if not beautiful, at least new and striking
+in the scenery now around us. Wherever the eye turned, it was met by one wide
+waste of gloomy pine-trees; diversified, here and there, by the unexpected
+appearance of a modest hamlet, which looked as if it were the abode of some
+newly arrived settlers in a country hitherto devoid of human habitations.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Were I to continue the detail of a long march through these barren regions, I
+should soon fatigue, without amusing my reader: I shall, therefore, content
+myself with observing, that day after day the same dreary prospect presented
+itself, varied by the occasional occurrence of huge uncultivated plains, which
+apparently chequer the forest, at certain intervals, with spots of stunted and
+unprofitable pasturage; upon these there were usually flocks of sheep grazing,
+in the mode of watching which, the peasants fully evinced the truth of the old
+proverb, that necessity is the mother of invention. I do not know whether the
+practice to which I allude be generally known, but as it struck me as very
+remarkable, I shall offer no apology for relating it.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The whole of this district, as well where it is wooded, as where it is bare, is
+perfectly flat, containing scarcely a knoll or eminence any sort, as far as the
+eye can reach. In addition to this, the vast plains where the sheep are fed,
+many of which extend two or three leagues in every direction, produce not so
+much as a fir-tree, by climbing which, a man might see to any of its
+extremities: and the consequence is, that the shepherds are constantly in
+danger of losing their sheep, as one loses sight of a vessel at sea, in the
+distance. To remedy this evil, they have fallen upon a plan not more simple
+than ingenious; they all walk on stilts, exactly similar to those with which
+our school-boys amuse themselves; the only difference lying here, that whereas
+the school-boys&rsquo; stilts are with us seldom raised above ten or twelve
+inches from the ground, those of the French peasants are elevated to the height
+of six or eight feet.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+When we first caught a glimpse of these figures, it was in the dusk of the
+morning, and for awhile we were willing to persuade ourselves that the haze had
+deceived us, by seeming to enlarge bodies beyond their real dimensions. But
+when we looked at the trees, we saw them in their own proper size, nor could we
+suppose that the atmosphere would have an effect upon one object, which it had
+not upon another; yet there appeared to be no other way of accounting for the
+phenomenon, unless indeed this wild country were the parent of a race of
+giants, for the men whom we saw resembled moving towers rather than mortals. I
+need not observe that our astonishment was very great; nor, in was it much
+diminished when, on a nearer approach, we discovered the truth, and witnessed
+the agility with which they moved, and the ease with which, aided by the poles
+which each carried in his hand, they would stoop to the ground, pick up the
+article, and stand upright again. But if we admired the skill of one or two
+individuals, our admiration rose to a still higher pitch when we saw crowds of
+them together, all equally skilful; till they informed us that the thing was
+not an amusement, but universally practised for the purpose I have stated.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Besides this, I know of nothing in the customs of this isolated people at all
+worthy of notice, unless, indeed, it be their method of supplying themselves
+with lights. Being completely cut off from the rest of the world, it is not in
+their power, except when once or twice a-year they travel to the nearest towns
+with their wool, to purchase candles; and as they have no notion how these can
+be made, they substitute in their room a lamp, fed with the turpentine
+extracted from the fir-trees. The whole process is simple and primitive: to
+obtain the turpentine they out a hole in the tree, and fasten a dish in it to
+catch the sap as it oozes through; and as soon as the dish is filled, they put
+a wick of cotton into the midst of the liquor, and burn it as we do a lamp. The
+light is not indeed of the most brilliant nature, but it is at least better
+than none; and as they have fir-trees in abundance within their reach, there is
+no danger of their oil being quickly exhausted.
+</p>
+
+<h3>MARCH TO BORDEAUX</h3>
+
+<p>
+In this manner was an entire week expended, each succeeding day introducing us
+to a repetition of the same adventures, and a renewal of the same scenery,
+which had amused us during the day before; nor was it till the morning of the
+twenty-third that we at last began to emerge from the forests, and to find
+ourselves once again in a more open country. At first, however, it cannot be
+said that, with respect to beauty, the change was greatly for the better. Upon
+the borders of the deserts there is a little village called Le Barp, where we
+spent the night of the twenty-second; from whence, till you arrive at a place
+called Belle-Vue, the country is exactly in that state which land assumes when
+nature has begun to lose ground, and art to gain it&mdash;when the wild
+simplicity of the one is destroyed, and the rich luxuriance of the other has
+not yet been superinduced. So far, therefore, we proceeded, regretting, rather
+than rejoicing, that we had quitted the woods; but no sooner had we attained
+that point, than there burst upon us, all on a sudden, a prospect as gloriously
+fertile as ever delighted the eyes of a weary traveller.
+</p>
+
+<h3>BORDEAUX</h3>
+
+<p>
+Instead of boundless forests of pine, the whole face of the country was now
+covered with vineyards, interspersed, in the most exquisite and tasteful
+manner, with corn-fields and meadows of the richest pasturage. Nor was there
+any deficiency of timber; a well-wooded chateau, with its lawn and plantations,
+here and there presenting itself, while quiet hamlets and solitary cottages,
+scattered in great abundance over the scene, gave to it an appearance of life
+and prosperity exceedingly bewitching. Had there been but the addition of a
+fine river flowing through the midst of it, and had the ground been somewhat
+more broken into hill and dale, I should have pronounced it the most enchanting
+prospect of the kind I had ever beheld; but, unfortunately, both these were
+wanting. Though the effect of a first view, therefore, was striking and
+delightful, and though to the last we could not help acknowledging the richness
+of the land and its high state of cultivation, its beauty soon began to pall.
+The fact is, that an immense plain, however adorned by the labour of man, is
+not an object upon which it is pleasing to gaze for any length of time; the eye
+becomes wearied with the extent of its own stretch, and as there is no boundary
+but the horizon, the imagination is left to picture a continuance of the same
+plain, till it becomes as tired of fancying as the eye is of looking. Besides,
+we were not long in discovering that the vineyards were unworthy to be
+compared, in point of luxuriant appearance, with those of Spain and the more
+southern regions of France. In this neighbourhood the vine is not permitted to
+grow to a greater height than three or four feet from the ground; whereas in
+Spain, and on the borders, it climbs, like the hop-plant in England, to the top
+of high poles, and hangs over from one row to another, in the most graceful
+festoons. In spite of these objections, however, no one could do otherwise than
+admit that the change we had experienced was agreeable, and we continued to
+move on with greater alacrity, till it was evident, from the increasing number
+of seats and villas, that we were rapidly approaching the vicinity of Bordeaux.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Nor was it long before the towers and buildings of that magnificent city began
+to be discernible in the distance. Prompted by I know not what impulse, we
+almost involuntarily quickened our pace at the sight, and in a short time
+reached the suburbs, which like those of most French towns, are composed of low
+houses, inhabited by the poorest and meanest of the people. Here we halted for
+a few minutes to refresh the men, when having again resumed the line of march,
+we advanced under a triumphal arch, originally erected in honour of Napoleon,
+but now inscribed with the name of the Duke d&rsquo;Angouleme, and ornamented
+with garlands of flowers. Passing under this, we proceeded along one or two
+handsome streets, till we reached the Military Hospital, a large and commodious
+structure fitted up for the reception of several thousands of sick, where it
+was arranged that we should spend the night.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The city of Bordeaux has been too often described, and is too well known to my
+countrymen, in general, to render any particular account of it at all necessary
+from me; and were the case otherwise, I confess that my opportunities of
+examining it were not sufficient to authorize my entering upon such an attempt.
+The whole extent of our sojourn was only during the remainder of that day (and
+it was past noon before we got in) and the ensuing night; a space of time which
+admitted of no more than a hurried stroll through some of the principal
+streets, and a hasty visit to such public buildings as are considered most
+worthy of attention. The palace of the Duke d&rsquo;Angouleme, the Military
+Hospital, the Theatre, and the Cathedral, are all remarkably fine of their
+kind; whilst the public gardens, the Exchange, and fashionable promenades, are
+inferior only to those of Paris itself.
+</p>
+
+<h3>MACAU</h3>
+
+<p>
+I have said that our sojourn in Bordeaux was limited to the short space of a
+few hours. We could have wished indeed to prolong it, but to wish was needless,
+for at an early hour next morning we were again in motion, and proceeded to an
+extensive common, near the village of Macau, about three leagues from Bordeaux,
+where we found a considerable force already assembled. Judging from the number
+of tents upon the heath, I conceive that there could not be fewer than eight or
+ten thousand men in that camp, the whole of whom, we naturally concluded, were
+destined for the same service with ourselves. The sight was at once pleasing
+and encouraging, because there could be no doubt that such a force, ably
+commanded, would carry everything before it.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In this situation we continued, without the occurrence of any incident
+deserving of record, till the 27th, when an order arrived for the officers to
+dispose of their horses without delay. This was necessarily done at an enormous
+loss; and on the morning of the 28th, we set forward towards the point of
+embarkation. But, alas! in the numbers allotted for the trans-Atlantic war, we
+found ourselves grievously disappointed, since, instead of the whole division,
+only two regiments, neither of them surpassingly numerous, were directed to
+move; it was not our business, however, to question the wisdom of any measure
+adopted by our superiors; and we accordingly marched on in as high spirits as
+if we had been followed by the entire Peninsular army.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The remainder of our journey occupied two days, nor do I often remember to have
+spent a similar space of time with greater satisfaction; our route lay through
+some of the most fertile districts in France, passing Chateau Margaux, famous
+for its wine, with other places not inferior to it either in richness of soil
+or in beauty of prospect. The weather was delightful, and the grapes, though
+not yet ripe, were hanging in heavy bunches from the vines, giving promise of
+much wealth to come; the hay season had commenced, and numerous groups of
+happy-looking peasants were busy in every field; in short, it was a march upon
+which I shall never look back without pleasure.
+</p>
+
+<h3>LA MOE.&mdash;AT SEA</h3>
+
+<p>
+The close of the first day&rsquo;s progress brought us to a village called La
+Moe, beautifully situated within view of the majestic waters of the Garonne.
+Here, for the first time since we quitted Bayonne, were we quartered upon the
+inhabitants&mdash;a measure which the loss of our tents rendered necessary.
+They received us with so much frankness, and treated us with so much civility,
+I had almost said kindness, that it was not without a feeling of something like
+regret that we parted from them. The second day carried us to Pauliac, an
+inconsiderable town upon the banks of the same river, where we found boats
+ready to convey us to the shipping, which lay at anchor to receive us.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+To embark the troops in these boats, and to huddle them on board two dirty
+little transports, occupied some time, and the provoking part of the business
+was, that all this trouble was to be gone through again. The men-of-war in
+which we were to cross the Atlantic, could not come up so high for want of
+water; and on this account it was that transports were sent as passage-boats to
+carry us to them. But the wind was foul, and blew so strong that the masters
+would not venture to hoist a sail; so we were obliged to endure the misery of a
+crowd in a small vessel for two nights and a day; nor was it till past noon on
+the 31st, that the regiment to which I was attached found itself finally
+settled in His Majesty&rsquo;s ship &mdash;&mdash;&mdash;&mdash; of 64 guns.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap04"></a>CHAPTER IV.</h2>
+
+<h3>AT SEA</h3>
+
+<p>
+The land army, destined for the invasion of the United States, which took
+shipping at this period in the Garonne, consisted but of three battalions of
+infantry, the 4th, 44th, and 85th regiments; the two former mustering each
+about eight hundred bayonets, the last not more than six hundred. In addition
+to these, there were two officers of engineers, a brigade of artillery, a
+detachment of sappers and miners, a party of artillery drivers, with a due
+proportion of officers belonging to the Medical and Commissariat departments.
+The whole together could not be computed at more than two thousand five hundred
+men, if indeed it amounted to so great a number; and was placed under the
+command of Major-General Ross, a very gallant and experienced officer.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The fleet, again, consisted of the Royal Oak, of 74 guns, bearing the flag of
+Rear-Admiral Malcolm; the Diadem and Dictator, two sixty-fours, armed en flute;
+the Pomone, Menelaus, Trave, Weser, and Thames, frigates, the three last armed
+in the same manner as the Diadem and Dictator; the Meteor and Devastation,
+bomb-vessels; together with one or two gun-brigs, making in all a squadron of
+eleven or twelve ships of war, with several storeships and transports.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+On board the Royal Oak were embarked the General, with his staff, and the
+artillery; the Trave and Weser were filled with the 4th; the 44th were divided
+between the Dictator and the Thames, in the first of which ships were also the
+engineers; the 85th occupied the Diadem; and the rest were scattered through
+the fleet, partly in the men-of-war and partly in the transports.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As soon as the troops, with all their baggage, were finally settled in the
+vessels allotted for their accommodation, the signal was made to weigh; but the
+wind being adverse, and the navigation of the Garonne far from simple, it could
+not be obeyed with safety. Every thing, therefore, remained quiet till the
+evening of the 2nd of June, when the gale moderating a little, the anchors were
+raised and the sails hoisted. The tide was beginning to ebb when this was done,
+favoured by which the ships drifted gradually on their course; but before long,
+the breeze shifting, blew directly in their sterns, when they stood gallantly
+to sea, clearing the river before dark; and, as there was no lull during the
+whole of the night, by daybreak the coast of France was not to be discerned.
+All was now one wide waste of waters, as far as the eye could reach, bounded on
+every side by the distant horizon; a scene which, though at first it must
+strike with awe and wonder a person unaccustomed to it, soon becomes insipid,
+and even wearisome, from its constant sameness.
+</p>
+
+<h3>ST. MICHAEL&rsquo;S</h3>
+
+<p>
+The fair wind which carried us out of the Garonne continuing to blow without
+any interruption till the 19th of June, it was that day calculated, by
+consulting the log and taking observations, that the Azores, or Western
+Islands, could not be very distant. Nor, as it turned out, were these
+calculations incorrect; for, on ascending the deck next morning, the first
+object that met our eyes was the high land of St Michael&rsquo;s rising, like a
+collection of blue clouds, out of the water. With such a prospect before us our
+consternation may be guessed at, when we found ourselves deserted by the breeze
+which had hitherto so uniformly favoured us, and lying as motionless as logs,
+under the influence of a dead calm.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But the complaints to which we had begun to give utterance, were speedily
+changed again into rejoicings, for before mid-day the breeze once more
+freshened, and we approached every moment nearer and nearer to the object of
+our wishes. As soon, too, as we contrived to double the projecting headland
+which had attracted our attention in the morning, our course became productive
+of much interest and pleasure. We had neared the shore considerably, and were
+moving at a rate sufficiently rapid to prevent further repining, and at the
+same time slow enough to permit a distinct and calm survey of the beach, with
+the numerous villages, seats, and convents that adorned it.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The island of St. Michael is mountainous, even to the very edge of the water,
+but the heights, though lofty, do not present a rugged or barren appearance.
+Here and there, indeed, bare rocks push themselves into notice, but in general
+the ascent is easy, and the hills are covered to the tops with groves of
+orange-trees and beautiful green pasturage. Like other Portuguese settlements,
+this island abounds in religious houses, the founders of many of which do not
+appear to have been deficient in taste when they pitched upon situations for
+building. There was one of these in particular that struck me: it stood upon a
+sort of platform or terrace, about half-way between the sea and the summit of
+the mountain; above it were hanging woods, whether natural or artificial I
+cannot say, broken in upon here and there by projecting rocks; and round it
+were plantations of orange-trees loaded with fruit, and interspersed with
+myrtles and other odoriferous shrubs. Being greatly pleased with the mansion
+and the surrounding scenery, I naturally inquired from the pilot (for one had
+already come off to us) as to its use, and the quality of Its owner; and from
+him I learnt that it was a convent, I forget of what order,&mdash;a piece of
+intelligence which was soon confirmed by the sound of bells distinctly audible
+as we passed.
+</p>
+
+<h3>VILLA FRANCA.</h3>
+
+<p>
+In this manner we continued to coast along, being seldom at a greater distance
+than four or five miles from the land, till we came opposite to a small town
+called Villa Franca. Here, as the wind threatened to die away, several others
+and myself agreed to go onshore: a boat was accordingly lowered, and we pushed
+off from the ship; but the operation of landing did not prove to be altogether
+so simple as we had expected. An immense reef of rocks, some under water,
+others barely above it, but none distinguishable till we had almost run against
+them, opposed our progress; and it was not without considerable difficulty, and
+the assistance of the country people, who made signals to us from the beach,
+that we contrived to discover a narrow channel leading up to the strand.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having at length so far attained our wishes as to tread once more upon firm
+ground, the next thing to be done was to find out some inn, or house of public
+entertainment, where we might pass the night, a measure which the increasing
+darkness rendered necessary. In this, however, we were disappointed, the town
+of Villa Franca boasting of no such convenience on any scale. But we were not
+on that account obliged to bivouac; for the Alcalde, or mayor of the place,
+politely insisted upon our accompanying him home, and entertained us with great
+hospitality; nor, in truth, had we any cause to regret the unsuccessful issue
+of our inquiries, since, in addition to the good cheer with which we were
+presented, our host, being an intelligent person, did not fail to render
+himself an agreeable companion; and what contributed in no slight degree to the
+facility of our intercourse was, that though he assured us he had never quitted
+St. Michael&rsquo;s in his life, he spoke English with the fluency of a native.
+Among other pieces of information we learnt from him that the reef which
+impeded our progress towards the land, had formerly been an island. It
+appeared, he affirmed, one morning, in the most sudden and extraordinary
+manner, as if it had been thrown up by an earthquake during the night, and
+having continued so long above water as to embolden a single family of fishers
+to settle upon it, it disappeared again as suddenly as it had come, leaving no
+trace of its existence except the rocks which we had found so troublesome.
+Whether there be truth in this story, I cannot pretend to determine; and yet I
+see no reason to doubt the word of a man of respectability, who could have no
+motive whatever for deceiving us. But this was not all that we learnt from him
+respecting the reef. He declared that previous to the appearance of the island,
+the water in that very spot was unfathomable; and it was not till after it had
+sunk, that a single rock stood in the way to prevent the largest ship of war
+from anchoring within a stone&rsquo;s throw of the beach.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Finding our new acquaintance so civil and obliging, we naturally informed him
+of our intention to proceed next morning to Ponto del Gada, the principal town
+in St. Michael&rsquo;s, and requested his assistance in procuring some mode of
+conveyance; but we were startled by the intelligence that nothing of the kind
+could be had, and that there were not even horses or mules to be hired at any
+place nearer than the very town whither we were going. This was rather an
+alarming piece of news, for our boat had left us, the weather was too hot for
+walking, and the distance to be travelled full fifteen miles. Had we been
+prudent enough to detain our boat, the matter would have been easily managed,
+because we might have sailed round to the point where the fleet was to anchor;
+but this was no longer in our power, and being rather unwilling to pursue our
+journey on foot, we were altogether at a loss upon what course to determine.
+Whilst we thus hesitated, the Alcalde suggested that if we would condescend to
+ride upon asses, he thought he could obtain a sufficient number for our party;
+a proposal with which we gladly closed, prudently determining that any mode of
+being carried was better than walking. Leaving the arrangement of this affair,
+therefore, to our obliging friend, we retired to rest upon clean comfortable
+mattresses spread for us on the floor; and on waking in the morning, we found
+that he had not been negligent in the charge assigned to him. Our party
+consisted of five officers, with five servants, for whose accommodation we
+found ten asses at the door, each attended by its driver, who wielded a long
+pole tipped with an iron spike, for the purpose of goading the animal whenever
+it should become lazy.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was not without a good deal of laughing that the cavalcade, after bidding
+adieu to the hospitable Mayor, began to move forward. Our asses, of no larger
+size than ordinary English donkeys, were uncaparisoned, at least with bridles;
+and the saddles were neither more nor less than the pack-saddles upon which
+goods are transported to market. For our own comfort, therefore, we were
+obliged to sit a la femelle, and having no command over the heads of our
+steeds, we were content to be guided by the hallooing and punching of the
+drivers. In spite, however, of these inconveniences, if so they may be called,
+I shall never cease to congratulate myself on having been of the party, because
+the ride proved to be one of the most agreeable I remember at any time to have
+taken.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The road from Villa Franca to Ponto del Gada quits the water&rsquo;s edge, and
+turns, for a little way, inland, carrying you through a region as romantic and
+beautiful as can well be imagined. There are here no level plains, no smooth
+paths over which a landau or tilbury might glide, but, on the contrary, a
+rugged and stony track, sometimes leading down the face of steep hills,
+sometimes scaling heights which at the distance of a mile appear to be almost
+perpendicular, and sometimes winding along the side of a cliff, and by the edge
+of a fearful precipice. Except when you reach the summit of a mountain, the
+road is in general shaded by the richest underwood, hanging over it from above;
+but the whole aspect of the country is decidedly that of a volcanic production:
+the rocks seem to have been cast up and torn asunder by some prodigious
+violence, and hurled, by a force which nothing but a volcano could possess,
+into the most grotesque and irregular shapes. It is no uncommon thing to pass
+under a huge crag, leaning almost horizontally over the road, and bedded in the
+earth by a foundation apparently so slight, as to appear liable to fall every
+moment, precipitating the enormous mass upon the luckless wretch beneath. Nay,
+the very colour of the stones, and the quantity of what bears every resemblance
+to vitrification, scattered about, all tend to induce the, belief that the main
+island owes its formation to the same cause which doubtless produced the
+smaller one that has now disappeared.
+</p>
+
+<h3>ST. MICHAEL&rsquo;S</h3>
+
+<p>
+It is not, however, to be inferred from the above description that St.
+Michael&rsquo;s is nothing but a barren rock; far from it. There is, indeed, in
+this direction at least, a fair proportion of that commodity; but tracts of
+cultivated ground are not therefore wanting. I should not certainly suppose
+that the soil was remarkably rich in any part of the island; but it produces
+the fig, the orange-tree, and a grape from which the inhabitants make very
+tolerable wine; and there is excellent pasture for sheep, and a competent
+supply of grain. But that in which the Azores, and St. Michael&rsquo;s among
+the number, particularly excel, is the extreme salubrity of the climate. Lying
+in nearly the same degree of latitude with Lisbon, the intense heat which
+oppresses in that city is here alleviated by refreshing sea-breezes; by which
+means, though I believe there is no occasion at any season to complain of cold,
+it is only in the very height of the dog-days, if then, that a person, not
+actually engaged in violent exercise, is justified in complaining of
+sultriness.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The trade of St. Michael&rsquo;s, as far as I could learn, is confined
+exclusively to fruit: the fig and the orange are the staple commodities; and
+being both very abundant, they are, of course, proportionably cheap. Into the
+praise of a St. Michael&rsquo;s orange it is unnecessary for me to enter,
+because it is generally allowed to be the best with which the English market is
+supplied; but of the excellence of the St. Michael&rsquo;s fig, I am not sure
+that my countrymen in general are so much aware. It might be, that not having
+seen a fig for a considerable lapse of time, my appetite was peculiarly
+sharpened towards its good qualities, but it struck me that I never before
+tasted any so highly flavoured or so delicate. Besides these, they sell to
+vessels putting in, as we did, for water, some of the wine made in this and the
+neighbouring islands; but the quantity thus disposed of must be too
+inconsiderable to entitle it to be classed among the articles of merchandise.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+I find, however, that I am entering upon subjects in which I am but little
+versed, and digressing from my narrative. Let me return, then, to self, that
+beloved idol of all travellers, and state that, after we had ridden about six
+miles, the road, which had hitherto conducted us along a narrow glen, where the
+vision was intercepted on both sides, now carried us to the summit of a lofty
+mountain, from whence we enjoyed the satisfaction of an extensive prospect,
+both of the sea and of the interior. Looking towards the former, we beheld our
+own fleet bearing down majestically upon Ponto del Gada, and fast approaching
+the anchorage. Turning our eyes inland again, we were delighted with a view of
+mountain and valley, rock and culture, wood and pasturage, intermingled in the
+most exquisite degree of irregularity; but what principally attracted our
+attention was a thick dark smoke rising slowly from the summit of a high hill
+that bounded the prospect. Our curiosity being excited by this phenomenon, we
+inquired from our guides into its cause, and were informed that the mountain in
+question was a volcano, and that at its base and along its sides were hot
+springs of water, of a temperature sufficient to boil an egg in three minutes.
+This piece of intelligence confirmed me in my former opinion relative to the
+operative cause in the production of these islands; though, indeed, had such
+evidence been wanting, I should have equally concluded, either that they were
+thrown up, in their present form, from the bottom of the sea, or at least that
+they were torn asunder from one another by the force of fire. It must be
+confessed, however, that mine is the opinion of one who has devoted little of
+his attention to geology; but I would by all means advise the disciples of
+Werner to come hither, if they desire further helps in the prosecution of that
+very interesting and practically useful study.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap05"></a>CHAPTER V.</h2>
+
+<p>
+Descending the mountain, on which we had paused for a few minutes to feast our
+eyes and satisfy our curiosity, we arrived at a small hamlet, or rather a group
+of two or three hovels, as romantically situated as it is possible for the
+imagination of man to conceive. They stood at the further end of a sort of
+recess, formed by the hills, which are here broken into a circular valley, cut
+off, to all appearance, from the rest of the habitable world; behind them rose
+a towering crag, as perpendicular as the drop of a plummet, from the top of
+which a little rivulet came tumbling down, giving to the scene an appearance of
+the most delightful coolness, and amusing the ear with the unceasing roar of a
+waterfall. From the very face of the cliff, where there seemed to be scarcely
+soil enough to nourish a thistle, numerous shrubs and dwarf trees protruded
+themselves; whilst above it, and on every side of the area, the hills were
+covered with wood, interrupted now and then by the bald forehead of a blackened
+rock. In front of the hamlet again, there was an opening sufficient to admit
+the most delicious glimpse of the ocean; and through this the stream, after
+boiling for awhile in a little basin, which it has excavated for itself out of
+what resembles the foundation of the cliff, makes its way, brawling over a
+clear pebbly bottom, till it joins the sea.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+This paragon of valleys burst upon us as such scenes, to be witnessed with
+advantage, ought to do, without the slightest warning or expectation. The road
+by which we approached it, being completely shut in with wood, and winding
+considerably to aid the descent, brought us out nearly at the gorge of the
+vale, so as to throw the hamlet, the cliff, and the waterfall into the
+background; and as the whole was of such extent as to be taken in at one
+glance, the effect was striking beyond anything of the kind I ever witnessed.
+It is but natural to suppose that we had no desire to hurry through such a glen
+as this; and seeded not the additional motive which the weariness of our
+donkeys afforded, to persuade us to a temporary halt. Giving the animals,
+therefore, to the care of their owners, we dismounted, and went into some of
+the cabins, the inhabitants of which appeared to be as simple as the situation
+of their abodes had prepared us to expect. The men were all goatherds, and the
+women seemed to be as idle as their countrywomen in Portugal, sitting at the
+doors of their houses, surrounded by groups of half-naked and filthy-looking
+children. If it be fair to judge from their dress and the furniture of their
+hovels, they were miserably poor, though perfectly contented; they did not ask
+us for money, but astonished, I suppose, at the glaring colour of our coats,
+they were very inquisitive to know who we were and whence we had come. The
+English, the French, and the Portuguese seemed to be the only three nations of
+whose existence they had any knowledge; and having been assured, in answer to
+their first question, that we were not French, they immediately added,
+&ldquo;Then you must be English.&rdquo; They did not appear, however, to be
+without some degree of cunning, for as long as we paused in replying to their
+query, they were silent; but no sooner had we answered in the negative than
+they launched forth into the most violent invectives against the French;
+convincing us that the animosity of the mother-country towards its barbarous
+invaders was not more implacable than that of the colonies.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having loitered away half an hour in this romantic spot, and distributed a few
+dollars among its inhabitants, we remounted our steeds and continued our
+journey. The remainder of the ride carried us through scenery very similar to
+what we had already passed; the only difference was, that the nearer we
+approached to Ponto del Gada the more frequent became the spots of cultivation,
+the width and smoothness of the road improving in proportion; till at last,
+when we had attained the brow of an eminence, from whence the town with its
+port and bay were distinguishable, we looked down upon an extensive valley,
+richly covered with fields of standing corn. Quickening our pace, we soon
+entered the capital of St. Michael&rsquo;s, and were conducted by the drivers
+to a good hotel, kept by an Englishwoman of the name of Currie, where we found
+every accommodation which we could desire, at a very moderate expense.
+</p>
+
+<h3>PONTO DEL GADA</h3>
+
+<p>
+As we had started at an early hour from Villa Franca, the clocks were just
+striking ten when we alighted at Mrs. Currie&rsquo;s hotel; consequently, there
+was a long day yet before us, in which we might see everything that was to be
+seen in the place. Having discharged our muleteers, therefore, who seemed
+overjoyed at the receipt of one dollar a-piece, swallowed a hasty breakfast,
+and made ourselves somewhat comfortable, we lost no time in setting out upon a
+stroll of examination and discovery.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Ponto del Gada is, on the whole, rather a neat town, containing from twelve to
+fourteen thousand inhabitants; but being built, especially in the outskirts,
+without much regard to compactness, it covers more ground than many places of
+double the amount in population. It stands upon a little bay, formed by two
+projecting headlands, and can boast of a tolerable harbour excellent roadstead.
+In its immediate vicinity the country a more uniformly level than any I had yet
+observed; the vale extending to the distance of four or five miles on every
+side, had ending in an amphitheatre of low green hills, which resemble
+appearance, the downs as they are seen from Eastbourne in Sussex. The whole of
+this flat is in a state of high cultivation, being cleared, perhaps too
+completely, of wood, and portioned off into different fields and parks by
+hedges and stone walls. Judging from the appearance of the crops, I should
+conceive that the soil was here of some depth, as well as fertility, the whole
+valley being covered with wheat, barley, and Indian corn. And in truth, if the
+aspect of the country beyond the downs, where rocks tower one above another in
+rude and barren grandeur, furnish a legitimate criterion by which to determine
+respecting the general fertility of the island, I should be almost tempted to
+believe that the whole industry of its people has been expended upon this spot,
+simply because it was the only one capable of rewarding it. I was assured,
+however, by the natives, that such is not the case; and that, in the interior,
+and towards the opposite coast, the rugged magnificence of mountain scenery
+gives place to a more profitable though less picturesque champaign.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The principal streets of Ponto del Gada are paved, and kept once cool and clean
+by a. constant sprinkling of water, which is the business of two or three men
+stationed at pumps within obtain distance of one another, to scatter over them.
+Of the by-streets little can be said in praise, they being, like those of other
+Portuguese towns, composed of mean cottages, unpaved, and extremely dirty.
+There is, however, an air of elegance given to the town, particularly when
+looked at from a distance, by the intermixture of orange-groves among the
+houses; the largest of these, wherever they happen to stand, being, in general,
+surrounded by extensive gardens, all of which are abundantly stocked with that
+graceful and odoriferous plant. Add to this the number of towers and spires
+with which its numerous churches and convents are supplied, and the first
+aspect of the whole may be conceived to be extremely striking and imposing.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As soon as we had taken a hurried survey of the streets, the next object of
+attention was the religious houses. In these there was but little to admire,
+the architecture being of the plainest kind, and even the chapels as much
+wanting in ornament as can be imagined. There were, indeed, in most of them
+some trifling attempts at carved work and gilding upon the roof, a little
+stained glass, neither rich nor ancient, in the windows, and a few tawdry
+pictures suspended above the altars; but the general appearance was decidedly
+that of buildings which did not even aim at beauty or grandeur. The monks we
+found a good-natured, obliging set of men, very willing to give us any
+information in their power; by one of whom we were fortunate enough to be
+conducted through a convent of Augustine friars. Into their mode of living it
+is not to be supposed that we could obtain much insight. It seemed, however, to
+be less indolent than that of some convents which we had visited in the old
+country, and approached proportionably nearer to a college life among
+ourselves; though it must be admitted that the fellows and undergraduates of
+Oxford and Cambridge have a better notion of both comfort and elegance than the
+Augustine friars of St. Michael&rsquo;s. Of the nuns we of course saw nothing,
+excepting through the grates. We found them full of curiosity, and eager to
+know as much as they could learn of the world from which they were excluded;
+but quite as fond of flirting as any set of young ladies at a boarding-school.
+It was amusing to observe their mode of begging, for all the nuns in this part
+of the world are licensed beggars. The younger and fairer members of the
+sisterhood came to the grate first; chatted, sung, and presented us with
+artificial flowers, and then retiring, made way for the old and the ugly, who
+requested a little money for the good of our souls and their bodies. To
+solicitations thus expressed it was impossible to turn a deaf ear, and the
+consequence was, that we soon discovered it to be quite as expensive an
+amusement to flirt with a nun, as with any other belle in London or elsewhere.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Besides the churches and convents, amounting in all to not fewer than nine,
+there is a fort erected for the protection of the harbour, which we likewise
+endeavoured to see, but were prevented by the sentinel at the gate, who refused
+us admittance. The disappointment, however, was not great, as it was easy to
+perceive, from its outward appearance, that the fort could possess few points
+worthy of observation; and, indeed, we attributed the reluctance evinced in
+admitting strangers to its utter uselessness as a place of defence.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+To describe all this occupies but a small portion of time; but to see it was
+the laborious employment of an entire day. Wearied out at length with my
+exertions, and not feeling much rewarded, at least for the latter part of my
+trouble, I returned in the evening to the hotel, where, as the ships were still
+at anchor, taking on board water and fresh provisions, I ventured to spend the
+night.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having thus discovered that there was little in the works of art, and a great
+deal in those of nature, throughout St. Michael&rsquo;s, to interest the
+traveller, a friend and myself determined to set off next morning on a visit to
+the volcano. With this design we ordered asses, for asses are the only animals
+for hire, to be in readiness by daybreak; and finding them in waiting at the
+time appointed, we took a guide with us and pushed forward in the direction of
+the dark smoke. The mountain with its crater being distinctly visible from
+Ponto del Gada, we took it for granted the distance between the two places
+could not exceed twelve or fourteen miles; but, on inquiring of our guide, we
+learned that the nearest road would carry us at least twenty-seven miles from
+the town. This was at once a startling and unpleasant piece of intelligence,
+affecting our arrangements in no trifling degree. To proceed was dangerous,
+because, mounted as we were, to go and return in one day was impossible; and,
+if we remained so far from the shipping during the night, the fleet might sail
+before we should be able to get back. On the the other hand, to give up our
+design, and quit a country where a volcano was to be seen, without seeing it,
+appeared rather a mortifying prospect. After weighing for a few minutes the
+chances on both sides, I shall not say with the utmost impartiality, curiosity
+finally prevailed over apprehension; and, in order to prevent any further
+repentance and consequent change of mind, we put our donkeys into a gallop, and
+hurried on as fast as they could carry us. But the speed of the asses and our
+own venturous determination proved, after all, equally unavailing; for, on
+gaining the summit of the downs, and looking back upon the fleet, we beheld, to
+our great sorrow, the signal for sailing displayed at the topmasts of all the
+ships. Mortified at our disappointment, and at the same time rejoicing that we
+had got no farther on our journey, we were compelled to turn our asses&rsquo;
+heads, and to retrace our steps towards Ponto del Gada, where we found
+everything in the bustle and confusion of a re-embarkation. The beach was
+covered with sailors, soldiers, bullocks, and casks of fresh water, hurrying,
+and being hurried, indiscriminately into the boats which had arrived to take
+them off. The townspeople were running about upon the strand, some offering
+their skiffs to convey the officers on board the ships, some helping to swing
+the bullocks into the barges, and others shouting and hallooing apparently from
+the disinterested love of noise. In short, it was a scene of great liveliness
+and bustle, perhaps rather too much so to be agreeable.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Seeing this universal eagerness to reach the fleet, we, like the rest, threw
+ourselves into the first boat we could approach, and in a short time found
+ourselves on board our own ship. But here a very tantalizing piece of
+intelligence awaited us, for we learnt that, in spite of all this show of
+preparation, the Admiral had not begun to weigh anchor; and that no intention
+of moving was entertained, at soonest, before the morrow. The opportunity,
+however, was lost; it could not be recovered, and we were obliged to submit as
+cheerfully as we could, though it was impossible to help regretting, what had
+at first been a source of consolation, the circumstance of our having caught a
+view of the signal at the time we did. But, as the event proved, all had turned
+out for the best; for on the day following the signal was again repeated; and
+by way of giving additional weight to it, the Admiral began to shake loose his
+topsails. Nor did it prove, like that of yesterday, a false alarm. By mid-day,
+the victualling and watering being complete, the fleet immediately began to get
+under weigh; and, as the wind blew fair and fresh, before dark the mountains of
+St. Michael&rsquo;s could be seen only like a thin vapour in the sky. Next
+morning nothing but the old prospect of air and water met the gaze, as we stood
+our course, at a rapid rate, towards Bermuda.
+</p>
+
+<h3>AT SEA</h3>
+
+<p>
+The voyage from St. Michael&rsquo;s to Bermuda occupied the space of almost an
+entire month, the first having been lost sight of on the 27th of June, and it
+being the 24th of July before the low shores of the last could be discerned. It
+was, however, a passage of more interest and productive of more variety than
+that from Bordeaux to the Azores. We had now arrived within the influence of
+the tropical climate, and were not unfrequently amused with water-spouts, and
+other phenomena peculiar to warm regions. The flying-fish, likewise, and its
+pursuer, the dolphin, afforded at least something to look at; whilst many idle
+hours were whiled away in attempts to catch or strike the latter with harpoons.
+In these we were not always unsuccessful, consequently we enjoyed several
+opportunities of watching the change of colour which that fish undergoes whilst
+it is dying; and though the description generally given of it is certainly
+indebted in some degree to the imagination of voyagers, I must confess that the
+transitions from blue to purple, and from purple to green, with all their
+intermediate shades, are extremely beautiful. When the fish is in the water, it
+is by no means remarkable for brilliancy of hue, and as soon as it is dead it
+returns to its original colour&mdash;a dingy sea-green; but whilst it is
+floundering and flapping upon the deck, it is impossible to say what is its
+real appearance, so many and so different are the hues which it assumes. Nor
+did we escape without the occasional occurrence of a less agreeable species of
+variety; I mean squalls, thunder-storms, and whirlwinds. As we approached
+Bermuda, indeed, these became too frequent to excite any interest beyond an
+earnest desire that they would cease: but while we were yet a good way off, and
+the incident rare, they were witnessed with more of admiration than terror.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Besides these amusements with which nature supplied us, we were not backward in
+endeavouring to amuse ourselves. Being now pretty well accustomed to the
+atmosphere of a ship, we began to consider ourselves at home, and to give balls
+and other public entertainments through the fleet. One of these I shall take
+leave to describe, because I am sure it must interest from its novelty. On the
+19th of July, at an early hour in the morning, a signal was made from the Royal
+Oak, that the Admiral would be happy to see the officers of the fleet on board
+his ship that evening. Boats were accordingly sent off from the different
+vessels, loaded with visitors; and on mounting the gangway, a stage, with a
+green curtain before it, was discovered upon the quarter-deck. The whole of the
+deck, from the poop to the mainmast, was hung round with flags, so as to form a
+moderate-sized theatre; and the carronades were removed from their port-holes,
+in order to make room for the company. Lamps were suspended from all parts of
+the rigging and shrouds, casting a brilliant light upon this singular
+playhouse; and the crew, arrayed in their best attire, crowded the booms,
+yards, and fore part of the deck; whilst the space from the mainmast to the
+foot of the stage was set with benches for the more genteel part of the
+audience.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At seven o&rsquo;clock the curtain drew up, and discovered a scene painted with
+such taste as would not have disgraced any theatre in London. The play was the
+&lsquo;Apprentice,&rsquo; with the &lsquo;Mayor of Garret&rsquo; as an
+afterpiece, performed by the officers of the ship and of the artillery, and
+went off in high style, applauded, as it deserved to be applauded, with the
+loudest acclamations. The quarter-deck of a British line-of-battle ship has
+often enough been a stage for the exhibition of bloody tragedies; but to
+witness a comedy and a farce upon that stage, and in the middle of the Atlantic
+Ocean, was delightful from its very singularity. When the performance came to
+an end, the stage was knocked down, the seats removed, and everything cleared
+for dancing. The music was excellent, being composed of the band of the Royal
+Oak; and the ball was opened by Admiral Malcolm and the Honourable Mrs.
+Mullens, in a country dance, followed by as many couples as the space would
+permit; the greater number of officers dancing, as necessity required, with one
+another. In this amusement every person, from the Admiral and General, down to
+the youngest ensign and midshipman, joined, laying aside for the time all
+restraint or form of discipline; and having kept it up with great spirit till
+considerably beyond midnight, a blue light was hoisted as a signal for the
+different boats to come off for the strangers, and each returned to his own
+ship highly gratified with the evening&rsquo;s entertainment.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap06"></a>CHAPTER VI.</h2>
+
+<h3>BERMUDA</h3>
+
+<p>
+By employing ourselves in this manner, and by keeping up what is emphatically
+called a good heart, we contrived to pass out time agreeably enough. As often
+as the weather would permit, and the fleet lay well together, we made parties
+of pleasure to the different ships; when the wind was too high, and the fleet
+too much scattered for such proceedings, we remained at home, and amused
+ourselves in the best way we could. Some of the captains, and ours among the
+number, were possessed of very tolerable libraries, the doors of which they
+politely threw open for the benefit of their military guests; and thus, by
+reading, fishing, and boating, we were enabled to make head, with some success,
+against the encroachments of ennui. It must be confessed, however, that in
+spite of strenuous efforts to the contrary, that determined enemy of all idle
+persons was beginning to gain ground upon us, when, about mid-day on the 24th
+of July, a cry of land was heard from the mast-head. All eyes were immediately
+turned in the direction to which the sailor pointed, and as wind blew fair and
+moderately fresh, no great length of time before the same object was
+distinguishable from the deck. A signal was immediately hoisted for a pilot,
+who lost no time in coming off to us; and before dark we were at anchor
+opposite to the tanks in Bermuda.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The appearance of Bermuda is altogether as different from that of St.
+Michael&rsquo;s as one thing can be from another. Whilst the last, with its
+lofty mountains and bold shores, can be seen at the distance of many leagues, a
+ship must be within a few miles of the first before the slightest symptom of
+land is discernible. On this account it is that mariners find greater
+difficulty in making Bermuda than perhaps any other island or continent in the
+known world; the most experienced seaman frequently sailing past it, and not a
+few suffering shipwreck every year upon its numerous shoals and rocks. For not
+only is the land itself low, and thus apt to be run against by vessels which
+may have approached in stormy weather too near to put about, but for many miles
+round, reefs of sunken rocks stretch out into the sea in every direction;
+insomuch, that even the approach to the principal anchorage is no more than a
+narrow channel between two reefs, in many places scarcely exceeding a mile or a
+mile and a half in width. The navigation, even in calm weather, is therefore
+attended with considerable danger; the idea of which is greatly heightened by
+the remarkable clearness of the water and the peculiar brightness of the rocks.
+In some places this is so much the case, that the bottom may be seen at the
+depth of six or seven fathoms; whilst the aspect of the reefs which lie on each
+side, as you steer towards the anchorage, is such, as almost to persuade you,
+contrary to the evidence of reason, that a man might leap upon them from a boat
+without incurring the danger of being wet above the knees. Yet these very reefs
+are seldom covered with less than six, and sometimes with fourteen and fifteen
+feet of water.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Low as they are, the shores of Bermuda are nevertheless extremely beautiful.
+They are covered with cedar, a tree which here, at least, seldom exceeds the
+height of twenty feet, and from which, before the sun has risen and after he
+has set, the land breeze comes loaded with the most delicious perfume. Under
+the wood there grows a rich short turf, apparently struggling to spread itself
+over the chalky rocks, of which the entire island, or rather islands, seem to
+be composed; and, as the houses of the better orders are chiefly built within
+reach of the cool air from the water, they, with their little lawns and
+gardens, produce a lively and pleasing effect.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As darkness had come on before the ship could be properly moored, no boats were
+permitted to leave her that night; but at an early hour next morning I embraced
+the first opportunity of going on shore. To reach St. George&rsquo;s, the
+capital of the colony, you are obliged to row for several miles up a narrow
+frith called the ferry, immediately on entering which the scenery becomes in
+the highest degree picturesque. Though still retaining its character of low,
+the ground on each side looks as if it were broken into little swells, the
+whole of them beautifully shaded with groves of cedar, and many of them crowned
+with country-houses as white as the drifted snow. But the fact is, that this
+appearance of hill and dale is owing to the prodigious number of islands which
+compose the cluster; there being in all, according to vulgar report, not fewer
+than three hundred and sixty-five, of which the largest exceeds not seven or
+eight miles in diameter. Yet it is only when you follow what at first you are
+inclined to mistake for a creek or the mouth of a river, that you discover the
+absence of valleys from between these hills; and even then you are more apt to
+fancy yourself upon the bosom of a lake studded with islets, than steering amid
+spots of earth which stand, each of them distinct, in the middle of the
+Atlantic Ocean.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In the town of St. George&rsquo;s there is nothing to be seen at all worthy of
+record. It consists of about fifty or sixty houses, the glare from which, as
+they are all built of the chalk stone, is extremely dazzling to the eyes. It is
+called the capital, because here the court-house stands and the magisterial
+sittings are held; but in point of size, and, as far as I could learn, in every
+other respect, it is greatly inferior to Hamilton, another town at the opposite
+extremity of the cluster, which I did not visit. A little way from St.
+George&rsquo;s, and on the summit of a bare rock, stand the barracks, fitted up
+for the accommodation of a thousand men; and about a mile and a half beyond
+them are the tanks, well worth the notice of travellers. The object of this
+work is to catch and preserve the rain&mdash;a measure which the total
+deficiency of fresh springs throughout the colony renders absolutely necessary.
+There are, indeed, wells dug upon the beach, but the water in these is nothing
+more than sea-water, filtered and rendered brackish in making its way through
+the sand, and by no means fit to be used, at least in any quantity. To supply
+this deficiency, the bad effects of which were experienced in the unhealthiness
+of many of the crews upon the American station, Government was induced to build
+these tanks; consequently the water contained in them is the property of the
+king, and none but king&rsquo;s ships, with the troops in garrison, are
+permitted, except in extreme cases, to be supplied from thence.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The climate of Bermuda has been extolled by many, and among the rest by Mr.
+Moore in his odes and epistles, as salubrious and delightful. It is possible
+that he, and the rest of its eulogists, may have visited these islands at a
+season of the year different from that in which I visited them, but to me the
+heat was beyond measure oppressive. Lying, as they do, under the influence of a
+vertical sun, and abounding in all directions with cliffs of white chalk, it is
+obvious that the constant reflection of the sun&rsquo;s rays thereby occasioned
+must be quite overpowering. If these panegyrists mean to say, that as long as
+you contrive to keep in the shade, and take care not to stir abroad till after
+sunset, you will find the Bermudas deserving of their title of summer-islands,
+then I will agree with them; but I believe there is no man who ever walked the
+street of St. George&rsquo;s at noon, or any other spot where the sun-beams
+could reach him, that did not consider the heat as anything rather than
+temperate.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But whatever may be thought of the climate, there can, I think, be but one
+opinion as to the soil. It is generally admitted that there is no more
+unproductive spot of earth upon the face of the deep than Bermuda. The only
+animals which appear to thrive are the goat and the duck; the cedar and a few
+calabash-trees are the only wood, and, except the most common kinds of
+vegetables, such as cabbages, onions, and sweet potatoes; I know of hardly
+another thing brought to perfection, even in the gardens. The fruits which a
+stranger may meet with are no doubt delicious, since among them he will find
+the shaddock and the pine-apple; but for these, as well as for almost all their
+other comforts and luxuries, the Bermudians are indebted to the continent of
+America or to the West Indies. Whether this be owing to the natural sterility
+of the soil, or to the extreme indolence of the inhabitants, I cannot pretend
+to decide; though I should be inclined to suspect that both were, in some
+degree, to blame; but its consequences are felt by all visitors, in a very
+sensible manner, every article of living being here sold for thrice its
+intrinsic value. That provisions should be dear in this country cannot
+surprise, when it is considered that this small colony is the general depot and
+place of resort for repairs and stores to a large proportion of the British
+navy, scattered along the coast of America; but, surely, if the natives were a
+little more industrious, they might afford to sell their goods at a cheaper
+rate, and at the same time secure an equal, if not a greater profit. But their
+indolence is beyond all conception, and can be attributed only to, what I
+believe is its real cause, the facility with which they acquire fortunes, from
+men who are necessitated to give whatever they demand for the most trifling
+article. The poorest and meanest freeman upon the island never dreams of
+applying his own hand, or even his own head, to the cultivation of the ground;
+and being abundantly supplied with negro slaves, they leave everything, even
+the care of providing necessaries for themselves, to the industry of that
+ill-used race. I may perhaps be considered as expressing myself with too much
+severity towards the Bermudians, but, in truth, I repeat only what I was told
+by some of themselves; nor did I, from my own personal observation, discover
+any cause to question the veracity of my informers.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In the praise bestowed by Mr. Moore upon the beauty of these regions, I do,
+however, most cordially join. There is something bewitchingly pretty, for
+pretty is perhaps the most appropriate epithet to be used, in every one of the
+many views which you may obtain from different points. The low and elegant
+cedar, the green short turf, the frequent recurrence of the white and dazzling
+rock, the continual rise and fall of the numerous small islands, but above all,
+the constant intermingling of land and water, seem more like a drawing of fairy
+land than a reality. There is nothing grand, nothing imposing, or calculated to
+excite any feeling bordering upon the awful, throughout the whole; but it is
+soft, gentle, and exquisitely pleasing.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having spent the day at St. George&rsquo;s, I returned on board to sleep; and
+on the morrow removed, with my baggage, to a transport then lying at anchor
+within the ferry, which was thenceforth to be my head-quarters. Thither my
+friend Grey also removed, and as our ship was well stored, and its commander
+civil and accommodating, we had no reason to complain of any suffering
+consequent upon our change of residence.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It will be readily believed that a very small portion of our time was now
+wasted on board ship; for economy&rsquo;s sake we usually slept there, because
+at the inn the charge for beds, as well as for everything else, was enormous;
+but all the hours of daylight were devoted to rowing round the different
+islands, and climbing the different eminences, from whence the most extensive
+prospects were to be obtained. Among other curiosities, we were informed of two
+caves in one of the little isles, distant about four or five miles from the
+place where we lay. Being assured that they were highly deserving of notice, we
+determined to visit them; and setting off one evening for that purpose, we
+reached the spot which had been pointed out to us a little before dark. We
+fastened the boat to the stump of a tree, and were proceeding towards the
+caves, when a fine manly voice, singing one of the Irish melodies, attracted
+our attention. Being rather curious to discover who, in this extramundane
+place, had learnt to sing with so much taste, we followed the direction of the
+sound, till we came upon a party sitting under the shade of a tent, and, like
+ourselves, enjoying the cool of the evening; on perceiving us, some of them
+came forward, and the satisfaction was mutual when we recognised one another as
+old acquaintances. They urged us to relinquish our design, and to partake of
+their good cheer, with which, as the hour was late, we had small reluctance in
+complying; and it was agreed, that instead of going on without proper guides,
+and at so unseasonable a time, we should breakfast together at the same spot in
+the morning, and proceed in a body to examine the caverns. Here, therefore, we
+remained till the moon had risen, when we returned to our boat, and sailed back
+to the ship.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Next morning everything was prepared for the expedition, but a heavy squall
+coming on, prevented us from setting out as early as we had intended; as soon,
+however, as this blew over, we took to our boat, and reached the place of
+rendezvous in time to share the remains of a good breakfast which our friends
+had prepared for themselves and us. When our meal was finished, we supplied
+ourselves with torches from some dry branches of the calabash-tree, and, headed
+by a guide, moved towards the mouth of the nearest and largest of the two
+caves. We descended into this by a ladder of sixteen steps, and arrived upon a
+broad ledge of rock, where we halted for a few minutes to light the torches,
+and accustom our vision to the gloom; when, both of these ends being attained,
+we advanced a few paces into the cave, and a sight of the most indescribable
+sublimity burst upon us. The appearance was that of a huge Gothic cathedral,
+having its roof supported upon pillars of spar, moulded into the most regular
+shapes, and fluted and carved after the most exact models of architecture. The
+roof itself was indeed too lofty to be discerned, nor could the eye penetrate
+to anything like an extremity, all beyond a certain extent being wrapped in the
+most profound darkness; but the flashes of light which at intervals streamed
+out, as the glare of the torches fell upon pieces of spar as clear as crystal,
+and the deep echo of our own voices as we spoke, inspired us with a feeling of
+awe bordering upon superstition. It is in such a situation as this, that the
+poverty of the mightiest monument of human art becomes conspicuous. The most
+magnificent churches and abbeys, with their sculptured pillars and vaulted
+ceilings, were thought of as mean in comparison of what was now before us;
+indeed, I for one could not help imagining that these very churches and abbeys
+had been built in humble imitation of this, which looked like a temple reared
+by some beings more powerful than men. It seemed a shrine worthy of the genii
+of old, while yet they were in the zenith of their glory, ere they had been
+driven from their thrones and oracles of darkness by the light of Christianity.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As we moved onward we found the sides of the cave gradually narrow upon us, and
+the roof become lower and lower. There was, however, a continuance of the same
+fane-like appearance to the last, though growing more and more contracted;
+till, finally, we were compelled to advance one by one, and to stoop in order
+to prevent our heads from coming into contact with the rock. We had proceeded
+as far as it was possible to proceed with any degree of comfort, and were
+informed by the guide that we were upwards of three hundred yards from the
+entrance, when we found it expedient to wheel about, and to return to the open
+air. But the effect of so sudden a change from darkness to light was
+exceedingly disagreeable; insomuch that we hastened into the smaller cave, as
+well for the purpose of deferring the moment of suffering as to continue our
+search after the sublime.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The entrance to this cavern is extremely dangerous, and not to be ventured upon
+without either a trusty guide or a thorough knowledge of the ground. After
+descending a ladder, not quite so deep as that which leads into the larger
+cave, we arrived at the brink of a fearful chasm, across which a flat stone,
+about two feet in width, was laid, connecting the edges by a bridge four or
+five feet in length. To what depth the chasm may reach, the guide could not
+inform us; but that it is considerable we discovered by dropping a large stone,
+which we could hear for some time as it dashed against the projecting edges of
+the rock, and at length splashed with a tremendous echo into water. The man
+maintained that the sea beat under the foundation of the island as far as the
+spot where we now stood, and his story was rendered at least probable by the
+number of pools of salt water which we met with in the interior of the cave.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+After having visited the larger cavern, this certainly appeared to
+disadvantage; though in truth it is in its dimensions only that the one can be
+pronounced inferior to the other. The spar is equally clear and proportionably
+as abundant in both: the pillars are quite as regularly formed, and the lesser
+has an advantage over its rival in two or three broken columns, which give to
+it the semblance of a temple in ruins. There is also in this cave a strange
+propinquity of salt and fresh water pools, the situation of two of which struck
+me as peculiarly curious. They were divided from each other by a piece of rock
+not much thicker than a man&rsquo;s hand; and yet the water from the one tasted
+as if it had been taken from the German Ocean, whilst that from the other was
+as fresh and pleasant as possible.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+We had by this time fully gratified our curiosity, and once more ascended to
+the world of sunshine, the splendour of which was at first almost
+insupportable. By degrees, however, our eyes became accustomed to the change
+and recovered their original tone, when we separated, each party returning to
+its respective ship in high good humour with the day&rsquo;s employment.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But to dine quietly on board was no longer endurable. A tent was accordingly
+carried on shore, and having sought out the most shady and agreeable nook
+within a moderate distance of the vessel, our dinner was brought thither, and
+we spent the evening, as we had done the morning, among the works of nature.
+Here we remained till a late hour, talking over the adventures of the day, and
+occasionally attempting a blind peep into futurity, till our friend the moon
+having risen, we again pulled on board by her light, and lay down to dream of
+sparry domes and enchanted temples.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap07"></a>CHAPTER VII.</h2>
+
+<h3>AMERICA</h3>
+
+<p>
+Some apology is due to the reader, whose attention has been thus long withdrawn
+from other and more important matters, to follow the adventures of an humble
+individual like myself. The fault, however, of which I have been guilty may be
+at once repaired, when I inform him that on our arrival at Bermuda we found Sir
+Alexander Cochrane, in the Tonnant, of eighty guns, waiting to receive us, and
+to take the command of the whole fleet. The secret of our destination likewise,
+which up to that moment had been kept, transpired almost as soon as we cast
+anchor off the island; and it was publicly rumoured that our next point of
+debarkation would be somewhere on the shores of the Bay of Chesapeake. Nor are
+these the only interesting public occurrences of which no notice has as yet
+been taken. On the 4th of June our little army was reinforced by the arrival of
+the 21st Fusiliers, a fine battalion, mustering nine hundred bayonets, under
+the command of Colonel Patterson. On the evening of the 29th a squadron of four
+frigates and several transports appeared in the offing, which by mid-day on the
+day following were all at anchor in the roads. They proved to be from the
+Mediterranean, having the 21st, 29th, and 62nd Regiments on board, of which the
+two latter were proceeding to join Sir George Prevost&rsquo;s army in Canada,
+whilst the former attached itself to that under the command of General Ross. By
+this very acceptable reinforcement, our numbers were increased to upwards of
+three thousand effective men, and a greater confidence in themselves, as well
+as a better grounded hope of success in whatever they might undertake, was at
+the same time given to the troops.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having already dwelt sufficiently upon my own personal Adventures at Bermuda, I
+shall not waste time by a particular detail of the various preparations which
+during this interval were making throughout the fleet. Stores of provisions,
+fresh water, ammunition, clothing, &amp;c., were provided, and magazines for
+the future supply of the expedition established; when, on the 3rd of August,
+all things being complete, the ships once more got under weigh, and stood
+towards America.
+</p>
+
+<h3>THE CHESAPEAKE</h3>
+
+<p>
+During the whole of this day the wind was light and unsteady, consequently
+little progress was made, nor did the white rocks of Bermuda disappear till
+darkness concealed them; but towards morning a fresher and more favourable
+breeze springing up, the rest of the voyage was performed in reasonable time,
+and without the occurrence of any incident worthy of notice. The heat, indeed,
+became more and more oppressive every day, and the irksomeness of renewed
+confinement was more sensibly experienced from the long holiday which we had
+enjoyed on shore; but, in other respects, everything returned to its former
+state, till towards evening on the 14th, when a signal was made by the Admiral
+that land was in sight. As yet, however, there was no appearance of it from the
+deck of our transport, nor for a full half-hour could our anxious gaze be
+rewarded by the slightest trace of what it sought; but at the end of that time
+the low sandy point of Cape Charles began to show itself, and we rejoiced in
+the prospect of a speedy release from the ennui of a seafaring life.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The coast of America, at least in this quarter, is universally low and
+uninteresting; insomuch, that for some time before the land itself can be
+discerned, forests of pines appear to rise, as it were, out of the water. It is
+also dangerous from the numerous shoals and sandbanks which run out in many
+places to a considerable extent into the sea, and which are so formidable that
+no master of a vessel, unless he chance to be particularly well acquainted with
+the navigation, will venture to approach after dark. The fleet was accordingly
+anchored within a few miles of the shore, but no sooner had the day begun to
+break than the sails were again hoisted, and the ships, steering under the
+influence of a leading wind, between the Capes Charles and Henry, stood in
+gallant style up the Chesapeake.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+This noble bay is far too wide, and the land on each side too flat, to permit
+any but an indistinct glimpse of the shore from the deck of a vessel which
+keeps well towards the middle. On the present occasion we could distinguish
+nothing, on either hand, except the tops of trees, with occasionally a windmill
+or a lighthouse; but the view of our own fleet was in truth so magnificent as
+to prevent any murmuring on that account. Immediately on entering, we were
+joined by Admiral Cockburn with three line-of-battle ships, several frigates,
+and a few sloops of war and gun-brigs, by which means the squadron could now
+muster above twenty vessels entitled to display the pendant, besides an equal
+if not a greater number of victuallers and transports. Nor were we strengthened
+by this addition in the naval part of the expedition alone. On board these
+ships was embarked a powerful reinforcement for the army, consisting of a
+battalion of seven hundred marines, a hundred negroes lately armed and
+disciplined, and a division of marine artillery, so that we could now calculate
+on landing a corps of at least four thousand men. The spectacle was therefore
+as agreeable and imposing as might be; because we could not help remembering
+that this magnificent fleet was sailing in an enemy&rsquo;s bay, and that it
+was filled with troops for the invasion of that enemy&rsquo;s country. Thus,
+like a snowball, we had gathered as we went on, and from having set out a mere
+handful of soldiers, were now become an army, formidable as well from its
+numbers as its discipline.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The shoals and sandbanks which abound on the outside of the bay, continue to
+encumber the navigation after it is entered, and the fleet was in consequence
+compelled to anchor every night. This proceeding unavoidably occasioned much
+delay. The first day&rsquo;s sail carried us only to the mouth of the James
+river, and the second to the mouth of the Potomac; but, on both occasions, we
+brought up at too great a distance from the beach to permit perfect or distinct
+view of either of these rivers. Opposite to the latter, indeed, we remained for
+a night and a considerable part of the following day, and the sky being
+remarkably clear, we saw something more of it than we had been able to see of
+the other river. It appeared to be a fine piece of water making its way through
+the centre of huge forests, and, though the current is in reality strong,
+flowing on without any apparent motion. But it would have been impossible to
+trace its course, even had we been nearer to the shore, above a few miles, on
+account of its numerous windings, the first of which, overshadowed as it is
+with wood, shuts it out from further observation. By continuing here so long,
+we had begun to conjecture that a landing somewhere on the banks of this river
+was in contemplation. In this, however, we were deceived, for about one
+o&rsquo;clock the fleet was again under sail, and moving towards the Patuxent,
+a river which empties itself into the bay, several miles above the Potomac.
+</p>
+
+<h3>THE PATUXENT.</h3>
+
+<p>
+It was singular enough, that the ships had scarcely begun to lift their
+anchors, when the sky, which had hitherto continued clear and serene, became
+suddenly darkened and overcast with heavy clouds: and the water, which before
+had been as smooth and bright as a mirror, began to rise in black waves tipped
+with foam, though there was not a breath of air to fill the sails. Hurricanes
+are, I believe, not unfrequent in this part of the world, and it was expected
+that these changes in the sea and sky foreboded the arrival of one; but they
+passed by without producing any violent results, and when we brought up, which
+was done in the evening, the clouds had dispersed, and the water was again like
+a glassy lake.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The 18th of August had now arrived, and as yet we had advanced no farther than
+to the mouth of the Patuxent. There we lay, as we had done the day before,
+anxiously expecting a breeze; till about noon, the wind beginning to blow fair,
+the fleet entered the river and made its way slowly and majestically against
+the stream. The voyage soon became picturesque and interesting in the highest
+degree. Fields of Indian corn, with meadows of the most luxuriant pasture,
+stretched along the margin of the stream on either hand; whilst the neat wooden
+houses of the settlers, all of them painted white, and surrounded with orchards
+and gardens, presented a striking contrast to the boundless forests which
+formed a background to the scene. Of the prodigious extent and gloomy
+appearance of these forests, it is impossible for any language to convey an
+adequate conception. There is nothing, at least nothing which I have seen, in
+the Old World, at all resembling or to be compared with them; and hemming in,
+as they do, on every side, the tiny spots of cultivation, they certainly convey
+no very enlarged idea of the power of human industry. The cleared fields on the
+banks of the Patuxent, for example, could in no direction measure above half a
+mile across,&mdash;in many places their breadth fell short of that, from the
+river to the woods; and then all was one vast forest, through which no eye
+could penetrate, nor any traveller venture to seek his way. We were, as may be
+imagined, greatly taken by scenery so novel; and we continued to gaze upon it
+with the liveliest interest, till our attention was drawn away to other and
+more important matters.
+</p>
+
+<h3>ST. BENEDICT&rsquo;S.</h3>
+
+<p>
+We had not proceeded many miles from the river&rsquo;s mouth when a telegraph
+from the Admiral gave orders for the troops to be in readiness to land at a
+moment&rsquo;s notice. Everything was forthwith put in a state of forwardness;
+provisions for three days, that is to say, three pounds of pork, with two
+pounds and a half of biscuit, were cooked and given to the men; the
+cartouch-boxes were supplied with fresh ammunition, and the arms and
+accoutrements handed out. The fleet, however, continued to move on, without
+showing any inclination to bring to; till at length, having ascended to the
+distance of ten leagues from the bay, the ships of the line began to take the
+ground; and in a little while after, even the frigates could proceed no
+farther. But by this time the sun had set, and darkness was coming on;
+consequently, there was no possibility, for that day, of getting the troops on
+shore without much confusion, if not danger. All therefore remained quiet for
+the night, with this exception, that the soldiers were removed from the large
+ships into such as drew least water; which running up as high as prudence would
+permit, under convoy of the gun-brigs and sloops of war, there cast anchor.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As soon as the dawn began to appear, on the morning of the 19th, there was a
+general stir throughout the fleet. A gun-brig had already taken her station
+within a hundred and fifty yards of a village called St. Benedict&rsquo;s, on
+the left bank of the river, where it was determined that the disembarkation
+should be effected. Her broadside was turned towards the shore, and her loaded
+with grape and round shot, were pointed at the beach, to cover the landing of
+the boats; and being moored and aft with spring-cables, she was altogether as
+manageable as if she had been under sail. The rest of the ships were several
+miles lower down the stream, some of them being aground the distance of four
+leagues from this point; but the boats were quickly hoisted out from every one
+of them, and the river as covered in a trice with a well-manned and warlike
+flotilla. The disembarkation was conducted with the greatest regularity and
+dispatch. Though the stream ran strong against them, and some of them were
+obliged to row fourteen or fifteen miles backwards and forwards, so strenuously
+did the sailors exert themselves, that by three o&rsquo;clock in the afternoon
+the whole army was landed, and occupied a strong position about two miles above
+the village.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+From what I have stated respecting the gun-brig, it will be seen that all
+things were in readiness to meet and repel opposition, should such be offered.
+Her broadside being pointed directly towards the village, whilst it hindered
+the enemy from bringing down troops in that direction, gave to our people an
+opportunity of forming, and being able to meet, in good order, whatever force
+might be posted to check their advance up the country. Had a few pieces of
+artillery been mounted, indeed, upon the high ground, afterwards taken
+possession of by us, some execution might have been done upon the boats as they
+drew towards the beach; but even that would have been trifling, because, unless
+they had had leisure to heat their shot, no artillery, in the open country
+could have long stood before the fire of even a gun-brig, armed as this was for
+the occasion with long thirty-two pounders. Each boat-load of soldiers,
+likewise, drew up the moment they stepped on shore, forming line without any
+regard to companies or battalions; whilst parties were instantly dispatched to
+reconnoitre, and to take possession of every house, as well as to line every
+hedge, in front of the shore where their comrades were arriving. But these
+preparations, though no more than common prudence required, were unnecessary;
+since there was not only no opposition to the landing, but, apparently, no
+enemy within many miles of the place.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+So much time was unavoidably expended in establishing the different regiments
+on the ground allotted to them, in bringing up the hospital and commissariat
+stores, and arranging the materiel, that when all things were ready, the day
+appeared too far spent to permit an advance into a country, of the nature and
+military situation of which we were of course ignorant. The afternoon was
+accordingly devoted to a proper distribution of the force; which was divided
+into three brigades, in the following order:&mdash;
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The first, or light brigade, consisted of the 85th, the light infantry
+companies of the 4th, 21st, and 44th regiments, with the party of disciplined
+negroes, and a company of marines, amounting in all to about eleven hundred
+men; to the command of which Colonel Thornton, of the 85th regiment, was
+appointed.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The second brigade, composed of the 4th and 44th regiments, which mustered
+together fourteen hundred and sixty bayonets, was intrusted to the care of
+Colonel Brooke, of the 44th; and the third, made up of the 21st, and the
+battalion of marines, and equalling in number the second brigade, was commanded
+by Colonel Patterson, of the 21st. The whole of the infantry may, therefore, be
+estimated at four thousand and twenty men. Besides these, there were landed
+about a hundred artillery-men, and an equal number of drivers; but for want of
+horses to drag them, no more than one six-pounder and two small three-pounder
+guns were brought on shore. Except those belonging to the General and
+staff-officers, there was not a single horse in the whole army. To have taken
+on shore a large park of artillery would have been, under such circumstances,
+absolute folly, indeed, the pieces which were actually landed, proved in the
+end of very little service, and were drawn by seamen sent from the different
+ships for the purpose. The sailors, thus employed, may be rated at a hundred,
+and those occupied in carrying stores, ammunition, and other necessaries, at a
+hundred more; and thus, by adding these, together with fifty sappers and
+miners, to the above amount, the whole number of men landed at St.
+Benedict&rsquo;s may be computed at four thousand five hundred.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+This little army was posted upon a height which rises at the distance of two
+miles from the river. In front was a valley, cultivated for some way, and
+intersected with orchards; at the further extremity of which the advanced
+piquets took their ground; pushing forward a chain of sentinels to the very
+skirts of the forest. The right of the position was protected by a farm-house
+with its enclosure and outbuildings, and the left rested upon the edge of the
+hill, or rather mound, which there abruptly ended. On the brow of the hill, and
+about the centre of the line were placed the cannon, ready loaded, and having
+lighted fusees beside them; whilst the infantry bivouacked immediately under
+the ridge, or rather upon the slope of the hill which looked towards the
+shipping, in order to prevent their disposition from being seen by the enemy;
+should they come down to attack. But as we were now in a country where we could
+not calculate upon being safe in rear, any more than in front, the chain of
+piquets was carried round both flanks, and so arranged, that no attempt could
+be made to get between the army and the fleet, without due notice, and time
+given to oppose and prevent it. Everything, in short, was arranged with the
+utmost skill, and every chance of surprise provided against; but the night
+passed in quiet, nor was an opportunity afforded of evincing the utility of the
+very soldier-like dispositions which had been made.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap08"></a>CHAPTER VIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>NOTTINGHAM</h3>
+
+<p>
+Next morning the troops, as is customary during a state of active warfare, were
+under arms an hour before daylight, and remained in position till after the sun
+had risen. It was then confidently expected that the column would be put in
+motion, though in what direction it was to proceed, or what was the object of
+the descent, none but the General himself appeared to know. A rumour, indeed,
+prevailed, that a flotilla of gun-boats upon the Patuxent, commanded by the
+American Commodore Barney, was the point of attack; and that while the land
+force advanced up the river to prevent their retreat, armed boats from the
+fleet were to engage them in front. That such was in reality the primary object
+of the landing, I have every reason to believe, though circumstances afterwards
+occurred to bring about a change in the plan of operations. Into these,
+however, I shall not now enter, because they are in no way, connected with the
+present stage of my narrative, but shall merely observe, that in their
+expectations of an immediate advance the troops were disappointed. Whether it
+was that the arrangements had not been completed, or that intelligence
+respecting the state of the country and the enemy&rsquo;s preparations was
+wanting, I do not know; but the regiments returned to the ground which they had
+occupied during the night, and everything resumed the same face which it had
+worn on the evening before.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In this state affairs continued till four o&rsquo;clock in the afternoon, when
+the General suddenly made his appearance in the camp, the bugles sounded, and
+the regiments formed in order for marching. Nor did many minutes elapse before
+the word was given, and the army began to move, taking the direction of
+Nottingham, a town situated on the river, where it was understood that the
+flotilla lay at anchor. The march was conducted with the same caution and good
+order that had marked the choice of ground for encamping and the disposition of
+the troops in position. The advanced-guard, consisting of three companies of
+infantry, led the way. These, however, were preceded by a section of twenty
+men, moving before them at the distance of a hundred yards; and even these
+twenty were but the followers of two files, sent forward to prevent surprise,
+and to give warning of the approach of the enemy. Parallel with the head of the
+three companies marched the flank patrols; parties of forty or fifty men,
+which, extending in files from each side of the road, swept the woods and
+fields to the distance of nearly half a mile. After the advanced guard, leaving
+an interval of a hundred or a hundred and fifty yards, came the light brigade;
+which, as well as the advance, sent out flankers to secure itself against
+ambuscades. Next to it, again, marched the second brigade, moving steadily on,
+and leaving the skirmishing and reconnoitring to those in front; then came the
+artillery, consisting, as I have already stated, of one six and two
+three-pounder guns, drawn by seamen; and last of all came the third brigade,
+leaving a detachment at the same distance from the rear of the column, as the
+advanced guard was from its front.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In moving through an enemy&rsquo;s country, the journeys of an army will,
+except under particular circumstances, be regulated by the nature of the ground
+over which it passes: thus, though eight, ten, or even twelve miles may be
+considered as a short day&rsquo;s march, yet if at the end of that space an
+advantageous position occur (that is, a piece of ground well defended by
+natural or accidental barriers, and at the same time calculated for the
+operations of that species of force of which the army may be composed), it
+would be the height of imprudence to push forward, merely because a greater
+extent of country might be traversed without fatiguing the troops. On the other
+hand, should an army have proceeded eighteen, twenty, or even twenty-five
+miles, without the occurrence of any such position, nothing except the prospect
+of losing a large proportion of his men from weariness ought to induce a
+general to stop, until he has reached some spot at least more tenable than the
+rest. Our march to-day was, upon this principle, extremely short, the troops
+halting when they had arrived at a rising ground distant not more than six
+miles from the point whence they set out; and having stationed the piquets,
+planted the sentinels, and made such other arrangements as the case required,
+fires were lighted, and the men were suffered to lie down.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It may seem strange, but it is nevertheless true, that during this short march
+of six miles a greater number of soldiers dropped out of the ranks, and fell
+behind from fatigue, than I recollect to have seen in any march in the
+Peninsula of thrice its duration. The fact is that the men, from having been so
+long cooped up in ships, and unused to carry their baggage and arms, were
+become relaxed and enervated to a degree altogether unnatural; and this, added
+to the extreme sultriness of the day, which exceeded anything we had yet
+experienced, quite overpowered them. The load which they carried, likewise, was
+far from trifling, since, independent of their arms and sixty rounds of
+ball-cartridge, each man bore upon his back a knapsack, containing shirts,
+shoes, stockings, &amp;c., a blanket, a haversack, with provisions for three
+days, and a canteen or wooden keg filled with water. Under these circumstances,
+the occurrence of the position was extremely fortunate, since not only would
+the speedy failure of light have compelled a halt, whether the ground chanced
+to be favourable or the reverse, but even before darkness had come on scarcely
+two-thirds of the soldiers would have been found in their places.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The ground upon which we bivouacked, though not remarkable for its strength,
+was precisely such as might tempt a General to halt, who found his men weary
+and in danger of being benighted. It was a gentle eminence, fronted by an open
+and cultivated country, and crowned with two or three houses, having barns and
+walled gardens attached to them. Neither flank could be said to rest upon any
+point peculiarly well defended, but they were not exposed; because, by
+extending or condensing the line, almost any one of these houses might be
+converted into a protecting redoubt. The outposts, again, were so far arranged
+differently from those of yesterday, that, instead of covering only the front
+and the two extremities, they extended completely round the encampment,
+enclosing the entire army within a connected chain of sentinels; and precluding
+the possibility of even a single individual making his way within the lines
+unperceived.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+These precautions were, however, like those of the preceding day, unnecessary;
+no enemy making his appearance, even to reconnoitre: and yet it cannot be said
+that the night was passed in uninterrupted quiet, for the troops had scarcely
+lain down when they were disturbed by a tremendous storm of thunder and
+lightning, accompanied by a heavy fall of rain. The effect of the lightning, as
+it glanced for a moment upon the bivouac, and displayed the firelocks piled in
+regular order, and the men stretched like so many corpses beside them, was
+extremely fine. The effect of the rain, however, was not so agreeable, for,
+being perfectly destitute of shelter, we were speedily wet to the skin; and the
+remainder of our resting-time was rendered thereby the reverse of comfortable.
+But the feeling of fretfulness, natural on such an occasion, lasted no longer
+than till the day dawned, and the line of march was again formed; when their
+former good-humour returning, and seasoned in some degree by the fatigues of
+yesterday, the troops moved on in excellent order and in the highest spirits.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The route to-day was different, in many respects, from that of yesterday. In
+the first place, we had now got beyond the stretch of cultivation, and were
+proceeding through forests of immeasurable extent; this, of itself, gave a very
+different aspect to all around, because hitherto we had seen houses and fields
+of corn on each side of the road, and now we could discover nothing but wild
+savannahs, apparently untenanted by a single human being. In the next place, we
+learnt from some of the country people, who had been impressed as guides into
+our service, that numerous detached bodies of riflemen lay in ambush among the
+thickets; and the very expectation of having something to do, created a degree
+of excitement which, till now, we had not experienced. In consequence of that
+information, the flank patrols were strengthened and commanded to extend to a
+greater distance; the advanced guard marched at a greater interval from the
+head of the column, and the whole army moved forward with more caution and
+circumspection than had hitherto been used.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In the course of this day&rsquo;s march a little adventure occurred to myself,
+which, in the illiberality of my heart, I could not but regard as strikingly
+characteristic of the character of the people to whom we were now opposed, and
+which, as at the time it had something in it truly comical, I cannot resist the
+inclination of repeating, though aware that its title to drollery must in a
+great measure be lost in the relation. Having been informed that in a certain
+part of the forest a company of riflemen had passed the night, I took with me a
+party of soldiers, and proceeded in the direction pointed out, with the hope of
+surprising them. On reaching the place, I found that they had retired, but I
+thought I could perceive something like the glitter of arms a little farther
+towards the middle of the wood. Sending several files of soldiers in different
+directions, I contrived to surround the spot, and then moving forward, I beheld
+two men dressed in black coats, and armed with bright firelocks and bayonets,
+sitting under a tree; as soon as they observed me, they started up and took to
+their heels, but being hemmed in on all sides, they quickly perceived that to
+escape was impossible, and accordingly stood still. I hastened towards them,
+and having arrived within a few paces of where they stood, I heard the one say
+to the other, with a look of the most perfect simplicity, &ldquo;Stop, John,
+till the gentlemen pass.&rdquo; There was something so ludicrous in this
+speech, and in the cast of countenance which accompanied it, that I could not
+help laughing aloud; nor was my mirth diminished by their attempts to persuade
+me that they were quiet country people, come out for no other purpose than to
+shoot squirrels. When I desired to know whether they carried bayonets to charge
+the squirrels, as well as muskets to shoot them, they were rather at a loss for
+a reply; but they grumbled exceedingly when they found themselves prisoners,
+and conducted as such to the column.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But to return to the principal narrative. The army had now advanced within a
+few miles of Nottingham, and the men were beginning to look forward with some
+anxiety to a halt; whilst as yet nothing beyond the capture of a few stragglers
+had occurred to confirm the rumours which, in the morning, and during the whole
+of the march, had occasioned so much more circumspection than appeared to be
+requisite. The day was likewise far spent, and, as was to be expected, the
+ranks were beginning to be less carefully preserved, when a smart firing in the
+wood upon the right of the road gave new life and energy to the soldiers. It
+was now confidently expected that the enemy would make a stand. The column
+closed its order, ready to wheel into line in a moment, and everything was on
+the qui vive: but it proved to be no more than a rencounter between a party of
+American riflemen and the flank patrol. After firing a few shots, the enemy
+gave way, and our main body, which had continued to move on during the
+skirmish, came in without the slightest opposition to the town of Nottingham.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+We found this place (a town or large village, capable of containing from a
+thousand to fifteen hundred inhabitants) completely deserted. Not an individual
+was to be seen in the streets, or remained in the houses; whilst the appearance
+of the furniture, &amp;c., in some places the very bread left in the ovens,
+showed that it had been evacuated in great haste, and immediately before our
+arrival. The town itself stands upon the banks of the Patuxent, and consists of
+four short streets, two running parallel with the river, and two others
+crossing them at right angles, The houses are not such as indicate the
+existence of much wealth or grandeur among the owners, being in general built
+of wood, and little superior to cottages; but around the village are others of
+a far better description, which convey the idea of good substantial
+farm-houses, a species of mansion very common in the United States. For several
+miles in every direction the country was in a high state of cultivation;
+though, instead of the maize and wheat which we had hitherto seen, the fields
+were covered with an abundant and luxuriant crop of tobacco. This plant seems,
+indeed, to be at all times the staple commodity of that district; for, besides
+what was growing and unripe, we found numerous barns filled with the remains of
+last year&rsquo;s crop; the whole of which was, of course, seized in the name
+of His Majesty King George the Third. But in the main object of our pursuit we
+were disappointed. The flotilla, which had been stationed opposite to
+Nottingham, retired, on our approach, higher up the stream; and we were
+consequently in the situation of a huntsman who sees his hounds at fault, and
+has every reason to apprehend that his game will escape.
+</p>
+
+<h3>MARLBOROUGH</h3>
+
+<p>
+In this posture the army continued during the night, having its right defended
+by the river, and its left extending considerably beyond the town, and secured,
+as usual, by a connected chain of outposts; nor was it put in motion, as had
+been done the day before, as soon as there was sufficient light to distinguish
+objects. There seemed, indeed, to be something like hesitation as to the course
+to be pursued,&mdash;whether to follow the gun-boats, or to return to the
+shipping; but, at last, the former proceeding was resolved upon, and the column
+set forward about eight o&rsquo;clock, in the direction of Marlborough, another
+village, about ten miles beyond Nottingham. The road by which we travelled, as
+well to-day as during the whole of the excursion, was remarkably good; in some
+places rather heavy, from being cut through a sandy soil, but in general hard,
+dusty, and, to use an expressive phrase, having a sound bottom. Running, as it
+did for the most part, through the heart of thick forests, it was also well
+sheltered from the rays of the sun; a circumstance which, in a climate like
+this, is of no slight importance. To-day, our whole journey was of this
+description, nor did we reach a single cultivated spot till we approached the
+vicinity of Marlborough; when we found ourselves in a country not more fertile
+than beautiful. The ground, which had been hitherto perfectly flat, was now
+broken into the most graceful swells, generally cleared of wood to within a
+short space of the summits, and then crowned with hoar and venerable forests.
+The village itself lies in a valley formed by two green hills; the distance
+from the base of one hill to the base of the other may be about two miles, the
+whole of which was laid out in fields of corn, hay, and tobacco; whilst the
+slopes themselves were covered with sheep, for whose support they furnished
+ample means. But Marlborough is not, like an English village, compact, and
+consisting of one or two lanes the houses are scattered over the plain, and
+along the sides of the hills, at considerable intervals from one another, and
+are all surrounded by orchards and gardens, abounding in peaches and other
+fruits of the most delicious flavour. To add to the beauty of the place, a
+small rivulet makes its way through the bottom, and winding round the foot of
+one of these ridges, falls into the Patuxent, which flows at its back.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+During our progress to-day the same caution was observed which had been
+practised yesterday. Nor was it altogether unnecessary, several bodies of the
+enemy&rsquo;s horse occasionally showing themselves, and what appeared to be
+the rear-guard of a column of infantry evacuating Marlborough, as our advance
+entered.
+</p>
+
+<h3>MARCH TO WASHINGTON.</h3>
+
+<p>
+There was, however, little or no skirmishing, and we were allowed to remain in
+the village all night without molestation. But if we were not harassed, we were
+at least startled on the march by several heavy explosions. The cause of these
+we were at first unable to discover; but we soon learnt that they were
+occasioned by the blowing up of the very squadron of which we were in pursuit,
+and which Commodore Barney, perceiving the impossibility of preserving,
+prudently destroyed, in order to prevent its falling into our hands.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In Marlborough we remained not only during the night, but till past noon on the
+following day. The hesitation which had caused the loss of a few hours at
+Nottingham again interfered, and produced a delay which might have been
+attended with serious consequences. At length, however, orders were given to
+form, and we quitted Marlborough about two in the afternoon, taking the road to
+Washington. During this day&rsquo;s march there was more skirmishing than had
+yet occurred. We had scarcely got above three miles from the village, when the
+advanced guard fell in with a party of riflemen, who maintained a sharp contest
+before they gave way. The column, however, continued to move on without
+molestation, till arriving at a point where two roads meet, the one leading to
+Washington, the other to Alexandria, a strong body of troops, with some
+artillery, were observed upon the slope of a height opposite. The capture of
+Washington was now the avowed object of our invasion; but the General, like an
+experienced officer, was desirous of keeping his enemy in the dark as to his
+plan of operations. Whilst the advanced guard, therefore, reinforced by two
+additional companies, marched directly forward to dislodge the party from the
+heights, the rest of the army wheeled to the left, taking the road which leads,
+not to Washington, but to Alexandria. These movements were not lost upon the
+enemy, who, observing by the dust in what direction the main body had filed
+off, immediately began to retreat, without waiting for the approach of the
+detachment sent against them. As they ascended the hill, however, they made a
+show of halting and forming a line. Our men moved steadily on in column,
+covered by one company in extended order along the front; but the enemy, having
+merely thrown a few round shot with great precision among the skirmishers,
+broke once again into marching order, and were quickly hid by the rising
+ground. As soon as they had disappeared, the advance halted; and having
+remained for about an hour on a little hill to watch their motions, turned to
+the left, and followed the rest of the army, which they found advantageously
+posted at a place called Woodyard.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap09"></a>CHAPTER IX.</h2>
+
+<p>
+I had almost forgotten to state that, from the first moment of our landing, the
+want of cavalry, so useful in obtaining information and reconnoitring the open
+country, was very sensibly felt. To remedy this evil, as far as it could by
+such means be remedied, orders had been issued to catch and bring in all the
+horses that were found in the fields or stables of any houses along the road;
+and these orders being punctually obeyed, there were now fifty or sixty in the
+camp. Upon these some of the artillery-drivers were mounted, and the command of
+the troop being given to an officer of experience, it was found of great
+service during the remainder of the march.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The advanced guard having joined the main body, the whole army, with the
+exception of a party which had been sent to the rear to bring up a convoy of
+provisions, was now bivouacked upon a rising ground, well defended by
+hedge-rows and thickets. The night, however, was not spent in as much quietness
+as usual. It was late before the troops got to their ground, consequently the
+piquets, for want of light, could not be posted in their customary good order,
+neither had there been time to examine the country in the neighbourhood of the
+position. The outposts were, therefore, kept in a state of constant anxiety by
+the frequent appearance of small parties of the enemy, who hovered about,
+probably with the design of cutting off stragglers, or perhaps of surprising,
+if they could, some of the piquets themselves. But whatever their intentions
+might be, the vigilance of the sentries contrived to render them abortive; nor
+did anything occur during the night productive of serious alarm; and the
+following day, being joined by the convoy which came up in safety, the column
+was again in motion, hastening across the country into the highroad, which had
+been deserted for no other purpose than to mislead the Americans.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having started on the 24th at an early hour, our march was for some time both
+cool and agreeable. The road&mdash;if road it could be called&mdash;wound for
+the first five miles through the heart of an immense forest, and being, in
+every sense of the word, a by-path, was completely overshadowed by projecting
+branches of trees, so closely interwoven, as to prevent a single sunbeam from
+making its way, even at noon, within the arch. We continued to move on,
+therefore, long after the sun had risen, without being sensible that there was
+not a cloud in the sky to screen us from his influence; whilst a heavy moisture
+continually emitted from the grass and weeds on both sides of us, produced a
+coolness which, had it been less confined, would have proved extremely
+pleasant. So far, then, we proceeded without experiencing any other
+inconvenience than what was produced by the damp and fetid atmosphere which we
+breathed; but no sooner had we begun to emerge from the woods and to enter the
+open country, than an overpowering change was perceived. The sun, from which we
+had been hitherto defended, now beat upon us in full force; and the dust rising
+in thick masses from under our feet, without a breath of air to disperse it,
+flew directly into our faces, occasioning the greatest inconvenience both to
+the eyes and respiration. I have stated this at length, because I do not
+recollect a period of my military life during which I suffered more severely
+from heat and fatigue; and as a journey of a few miles, under such
+circumstances, tells more than one of thrice the distance in a cool day and
+along a firm wintry road, it is not surprising that before many hours had
+elapsed numbers of men began to fall behind from absolute inability to keep up.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Yet, in spite of all this, there was that in to-day&rsquo;s march which
+rendered it infinitely more interesting than any we bad performed since the
+landing. We had learnt, from various quarters, that the enemy was concentrating
+his forces for the purpose of hazarding a battle in defence of his capital. The
+truth of these rumours we had no cause to doubt, confirmed as they were by what
+we had ourselves witnessed only the evening before; indeed the aspect of
+various fields on each side of the high road (which we had now regained), where
+smoking ashes, bundles of straw, and remnants of broken victuals were scattered
+about, indicated that considerable bodies of troops had passed the night in
+this neighbourhood. The appearance of the road itself, likewise, imprinted as
+it was with fresh marks of many feet and hoofs, proved that these troops could
+be no great way before us; whilst our very proximity to Washington, being now
+distant from it not more than ten or twelve miles, all tended to assure us that
+we should at least see an American army before dark.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was now that we experienced the great usefulness of our badly mounted
+troopers, or as they were called by the private soldiers, our Cossacks. The
+country, from being extremely close, had become open on every side to a
+considerable extent, although thick groves, instead of hedges, frequently
+separated one field from another. This was exactly the ground on which cavalry
+could act with advantage; because they might lie in ambush behind these groves,
+totally unperceived, and when an opportunity offered, charge the column, before
+it had time to prepare for their reception. There were one or two places,
+indeed, where such events were confidently anticipated; whole rows of paling
+having been pulled up from the side of the road, and open spaces left, through
+which several squadrons of horse might gallop; and the consequence was that
+every man held his breath in expectation, and prepared himself to form square
+in a moment. It was here that the mounted drivers became peculiarly useful.
+They were divided into small parties of six or eight, and sent out in different
+directions to reconnoitre, two of them generally taking post at every
+suspicious corner, that one might give notice to the column, whilst the other
+watched the motions of an enemy.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It so happened that these precautions were unnecessary, for whatever might be
+the strength of the Americans in cavalry, their General did not think fit to
+employ it in harassing our march. But the very knowledge that every danger was
+provided against, and that they could not be attacked without having time to
+make ready, gave to the soldiers a degree of steady confidence which they would
+otherwise have wanted; and the want of which, had the case been different,
+might have been productive of disorder at a moment when good order was of vital
+importance.
+</p>
+
+<h3>BLADENSBURG.</h3>
+
+<p>
+We had now proceeded about nine miles, during the last four of which the
+sun&rsquo;s rays had beat continually upon us, and we had inhaled almost as
+great a quantity of dust as of air. Numbers of men had already fallen to the
+rear, and many more could with difficulty keep up; consequently, if we pushed
+on much farther without resting, the chances were that at least one half of the
+army would be left behind. To prevent this from happening, and to give time for
+the stragglers to overtake the column, a halt was determined upon, and being
+led forward to a spot of ground well wooded, and watered by a stream which
+crossed the road, the troops were ordered to refresh themselves. Perhaps no
+halt ever arrived more seasonably than this, or bid fair to be productive of
+more beneficial effects; yet so oppressive was the heat, that we had not
+resumed our march above an hour, when the banks by the way side were again
+covered with stragglers; some of the finest and stoutest men in the army being
+literally unable to go on.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The hour of noon was approaching, when a heavy cloud of dust, apparently not
+more than two or three miles distant, attracted our attention. From whence it
+originated there was little difficulty in guessing, nor did many minutes expire
+before surmise was changed into certainty: for on turning a sudden angle in the
+road, and passing a small plantation, which obstructed the vision towards the
+left, the British and American armies became visible to one another. The
+position occupied by the latter was one of great strength and commanding
+attitude. They were drawn up in three lines upon the brow of a hill, having
+their front and left flank covered by a branch of the Potomac, and their right
+resting upon a thick wood and a deep ravine. This river, which may be about the
+breadth of the Isis at Oxford, flowed between the heights occupied by the
+American forces and the little town of Bladensburg. Across it was thrown a
+narrow bridge, extending from the chief street in that town to the continuation
+of the road, which passed through the very centre of their position; and its
+right bank (the bank above which they were drawn up) was covered with a narrow
+stripe of willows and larch trees, whilst the left was altogether bare, low,
+and exposed. Such was the general aspect of their position as at the first
+glance it presented itself; of which I must endeavour to give a more detailed
+account, that my description of the battle may be in some degree intelligible.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+I have said that the right bank of the Potomac was covered with a narrow stripe
+of willow and larch trees. Here the Americans had stationed strong bodies of
+riflemen, who, in skirmishing order, covered the whole front of their army.
+Behind this plantation, again, the fields were open and clear, intersected, at
+certain distances, by rows of high and strong palings. About the middle of the
+ascent, and in the rear of one of these rows, stood the first line, composed
+entirely of infantry; at a proper interval from this, and in a similar
+situation, stood the second line; while the third, or reserve, was posted
+within the skirts of a wood, which crowned the heights. The artillery, again,
+of which they had twenty pieces in the field, was thus arranged on the high
+road, and commanding the bridge, stood two heavy guns; and four more, two on
+each side of the road, swept partly in the same direction, and partly down the
+whole of the slope into the streets of Bladensburg. The rest were scattered,
+with no great judgment, along the second line of infantry, occupying different
+spaces between the right of one regiment and the left of another; whilst the
+cavalry showed itself in one mass, within a stubble field, near the extreme
+left of the position. Such was the nature of the ground which they occupied,
+and the formidable posture in which they waited our approach; amounting, by
+their own account, to nine thousand men, a number exactly doubling that of the
+force which was to attack them.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In the mean time, our column continued to advance in the same order which it
+had hitherto preserved. The road, having conducted us for about two miles in a
+direction parallel with the river, and of consequence with the enemy&rsquo;s
+line, suddenly turned, and led directly towards the town of Bladensburg. Being
+of course ignorant whether this town might not be filled with American troops,
+the main body paused here till the advanced guard should reconnoitre. The
+result proved that no opposition was intended in that quarter, and that the
+whole of the enemy&rsquo;s army had been withdrawn to the opposite side of the
+stream, whereupon the column was again put in motion, and in a short time
+arrived in the streets of Bladensburg, and within range of the American
+artillery. Immediately on our reaching this point, several of their guns opened
+upon us, and kept up a quick and well-directed cannonade, from which, as we
+were again commanded to halt, the men were directed to shelter themselves as
+much as possible behind the houses. The object of this halt, it was
+conjectured, was to give the General an opportunity of examining the American
+line, and of trying the depth of the river; because at present there appeared
+to be but one practicable mode of attack, by crossing the bridge, and taking
+the enemy directly in front. To do so, however, exposed as the bridge was, must
+be attended with bloody consequences, nor could the delay of a few minutes
+produce any mischief which the discovery of a ford would not amply compensate.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But in this conjecture we were altogether mistaken; for without allowing time
+to the column to close its ranks, or to be joined by such of the many
+stragglers as were now hurrying, as fast as weariness would permit, to regain
+their places, the order to halt was countermanded, and the word given to
+attack; and we immediately pushed on at double quick time, towards the head of
+the bridge. While we were moving along the street, a continued fire was kept
+up, with some execution, from those guns which stood to the left of the road;
+but it was not till the bridge was covered with our people that the two-gun
+battery upon the road itself began to play.&mdash;Then, indeed, it also opened,
+and with tremendous effect; for at the first discharge almost an entire company
+was swept down; but whether it was that the guns had been previously laid with
+measured exactness, or that the nerves of the gunners became afterwards
+unsteady, the succeeding discharges were much less fatal. The riflemen likewise
+began to gall us from the wooded bank with a running fire of musketry; and it
+was not without trampling upon many of their dead and dying comrades that the
+light brigade established itself on the opposite side of the stream.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+When once there, however, everything else appeared easy. Wheeling off to the
+right and left of the road, they dashed into the thicket, and quickly cleared
+it of the American skirmishers; who, falling back with precipitation upon the
+first line, threw it into disorder before it had fired a shot. The consequence
+was, that our troops had scarcely shown themselves when the whole of that line
+gave way, and fled in the greatest confusion, leaving the two guns upon the
+road in possession of the victors.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But here it must be confessed that the light brigade was guilty of imprudence.
+Instead of pausing till the rest of the army came up, the soldiers lightened
+themselves by throwing away their knapsacks and haversacks; and extending their
+ranks so as to show an equal front with the enemy, pushed on to the attack of
+the second line. The Americans, however, saw their weakness, and stood firm,
+and having the whole of their artillery, with the exception of the pieces
+captured on the road, and the greater part of their infantry in this line, they
+first checked the ardour of the assailants by a heavy fire, and then, in their
+turn, advanced to recover the ground which was lost. Against this charge the
+extended order of the British troops would not permit them to offer an
+effectual resistance, and they were accordingly borne back to the very thicket
+upon the river&rsquo;s brink; where they maintained themselves with determined
+obstinacy, repelling all attempts to drive them through it; and frequently
+following, to within a short distance of the cannon&rsquo;s mouth, such parts
+of the enemy&rsquo;s line as gave way.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In this state the action continued till the second brigade had likewise
+crossed, and formed upon the right bank of the river; when the 44th regiment
+moving to the right, and driving in the skirmishers, debouched upon the left
+flank of the Americans, and completely turned it. In that quarter, therefore,
+the battle was won; because the raw militia-men, who were stationed there as
+being the least assailable point, when once broken could not be rallied. But on
+their right the enemy still kept their ground with much resolution; nor was it
+till the arrival of the 4th regiment, and the advance of the British forces in
+firm array to the charge, that they began to waver. Then, indeed, seeing their
+left in full flight, and the 44th getting in their rear, they lost all order,
+and dispersed, leaving clouds of riflemen to cover their retreat; and hastened
+to conceal themselves in the woods, where it would have been madness to follow
+them. The rout was now general throughout the line. The reserve, which ought to
+have supported the main body, fled as soon as those in its front began to give
+way; and the cavalry, instead of charging the British troops, now scattered in
+pursuit, turned their horses&rsquo; heads and galloped off, leaving them in
+undisputed possession of the field, and of ten out of the twenty pieces of
+artillery.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+This battle, by which the fate of the American capital was decided, began about
+one o&rsquo;clock in the afternoon, and lasted till four. The loss on the part
+of the English was severe, since, out of two-thirds of the army, which were
+engaged, upwards of five hundred men were killed and wounded; and what rendered
+it doubly severe was, that among these were numbered several officers of rank
+and distinction. Colonel Thornton, who commanded the light brigade,
+Lieutenant-Colonel Wood, commanding the 85th regiment, and Major Brown, who led
+the advanced guard, were all severely wounded; and General Ross himself had a
+horse shot under him. On the side of the Americans the slaughter was not so
+great. Being in possession of a strong position, they were of course less
+exposed in defending, than the others in storming it; and had they conducted
+themselves with coolness and resolution, it is not conceivable how the battle
+could have been won. But the fact is, that, with the exception of a party of
+sailors from the gun-boats, under the command of Commodore Barney, no troops
+could behave worse than they did. The skirmishers were driven in as soon as
+attacked, the first line gave way without offering the slightest resistance,
+and the left of the main body was broken within half an hour after it was
+seriously engaged. Of the sailors, however, it would be injustice not to speak
+in the terms which their conduct merits. They were employed as gunners, and not
+only did they serve their guns with a quickness and precision which astonished
+their assailants, but they stood till some of them were actually bayoneted,
+with fuzes in their hands; nor was it till their leader was wounded and taken,
+and they saw themselves deserted on all sides by the soldiers, that they
+quitted the field. With respect to the British army, again, no line of
+distinction can be drawn. All did their duty, and none more gallantly than the
+rest; and though the brunt of the affair fell upon the light brigade, this was
+owing chiefly to the circumstance of its being at the head of the column, and
+perhaps also, in some degree, to its own rash impetuosity. The artillery,
+indeed, could do little; being unable to show itself in presence of a force so
+superior; but the six-pounder was nevertheless brought into action, and a corps
+of rockets proved of striking utility.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Our troops being worn down from fatigue, and of course as ignorant of the
+country as the Americans were the reverse, the pursuit could not be continued
+to any distance. Neither was it attended with much slaughter. Diving into the
+recesses of the forests, and covering themselves with riflemen, the enemy were
+quickly beyond our reach; and having no cavalry to scour even the high road,
+ten of the lightest of their guns were carried off in the flight. The defeat,
+however, was absolute, and the army which had been collected for the defence of
+Washington was scattered beyond the possibility of, at least, an immediate
+reunion; and as the distance from Bladensburg to that city does not exceed four
+miles, there appeared to be no further obstacle in the way to prevent its
+immediate capture.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap10"></a>CHAPTER X.</h2>
+
+<h3>WASHINGTON</h3>
+
+<p>
+An opportunity so favourable was not endangered by any needless delay. While
+the two brigades which had been engaged remained upon the field to recover
+their order, the third, which had formed the reserve, and was consequently
+unbroken, took the lead, and pushed forward at a rapid rate towards Washington.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As it was not the intention of the British Government to attempt permanent
+conquests in this part of America, and as the General was well aware that, with
+a handful of men, he could not pretend to establish himself, for any length of
+time, in an enemy&rsquo;s capital, he determined to lay it under contribution,
+and to return quietly to the shipping. Nor was there anything unworthy of the
+character of a British officer in this determination. By all the customs of
+war, whatever public property may chance to be in a captured town, becomes,
+confessedly, the just spoil of the conqueror; and in thus proposing to accept a
+certain sum of money in lieu of that property, he was showing mercy rather than
+severity to the vanquished. It is true that if they chose to reject his terms
+he and his army would be deprived of their booty, because without some more
+convenient mode of transporting it than we possessed, even the portable part of
+the property itself could not be removed. But, on the other hand, there was no
+difficulty in destroying it; and thus, though we should gain nothing, the
+American Government would lose probably to a much greater amount than if they
+had agreed to purchase its preservation by the money demanded.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Such being the intention of General Ross, he did not march the troops
+immediately into the city, but halted them upon a plain in its immediate
+vicinity, whilst a flag of truce was sent forward with terms. But whatever his
+proposal might have been, it was not so much as heard; for scarcely had the
+party bearing the flag entered the street, when it was fired upon from the
+windows of one of the houses, and the horse of the General himself, who
+accompanied it, killed. The indignation excited by this act throughout all
+ranks and classes of men in the army, was such as the nature of the case could
+not fail to occasion. Every thought of accommodation was instantly laid aside;
+the troops advanced forthwith into the town, and having first put to the sword
+all who were found in the house from which the shots were fired, and reduced it
+to ashes, they proceeded without a moment&rsquo;s delay to burn and destroy
+everything in the most distant degree connected with Government. In this
+general devastation were included the Senate-house, the President&rsquo;s
+palace, an extensive dock-yard and arsenal, barracks for two or three thousand
+men, several large storehouses filled with naval and military stores, some
+hundreds of cannon of different descriptions, and nearly twenty thousand stand
+of small-arms. There were also two or three public ropewalks which shared the
+same fate, a fine frigate pierced for sixty guns, and just ready to be
+launched, several gun brigs and armed schooners, with a variety of gun-boats
+and small craft. The powder-magazines were set on fire, and exploded with a
+tremendous crash, throwing down many houses in their vicinity, partly by pieces
+of the walls striking them, and partly by the concussion of the air; whilst
+quantities of shot, shell, and hand-grenades, which could not otherwise be
+rendered useless, were cast into the river. In destroying the cannon a method
+was adopted which I had never before witnessed, and which, as it was both
+effectual and expeditious, I cannot avoid relating. One gun of rather a small
+calibre was pitched upon as the executioner of the rest, and being loaded with
+ball and turned to the muzzles of the others, it was fired, and thus beat out
+their breechings. Many, however, not being mounted, could not be thus dealt
+with; these were spiked, and having their trunnions knocked off, were
+afterwards cast into the bed of the river.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+All this was as it should be, and had the arm of vengeance been extended no
+further, there would not have been room given for so much as a whisper of
+disapprobation. But unfortunately it did not stop here; a noble library,
+several printing-offices, and all the national archives were likewise committed
+to the flames, which, though no doubt the property of Government, might better
+have been spared. It is not, however, my intention to join the outcry which was
+raised at the time against what the Americans and their admirers were pleased
+to term a line of conduct at once barbarous and unprofitable. On the contrary,
+I conceive that too much praise cannot be given to the forbearance and humanity
+of the British troops, who, irritated as they had every right to be, spared, as
+far as possible, all private property, neither plundering nor destroying a
+single house in the place, except that from which the General&rsquo;s horse had
+been killed.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Whilst the third brigade was thus employed, the rest of the army, having
+recalled its stragglers, and removed the wounded into Bladensburg, began its
+march towards Washington. Though the battle came to a close by four
+o&rsquo;clock, the sun had set before the different regiments were in a
+condition to move, consequently this short journey was performed in the dark.
+The work of destruction had also begun in the city before they quitted their
+ground; and the blazing of houses, ships, and stores, the report of exploding
+magazines, and the crash of falling roofs, informed them, as they proceeded, of
+what was going forward. It would be difficult to conceive a finer spectacle
+than that which presented itself as they approached the town. The sky was
+brilliantly illumined by the different conflagrations; and a dark red light was
+thrown upon the road, sufficient to permit each man to view distinctly his
+comrade&rsquo;s face. Except the burning of St. Sebastian&rsquo;s, I do not
+recollect to have witnessed at any period of my life a scene more striking or
+more sublime.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having advanced as far as the plain, where the reserve had previously paused,
+the first and second brigades halted; and forming into close column, passed the
+night in bivouac. At first this was agreeable enough, because the air was mild,
+and weariness made up for what was wanting in comfort. But towards morning a
+violent storm of rain, accompanied with thunder and lightning, came on, which
+disturbed the rest of all who were exposed to it. Yet in spite of the
+inconvenience arising from the shower, I cannot say that I felt disposed to
+grumble at the interruption, for it appeared that what I had before considered
+as superlatively sublime, still wanted this to render it complete. The flashes
+of lightning vied in brilliancy with the flames which burst from the roofs of
+burning houses, whilst the thunder drowned for a time the noise of crumbling
+walls, and was only interrupted by the occasional roar of cannon, and of large
+depots of gunpowder, as they one by one exploded.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+I need scarcely observe, that the consternation of the inhabitants was
+complete, and that to them this was a night of terror. So confident had they
+been of the success of their troops, that few of them had dreamt of quitting
+their houses or abandoning the city; nor was it till the fugitives from the
+battle began to rush in, filling every place as they came with dismay, that the
+President himself thought of providing for his safety. That gentleman, as I was
+credibly informed, had gone forth in the morning with the army, and had
+continued among his troops till the British forces began to make their
+appearance. Whether the sight of his enemies cooled his courage or not I cannot
+say, but according to my informant, no sooner was the glittering of our arms
+discernible, than he began to discover that his presence was more wanted in the
+senate than in the field; and having ridden through the ranks, and exhorted
+every man to do his duty, he hurried back to his own house, that he might
+prepare a feast for the entertainment of his officers, when they should return
+victorious. For the truth of these details I will not be answerable; but this
+much I know, that the feast was actually prepared, though, instead of being
+devoured by American officers, it went to satisfy the less delicate appetites
+of a party of English soldiers. When the detachment sent out to destroy Mr.
+Maddison&rsquo;s house, entered his dining parlour, they found a dinner-table
+spread, and covers laid for forty guests. Several kinds of wine in handsome
+cut-glass decanters were cooling on the sideboard; plate-holders stood by the
+fire-place, filled with dishes and plates; knives, forks, and spoons, were
+arranged for immediate use; everything in short was ready for the entertainment
+of a ceremonious party. Such were the arrangements in the dining-room, whilst
+in the kitchen were others answerable to them in every respect. Spits loaded
+with joints of various sorts turned before the fire; pots, saucepans, and other
+culinary utensils stood upon the grate; and all the other requisites for an
+elegant and substantial repast were in the exact state which indicated that
+they had been lately and precipitately abandoned.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The reader will easily believe that these preparations were beheld, by a party
+of hungry soldiers, with no indifferent eye. An elegant dinner, even though
+considerably over-dressed, was a luxury to which few of them, at least for some
+time back, had been accustomed; and which, after the dangers and fatigues of
+the day, appeared peculiarly inviting. They sat down to it, therefore, not
+indeed in the most orderly manner, but with countenances which would not have
+disgraced a party of aldermen at a civic feast; and having satisfied their
+appetites with fewer complaints than would have probably escaped their rival
+gourmands, and partaken pretty freely of the wines, they finished by setting
+fire to the house which had so liberally entertained them.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+I have said that to the inhabitants of Washington this was a night of terror
+and dismay. From whatever cause the confidence arose, certain it is that they
+expected anything rather than the arrival among them of a British army; and
+their consternation was proportionate to their previous feeling of security,
+when an event, so little anticipated, actually came to pass. The first impulse
+naturally prompted them to fly, and the streets were speedily crowded with
+soldiers and senators, men, women, and children, horses, carriages, and carts
+loaded with household furniture, all hastening towards a wooden bridge which
+crosses the Potomac. The confusion thus occasioned was terrible, and the crowd
+upon the bridge was such as to endanger its giving way. But Mr. Maddison, as is
+affirmed, having escaped among the first, was no sooner safe on the opposite
+bank of the river, than he gave orders that the bridge should be broken down;
+which being obeyed, the rest were obliged to return, and to trust to the
+clemency of the victors.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In this manner was the night passed by both parties; and at daybreak next
+morning the light brigade moved into the city, whilst the reserve fell back to
+a height about half a mile in the rear. Little, however, now remained to be
+done, because everything marked out for destruction was already consumed. Of
+the Senate-house, the President&rsquo;s palace, the barracks, the dockyard,
+&amp;c., nothing could be seen, except heaps of smoking ruins; and even the
+bridge, a noble structure upwards of a mile in length, was almost entirely
+demolished. There was, therefore, no further occasion to scatter the troops,
+and they were accordingly kept together as much as possible on the Capitol
+Hill.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Of the city of Washington I have purposely declined attempting any minute
+description, because it possesses no leading features, by catching which I
+might hope to convey to a person who has not seen it, something like an
+accurate notion of the whole. It was then, and is, I believe, still in its
+infancy, few of the streets being finished, and many containing not more than
+three or four houses, at wide intervals from each other. But its situation
+gives to it advantages such as few capitals either in the new or old world can
+boast of, and if it continue to be the head of the American States for another
+century, it will become, I doubt not, one of the most flourishing cities in
+existence. America is, and always will be, a commercial nation, nor can a
+single town throughout the whole of that vast continent boast of a better
+harbour than Washington. Standing upon the Potomac, one of the most navigable
+of all the rivers that empty themselves into the Chesapeake, the depth of which
+is sufficient to float a frigate for some way above the town, it possesses
+unrivalled facilities for the carrying on of an extensive trade; whilst its
+distance from the coast is such as to place it, in a great measure, beyond
+reach of insult from an enemy. Such an assertion, coming from one who has just
+detailed the particulars of its capture, may, indeed, appear to partake not
+slightly of the nature of a paradox; but there is no denying that the fall of
+Washington ought to be attributed much more to the misconduct of the Americans
+themselves, than to the skill or enterprise of those who effected it. Had the
+emergency been contemplated, and in a proper manner provided against, or had
+the most moderate ingenuity and courage been displayed in retarding the
+progress of our troops, the design, if formed at all, would have been either
+abandoned immediately, or must have ended in the total destruction of the
+invaders.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Like other infant towns, Washington is but little ornamented with fine
+buildings; except the Senate-house, I really know of none worthy to be noticed.
+This however is, or rather was, an edifice of some beauty. It stood, where its
+ruins now stand, upon a mound called the Capitol Hill, and near a trifling
+stream named the Tiber; from which circumstances these modern republicans are
+led to flatter themselves that the days are coming when it will rival in power
+and grandeur the Senate-house of ancient Rome herself. It was built entirely of
+freestone, tastefully worked and highly polished; and, besides its numerous
+windows, was lighted from the top by a large and handsome cupola. Perhaps it
+could not be said to belong to any decided style of architecture; but its
+central appearance was light, airy, and elegant. After traversing a wide and
+spacious entrance-hall, you arrived at the foot of a handsome spiral hanging
+staircase; on the right of which were two spacious apartments, one above the
+other, which were occupied as sitting chambers by the two houses of
+representatives. From these branched off several smaller rooms, fitted up as
+offices, and probably used as such by the various officers of state. On the
+right of the staircase, again, were two other apartments equal in size to those
+on the left, with a like number of smaller rooms branching off from them. These
+were furnished as a public library, the two larger being well stocked with
+valuable books, principally in modern languages, whilst the others, filled with
+archives, national statutes, acts of legislature, &amp;c., were used as the
+private rooms of the librarians.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The President&rsquo;s house, on the other hand, though likewise a public
+building, was remarkable for nothing except the absence of taste exhibited in
+its structure. It was small, incommodious, and plain; in no respect likely to
+excite the jealousy of a people peculiarly averse to all pomp or parade, even
+in their chief magistrate. Besides these, there were also a custom-house,
+several banking-houses, and a school or college, all claiming to themselves the
+destruction of public works; but in them there was a plainness amounting almost
+to coarseness, and a general air of republicanism, by no means imposing. With
+respect to the number of inhabitants which Washington contained, I confess that
+I cannot pretend to give an opinion: but if any judgment may be formed from the
+extent of ground covered by what is considered as the town, I should say that
+they amounted to somewhere about sixty thousand. George Town, the quarter where
+the President&rsquo;s house stood, is compact and regular, containing, I should
+conceive, at least twenty thousand souls within itself; nor can the population
+of the other quarters be estimated at less than double that number.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Such was then the city of Washington, of which our hasty and unfriendly visit
+did not allow us to take a very minute survey. I return now to the movements of
+the British army.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+I have stated above that our troops were this day kept as much together as
+possible upon the Capitol Hill. But it was not alone on account of the
+completion of their destructive labours that this was done. A powerful army of
+Americans already began to show themselves upon some heights, at the distance
+of two or three miles from the city; and as they sent out detachments of horse
+even to the very suburbs, for the purpose of watching our motions, it would
+have been unsafe to permit more straggling than was absolutely necessary. The
+army which we had overthrown the day before, though defeated, was far from
+annihilated; it had by this time recovered its panic, began to concentrate
+itself in our front, and presented quite as formidable an appearance as ever.
+We learnt, also, that it was joined by a considerable force from the back
+settlements, which had arrived too late to take part in the action, and the
+report was, that both combined amounted to nearly twelve thousand men.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Whether or not it was their intention to attack, I cannot pretend to say,
+because it was noon before they showed themselves; and soon after, when
+something like a movement could be discerned in their ranks, the sky grew
+suddenly dark, and the most tremendous hurricane ever remembered by the oldest
+inhabitant in the place came on. Of the prodigious force of the wind it is
+impossible for one who was not an eye-witness to its effects to form a
+conception. Roofs of houses were torn off by it, and whirled into the air like
+sheets of paper; whilst the rain which accompanied it resembled the rushing of
+a mighty cataract rather than the dropping of a shower. The darkness was as
+great as if the sun had long set, and the last remains of twilight had come on,
+occasionally relieved by flashes of vivid lightning streaming through it;
+which, together with the noise of the wind and the thunder, the crash of
+falling buildings, and the tearing of roofs as they were stript from the walls,
+produced the most appalling effect I ever have, and probably ever shall,
+witness. The storm lasted for nearly two hours without intermission, during
+which time many of the houses spared by us were blown down, and thirty of our
+men, besides several of the inhabitants, buried beneath their ruins. Our column
+was as completely dispersed as if it had received a total defeat; some of the
+men flying for shelter behind walls and buildings, and others falling flat upon
+the ground, to prevent themselves from being carried away by the tempest; nay,
+such was the violence of the wind, that two pieces of light cannon, which stood
+upon the eminence, were fairly lifted from the ground, and borne several yards
+to the rear.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap11"></a>CHAPTER XI.</h2>
+
+<p>
+When the hurricane had blown over, the camp of the Americans appeared to be in
+as great a state of confusion as our own; nor could either party recover
+themselves sufficiently during the rest of the day to try the fortune of a
+battle. Of this General Ross did not fail to take advantage. He had already
+attained all that he could hope, and perhaps more than he originally expected
+to attain; consequently, to risk another action would only be to spill blood
+for no purpose. Whatever might be the issue of the contest, he could derive
+from it no advantage. If he were victorious, it would not do away with the
+necessity which existed of evacuating Washington; if defeated, his ruin was
+certain. To avoid fighting was therefore his object, and perhaps he owed its
+accomplishment to the fortunate occurrence of the storm. Be that, however, as
+it may, a retreat was resolved upon; and we now only waited for night, to put
+the resolution into practice.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+There was, however, one difficulty to be surmounted in this proceeding. Of the
+wounded, many were so ill as to preclude all possibility of their removal, and
+to leave them in the hands of an enemy whom we had beaten was rather a
+mortifying anticipation. But for this there was no help; and it now only
+remained to make the best arrangements for their comfort, and to secure for
+them, as far as could be done, civil treatment from the Americans.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It chanced that, among other prisoners taken at Bladensburg, was Commodore
+Barney, an American officer of much gallantry and high sense of honour. Being
+himself wounded, he was the more likely to feel for those who were in a similar
+condition, and having received the kindest treatment from our medical
+attendants, as long as he continued under their hands, he became, without
+solicitation, the friend of his fellow-sufferers. To him, as well as to the
+other prisoners, was given his parole, and to his care were our wounded, in a
+peculiar manner, intrusted,&mdash;a trust which he received with the utmost
+willingness, and discharged with the most praiseworthy exactness. Among other
+stipulations, it was agreed that such of our people as were left behind should
+be considered as prisoners of war, and should be restored to us as soon as they
+were able to travel; and that, as soon as they reached the ships, the Commodore
+and his countrymen would, in exchange, be released from their engagements.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As soon as these arrangements were completed, and darkness had come on, the
+third brigade, which was posted in the rear of our army, began to withdraw.
+Then followed the guns, afterwards the second, and last of all the light
+brigade, exactly reversing the order which had been maintained during the
+advance. Instead of an advanced guard, this last now furnished a party to cover
+the retreat, and the whole procession was closed by the mounted drivers.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It being a matter of great importance to deceive the enemy and to prevent
+pursuit, the rear of the column did not quit its ground upon the Capitol till a
+late hour. During the day an order had been issued that none of the inhabitants
+should be seen in the streets after eight o&rsquo;clock; and as fear renders
+most men obedient, the order was punctually attended to. All the horses
+belonging to different officers were removed to drag the guns, no one being
+allowed to ride, lest a neigh, or even the trampling of hoofs, should excite
+suspicion. The fires were trimmed, and made to blaze brightly; fuel enough was
+left to keep them so for some hours; and finally, about half-past nine
+o&rsquo;clock the troops formed in marching order, and moved off in the most
+profound silence. Not a word was spoken, nor a single individual permitted to
+step one inch out of his place, by which means they passed along the streets
+perfectly unnoticed, and cleared the town without any alarm being given. Our
+pace, it will be imagined, was none of the most tardy, consequently it was not
+long before we reached the ground which had been occupied by the other
+brigades. Here we found a second line of fires blazing in the same manner as
+those deserted by ourselves; and the same precautions in every respect adopted,
+to induce a belief that our army was still quiet.&mdash;Beyond these, again, we
+found two or three solitary fires, placed in such order as to resemble those of
+a chain of piquets. In a word, the deception was so well managed, that even we
+ourselves were at first doubtful whether the rest of the troops had fallen
+back.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+When we reached the ground where yesterday&rsquo;s battle had been fought, the
+moon rose, and exhibited a spectacle by no means enlivening.&mdash;The dead
+were still unburied, and lay about in every direction completely naked. They
+had been stripped even of their shirts, and having been exposed in this state
+to the violent rain in the morning, they appeared to be bleached to a most
+unnatural degree of whiteness. The heat and rain together had likewise affected
+them in a different manner; and the smell which rose upon the night air was
+horrible.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+There is something in such a scene as this extremely humbling, and repugnant to
+the feelings of human nature. During the agitation of a battle, it is nothing
+to see men fall in hundreds by your side. You may look at them, perhaps, for an
+instant, but you do so almost without being yourself aware of it, so completely
+are your thoughts carried away by the excitation of the moment and the shouts
+of your companions.&mdash;But when you come to view the dead in an hour of
+calmness, stripped as they generally are, you cannot help remembering how frail
+may have been the covering which saved yourself from being the loathsome thing
+on which you are now gazing.&mdash;For myself, I confess that these reflections
+rose within my mind on the present occasion; and if any one should say that,
+similarly situated, they would not rise in his, I should give him no credit for
+a superior degree of courage, though I might be inclined to despise him for his
+want of the common feelings of a reasonable being.
+</p>
+
+<h3>BLADENSBURG.</h3>
+
+<p>
+In Bladensburg the brigade halted for an hour, while those men who had thrown
+away their knapsacks endeavoured to recover them. During this interval I
+strolled up to a house which had been converted into an hospital, and paid a
+hasty visit to the wounded. I found them in great pain, and some of them deeply
+affected at the thought of being abandoned by their comrades, and left to the
+mercy of their enemies. Yet, in their apprehension of evil treatment from the
+Americans, the event proved that they had done injustice to that people; who
+were found to possess at least one generous trait in their character, namely,
+that of behaving kindly and attentively to their prisoners.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As soon as the stragglers had returned to their ranks, we again moved on,
+continuing to march without once stopping to rest during the whole of the
+night. Of the fatigue of a night march none but those who have experienced it
+can form the smallest conception. Oppressed with the most intolerable
+drowsiness, we were absolutely dozing upon our legs; and if any check at the
+head of the column caused a momentary delay, the road was instantly covered
+with men fast asleep. It is generally acknowledged that no inclination is so
+difficult to resist as the inclination to sleep; but when you are compelled not
+only to bear up against that, but to struggle also with weariness, and to walk
+at the same time, it is scarcely possible to hold out long. By seven
+o&rsquo;clock in the morning, it was found absolutely necessary to pause,
+because numbers had already fallen behind, and numbers more were ready to
+follow their example; when throwing ourselves upon the ground, almost in the
+same order in which we had marched, in less than five minutes there was not a
+single unclosed eye throughout the whole brigade. Piquets were of course
+stationed, and sentinels placed, to whom no rest was granted, but, except
+these, the entire army resembled a heap of dead bodies on a field of battle,
+rather than living men.
+</p>
+
+<h3>ARLBOROUGH</h3>
+
+<p>
+In this situation we remained till noon, when we were again roused to continue
+the retreat. Though the sun was oppressively powerful, we moved on without
+resting till dark, when having arrived at our old position near Marlborough, we
+halted for the night. During this day&rsquo;s march we were joined by numbers
+of negro slaves, who implored us to take them along with us, offering to serve
+either as soldiers or sailors, if we would but give them their liberty; but as
+General Ross persisted in protecting private property of every description, few
+of them were fortunate enough to obtain their wishes.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+We had now proceeded a distance of thirty-five miles, and began to consider
+ourselves beyond the danger of pursuit. The remainder of the retreat was
+accordingly conducted with more leisure; our next march carrying us no farther
+than to Nottingham, where we remained during an entire day, for the purpose of
+resting the troops. It cannot, however, be said that this resting-time was
+spent in idleness. A gun-brig, with a number of ships&rsquo; launches and
+long-boats, had made their way up the stream, and were at anchor opposite to
+the town. On board the former were carried such of the wounded as had been able
+to travel, whilst the latter were loaded with flour and tobacco, the only spoil
+which we found it practicable to bring off.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Whilst the infantry were thus employed, the cavalry was sent back as far as
+Marlborough, to discover whether there were any American forces in pursuit; and
+it was well for the few stragglers who had been left behind that this
+recognizance was made. Though there appeared to be no disposition on the part
+of the American General to follow our steps and to harass the retreat, the
+inhabitants of that village, at the instigation of a medical practitioner
+called Bain, bad risen in arms as soon as we departed; and falling upon such
+individuals as strayed from the column, put some of them to death, and made
+others prisoners. A soldier whom they had taken, and who had escaped, gave
+information of these proceedings to the troopers, just as they were about to
+return to head-quarters; upon which they immediately wheeled about, and
+galloping into the village, pulled the doctor out of his bed (for it was early
+in the morning), compelled him, by a threat of instant death, to liberate his
+prisoners; and mounting him before one of the party, brought him in triumph to
+the camp.
+</p>
+
+<h3>ST. BENEDICT&rsquo;S.</h3>
+
+<p>
+The wounded, the artillery, and plunder, being all embarked on the 28th, at
+daybreak on the 29th we took the direction of St. Benedict&rsquo;s, where we
+arrived, without any adventure, at a late hour in the evening. Here we again
+occupied the ground of which we had taken possession on first landing, passing
+the night in perfect quiet; and next day, the boats of the fleet being ready to
+receive us, the regiments, one by one, marched down to the beach. We found the
+shore covered with sailors from the different ships of war, who welcomed our
+arrival with loud cheers; and having contrived to bring up a larger flotilla
+than had been employed in the disembarkation, they removed us within a few
+hours, and without the occurrence of any accident, to our respective vessels.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Such is a plain impartial account of the inroad upon Washington, an affair than
+which the whole war produced none more brilliant or more daring. In whatever
+light we may regard it, whether we look to the amount of difficulties which it
+behoved him to overcome, the inadequacy of the force which he commanded, or the
+distance which he was called upon to march, in the midst of a hostile
+population, and through deep and trackless forests, we cannot deny to General
+Ross the praise which is his due, of having planned and successfully
+accomplished an expedition which none but a sagacious mind could have devised,
+and none but a gallant spirit carried into execution. Among the many important
+transactions which then occupied the public attention, the campaign at
+Washington was, I believe, but little spoken of; and even now, it is
+overwhelmed in the recollections of the all-engrossing Waterloo; but the time
+will probably come, when he who at the head of four thousand men penetrated
+upwards of sixty miles into an enemy&rsquo;s country; overthrew an army more
+than double his own in point of numbers; took possession of the capital of a
+great nation, and having held it as long as it suited his own purposes to hold
+it, returned again in triumph to his fleet, will be ranked, as he deserves to
+be ranked, among the number of those who have most successfully contributed to
+elevate Great Britain to the height of military glory on which she now stands.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It has been said that the entire merit of this brilliant expedition is due, not
+so much to the brave man who conducted it, as to Sir George Cockburn, at whose
+suggestion it was undertaken. To the great gallantry and high talents of Sir
+George Cockburn no one who served within the compass of the Bay of Chesapeake
+will refuse to bear testimony, nor is it improbable that in attributing to him
+the original, design of laying Washington itself under contribution, common
+report speaks truly. But with whomsoever the idea first originated, to General
+Ross belongs the undivided of having, carried it into effect. From Sir George
+Cockburn, and indeed from the whole fleet, the army received every assistance
+which it was in the power of the the fleet to bestow; but had no Ross been at
+the head of the land forces, the capital of the United States would have
+suffered no insult. I have ventured to make these remarks, not with any design
+of taking away, in the slightest degree, from the well-earned reputation of the
+living; but merely as an act of justice towards the memory of the gallant dead,
+whose services have hardly received all the notice, either from the Government
+or the country, which they deserved.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Of the degree of military sagacity exhibited on both sides, during the progress
+of hostilities, it scarcely becomes me to speak. Perhaps our leader delayed
+something too long in making, up his mind as to the ultimate end to be pursued,
+after the troop had penetrated so far into the interior as Marlborough. Had he
+pushed on at once, it is barely possible that Washington might have fallen at a
+less expense of human life than actually occurred. Perhaps, too, he commenced
+the attack at Bladensburg with a degree of precipitancy which hindered him
+from, taking advantage of an open ford, and compelled him to expose his troops
+to the fire of the enemy&rsquo;s artillery whilst crossing a narrow bridge in a
+single column. But these errors, if errors they may be termed, were amply
+compensated by the perfect success of his operations; whilst in every other
+particular his conduct was beyond the reach of censure. In his choice of ground
+for halting, in the order both of his advance and retreat, and in the rapidity
+of his movements as soon as his plans had been arranged, General Ross exhibited
+himself in the light of an able and diligent commander. No man could possess,
+more than he a soldier&rsquo;s eye in examining the face of a country; and in
+what little manoeuvring the circumstances permitted, he displayed the
+proficiency of one well practised in the arts of campaigning. It will be
+recollected, that on the 23rd, the day previous to the battle, we fell in with
+a strong body of the enemy, to deceive whom we wheeled off from the main road,
+and took the direction of Alexandria. The plan was attended by the most perfect
+success; the party deceived, being in fact the advanced guard of the main army.
+Thinking that Alexandria, and not Washington, was threatened, the American
+General abandoned a strong position, which he had seized on the main road,
+harassed his troops by a needless march towards that town; and discovered his
+mistake only time enough to occupy the heights of Bladensburg a very few
+minutes before we came in sight.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+With respect to the Americans, again, criticism necessarily degenerates into
+unqualified censure. From the beginning to the end of the affair, they acted in
+no one instance like prudent or sagacious men. In the first place, they ought
+on no account to have risked a general action in an open country, however
+strong and steep; and, secondly, they deserved to suffer much more severely
+than they did suffer, for permitting an enemy&rsquo;s army to penetrate beyond
+Nottingham. In allowing us to land without opposition, they were perhaps guilty
+of no great mistake; but having done so, instead of concentrating their forces
+in one place, they ought to have harassed us with continual skirmishing; felled
+trees on each side, and thrown them across the road; dug deep ditches at
+certain intervals; in a word, it was their wisdom to adopt the mode of warfare
+to which their own habits, as, well as the nature of their country, invited
+them.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In America, every man is a marksman from his very boyhood, and every man serves
+in the militia; but to bring an army of raw militia-men, however excellent they
+might be as marksmen, into a fair field against regular troops, could end in
+nothing but defeat. When two lines oppose each other, very little depends upon
+the accuracy with which individuals take aim. It is then that the habit of
+acting in concert, the confidence which each man feels in his companions, and
+the rapidity and good order in which different movements can be executed, are
+alone of real service. But put these raw militia-men into thick woods, and send
+your regular troops to drive them out, and you will immediately lose all the
+advantages of discipline, and reduce your battle to so many single combats.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Here, therefore, lay their principal error: had they left all clear, and
+Permitted us to advance as far as Nottingham, then broken up the roads, and
+covered them with trees, it would have been impossible for us to go a step
+beyond. As soon as this was effected, they might have skirmished with us in
+front, and kept our attention alive with part of their troops, till the rest,
+acquainted as they doubtless were with every inch of the country, had got into
+our rear, and, by a similar mode of proceeding, cut off our retreat. Thus we
+should have been taken in a snare, from which it would have been no easy task
+to extricate ourselves, and might, perhaps, have been obliged in the end to
+surrender at discretion.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But so obvious and so natural a plan of defence they chose to reject and
+determining to trust all to the fate of a battle, they were guilty of a
+monstrous error again. Bladensburg ought not to have been left unoccupied. The
+most open village, if resolutely defended, will cost many men before it falls;
+whereas Bladensburg, being composed of substantial brick houses, might have
+been maintained for hours against all our efforts. In the next place, they
+displayed great want of military knowledge in the disposition of both their
+infantry and artillery. There was not, in the whole space of their position, a
+single point where an enemy would be exposed to a cross fire. The troops were
+drawn up in three straight lines, like so many regiments upon a gala parade;
+whilst the guns were used as connecting links to a chain, being posted in the
+same order, by ones and twos, at every interval.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In maintaining themselves, likewise, when attacked, they exhibited neither
+skill nor resolution. Of the personal courage of the Americans there can be no
+doubt; they are, individually taken, as brave a nation as any in the world. But
+they are not soldiers; they have not the experience nor the habits of soldiers.
+It was the height of folly, therefore, to bring them into a situation where
+nothing except that experience and those habits will avail; and it is on this
+account that I repeat what I have already said, that the capture of Washington
+was more owing to the blindness of the Americans themselves than to any other
+cause.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap12"></a>CHAPTER XII.</h2>
+
+<h3>ALEXANDRIA</h3>
+
+<p>
+Whilst the army was thus actively employed, the fleet did not remain idle. A
+squadron of frigates, with two bomb-ships, under the command of Captain Gordon,
+of the Sea-horse, penetrated up the Potomac, and appeared before Alexandria.
+The whole of the militia of the district was at this time called away for the
+defence of the capital, consequently no place could be less prepared to resist
+an invader than that city. A party accordingly landed from the ships without
+opposition, and having destroyed the barracks, public works, and all the cannon
+which they found on shore, they seized a number of schooners and other small
+craft then lying in the harbour, and loading them with flour and tobacco to a
+considerable amount, prepared to rejoin the fleet in the bay.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But by this time the country was alarmed; a detachment was sent from the main
+army, and being joined by the reserve of militia, it was determined to
+intercept the squadron on its return. With this view, several pieces of heavy
+cannon were mounted upon a steep part of the bank, where the river, in making
+an angle, narrows considerably in its channel. Thither also hastened large
+bodies of infantry; and before the frigates had begun to weigh anchor nearly
+5000 men were assembled to prevent their passage.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Of these preparations Captain Gordon did not long remain ignorant; nor was he
+backward in making the best arrangements possible to meet the danger. By
+shifting the ballast in each of the vessels entirely to one side, he caused
+them to lean in such a manner as that their artillery could be elevated to a
+surprising degree, and the shot rise even to the summit of the hill. The guns
+were then stuffed, rather than loaded, with grape and musket-balls; and the
+ships, taking their stations according to their draft of water, the lightest
+keeping nearest to the enemy&rsquo;s shore, set sail, and, favoured by a
+leading breeze, stood leisurely down the river.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As soon as they arrived within tangible distance, a brisk cannonade was opened
+upon them from the heights, and the whole of the infantry appeared in line
+along, the brow of the eminence. Regardless of these formidable salutations,
+the ships continued to hold their course without changing their order or
+returning a shot, till they reached the base of the hill upon which the
+infantry stood, and received a volley of musketry into their decks. Then,
+indeed, they answered the fire; and with such effect, that at the first
+broadside the enemy&rsquo;s guns were abandoned, and their infantry took to
+flight. The Americans had persuaded themselves that no ship could point her
+guns so as to sweep the top of the hill; and under this idea had drawn up their
+troops along the ridge, with the intention of overawing the squadron by a
+display of their numbers. But in the event they found themselves mistaken, for
+so well had Captain Gordon arranged matters, that not a single shot fell under
+its mark; and as the ships&rsquo; artillery had been loaded for the occasion, a
+shower of balls of every size and description came amongst them, such as it was
+impossible to withstand. A single broadside was sufficient to secure the safe
+passage of his squadron; but with this Captain Gordon was not contented. Seeing
+the enemy driven from their cannon, he immediately landed his marines, spiked
+the guns, and blew up the expense magazines; when, having received them all
+safely on board again, he continued his voyage, and regained the Chesapeake
+without further molestation.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Nor was this the only operation in which the navy were employed. Cruising about
+in every direction, they threatened the whole line of coast, from the entrance
+to the very bend of the bay; and thus kept the Americans in a constant state of
+alarm. Whenever a favourable opportunity presented itself, parties landed,
+plundered or destroyed the Government stores, laid towns and districts under
+contribution, and brought off all the shipping which could be reached. In a
+word, the hostilities carried on in the Chesapeake resembled the expeditions of
+the ancient Danes against Great Britain, rather than a modern war between
+civilized nations. But these hasty excursions, though generally successful,
+were not always performed without loss to the invaders. Many men and some
+officers were killed and wounded, among whom was Captain Sir Peter Parker, of
+the Menelaus frigate, an officer distinguished for his gallantry and knowledge
+of naval tactics. Having learnt that an encampment of 300 men and six pieces of
+cannon had been formed, at the distance of a few miles from the banks of the
+Potomac, and about nine leagues below Alexandria, he determined, with part of
+his ship&rsquo;s crew, to surprise it, and to capture the guns. Running his
+frigate with this view up the river, he cast anchor opposite to the place where
+the American forces lay; and leaving on board only a sufficient number of
+sailors to manage the ship, and to guard against surprise, with the rest,
+amounting to 200 seamen and marines, he landed, and marched rapidly towards the
+enemy&rsquo;s camp. But intelligence of his proceedings had already reached
+them; patrols of horse hovering continually along the coast for the purpose of
+watching the motions of our fleet. When, therefore, he arrived at the point of
+destination, he found the bivouac deserted, and the rear-guard in full retreat.
+With these a little skirmishing ensued, and he received a rifle-ball in the
+thigh. Not suspecting that the wound was dangerous, he continued to push
+forward, till he fell exhausted from loss of blood; when, on examining the
+hurt, it was found that the femoral artery had been cut; and before any proper
+assistance could be afforded, he literally bled to death. Seeing their leader
+killed, and the enemy retiring, apparently with the design of drawing them away
+from the coast, the sailors now halted; and taking up their dead commander,
+returned to the river without being able to effect anything which might, in any
+degree, console them for their loss.
+</p>
+
+<h3>THE PATUXENT.</h3>
+
+<p>
+In the meantime the army continued, for some days, quietly on board the ships
+in the Patuxent. The wounded whose cases appeared most desperate were removed
+to vessels fitted up for their reception, and sailed, some for Halifax, and
+others for England. The dispatches were likewise made out and sent off in the
+Iphigenia, whilst a sort of breathing-time was given to those who had been of
+late so actively employed. Whilst this sabbath continued, I amused myself by
+landing; and under the pretext of shooting, strolled sometimes farther up the
+country than prudence exactly warranted. The houses and villas, upon the
+immediate banks of the river, I found universally deserted, and thoroughly
+plundered. The corn, however, was uninjured; and even flocks of sheep were seen
+grazing within a short distance of the water, protected only by negro slaves.
+Of these none were taken without an equivalent being as faithfully paid as if
+they had been sold in the market-place of New York; a circumstance which
+favoured the belief that the houses had been ransacked, not by the British
+troops, but by the inhabitants themselves. Whether it was really so or not I
+cannot say, but this I know, that from the time of our arrival in the
+Chesapeake, all acts of individual plunder or violence were strictly
+prohibited, and severely punished.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But this appearance of ruin and desertion extended not more than a mile or two
+from the coast. Beyond that, I found the cottages occupied by their owners, and
+everything remaining as if no enemy were within a hundred miles. The young men,
+indeed, were generally absent, because every man fit to bear arms was now
+serving with the army; but the old men and the women seemed to live as
+comfortably as if the most profound peace had reigned throughout the State. Nor
+did I find them altogether so hostile to our interest as I had expected. They
+professed to be Federalists; and though they regretted the events of the war,
+they blamed their own rulers for its commencement. Tempted by this show of
+quietness, I one day continued my walk to a greater distance from the fleet
+than I had yet ventured to do. My servant was with me, but had no arms, and I
+was armed only with a double-barrelled fowling-piece. Having wearied myself
+with looking for game, and penetrated beyond my former landmarks, I came
+suddenly upon a small hamlet, occupying a piece of cleared ground in the very
+heart of a thick wood. With this, to confess the truth, I was by no means
+delighted, more especially as I perceived two stout-looking men sitting at the
+door of one of the cottages. To retire unobserved was, however, impossible,
+because the rustling which I had made among the trees attracted their
+attention, and they saw me; probably, before I had seen them. Perceiving that
+their eyes were fixed upon me, I determined to put a bold face upon the matter;
+and calling aloud, as if to a party to halt, I advanced, with my servant,
+towards them. They were dressed in sailors&rsquo; jackets and trowsers, and
+rose on my approach, taking off their hats with much civility. On joining them,
+I demanded to be informed whether they were not Englishmen, and deserters from
+the fleet, stating that I was in search of two persons very much answering
+their description. They assured me that they were Americans, and no deserters,
+begging that I would not take them away; a request to which, after some time, I
+assented. They then conducted me into the house, where I found an old man and
+three women, who entertained me with bread, cheese, and new milk. While I was
+sitting here, a third youth, in the dress of a labourer, entered, and whispered
+to one of the sailors, who immediately rose to go out, but I commanded him to
+sit still, declaring that I was not satisfied, and should certainly arrest him
+if he attempted to escape. The man sat down sulkily; and the young labourer
+coming forward, begged permission to examine my gun. This was a request which I
+did not much relish, and with which I, of course, refused to comply; telling
+the fellow that it was loaded, and that I was unwilling to trust it out of my
+own band, on account of a weakness in one of the locks.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+I had now kept up appearances as long as they could be kept up, and therefore
+rose to withdraw; a measure to which I was additionally induced by the
+appearance of two other countrymen at the opposite end of the hamlet. I
+therefore told the sailors that, if they would pledge themselves to remain
+quietly at home, without joining the American army, I would not molest them;
+warning them, at the same time, not to venture beyond the village, lest they
+should fall into the hands of other parties, who were also in search of
+deserters. The promise they gave, but not with much alacrity, when I rose, and
+keeping my eye fixed upon them, and my gun ready cocked in my hand, walked out,
+followed by my servant. They conducted us to the door, and stood staring after
+us till we got to the edge of the wood; when I observed them moving towards
+their countrymen, who also gazed upon us, without either advancing or flying.
+The reader will readily believe, that as soon as we found ourselves concealed
+by the trees, we lost no time in endeavouring to discover the direct way
+towards the shipping; but plunging into the thickets, ran with all speed,
+without thinking of aught except an immediate escape from pursuit. Whether the
+Americans did attempt to follow, or not, I cannot tell. If they did, they took
+a wrong direction, for in something more than an hour I found myself at the
+edge of the river, a little way above the shipping, and returned safely on
+board, fully resolved not again, to expose myself to such risks, without
+necessity.
+</p>
+
+<h3>THE PATAPSCO.</h3>
+
+<p>
+In this manner the time was spent till daybreak on the 6th of September, when
+the whole fleet got under weigh, and stood towards the Chesapeake. The wind was
+fair, and we speedily cleared the river; but instead of standing up the bay, as
+we had expected, we ran down a few miles below the mouth of the Patuxent, and
+there anchored. A signal was then made by telegraph for all ships to send in a
+return of the number of seamen whom, in addition to marines, they could land
+with small-arms. Every ship&rsquo;s crew was accordingly mustered, and it was
+found that, besides the numbers necessary for conveying stores and dragging
+guns, one thousand sailors could be spared from the fleet. Thus, in spite of
+our loss at Bladensburg, we were enabled on our next debarkation to bring into
+the field about five thousand fighting men.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Next morning we again weighed, and directed our course towards the Potomac. We
+entered this river soon after midday, and continued to stem the stream during
+the night, and till dusk on the following evening, when we again brought up.
+Here we were joined by Admiral Cockburn, who had quitted the anchorage some
+days before the rest of the fleet, with a large flotilla of prizes and small
+craft; and having on the 9th once more set sail, and steered for a few hours in
+the direction of Alexandria, we suddenly put about, and, favoured by a fresh
+breeze, ran down to the bay, turning our heads upwards towards the Patapsco.
+Baltimore, it was now understood, was the point of attack; and towards the
+river upon which that town is built we hastened under a heavy press of sail.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The object of this manoeuvring was evidently to deceive the enemy, and by
+keeping him in suspense as to the place threatened, to prevent his
+concentrating his forces, or throwing up works for its defence. But in the
+attainment of our object, the event proved that we were but partially
+successful. Certain it is, however, that the utmost consternation prevailed in
+every town or village opposite to which we made our appearance. In passing
+Anapolis, a considerable town built upon the bay, and possessing a tolerable
+harbour, we stood in so close as to discern the inhabitants flying from their
+houses; carts and waggons loaded with furniture hurrying along the roads, and
+horsemen galloping along the shore, as if watching the fearful moment when the
+boats should be hoisted out, and the troops quit the vessels. Wherever a
+lighthouse or signal station was erected, alarm-guns were fired and beacons
+lighted. In a word, all the horrors of doubt and apprehension seemed to oppress
+the inhabitants of this devoted district.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The fair wind continuing to blow without interruption, on the 11th we came in
+sight of the projecting headland, where it was designed to disembark the
+troops. It was a promontory washed by the Patapsco on one side, and a curvature
+of the bay itself on the other. It was determined to land here, rather than to
+ascend the river, because the Patapsco, though broad, is far from deep. It is,
+in fact, too shallow to admit a line-of-battle ship; and, as no one could guess
+what impediments might be thrown in the way to obstruct the navigation,
+prudence forbade that five thousand men should be intrusted to the convoy of
+the smaller vessels alone. Besides, the distance from the point to Baltimore
+did not exceed fourteen or fifteen miles, a space which might easily be
+traversed in a day.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But while the land forces moved in this direction upon Baltimore, it was
+resolved that the frigates and bomb-ships should endeavour to force their way
+through every obstacle, and to obtain possession of the navigation of the
+river, so as, if possible, to co-operate with the army by bombarding the place
+from the water. A frigate was accordingly dispatched to try the depth, and to
+take soundings of the channel, whilst the remainder of the fleet came to an
+anchor off the point. In the meantime all was again bustle and preparation on
+board the troop-ships and transports. Three days&rsquo; provisions were cooked,
+as before, and given to the men; and as we were now to carry everything by a
+coup-de-main, twenty rounds of ammunition were added to the sixty with which
+soldiers are usually loaded; whilst a smaller quantity of other baggage was
+directed to be taken on shore. A blanket, with a spare shirt and pair of shoes,
+was considered enough for each man on an expedition of so rapid a nature;
+whilst brushes and other articles of that description were divided between
+comrades, one carrying what would suffice for both. Thus the additional load of
+twenty cartridges was more than counterbalanced by the clothing and necessaries
+left behind.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was dusk when we reached the anchorage, consequently no landing could take
+place before the morrow. But as the boats were ordered to be in readiness at
+dawn, every man slept in his clothes, that he might be prepared to start at a
+moment&rsquo;s warning. There was something in this state of preparation at
+once solemn and exciting. That we should obtain possession of a place so
+important as Baltimore without fighting was not to be expected; and, therefore,
+this arming and this bustle seemed in fact to be the prelude to a battle. But
+no man of the smallest reflection can look forward to the chance of a sudden
+and violent death without experiencing sensations very different from those
+which he experiences under any other circumstances. When the battle has fairly
+begun, I may say with truth that the feelings of those engaged are delightful;
+because they are in fact so many gamblers playing for the highest stake that
+can be offered. But the stir and noise of equipping, and then the calmness and
+stillness of expectation, these are the things which force a man to think. On
+the other hand, the warlike appearance of everything about you, the careless
+faces and rude jokes of the private soldiers, and something within yourself,
+which I can compare to nothing more seemly than the mirth which criminals are
+said sometimes to experience and to express previous to their execution; all
+these combine to give you a degree of false hilarity, I had almost said painful
+from its very excess. It is an agitation of the nerves, such as we may suppose
+madmen feel, which you are inclined to wish removed, though you are not
+unwilling to admit that it is agreeable.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+And yet, as if in mockery of these deadly preparations, I do not recollect to
+have seen a more heavenly night than the present. The heat of the day was past,
+a full clear moon shone brightly in a sky where not a cloud could be discerned,
+and a heavy dew falling appeared to refresh the earth, which had been parched
+and burnt up by the sun. We lay at this time within two miles of the shore,
+consequently every object there was distinctly visible. Around us were moored
+numerous ships, which, breaking the tide as it flowed gently onwards, produced
+a ceaseless murmur like the gushing of a mountain stream. The voices of the
+sentinels too, as they relieved one another on the decks, and the occasional
+splash of oars, as a solitary boat rowed backwards and forwards to the
+Admiral&rsquo;s ship for orders, sounded peculiarly musical in the perfect
+stillness of a calm night. Though I am far from giving the preference, in all
+respects, to a sailor&rsquo;s life, it must nevertheless be confessed that it
+has in it many moments of exquisite enjoyment, and the present seemed to me to
+be of the number.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap13"></a>CHAPTER XIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>MARCH</h3>
+
+<p>
+But the stillness of night soon passed away, and at three o&rsquo;clock in the
+morning every ship in the fleet began to lower her boats, and the soldiers were
+roused from their slumbers. The same precautions which had been formerly used
+to cover the landing were again adopted, several gun-brigs laying themselves
+within cable&rsquo;s length of the beach, and the leading boats in every
+division being armed with carronades, loaded and ready for action. But, as had
+been the case at St. Benedict&rsquo;s, they were unnecessary, for the troops
+reached the shore without opposition, and leisurely formed in an open field
+close to the river.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was seven o&rsquo;clock before the whole army was disembarked and in order
+for marching. The same arrangements which had been made on the late expedition
+were, as far as circumstances would permit, again adopted on this. The light
+brigade, now commanded by Major Jones of the 4th regiment, led the advance;
+then followed the artillery, amounting to six field-pieces and two howitzers,
+all of them drawn by horses; next came the second brigade, then the sailors,
+and last of all the third brigade. Flank patrols and reconnoitring parties were
+likewise sent out; in short, the same admirable dispositions regulated the
+present march which had governed our march to Washington.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The column being put in motion, advanced, without the occurrence of any
+incident deserving of notice, for about an hour, when it arrived at a piece of
+ground which appeared as if it had been lately in possession of the enemy. It
+was a narrow neck of land, confined between the river on one side, and the head
+of a creek on the other, measuring, perhaps, a mile across. From the river to
+the creek a breastwork had been begun, and was partly completed. In front of it
+there were lines drawn, apparently for the purpose of marking out the width of
+a ditch; in some places the ditch itself was dug, and the commencement of what
+resembled an enfilading battery in the centre, showed that a considerable
+degree of science had been displayed in the choice of this spot as a military
+position. And, in truth, it was altogether such a position as, if completed,
+might have been maintained by a determined force against very superior numbers.
+Both flanks were completely protected, not only by water, but by thick wood,
+while a gentle eminence in the very middle of the line offered the most
+desirable situation for the projecting battery which had been begun; because a
+fire from it would have swept the whole, both to the right and left. In its
+present state, however, it was untenable, unless by a force as able to attack
+as to defend; consequently the Americans, who acted solely on the defensive,
+did wisely in choosing another.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But the aspect of the ground was such as led us to conclude that the enemy
+could not be very distant. The troops were accordingly halted, that the rear
+might be well up, and the men fresh and ready for action. Whilst this was done
+part of the flank patrol came in, bringing with them three light-horse men, as
+prisoners. These were young gentlemen belonging to a corps of volunteers,
+furnished by the town of Baltimore, who had been sent out to watch our motions,
+and convey intelligence to the American General. Being but little accustomed to
+such service, they had suffered themselves to be surprised; and, instead of
+reporting to their own leader as to the number and dispositions of their
+adversaries, they were now catechized by General Ross respecting the strength
+and preparations of their friends. From them we learned that a force of no less
+than twenty thousand men was embodied for the defence of Baltimore; but as the
+accounts of prisoners are generally over-rated, we took it for granted that
+they made their report only to intimidate.
+</p>
+
+<h3>ATTACK</h3>
+
+<p>
+Having rested for the space of an hour, we again moved forward, but had not
+proceeded above a mile when a sharp fire of musketry was heard in front, and
+shortly afterwards a mounted officer came galloping to the rear, who desired us
+to quicken our pace, for that the advanced guard was engaged. At this
+intelligence the ranks were closed, and the troops advanced at a brisk rate,
+and in profound silence. The firing still continued, though, from its running
+and irregular sound, it promised little else than a skirmish; but whether it
+was kept up by detached parties alone, or by the outposts of a regular army, we
+could not tell; because, from the quantity of wood with which the country
+abounded, and the total absence of all hills or eminences, it was impossible to
+discern what was going on at the distance of half a mile from the spot where we
+stood.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+We were already drawing near to the scene of action, when another officer came
+at full speed towards us, with horror and dismay in his countenance, and
+calling loudly for a surgeon. Every man felt within himself that all was not
+right, though none was willing to believe the whispers of his own terror. But
+what at first we would not guess at, because we dreaded it so much, was soon
+realized; for the aide-de-camp had scarcely passed, when the General&rsquo;s
+horse, without its rider, and with the saddle and housings stained with blood,
+came plunging onwards. Nor was much time given for fearful surmise as to the
+extent of our misfortune. In a few moments we reached the ground where the
+skirmishing had taken place, and beheld General Ross laid by the side of the
+road, under a canopy of blankets, and apparently in the agonies of death. As
+soon as the firing began, he had ridden to the front, that he might ascertain
+from whence it originated, and, mingling with the skirmishers, was shot in the
+side by a rifleman. The wound was mortal: he fell into the arms of his
+aide-de-camp, and lived only long enough to name his wife, and to commend his
+family to the protection of his country. He was removed towards the fleet, but
+expired before his bearers could reach the boats.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It is impossible to conceive the effect which this melancholy spectacle
+produced throughout the army. By the courteousness and condescension of his
+manners, General Ross had secured the absolute love of all who served under
+him, from the highest to the lowest; and his success on a former occasion, as
+well as his judicious arrangements on the present, had inspired every one with
+the most perfect confidence in his abilities. His very error, if error it may
+be called, in so young a leader&mdash;I mean that diffidence in himself which
+had occasioned some loss of time on the march to Washington, appeared now to
+have left him. His movements were at once rapid and cautious; nay, his very
+countenance indicated a fixed determination, and a perfect security of success.
+All eyes were turned upon him as we passed, and a sort of involuntary groan ran
+from rank to rank, from the front to the rear of the column.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+By the fall of our gallant leader, the command now devolved upon Colonel Brook,
+of the 44th regiment, an officer of decided personal courage, but, perhaps,
+better calculated to lead a battalion than to guide an army. Being informed of
+his unexpected and undesired elevation, he came to the front, and under him we
+continued to move on; sorrowful, indeed, but not dejected. The skirmishing had
+now ceased, for the American riflemen were driven in; and in a few minutes we
+found ourselves opposite to a considerable force, drawn up with some skill, and
+occupying a strong position. Judging from appearances, I should say that the
+corps now opposed to us amounted to six or seven thousand men. They covered a
+neck of land, very much resembling that which we had passed; having both flanks
+defended by little inland lakes; the whole of their position was well wooded,
+and in front of their line was a range of high palings, similar to those which
+intersected the field of Bladensburg. About the centre, though some way
+advanced, was a farm-house, with its outbuildings and stack-yard; and near to
+the right ran the main road. Their artillery, which could not greatly exceed
+our own, either in weight of metal or number of guns, was scattered along the
+line of infantry in nearly the same order as had been preserved at Bladensburg,
+and their reserve was partly seen, and partly hid by a thick wood.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The whole of this country is flat and unbroken. About half a mile in rear of
+the enemy&rsquo;s position were some heights, but to occupy these as they
+should be occupied would have required a much greater number of men than the
+American army could muster. Their General, therefore, exhibited some judgment
+in his choice of ground, but, perhaps, he would have exhibited more had he
+declined a pitched battle altogether. Yet, to do him justice, I repeat that the
+ground was well chosen; for, besides the covering of wood which he secured for
+his own people, he took care to leave open fields in his front; by which means
+we were of necessity exposed to a galling fire, as soon as we came within
+range. Of one error, however, he was guilty. Either he did not possess himself
+of the farm-house at all, or he suffered it to be taken from him with very
+little resistance; for on the arrival of the column at the ground where it was
+to form, it was in the occupation of our advanced guard. He was likewise to
+blame in not filling the wood upon our left with skirmishers. In short, he
+acted unwisely in merely attempting to repel attacks, without ever dreaming
+that the most effectual mode of so doing is to turn the tables, and attack the
+assailants.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As our troops came up they filed off to the right and left, and drew up just
+within cannon shot in the following order. The light brigade, consisting, as I
+have formerly stated, of the 85th regiment and the light companies of the other
+corps, in extended order, threatened the whole front of the American army. The
+21st remained in column upon the road; the 4th moved off to the right, and
+advanced through a thicket to turn the enemy&rsquo;s left; and the 44th, the
+seamen and marines, formed line in rear of the light brigade.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+While this formation was going on, the artillery being brought up, opened upon
+the American army, and a smart cannonade ensued on both sides. That our guns
+were well served I myself can bear witness; for I saw the Shrapnel shells which
+were thrown from them strike among the enemy, and make fearful gaps in the
+line. Our rockets likewise began to play, one of which falling short, lighted
+upon a haystack in the barn-yard belonging to the farm-house, and immediately
+set it on fire. The house itself, the stables, barns, and outhouses, as well as
+all the other stacks, one after another caught the flames, and were quickly in
+a state of conflagration; and the smoke and blaze which they emitted, together
+with the roar of cannon and flashes of the guns, produced altogether a very
+fine effect.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In the meantime the American artillery was not idle. Pushing forward two light
+field-pieces upon the road, they opened a destructive fire of grape upon the
+21st regiment, and such of the sailors as occupied that point. Three other guns
+were directed against our artillery, between which and several of our pieces a
+sort of duel was maintained; and the rest played without ceasing upon the 85th
+and the light companies, who had lain down while the other regiments took up
+their ground. Neither was their infantry altogether quiet. They marched several
+strong bodies from the right to the left, and withdrew others from the left to
+the right of their line, though for what end this marching and countermarching
+was undertaken I am at a loss to conceive. While thus fluctuating it was
+curious to observe their dread of every spot where a cannon-ball had struck.
+Having seen the shots fall, I kept my eye upon one or two places, and perceived
+that each company as it drew near to those points hung back; and then assuming
+as it were a momentary courage, rushed past, leaving a vacancy between it and
+the company which next succeeded.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+All this while the whole of our infantry, except the 4th regiment, lay or stood
+in anxious expectation of an order to advance. This, however, was not given
+till that corps had reached the thicket through which it was to make its way;
+when Colonel Brook, with his staff, having galloped along the line to see that
+all was ready, commanded the signal to be made. The charge was accordingly
+sounded, and echoed back from every bugle in the army, when, starting from the
+ground where they had lain, the troops moved on in a cool and orderly manner. A
+dreadful discharge of grape and canister shot, of old locks, pieces of broken
+muskets, and everything which they could cram into their guns, was now sent
+forth from the whole of the enemy&rsquo;s artillery, and some loss was on our
+side experienced. Regardless of this, our men went on without either quickening
+or retarding their pace, till they came within a hundred yards of the American
+line. As yet not a musket had been fired, nor a word spoken on either side, but
+the enemy, now raising a shout, fired a volley from right to left, and then
+kept up a rapid and ceaseless discharge of musketry. Nor were our people
+backward in replying to these salutes; for giving them back both their shout
+and their volley, we pushed on at double-quick, with the intention of bringing
+them to the charge.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The bayonet is a weapon peculiarly British; at least it is a weapon which in
+the hands of a British soldier is irresistible. Though they maintained
+themselves with great determination, and stood to receive our fire till
+scarcely twenty yards divided us, the Americans would not hazard a charge. On
+the left, indeed, where the 21st advanced in column, it was not without much
+difficulty and a severe loss that any attempt to charge could be made; for in
+that quarter seemed to be the flower of the enemy&rsquo;s infantry, as well as
+the main body of their artillery; towards the right, however, the day was
+quickly won. The only thing to be regretted, indeed, was that the attack had
+not been for some time longer deferred; because the Americans were broken and
+fled, just as the 4th regiment began to show itself upon the brink of the water
+which covered their flank; and before a shallow part could be discovered, and
+the troops were enabled to pass, they had time to escape.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As soon as their left gave way, the whole American army fell into confusion;
+nor do I recollect on any occasion to have witnessed a more complete rout.
+Infantry, cavalry, and artillery were huddled together, without the smallest
+regard to order or regularity. The sole object of anxiety seemed to be, which
+should escape first from the field of battle; insomuch, that numbers were
+actually trodden down by their countrymen in the hurry of the flight. Yet, in
+spite of the short duration of the action, which lasted little more than two
+hours from its first commencement, the enemy&rsquo;s loss was severe. They
+stood in some respects better than at Bladensburg, consequently we were more
+mingled with them when they gave way, and were thus enabled to secure some
+prisoners, an event which their more immediate flight had on the other occasion
+prevented. In the capture of guns, however, we were not so fortunate. Their
+pieces being light, and well supplied with horses, they contrived to carry off
+all except two; both of which would have also escaped but for the shooting of
+the leaders.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+I have said that the number of killed and wounded in the American army was very
+great; in ours, on the other hand, the casualties were fewer by far than might
+have been expected. The 21st and seamen suffered a good deal, the 85th and
+light companies a little; but had our gallant General been spared, we should
+have pronounced this a glorious, because a comparatively bloodless day. In the
+loss of that one man, however, we felt ourselves more deeply wounded than if
+the best battalion in the army had been sacrificed.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In following up the flying enemy the same obstacles which presented themselves
+at Bladensburg again came in the way. The thick woods quickly screened the
+fugitives, and as even our mounted drivers were wanting, their horses having
+been taken for the use of the artillery, no effectual pursuit could be
+attempted. We accordingly halted upon the field of battle, of necessity content
+with the success which we had obtained; and having collected the stragglers and
+called in the pursuers, it was resolved to pass the night in this situation.
+Fires were speedily lighted, and the troops distributed in such a manner as to
+secure a tolerable position in case of attack; and the wounded being removed
+into two or three houses scattered along the ground, the victors lay down to
+sleep under the canopy of heaven.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having thus given a distinct and connected detail of this affair, I shall beg
+leave to finish the present chapter with one or two anecdotes, which may not be
+unamusing. It is said that when Admiral Cockburn, who accompanied the army, and
+attended General Ross with the fidelity of an aide-de-camp, was in the wood
+where the latter fell, he observed an American rifleman taking deliberate aim
+at him from behind a tree. Instead of turning aside, or discharging a pistol at
+the fellow, as any other man would have done, the brave Admiral, doubling his
+fist, shook it at his enemy, and cried aloud, &ldquo;O you d&mdash;d Yankee,
+I&rsquo;ll give it you!&rdquo; upon which the man dropped his musket in the
+greatest alarm, and took to his heels.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It is likewise told of an officer of engineers, that having overtaken an
+American soldier, and demanded his arms, the fellow gave him his rifle very
+readily, but being ordered to resign a handsome silver-hilted dagger and
+silver-mounted cartouch-box, which graced his side, he refused to comply,
+alleging that they were private property, and that, by our own proclamations,
+private property should be respected. This was an instance of low cunning which
+reminded me of my own adventure with the squirrel-hunters, and which was
+attended with equal success.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+One other anecdote, of a different nature, and for the truth of which I can
+myself answer, may likewise be related. In strolling over the field of battle,
+I came unexpectedly upon a wounded American, who lay among some bushes with his
+leg broken. I drew near to offer him assistance, but on seeing me the wretch
+screamed out, and appeared in the greatest alarm; nor was it without some
+difficulty that I could persuade him he had nothing to fear. At last, being
+convinced that I intended him no harm, the fellow informed me that it was
+impressed upon the minds of the American levies that from the British they
+might expect no quarter; and that it was consequently their determination to
+give no quarter to the British troops. The fellow might belie his countrymen,
+and I hope and believe he did, but such was his report to me. To convince him
+of the erroneousness of his notions, I removed him to one of our hospitals,
+where his leg was amputated; and he saw himself, as well as many others of his
+wounded comrades, treated with the same attention which was bestowed upon our
+own soldiers.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap14"></a>CHAPTER XIV.</h2>
+
+<p>
+At an early hour on the 13th the troops were roused from their lairs, and
+forming upon the ground, waited till daylight should appear. A heavy rain had
+come on about midnight, and now fell with so much violence, that some
+precautions were necessary, in order to prevent the firelocks from being
+rendered useless by wet. Such of the men as were fortunate enough to possess
+leathern cases, wrapped them round the locks of their muskets, whilst the rest
+held them in the best manner they could, under their elbows; no man thinking of
+himself, but only how he could best keep his arms in a serviceable condition.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As soon as the first glimmering of dawn could be discerned, we moved to the
+road, and took up our wonted order of march; but before we pushed forward, the
+troops were desired to lighten themselves still further, by throwing off their
+blankets, which were to be left under a slender guard till their return. This
+was accordingly done; and being now unencumbered, except by a knapsack almost
+empty, every man felt his spirits heightened in proportion to the diminution of
+his load. The grief of soldiers is seldom of long duration, and though I will
+not exactly say that poor Ross was already forgotten, the success of yesterday
+had reconciled at least the privates to the guidance of their new leader; nor
+was any other issue anticipated than what would have attended the excursion had
+he still been its mainspring and director.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The country through which we passed resembled, in every particular, that
+already described. Wood and cultivation succeeded each other at intervals,
+though the former surpassed the latter in tenfold extent; but instead of
+deserted villages and empty houses, which had met us on the way to Washington,
+we found most of the inhabitants remaining peaceably in their homes, and
+relying upon the assurance of protection given to them in our proclamations.
+Nor had they cause to repent of that confidence. In no instance were they
+insulted, plundered, or ill-treated; whereas every house which was abandoned
+fell a prey to the scouts and reconnoitring parties.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But our march to-day was not so rapid as our motions generally were. The
+Americans had at last adopted an expedient which, if carried to its proper
+length, might have entirely stopped our progress. In most of the woods they had
+felled trees, and thrown them across the road; but as these abattis were
+without defenders, we experienced no other inconvenience than what arose from
+loss of time; being obliged to halt on all such occasions till the pioneers had
+removed the obstacle. So great, however, was even this hinderance, that we did
+not come in sight of the main army of the Americans till evening, although the
+distance travelled could not exceed ten miles.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It now appeared that the corps which we had beaten yesterday was only a
+detachment, and not a large one, from the force collected for the defence of
+Baltimore; and that the account given by the volunteer troopers was in every
+respect correct. Upon a ridge of hills, which concealed the town itself from
+observation, stood the grand army, consisting of twenty thousand men. Not
+trusting to his superiority in numbers, their General had there entrenched them
+in the most formidable manner, having covered the whole face of the heights
+with breastworks, thrown back his left so as to rest it upon a strong fort
+erected for the protection of the river, and constructed a chain of field
+redoubts which covered his right and commanded the entire ascent. Along the
+side of the hill were likewise <i>flèches</i> and other projecting works, from
+which a cross fire might be kept up; and there were mounted throughout this
+commanding position no less than one hundred pieces of cannon.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It would be absurd to suppose that the sight of preparations so warlike did not
+in some degree damp the ardour of our leader; at least it would have been
+madness to storm such works without pausing to consider how it might best be
+attempted. The whole of the country within cannon-shot was cleared from wood,
+and laid out in grass and corn-fields; consequently there was no cover to
+shelter an attacking army from any part of the deadly fire which would be
+immediately poured upon it. The most prudent plan, therefore, was to wait till
+dark; and then, assisted by the frigates and bombs, which he hoped were by this
+time ready to co-operate, to try the fortune of a battle.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having resolved thus to act, Colonel Brook halted his army; and, secured
+against surprise by a well-connected line of piquets, the troops were permitted
+to light fires and to cook their provisions. But though the rain still fell in
+torrents, no shelter could be obtained; and as even their blankets were no
+longer at hand, with which to form gipsy-tents, this was the reverse of an
+agreeable bivouac to the whole army.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Darkness had now come on, and as yet no intelligence had arrived from the
+shipping. To assail such a position, however, without the aid of the fleet, was
+deemed impracticable; at least our chance of success would be greatly
+diminished without their co-operation. As the left of the American army
+extended to a fort built upon the very brink of the river, it was clear that
+could the ships be brought to bear upon that point, and the fort be silenced by
+their fire, that flank of the position would be turned. This once effected,
+there would be no difficulty in pushing a column within their works; and as
+soldiers entrenched always place more reliance upon the strength of their
+entrenchments than upon their own personal exertions, the very sight of our
+people on a level with them would in all probability decide the contest. At all
+events, as the column was to advance under cover of night, it might easily push
+forward and crown the hill above the enemy, before any effectual opposition
+could be offered; by which means they would be enclosed between two fires, and
+lose the advantage which their present elevated situation bestowed. All,
+however, depended upon the ability of the fleet to lend their assistance; for
+without silencing the fort, this flank could scarcely be assailed with any
+chance of success, and, therefore, the whole plan of operations must be
+changed.
+</p>
+
+<h3>SEARCH.</h3>
+
+<p>
+Having waited till it was considered imprudent to wait longer, without knowing
+whether he was to be supported, Colonel Brook determined, if possible, to open
+a communication with the fleet. That the river could not be far off we knew,
+but how to get to it without falling in with wandering parties of the enemy was
+the difficulty. The thing, however, must be done; and as secrecy, and not
+force, was the main object, it was resolved to dispatch for the purpose a
+single officer without an escort. On this service a particular friend of mine
+chanced to be employed. Mounting his horse, he proceeded to the right of the
+army, where, having delayed a few minutes till the moon rising gave light
+enough through the clouds to distinguish objects, he pushed forward at a
+venture, in as straight a line as he could guess at. It was not long before his
+progress was stopped by a high hedge. Like knight-errants of old, he then gave
+himself up to the guidance of his horse, which taking him towards the rear,
+soon brought him into a narrow lane, that appeared to wind in the direction of
+the enemy&rsquo;s fort: this lane he determined to follow, and holding a cocked
+pistol in his hand, pushed on, not perhaps entirely comfortable, but desirous
+at all hazards of executing his commission. He had not ridden far, when the
+sound of voices through the splashing of the rain arrested his attention.
+Pulling up, he listened in silence, and soon discovered that they came from two
+American soldiers, whether stragglers or sentinels it was impossible to divine;
+but whoever they were, they seemed to be approaching. It now struck him that
+his safest course would be to commence the attack, and having therefore waited
+till he saw them stop short, as if they had perceived him, he rode forward, and
+called out to them to surrender. The fellows turned and fled, but galloping
+after them, he overtook one, at whose head he presented a pistol, and who
+instantly threw down his rifle, and yielded himself prisoner; whilst the other,
+dashing into a thicket, escaped, probably to tell that he had been attacked by
+a whole regiment of British cavalry. Having thus taken a prisoner, my friend
+resolved to make him of some use; with this view he commanded him to lay hold
+of his thigh, and to guide him directly to the river, threatening, if he
+attempted to mislead or betray him into the hands of the Americans, that he
+would instantly blow out his brains. Finding himself completely in my
+friend&rsquo;s power, the fellow could not refuse to obey; and accordingly, the
+man resting his hand upon the left thigh of the officer, they proceeded along
+the lane for some time, till they came to a part where it branched off in two
+directions. My friend here stopped for a moment; and again repeated his threat,
+swearing that the instant his conduct became suspicious should be the last of
+his life. The soldier assured him that he would keep his word, and moreover
+informed him that some of our ships were almost within gun-shot of the fort; a
+piece of information which was quickly confirmed by the sound of firing, and
+the appearance of shells in the air. They now struck to the right, and in half
+an hour gained the brink of the river: where my friend found a party just
+landed from the squadron, and preparing to seek their way towards the camp. By
+them he was conducted to the Admiral, from whom he learnt that no effectual
+support could be given to the land force; for such was the shallowness of the
+river, that none except the very lightest craft could make their way within six
+miles of the town; and even these were stopped by vessels sunk in the channel,
+and other artificial bars, barely within a shell&rsquo;s longest range of the
+fort. With this unwelcome news he was accordingly forced to return; and taking
+his unwilling guide along with him, he made his way, without any adventure, to
+our advanced posts; where, having thanked the fellow for his fidelity, he
+rewarded it more effectually by setting him at liberty.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having brought his report to head-quarters, a council of war was instantly
+summoned to deliberate upon what was best to be done. Without the help of the
+fleet, it was evident that, adopt what plan of attack we could, our loss must
+be such as to counterbalance even success itself; whilst success, under
+existing circumstances, was, to say the least of it, doubtful. And even if we
+should succeed, what would be gained by it? We could not remove anything from
+Baltimore, for want of proper conveyances. Had the ships been able to reach the
+town, then, indeed, the quantity of booty might have repaid the survivors for
+their toil, and consoled them for the loss of comrades; but as the case now
+stood, we should only fight to give us an opportunity of reacting
+/re-enacting?/ the scenes of Washington. To distress an enemy is, no doubt,
+desirable, but, in the present instance, that distress, even if brought upon
+the Americans, would cost us dear; whereas, if we failed, it was hardly
+possible to avoid destruction.
+</p>
+
+<h3>MARCH.</h3>
+
+<p>
+Such was the reasoning which influenced the council of war to decide that all
+idea of storming the enemy&rsquo;s lines should be given up. To draw them from
+their works would require manoeuvring, and manoeuvring requires time; but
+delays were all in their favour, and could not possibly advantage us. Every
+hour brought in reinforcements to their army, whereas ours had no source from
+which even to recruit its losses; and it was, therefore, deemed prudent, since
+we could not fight at once, to lose no time in returning to the shipping.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+About three hours after midnight the troops were accordingly formed upon the
+road, and began their retreat, leaving the piquets to deceive the enemy, and to
+follow, as a rear-guard. The rain, which had continued with little interruption
+since the night before, now ceased, and the moon shone out bright and clear. We
+marched along, therefore, not in the same spirits as if we had been advancing,
+but feeling no debasement at having thus relinquished an enterprise so much
+beyond our strength.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+When the day broke, our piquets, which had withdrawn about an hour before,
+rejoined us, and we went on in a body. Marching over the field where the battle
+of the 12th had been fought, we beheld the dead scattered about, and still
+unburied; but so far different from those which we had seen at Bladensburg,
+that they were not stripped, every man lying as he had fallen. One object,
+however, struck me as curious. I saw several men hanging lifeless among the
+branches of trees, and learnt that they had been riflemen, who chose, during
+the battle, to fix themselves in these elevated situations, for the combined
+purposes of securing a good aim and avoiding danger. Whatever might be their
+success in the first of these designs, in the last they failed; for our men
+soon discovered them, and, considering the thing as unfair, refused to give
+them quarter, and shot them on their perches.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Here we paused for about an hour, that the soldiers might collect their
+blankets and refresh themselves; when we again moved forward, passing the wood
+where the gallant Ross was killed. It was noon, and as yet all had gone on
+smoothly with out any check or alarm. So little indeed was pursuit dreamt of,
+that the column began to straggle, and to march without much regard to order;
+when suddenly the bugle sounded from the rear, and immediately after some
+musket shots were heard. In an instant the men were in their places, and the
+regiments wheeled into line, facing towards the enemy. The artillery turned
+round and advanced to the front; indeed I have never seen a manoeuvre more
+coolly or more steadily performed on a parade in England than this rally. The
+alarm, however, turned out to be groundless, being occasioned only by the
+sudden appearance of a squadron of horse, which had been sent out by the
+American General to track our steps. These endeavoured to charge the
+rear-guard, and succeeded in making two prisoners; but a single Shrapnel
+checked their farther advance, and sent them back at full speed to boast of the
+brave exploit which they had performed.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Seeing that no attack was seriously intended, the army broke once more into the
+line of march, and proceeded to a favourable piece of ground, near the
+uncompleted position which I have already described, where we passed the night
+under little tents made with blankets and ramrods. No alarm occurring, nor any
+cause of delay appearing, at daybreak we again got under arms, and pushed on
+towards the shipping, which in two hours were distinguishable.
+</p>
+
+<h3>RE-EMBARKATION.</h3>
+
+<p>
+The infantry now halted upon a narrow neck of land, while the artillery was
+lifted into boats, and conveyed on board the fleet. As soon as this was done,
+brigade after brigade fell back to the water&rsquo;s edge and embarked, till
+finally all, except the light troops, were got off. These being left to cover
+the embarkation, were extended across the entire space which but a little
+before contained the whole army; but as no attempt was made to molest them,
+they had only the honour of being the last to quit the shore.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Were I to enter into a review of the military proceedings in this expedition, I
+should be condemned to repeat, almost word for word, the remarks which I
+ventured to make upon the operations previous to the capture of Washington. On
+the present occasion, however, neither hesitation nor precipitancy was
+displayed by the British General. He threw his valuable life away, indeed, by
+exposing his person unnecessarily in a trifling skirmish; but who will blame a
+soldier for excess of courage, or a leader for excess of alertness? Like other
+able men, he was unwilling to trust to the report of his subalterns, when it
+was in his power to ascertain what he sought to know by personal observation;
+and, like other brave men, he would not be deterred from prosecuting his design
+by the apprehension of danger. In the plan of the expedition here, he displayed
+both skill and resolution. Instead of wasting time by an attempt to ascend the
+river, he chose to land where he was least likely to meet with immediate
+opposition; and such was the celerity of his motions, that, had he lived, the
+chances are that we should have fought two battles in one day. But of what a
+man might have done, I have nothing to say; let me rather do justice to his
+successor and his advisers. Of these latter, there is one whom it would be
+improper not to mention by name&mdash;I mean Lieutenant Evans, Deputy-Assistant
+Quartermaster-General. The whole arrangement of our troops in order of battle
+was committed to him; and the judicious method in which they were drawn up,
+proved that he was not unworthy of the trust. With respect to the determination
+of the council of war, I choose to be silent. Certain it is, that the number of
+our forces would hardly authorise any desperate attempt; yet had the attempt
+been made, I have very little doubt that it would have been made successfully.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+On the part of the Americans, again, the same blunders were committed which
+marked their proceedings during the incursion to Washington, with this
+exception, that more science was displayed now than formerly in the
+distribution of their forces along their principal position. At Bladensburg,
+indeed, there existed no works, and the troops were badly arranged in an open
+country: here there were not only fortifications, but fortifications
+constructed in a scientific manner, and troops drawn up in such order, as that,
+even without their works, many cross fires would have protected their front.
+But they neglected numerous favourable opportunities of harassing both our
+advance and retreat. They felled trees, but left no guards to keep them from
+being removed, and took no advantage of the delays which their removal created.
+They risked a battle with a part of their army, when there was no necessity for
+it; in a word, they committed all those errors which men generally commit who
+are not soldiers, and yet love war.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap15"></a>CHAPTER XV.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE PATUXENT.</h3>
+
+<p>
+Having once more received the troops on board, the fleet remained quietly at
+anchor till the 17th, when, at an early hour, we set sail and stood towards the
+Patuxent. In this voyage we passed close to Sent Island, and again threw the
+inhabitants of Anapolis into alarm by approaching almost within gun-shot of
+their town; but at neither place were hostilities attempted, and on the 19th we
+arrived, without any adventure, at our former anchorage in the river. Here we
+brought up, and parties were sent on shore to dig wells in the sand, to which
+the boats resorted in great numbers for water. Cattle and sheep were likewise
+purchased from the natives; some of the flour which had been captured was
+converted into biscuit; and every preparation seemed to be making for a long
+voyage.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+To facilitate these operations, the fleet now separated, part remaining here,
+and part proceeding under Admiral Malcolm to the Potomac; whilst Sir Alexander
+Cochrane, in the Tonnant, with several frigates and gun-brigs, quitted us
+altogether, and set sail, as it was given out, for Halifax. But our situation
+was by no means agreeable. The climate of this part of America is, at certain
+seasons, far from healthy; and the prevalence of dysentery through the armament
+proved that the unhealthy season had already commenced. Neither did there
+appear to be any prospect of further employment. No one talked of a future
+enterprise, nor was the slightest rumour circulated as to the next point of
+attack. The death of General Ross seemed to have disorganized the whole plan of
+proceedings, and the fleet and army rested idle, like a watch without its main
+spring.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Whilst things were in this state, whilst the banks of the rivers continued in
+our possession, and the interior was left unmolested to the Americans, a rash
+confidence sprang up in the minds of all, insomuch that parties of pleasure
+would frequently land without arms, and spend many hours onshore. On one of
+these occasions, several officers from the 85th regiment agreed to pass a day
+together at a farm-house, about a quarter of a mile from the stream; and taking
+with them ten soldiers, unarmed, to row the boat, a few sailors, and a young
+midshipman, not more than twelve years of age, they proceeded to put their
+determination into practice. Leaving the men, under the command of their
+youthful pilot, to take care of the boat, the officers went on to the house;
+but they had not remained there above an hour, when they were alarmed by a
+shout, which sounded as if it came from the river. Looking, out, they beheld
+their party surrounded by seventy or eighty mounted riflemen; the boat dragged
+upon the beach, and set on fire. Giving themselves up for lost, they continued
+for an instant in a sort of stupor; but the master of the house, to whom some
+kindness had been shown by our people, proved himself grateful, and, letting
+them out by a back door, directed them to bide themselves in the wood, whilst
+he should endeavour to turn their pursuers on a wrong scent. As they had
+nothing to trust to except the honour of this American, it cannot be supposed
+that they felt much at ease; but, seeing no better course before them, they
+resigned themselves to his guidance, and plunging into the thicket, concealed
+themselves as well as they could among the underwood. In the mean time the
+American soldiers, having secured all that were left behind, except the young
+midshipman, who fled into the wood in spite of their fire, divided into two
+bodies, one of which approached the house, whilst the other endeavoured to
+overtake the brave boy. It so chanced that the party in pursuit passed close to
+the officers in concealment, but by the greatest good fortune failed to observe
+them. They succeeded, however, in catching a glimpse of the midshipman, just as
+he had gained the water&rsquo;s edge, and was pushing off a light canoe which
+he had loosened from the stump of a tree. The barbarians immediately gave
+chase, firing at the brave lad, and calling out to surrender; but the gallant
+youth paid no attention either to their voices or their bullets. Launching his
+little bark, he put to sea with a single paddle, and, regardless of the showers
+of balls which fell about him, returned alone and unhurt to the ship. Whilst
+one party was thus employed, the other hastened to the house in full
+expectation of capturing the British officers. But their host kept his word
+with great fidelity, and, having directed his countrymen towards another
+farm-house at some distance from his own, and in an opposite quarter from the
+spot where his guests lay, he waited till they were out of sight, and then
+joined his new friends in their lurking-place. Bringing with him such
+provisions as he could muster, he advised them to keep quiet till dark, when,
+their pursuers having departed, he conducted them to the river, supplied them
+with a large canoe, and sent them off in perfect safety to the fleet.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+On reaching their ship, they found the 85th regiment under arms, and preparing
+to land, for the purpose of either releasing their comrades from captivity, or
+inflicting exemplary punishment upon the farmer by whose treachery it was
+supposed that they had suffered. But when the particulars of his behaviour were
+related, the latter alternative was at once abandoned; and it was determined to
+force a dismissal of the captives, by advancing up the country, and laying
+waste every thing with fire and sword. The whole of the light brigade was
+accordingly carried on shore, and halted on the beach, whilst a messenger was
+sent forward to demand back the prisoners. Such, however, was the effect of his
+threatening, that the demand was at once complied with, and they returned on
+board without having committed any ravages, or marched above two miles from the
+boats.
+</p>
+
+<h3>THE POTOMAC</h3>
+
+<p>
+Besides this trifling debarkation, another little excursion was made by the
+second and third brigades, the light troops being left most unaccountably on
+board of ship, Colonel Brook, having heard that an encampment was formed a few
+miles from the left bank of the Potomac, determined, if possible, to come up
+with and engage the force there stationed. With this view, two brigades were
+landed on the night of the 4th of October, and pushed forward at a brisk pace;
+but the enemy, being on the alert, had timely notice of the movement, and
+retired; by which means our people returned on the 5th, without effecting
+anything.
+</p>
+
+<h3>THE CHESAPEAKE.</h3>
+
+<p>
+By this time the whole fleet was once more collected together; and crowded the
+Potomac with their keels. The Diadem being an old ship and a bad sailer, it was
+determined to remove from her the troops which she had formerly carried, to
+fill her with American prisoners, and to send her to England. The Menelaus was
+likewise dispatched with such officers and soldiers as required the benefit of
+their native air to complete the cure of their wounds; and the rest, getting
+under weigh on the 6th, stood directly towards the mouth of the Chesapeake.
+When we reached the James River, we anchored, and were joined by an American
+schooner bearing a flag of truce. She brought with her Colonel Thornton, Lieut.
+Colonel Wood, with the rest of the officers and men who had been left behind at
+Bladensburg, and, being under the guidance of Commodore Barney, that gentleman
+was enabled to discharge his trust even to the very letter.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It may readily be supposed that the meeting between friends thus restored to
+each other was very agreeable. But there was another source of comfort which
+this arrival communicated, of greater importance than the pleasure bestowed
+upon individuals. In Colonel Thornton we felt that we had recovered a dashing
+and enterprising officer; one as well calculated to lead a corps of light
+troops, and to guide the advance of an army, as any in the service. On the
+whole, therefore, the American schooner was as welcome as if she had been a
+first-rate man-of-war filled with reinforcements from England.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The wounded being now sent off, and Colonel Wood among the number, the
+remainder of the fleet again set sail, and reached the mouth of the bay without
+interruption. Here they were met by a frigate and two brigs, which spoke to the
+Admiral, and apparently communicated some important intelligence; for we
+immediately put about and stood once more up the Chesapeake. The wind, however,
+blew with great violence, and directly against us. After beating about,
+therefore, for some time, without making any progress, we turned our heads
+towards the ocean, and flying between the Capes with amazing velocity, stood
+out to sea, directing our course towards the S.S.E., and proceeding at the rate
+of seven miles an hour under bare poles. The sea ran tremendously high, and the
+sky was dark and dreary; insomuch that by a landsman the gale might safely be
+accounted a storm. Under these circumstances, the ship rolling as if she would
+dip her topmasts in the water, and the waves breaking in at the back windows of
+the cabin, nothing remained to be done but to go to bed. Thither most of us
+accordingly repaired, and holding ourselves in our berths by clinging to the
+posts, we amused ourselves by watching the motions of stools, books, trunks,
+and other articles, as they floated majestically from one side of the cabin to
+the other. But the effects of the gale were not in every respect ludicrous. Two
+small schooners, which had been captured at Alexandria and converted into
+tenders, foundered and went down, without an opportunity being afforded of
+saving an individual of their crews.
+</p>
+
+<h3>AT SEA.</h3>
+
+<p>
+At length the wind began to moderate, and on the 18th there was a dead calm. In
+point of comfort, however, I cannot say that much change was experienced; for
+though the gale had ceased, the swell still continued; and the motion produced
+by a heavy sea after a storm is even more disagreeable than that occasioned by
+the storm itself. But on this day the minds of all were set at ease as to the
+place whither we were going, a telegraph signal being made to steer for
+Jamaica. It was likewise understood that we should be there joined by strong
+reinforcements, and proceed upon a secret expedition against some place on the
+southern borders of the United States.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The calm which had succeeded the storm did not last long, for on the 19th a
+fair breeze sprang up, and sent us at a moderate and agreeable rate upon our
+course. The heat, however, was most oppressive; even awnings being unable to
+afford sufficient shelter. We were fast approaching the tropic of Cancer, and
+every day experienced a greater degree of sultriness; till at length, on the
+25th, we crossed that imaginary boundary. Here we were visited, according to
+custom, by Neptune and his wife; and as the ceremony of shaving may be unknown
+to some of my readers, I shall beg leave to relate the particulars of that
+operation.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+A clever active seaman, dressed up grotesquely in party-coloured rags, adorned
+with a long beard made of the stuff which sailors call spun-yarn, and armed
+with a tri-pronged harpoon, personates the God of the Ocean. Another seaman,
+arrayed in like manner, except that, instead of a beard, he wears a hideous
+mask, performs the part of the lady. These are attended by a troop of sea-gods
+and nymphs, similarly equipped; and advancing from the bow of the vessel, as if
+just stepped on board, they come forward to the mainmast, and summon before
+them all such persons as have never sworn the oaths or previously visited their
+capital. At the foot of the mast is placed a large tub full of sea-water, and
+covered by a piece of canvas, which is held tight by four of their attendants.
+Upon this unsteady throne is the luckless wight, whom they design to initiate,
+compelled to sit; and being asked several questions, which he cannot answer,
+and taking several oaths, very much resembling those said to be administered at
+Highgate, Neptune proceeds to confer upon him the honour of filiation, by
+rather an extraordinary process. Two of the sea-nymphs, generally tall stout
+fellows, pinion his arms to his sides; and another, bringing a bucket filled
+with grease and slops from the kitchen, sets it down at his godship&rsquo;s
+feet, putting a small painting-brush into his hand. Neptune now dips his brush
+into the filth, and proceeds to spread a lather over the face of the novice,
+taking care to ask questions during the whole process; and if the adopted be
+simple enough to reply, the brush is instantly thrust into his mouth. As soon
+as a sufficient quantity of grease is laid upon the face, Neptune seizes a
+piece of rusty iron, generally the broken hoop of some water-cask, with which
+he scrapes off all that has been applied. If the novice take all this
+patiently, his face is washed, and he is permitted to descend from his throne
+in peace; but if he lose his temper, which most men are apt to do, a bucket of
+sea-water is poured upon his head. If this be sufficient to cool his wrath, he
+suffers no more; but if it only increase his indignation, bucket after bucket
+is emptied over him, and at last, the holders of the sail-cloth suddenly
+retiring, he is plunged overhead into the tub. To crown all, the unfortunate
+wretch who has endured these miseries is fined by his tormentor in a gallon of
+ruin; a fine which the force of custom compels him to pay. It must be confessed
+that this is a barbarous amusement, much resembling that of the boys in the
+fable of the boys and the frogs. Though very agreeable to those who act and to
+the lookers on, it is not so to him that suffers.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In this manner many persons were treated, till at length Neptune, growing weary
+from the number of novices, was content to admit the rest to the privileges of
+initiation, on condition that the fines should be punctually paid; an agreement
+into which most of us very thankfully entered.
+</p>
+
+<h3>THE WEST INDIES.</h3>
+
+<p>
+Next morning, the first object which met our eyes was the land of Caycos
+island. We were so close to the shore, when daylight discovered it, that had
+the wind been at all adverse we must unquestionably have struck; but being
+assisted by a fair and gentle breeze, the ships put about immediately, and
+escaped the danger. Standing out to sea, the fleet now doubled the promontory,
+and steering round by the other side, sailed on without losing sight of the
+land till late in the evening.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+On the following day, a signal was made from the Admiral&rsquo;s ship, that the
+Golden Fleece transport, under convoy of the Volcano bomb, should proceed to
+Port Royal, whilst the rest of the fleet held their course towards Negril Bay.
+These two vessels accordingly set all sail, and pushed forward by themselves;
+the others keeping on at a more moderate rate, that none might stray from the
+convoy: for the West India seas at this time swarmed with American privateers,
+and it was of great consequence to keep the store-ships and heavy transports in
+the middle of the squadron.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It so chanced that I took my passage in one of the two ships which proceeded
+forward by themselves. The wind was fair, and we made great progress, insomuch
+that before dark the high land of St. Domingo on one side, and the mountains of
+Cuba on the other, were discernible. In spite of the heat, therefore, our
+voyage soon became truly delightful. Secure of getting on under the influence
+of the trade winds, we had nothing to distract our thoughts, or keep us from
+feasting our eyes upon the glorious shores of these two islands; whilst in
+addition to the sight of land, which of itself was cheering, we were amused
+with water-spouts, apparently playing about us in every direction. One of
+these, however, began to form within a little distance of the ship, and as they
+are dangerous as well as interesting, a cannon was got ready to break it before
+it should reach us. But it did not complete its formation, though I cannot tell
+why; for, after one spout had risen into the air some height, and another bent
+down from the clouds to meet it, they were suddenly carried away in different
+directions, and fell into the sea with the noise of a cataract.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Among other sources of amusement, our attention was drawn, on the 29th, to a
+shark, which made its appearance at the stern of the vessel. A strong hook was
+immediately prepared, and baited with a piece of salt pork, which being thrown
+over, was instantly gulped by the voracious monster. But as soon as he felt the
+pain occasioned by the book in his jaws, he plunged towards the bottom of the
+sea with such violence, as to render the very tafferel hot, by the rapidity of
+the cord gliding over it. Having permitted him to go a certain length, he was
+again hauled up to the surface, where he remained without offering further
+resistance, till a boat was lowered, and a strong noose thrown over his head.
+Being thus made fast to the gunwale of the boat, he was brought round to the
+gangway, when the end of the noose being cast over the main-yard, he was lifted
+out of the sea and swung upon the ship&rsquo;s deck. Hitherto he had suffered
+quietly enough, in apparent stupefaction from the pain of his jaw; but he began
+now to convince us that neither life nor strength had deserted him; lashing his
+tail with such violence as speedily to clear the quarter-deck, and biting in
+the most furious manner at everything within his reach. One of the sailors,
+however, who seemed to understand these matters more than his comrades, took an
+axe, and watching his opportunity, at one, blow chopped off his tail. He was
+now perfectly harmless, unless, indeed, one had chosen to thrust one&rsquo;s
+hand into his mouth; and the same sailor accordingly proceeded to lay him open,
+and to take out his entrails. And now it was that the tenacity of life,
+peculiar to these animals, displayed itself. After his heart and bowels were
+taken out; the shark still continued to exhibit proofs of animation, by biting
+with as much force as ever at a bag of carpenter&rsquo;s tools that happened to
+lie within his reach.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Being cut up, he was distributed in portions among the soldiers and the
+ship&rsquo;s crew. The tail part only was reserved as the chief delicacy for
+our cabin, which, though dry and hard, with little flavour or taste, was on the
+present occasion considered as agreeable food, because it was fresh.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap16"></a>CHAPTER XVI.</h2>
+
+<p>
+But what I principally relished, in this part of our voyage, was the exquisite
+beauty of its night-scenery. To an inhabitant of Great Britain, the splendour
+of a night-scene in these climates is altogether unknown. Shining broad and
+full in a sky perfectly cloudless, the moon sends forth a clear and mellow
+lustre, little inferior, in point of brilliancy, to the full twilight in
+England. By this means you never lose sight of land, either by night or day, as
+long as your course lies between Cuba and St. Domingo; whilst the delicious
+coolness, which follows the setting of the sun, tempts you, in spite of all the
+whispers of prudence, to expose yourself to dews and damps, rather than forego
+the pleasures of which they are the bane. Besides, you have constantly the
+satisfaction of observing yourself move steadily on at the most agreeable of
+all rates, about five or six miles an hour; a satisfaction far from trifling in
+a sea-life. Then the ocean is so smooth, that scarcely a ripple is seen to
+break the moon-beams as they fall; whilst the quiet dash of little waves
+against the ship&rsquo;s side, and the rushing noise occasioned by the moving
+of her bow through the water, produce altogether an effect which may, without
+affectation, be termed absolutely refreshing. It was my common practice to sit
+for hours after night-fall upon the tafferel, and strain my eyes in the attempt
+to distinguish objects on shore or strange sails in the distance.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It happened that, on the 30th, I was tempted to indulge in this idle but
+bewitching employment, even beyond my usual hour for retiring, and did not quit
+the deck till towards two o&rsquo;clock in the morning of the 31st. I had just
+entered my cabin, and was beginning to undress, when a cry from above, of an
+enemy in chase, drew me instantly to the quarter-deck. On looking astern, I
+perceived a vessel making directly after us, and was soon convinced of the
+justice of the alarm, by a shot which whistled over our heads. All hands were
+now called to quarters, the small sails were taken in, and having spoken to our
+companion, and made an agreement as to position, both ships cleared for action.
+But the stranger, seeing his signal obeyed with so much alacrity, likewise
+slackened sail, and, continuing to keep us in view, followed our wake without
+approaching nearer. In this state things continued till daybreak, we still
+holding our course, and he hanging back; but as soon as it was light, he set
+more sail and ran to windward, moving just out of gun-shot, in a parallel
+direction with us. It was now necessary to fall upon some plan of deceiving
+him, otherwise there was little probability that he would attack. In the bomb,
+indeed, the height of the bulwark served to conceal some of the men; but in the
+transport no such screen existed. The troops were, therefore, ordered below,
+and only the sailors, a few blacks, and the officers, kept the deck. The same
+expedient was likewise adopted, in part, by Captain Price, of the Volcano; and
+in order to give to his ship a still greater resemblance than it already had to
+a merchantman, he displayed an old faded scarlet ensign, and drew up his fore
+and mainsail in what sailors term a lubberly manner.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As yet the stranger had shown no colours, but, from her build and rigging,
+there was little doubt as to her country. She was a beautiful schooner,
+presenting seven ports on a side, and apparently crowded with men,
+circumstances which immediately led us to believe that she was an American
+privateer. The Volcano, on the other hand, was a clumsy strong-built ship,
+carrying twelve guns; and the Golden Fleece mounted eight; so that, in point of
+artillery, the advantage was rather on our side; but the American&rsquo;s
+sailing was so much superior to that of either of us, that this advantage was
+more than counterbalanced.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having dodged us till eight o&rsquo;clock, and reconnoitred with great
+exactness, the stranger began to steer gradually nearer and nearer, till at
+length it was judged that she had arrived within range. A gun was accordingly
+fired from the Volcano, and another from the transport, the balls from both of
+which passed over her and fell into the sea. Finding herself thus assaulted,
+she instantly threw off her disguise, and hung out an American ensign; when,
+putting her helm up, she poured a broadside, with a volley of musketry, into
+the transport; and ran alongside of the bomb, which sailed to windward.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As soon as her flag was displayed, and her intention of attacking discerned,
+all hands were ordered up, and she received two well-directed broadsides from
+the Volcano, as well as a warm salute from the Golden Fleece. But such was the
+celerity of her motion, that she was alongside of the bomb in less time than
+can be imagined; and actually dashing her bow against the other, attempted to
+carry her by boarding. Captain Price, however, was ready to receive them. The
+boarders were at their posts in an instant, and the enemy discovering, when it
+was too late, the mistake into which he had fallen, left about twenty of his
+men upon the Volcano&rsquo;s bowsprit, all of whom were thrown into the sea;
+and filling his sails, sheered off with the same speed with which he had borne
+down. In attempting to escape, he unavoidably fell somewhat to leeward, and
+exposed the whole of his deck to the fire of the transport. A tremendous
+discharge of musketry saluted him as he passed; and it was almost laughable to
+witness the haste with which his crew hurried below, leaving none upon deck
+except such as were absolutely wanted to work his vessel.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The Volcano had by this time filled, and gave chase, firing with great
+precision at the privateer&rsquo;s yards and rigging, in the hope of disabling
+him. But as fortune would have it, none of his important ropes or yards were
+cut; and we had the mortification to see him, in a few minutes, beyond our
+reach.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In this affair, a marine officer and two men were killed on board the bomb; and
+some of the tackling was shot away. The transport suffered nothing in killed or
+wounded, having been in a great degree protected from the enemy&rsquo;s fire by
+her commodore; and only one rope, not, I believe, an important one, was
+destroyed.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The battle having ended, and the chase being given up as fruitless, we
+continued our course without any other adventure; and before dark were able to
+distinguish the blue mountains of Jamaica. St. Domingo and Cuba had both
+disappeared, and this was now the only land visible; but it was not till the
+1st of November that we could obtain a distinct view of it. Then, indeed, we
+found ourselves within a few miles of the shore, and seldom has landscape
+appeared more attractive to the eyes of a voyager, than the romantic shores of
+Jamaica now appeared to ours.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Jamaica is in general a bold and mountainous island, but on this side it is
+peculiarly so. It appeared to me that even the Pyrenees, magnificent as they
+are, were not to be compared, in point of altitude, to the hills now before me;
+and early in the morning, while yet the mists hung upon their summits and
+concealed them, no prospect can be imagined more sublime than that which they
+presented. It was, in truth, a glorious scene; and as the wind blew light and
+uncertain, we were permitted, from the slowness of the ship&rsquo;s progress,
+to enjoy it to the full. Towards evening, indeed, the breeze died entirely
+away, which compelled us to anchor about eight miles from the harbour of Port
+Royal.
+</p>
+
+<h3>PORT ROYAL.</h3>
+
+<p>
+In spite of the little rest which I had procured during the two preceding
+nights, having sat up till an early hour this morning, to watch several strange
+sails that hovered about us, I could not bring myself to quit the deck till
+after midnight, so beautiful, in all respects, were the objects around me. The
+moon shone with her accustomed brilliancy, and exhibited every crag and tree
+upon the land, changed and confounded in shape, but still plainly; whilst the
+perfume, borne off upon the breeze, was odoriferous in the highest degree. The
+sound of the waves, likewise, breaking upon the rocks, and the occasional cry
+of seamen, as they adjusted ropes and sails, together with the sight of several
+vessels which took advantage of the night-wind and stood to sea, with canvas
+glittering in the moonbeams, produced so delightful a combination, as
+completely riveted me to my seat; nor was it without much reluctance that I at
+length yielded to the drowsy god, and descended to my cabin.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Next morning, the ship got under weigh at an early hour, but, owing to the
+unsteadiness of the breeze, it was ten o&rsquo;clock before we made any
+satisfactory progress. As we approached the bay which forms the harbour of Port
+Royal, a novel and pleasing sight presented itself. The hills dying gradually
+away, gave place to gentle slopes and green knolls, till, towards the entrance,
+the coast became perfectly level. Pushing forward, we soon found ourselves in a
+narrow channel between two projecting headlands, beautifully ornamented with
+cocoa-nut trees, and so near to each other, that I could with ease have thrown
+a biscuit from the ship&rsquo;s deck upon either. At the extremity of these
+necks, just where the bay begins its sweep, stand two well-built forts,
+bristling with cannon; and at the opposite side may be seen a third, ready to
+sink whatever hostile fleet should be fortunate enough to force an entrance.
+But these were not the most striking parts of the scene. The water in this
+strait is remarkably clear, and exhibits with great distinctness the tops and
+chimneys of houses at the bottom. It will be recollected, that many years ago,
+an earthquake not only demolished great part of the town of Port Royal, but
+likewise covered it with the sea; by which means, the site of the harbour was
+completely changed, and that which was formerly dry land, and a town, became
+part of the entrance of the bay.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having doubled the promontories, a rich and extensive prospect meets the eye.
+You find yourself, as it were, in a large inland lake, the banks of which are
+covered with plantations of sugar cane, groves of cocoa-nut and plantain trees,
+and other woods peculiar to these regions, beautifully interspersed with seats
+and villages. On your right is the town of Port Royal, lying almost on a level
+with the water, and strongly protected by fortifications, whilst in various
+other directions are castles and batteries, adding an appearance of security to
+that of plenty. The banks, though not lofty, slope gently upwards, with
+occasional falls or glens, and the background is composed in general of the
+rugged tops of distant mountains.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having waited till the ship dropped anchor, I put myself into a a sort of barge
+rowed by four negroes, and proceeded to Kingston. Though not the capital of the
+island, Kingston is the largest town in Jamaica. It stands upon the brink of a
+frith, about nine miles above Port Royal, and thence enjoys all the advantages
+of the chief mart in this trading country. Like most other mercantile seaports,
+it is built without much regard to regularity. The streets, though wide, are in
+general the reverse of elegant, being composed almost entirely of wooden
+houses, and by no means remarkable for cleanliness. Of public buildings it
+possesses none worthy of notice. Its inns are, however, excellent; and though
+certainly not moderate in their charges, they are at least more so than those
+of Bermuda. In a word, it is exactly such a town as one would expect to find
+holding the principal commercial rank in a colony where men&rsquo;s minds
+seldom aspire beyond the occupations of trade.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Of the intense heat in this place, none but those who have experienced it can
+form a notion. It is impossible to walk out with any comfort, except before the
+sun has risen, or after he has set; and even within doors, with the aid of
+thorough draughts and all the other expedients usually adopted on such
+occasions, it is with the utmost difficulty that you can contrive to keep your
+blood in a moderate degree of temperature. In the town itself, therefore, few
+of the higher classes reside, the closeness produced by a proximity of houses
+being in this climate peculiarly insupportable. These inhabit for the most part
+little villas, called Pens, about three or four miles in the country, the
+master of each family generally, retaining a suite of apartments, or, perhaps
+an entire mansion, in some open street for his own use, when business obliges,
+him, to exchange the comfort of fresh air for the suffocating atmosphere of
+Kingston. Towards the outskirts, indeed, in one direction, a few gentile
+families inhabit one or two handsome houses, surrounded by extensive gardens
+and shrubberies; but these are not numerous, and they are so far removed from
+the heart of the town, as to be in great measure beyond the influence of its
+smoke and other nuisances.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+During our sojourn in this place we received the most hospitable attention from
+several persons of the first distinction. Balls and other entertainments were
+given, at which all the beauty and fashion in this part of the island attended;
+and for some days I had little leisure or inclination for any other pursuit
+than the enjoyment of civilized pleasure, a pursuit which, from long disuse,
+possessed more than ordinary zest. But at length having seen as much of
+Kingston and its vicinity as, I desired to see, I determined to take advantage
+of the opportunity which fortune had placed within my reach, and to make an
+excursion into the heart of the Blue Mountains. To this I was additionally
+induced by an invitation from an old friend to visit him at Annotto bay; and
+as, along with his letter, he sent a horse for my own conveyance, and a mule
+for the conveyance of my baggage, no difficulty respecting a mode of being
+transported stood in the way to obstruct my design.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having made up my mind to this journey, I waited, till sunset on the 9th, when,
+starting in the cool of the evening, I reached a little tavern called the Plum
+Tree, about half an hour after dark. My ride carried me through an open and
+fertile country covered with sugar-canes, coffee, and such other plants as are
+cultivated in the low grounds of Jamaica. It was a short one, not more than
+twelve miles in extent, but I was forced to halt where I did, because I had
+gained the foot of the mountains; and if I had passed the Plum Tree, well known
+as a sort of half-way house on such tours, I might have travelled all night
+without finding any place of accommodation.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As darkness set in, one of the, beautiful peculiarities of a tropical climate,
+which I had not previously witnessed, came under my observation. The air was
+filled with fire-flies, which, emitting a phosphoric light something similar to
+the light of the glow-worm, only more red and brilliant, danced around me like
+sparks from a smith&rsquo;s anvil when he is beating a bar of red-hot iron.
+These creatures flutter about with a humming noise, and frequently settle in
+large swarms upon branches of trees, giving them the semblance of so many
+pieces of timber taken newly out of a fire. When viewed by daylight they are in
+no way remarkable for their elegance, resembling in the shape of the body a
+long beetle which may be seen in the fields after sunset, without wings or
+scales. In colour they are a dingy brown, and, like the glow-worm, carry their
+light in the tail.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As I had not before chanced to see anything of the kind, and forgot at the
+moment that such an insect as the fire-fly existed, I was for a few minutes at
+a loss to what cause to attribute the phenomenon, and was at last indebted to
+my negro guide for refreshing my memory on the subject. The effect, however,
+cannot be conceived without being witnessed. A cluster of two or three
+glow-worms shine so brilliantly, that they will furnish subject for the
+commendatory eloquence of any one fortunate enough to perceive them together;
+but their brilliancy is to a farthing candle to the sun, when compared with
+that of the fire-fly. Not two, or three, but thousands of these creatures dance
+around, filling the air with a wavering and uncertain glimmer, of the extreme
+beauty of which no words can convey an adequate conception.
+</p>
+
+<h3>THE BLUE MOUNTAINS.</h3>
+
+<p>
+Having passed the night at this tavern, a small cottage kept by a free negro
+and his wife, I rose two hours before dawn, and prosecuted my journey. From the
+moment I quitted the Plate Tree I began gradually to ascend, till at daybreak I
+found myself in the midst of the most glorious scenery that the imagination of
+man can conceive. Everything around was new and romantic. The hills, towering
+into the very sky, were covered from top to bottom with the richest herbage and
+the most luxuriant wood. Rarely could a barren crag be discerned, and when it
+did appear it was only a sharp point, or a bald projection pushing itself
+forward from the midst of the thickest foliage. But what to me formed the most
+bewitching part of the prospect was the elegance of the trees and their perfect
+dissimilitude to any which had previously beheld. The cocoa-nut and plantain
+were mingled with the wild pine and lime-tree; while the cashew and wild
+coffee, with numberless other shrubs, loaded at once with fruit and blossom,
+formed the underwood to these graceful forests.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As yet I had been favoured with a wide and good road, but now it began
+gradually to narrow, till at last it ended in a path little more distinct than
+the sheep-tracks over the hills in Scotland. Winding along the sides of the
+mountains, it brought me frequently to spots where the wood parting, as if
+artificially, displayed deep ravines, to look down which, without becoming
+dizzy, required no little strength of head; whilst above, the same hill
+continued to stretch itself to a height far beyond any I had before gazed upon.
+Presently after it conducted me gently down into valleys completely shut out
+from the rest of the world; and as I descended I could hear the roar of water,
+though neither, the stream nor the bottom of the glen could be perceived. On
+one of these occasions, after passing through a thick grove, I beheld a river
+of some width dashing along the glen, and chafing so as to produce the noise of
+a mighty waterfall. Towards the brink of this river my guide conducted me;
+when, plunging in, we made our way with some difficulty to the opposite bank,
+and again began to ascend.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+For several hours, the same scenery surrounded me, only varied by the
+occasional appearance of clusters of negro huts. Than these, it is impossible
+to imagine any species of huts or dwellings more beautifully picturesque. They
+are constructed of strong limbs of trees, thatched over with straw, and usually
+ending in a cone; having no windows, but only two, or sometimes four doors, for
+the purpose of admitting a free current of air. The spots chosen for their
+erection, are generally small platforms or terraces in the sides of the hills.
+A little path, similar to that along which I travelled, winds down from their
+doors to the bottom of the valley, and conducts to the edge of the river, from
+whence the inhabitants are supplied with water. Other tracks likewise branch
+off in different directions, some towards the summit, and others along the
+sides of the mountains; leading, probably, to the fields or spots where the
+inhabitants labour. These huts have no chimney, but only a large hole in the
+roof, to give free passage to the smoke; and I could perceive, by its rise at
+present, that fires were now burning.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It would be labour lost, were I to attempt any more minute description of this
+delightful journey. Every step I took presented something new, and something
+more grand and sublime than I had just quitted; whilst the continual fording of
+the swollen river (for I crossed the same stream no fewer than eight-and-twenty
+times) gave an additional interest to the scene, arising from the sense of
+danger. The rainy season having just ended, this stream, the Wag-water, a most
+appropriate name, had not as yet returned to its natural size; but at the
+fords, which in general would not cover a horse&rsquo;s knees, the depth was
+such as to moisten the saddle-girths. So great a quantity of water, in a
+furious mountain-torrent, pouring on with all the violence produced by a steep
+descent, occasioned no slight pressure upon my steed; nor was it without
+considerable floundering on his part, and some anxiety on mine, that once or
+twice we succeeded in making good our passage.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap17"></a>CHAPTER XVII.</h2>
+
+<p>
+Noon was approaching when my sooty fellow-traveller directed my attention to a
+neat cottage, romantically situated on the top of a low mound, which stood
+alone in the middle of stupendous mountains. It commanded one of the most
+exquisite prospects that fancy can represent. A sort of glen surrounded it on
+every side, richly and beautifully wooded; behind, rose some of the most lofty
+of the Blue Mountains; on the right there was an opening, which admitted a fine
+view of Annotto Bay; whilst in the other direction, the hills sloping gradually
+upwards, presented an inclined plane, covered with fields of sugar-cane, and
+ending, at a considerable distance, in one abrupt and broken ridge.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The cottage in question was the residence of my friend, and the resting-place
+whither my steps were turned; nor did I experience any regret at finding myself
+so near my journey&rsquo;s end. The heat had for some time been almost
+intolerable, and having eaten nothing since the night before, nature began to
+cry out for repose and repletion; and, in truth, the welcome which I
+experienced, was of a nature to take away all desire of wandering farther. We
+had not met for several years&mdash;not, indeed, since I was a child&mdash;and
+in the interval, some melancholy changes had occurred in the family of my host;
+but he received me with the cordial hospitality which a warm heart produces,
+and forgot his private sorrows for a time, that he might not throw a damp upon
+my enjoyments.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The remainder of this day I spent, as a powerful sensation of fatigue warned me
+to spend it, within doors; but on the following morning I set out at an early
+hour, for the purpose of gratifying my curiosity on a number of points which
+had frequently exercised it. In this excursion, and indeed in all the
+excursions which I undertook during my residence at his Pen, my friend
+accompanied me; and an excellent and most intelligent guide he proved to be. We
+made the tour of several estates, saw the process of making sugar, visited the
+sugar and coffee plantations, and inspected several hospitals, with one of
+which each estate is supplied, for the accommodation and cure of sick negroes.
+In the course of these rambles, I made it my business to inquire into the
+condition and treatment of the slave population; inspecting their huts, and
+even examining their provisions; and I frankly confess that, though I began my
+researches under the influence of as many prejudices as, on such a subject, are
+wont to be entertained by Englishmen in general, the result of the whole was to
+convince me that I had done glaring injustice to the character of the Jamaica
+planters, as well as fostered notions of the wretchedness of the negroes,
+utterly and iniquitously erroneous. It is no business of mine, and, if it were,
+this is no proper place to take part in what has of late been termed the
+West-Indian controversy; but, as an eye-witness, I may venture to speak out on
+one point, by affirming, that a countless proportion of the stories with which
+the British public is amused, touching the barbarous treatment of slaves by
+owners and overseers, are, if not absolute fables, at all events gross
+exaggerations. I am aware that my residence in the island was too brief, and my
+acquaintance with it too limited, to entitle my opinions to the weight which a
+more protracted sojourn might have obtained for them; but it is but justice to
+state, that whilst I was there, I enjoyed opportunities of seeing the negro at
+all times, and under all circumstances, such as few casual visitors can boast
+of. My host was not a planter, but a medical practitioner; and one prejudiced
+rather against the slave system than in favour of it: there was therefore no
+disposition on his part to cast dust into my eyes, or to present to them only
+the bright side of the picture. Under his guidance, I beheld the negro at work
+in the fields, in the bosom of his family, in the sick ward, and at market; and
+I never saw him other than a contented and light-hearted being. No doubt there
+are instances of cruelty on the part of overseers in Jamaica, exactly as there
+are instances of tyranny on the part of parish officers and county magistrates
+in England; but had these been as numerous, or as flagrant, as they are
+represented to be, I cannot doubt but that something of the kind must have
+passed under my eyes, even within the space of one week. No such event,
+however, took place; and, as far as I could learn, no such event was to be
+expected.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Far be it from me to stand forward as the advocate of personal bondage in the
+abstract&mdash;it is a grievous evil; and wherever men are so far civilized as
+to render its abolition desirable, it is an evil which ought to be abolished.
+But it is an evil of long standing, authorized in the Bible, and therefore, we
+may presume, not without its counterbalancing benefits. He, therefore, who
+would seek, at all hazards and under all circumstances, to dissolve the tie
+which binds a master to his slave, and a slave to his master&mdash;whilst he
+would be doing that which the Apostles never did, and which Christians are
+nowhere commanded to do&mdash;would run no slight hazard of causing a quantity
+of mischief to both parties, for which the benefits bestowed upon either would
+not compensate. With respect to our own colonies, in particular, it is manifest
+that the whole matter resolves itself into one consideration. If the negroes be
+in such a state, as that the boon of universal freedom would be productive to
+them of universal benefit, by all means let it be bestowed at once, even though
+it be attended by so much national expense, as the fair demands of the
+proprietors for compensation shall impose upon us. If they be not thus
+situated, let every practicable method be adopted to advance them on the scale
+of civilization; but till they be advanced far beyond their present station,
+let no false hopes be excited that the moment of their liberation is at hand.
+Many measures for their improvement have been adopted since the year 1814, and
+many more are in daily process of adoption; but it is greatly to be apprehended
+that much of the benefit which these measures promised to bring about, has been
+obstructed by the indiscreet zeal of those who profess, and probably feel, the
+liveliest interest in their welfare.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Besides adding to my stock of knowledge as to the cultivation of the
+sugar-cane, the making of sugar, rum, &amp;c. &amp;c.; I had an opportunity of
+seeing something of the Maroons, or free Negroes, who inhabit the mountains.
+These people dwell apart from the European settlers, holding very little
+intercourse with them, though a single European generally resides in each of
+their villages, as a sort of chief or magistrate. They struck me to be a lazy,
+indolent, and harmless race of human beings; and they formed, in all their
+habits, a striking contrast with their enslaved brethren. Whilst the latter
+devote their spare hours to the culture of their own little spots, to
+cudgel-playing, dancing, or other gambols, the former appear to spend their
+whole time in a state between sleeping and waking, at the doors of their huts,
+or under the shelter of trees. Some of the Maroon females, I observed, were
+really handsome, their features being high, and their persons elegantly formed;
+but in general they differed nothing from the other negroes, from whom, indeed,
+they are principally descended.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+I heard that the men carry on a petty trade in feathers, but that their
+principal occupation, at least that from which they derive the largest
+emolument, consists in apprehending, and leading back to their masters,
+run-away slaves. For their services in this department, they were wont to
+receive a pension from the Government; and they are still, I believe, supplied
+with muskets and ammunition at the expense of the colonial authorities. But
+enough of these details.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+My sojourn in St. Mary&rsquo;s having extended considerably beyond the limits
+which prudence would have imposed upon it, I set out on the morning of the
+13th, on my return towards Kingston. The country through which I travelled
+differed in many respects from that which I had crossed in my way hither: it
+was in general less wild, and less mountainous; but it possessed features of
+striking beauty, rich corn-fields being interspersed amidst graceful forests,
+and here and there a wild hill-side rising as a contrast to both. The most
+remarkable variety, and not perhaps the least agreeable, was, however, to be
+found in the absence of the Wag-water; my guide having led me in a direction by
+which its tortuous course was avoided.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As it was late before I started, my ride soon became toilsome on account of the
+heat, and I was fain to stop short for the night at a place called Stoney Hill,
+about twelve miles from Kingston. Here I was hospitably entertained by the
+officers of the 102nd regiment; and, rising at an early hour on the following
+morning, I contrived to complete my journey before breakfast. And it was well
+that no further time had been expended in my progress. The ships, I found, were
+preparing to put to sea; the stock was all embarked, and the crews on board;
+nothing therefore remained for me but to follow the general example, and to
+establish myself with as little delay as possible in my cabin.
+</p>
+
+<h3>PORT ROYAL&mdash;NEGRIL BAY.</h3>
+
+<p>
+In spite of these preparations, the 15th and 16th of November both passed away
+without any movement being made. It was, however, my custom not to neglect any
+opportunities which chanced to come in my way of viewing strange places, and
+obtaining an acquaintance with strange people; neither on the present occasion
+did I fail to make the most of the interval, by landing and wandering over the
+town of Port Royal. But to describe minutely a place so little deserving of
+description, would hardly repay me for the labour of writing, or the reader for
+the toil of perusing what I write. It is sufficient to observe, that except to
+him who takes delight in beholding a well-constructed military work, there is
+nothing in the busy, bustling town of Port Royal which will at all compensate
+for the heat and fatigue which he must undergo who, like myself, traverses its
+streets and lanes at noon-day.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The long looked-for signal to weigh was hung out at last; and at an early hour
+on the 17th we put to sea. Our point of destination was Negril Bay, the
+appointed place of rendezvous for the whole armament; and we reached it without
+the occurrence of mishap or adventure on the evening of the 19th. We found here
+a large fleet already assembled; but the horses were all landed, many officers
+were dwelling in tents on the shore, and everything gave indication that some
+further delay might be expected. To say the truth, I experienced no degree of
+satisfaction at this prospect; for the point of the island opposite to which we
+now lay was neither remarkable for its natural beauty nor very thickly
+inhabited; and had the contrary been the case, I had seen as much of Jamaica
+and its people as I was at all desirous to see. Besides, it was impossible not
+to feel that whatever the object of our expedition might be, it was not likely
+to be furthered by this tardy mode of entering upon it; and rumours already
+began to spread abroad, of discoveries incautiously and untimely made. It was,
+therefore, with no slight degree of pleasure that, on the morning of the 24th,
+the topmasts of a numerous squadron were seen over the eastern promontory, in
+full sail towards us; and it was with still greater delight that in a short
+time we were able to discern the flags of Sir Alexander Cochrane and Admiral
+Malcolm floating in the breeze. By and bye the Tonnant and Royal Oak showed
+their hulls in the offing; and a short while afterwards, these ships, followed
+by a large fleet of troopers and transports, majestically entered the bay. As
+may be imagined, our curiosity was strongly excited to learn what
+reinforcements they contained, and what intelligence they brought; insomuch,
+that they had scarcely dropped anchor when they were boarded from almost every
+one of the ships which they came to join.
+</p>
+
+<h3>NEGRIL BAY.</h3>
+
+<p>
+It appeared that this powerful reinforcement consisted of the following
+corps:&mdash;the 93rd regiment, a fine battalion of Highlanders, mustering nine
+hundred bayonets; six companies of the 95th rifle corps; two West India
+regiments, each eight hundred strong; two squadrons of the 14th Dragoons
+dismounted; detachments of artillery, rockets, sappers, and engineers; recruits
+for the different corps already in this part of the world; and though last, not
+least, Major-General Keane to take upon himself the command of the whole. The
+intelligence brought was likewise interesting, for it informed us of the point
+whither we were to proceed; and it was soon known throughout the fleet, that
+the conquest of New Orleans was the object in view.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But before I pursue my narrative further, having arrived, as it were, at a
+second commencement, it may be well if I state in full the number of men of
+which the army now consisted. In the first place, then, there were the 4th,
+44th, and 85th regiments, originally dispatched from Bordeaux, and the 21st,
+which joined the expedition at Bermuda. These battalions, being considerably
+reduced by past service, could not at present muster conjunctly above two
+thousand two hundred men; and being likewise deprived of the Marine battalion,
+which had fought beside them in the Chesapeake, they retained no followers
+except the artillery, sappers, &amp;c. which had accompanied them from the
+first. The whole amount of this corps may, therefore, be estimated at two
+thousand five hundred men.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Without computing the individual strength of each detachment now arrived, I
+will venture to fix the aggregate at two thousand five hundred; and thus the
+whole, taken collectively, will amount to five thousand combatants. That it
+might somewhat exceed or fall under this computation, I do not deny; but
+neither the excess nor deficiency could be considerable; and therefore my
+statement may be received as correct, with very little allowance.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+This, it must be confessed, was a formidable force, and such as, had all its
+parts been trustworthy, might have done much. But on the black corps little
+reliance could be placed, especially if the climate should prove colder than
+was anticipated; consequently, there were not more than three thousand four
+hundred men upon whom a General could fully depend.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Together with these forces were brought out abundant stores of ammunition, some
+clothing for the troops, and tents to be used when an opportunity should offer.
+There were also numerous additions to the commissariat and medical departments;
+in short, the materiel of the army was increased in proportion to its increase
+in number.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+To find himself in the chief command of the army, exceeded the expectation, and
+perhaps the desire, of General Keane. Being a young and dashing officer, he had
+been selected as most fit to serve under General Ross; and having sailed from
+England before the death of that gallant chief was known, he reached Madeira
+before his elevation was communicated to him. Young as he was, however, his
+arrival produced much satisfaction throughout the armament; for though no one
+entertained a doubt as to the personal courage of Colonel Brook, it was felt
+that a leader of more experience was wanted on the present expedition.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As soon as the newly-arrived squadron had anchored, the Bay was covered with
+boats, which conveyed parties of officers from ship to ship, hastening to
+salute their comrades, and to inquire into the state of things at home.
+Greetings and hearty embraces were interchanged between friends thus again
+brought together; and a few passing ejaculations of sorrow bestowed upon those
+who could not now take part in the meeting. Many questions were put, relative
+to persons and places in England; in a word, the day was spent in that species
+of employment, which can be completely known only to those who have been
+similarly situated.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap18"></a>CHAPTER XVIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>AT SEA.</h3>
+
+<p>
+But the period granted for such indulgence was not of long duration, for on the
+following morning the Tonnant, Ramilies, and two brigs stood to sea; and on the
+26th the rest of the fleet got under weigh and followed the Admiral. It is
+impossible to conceive a finer sea-view than this general stir presented. Our
+fleet amounted now to upwards of fifty sail, many of them vessels of war, which
+shaking loose their topsails, and lifting their anchors at the same moment,
+gave to Negril Bay an appearance of bustle such as it has seldom been able to
+present. In half an hour all the canvas was set, and the ships moved slowly and
+proudly from their anchorage, till, having cleared the headlands, and caught
+the fair breeze which blew without, they bounded over the water with the speed
+of eagles, and long before dark the coast of Jamaica had disappeared.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+There is something in rapidity of motion, whether it be along a high road or
+across the deep, extremely elevating; nor was its effect unperceived on the
+present occasion. It is true that there were other causes for the high spirits
+which now pervaded the armament, but I question if any proved more efficient in
+their production than the astonishing rate of our sailing. Whether the business
+we were about to undertake would prove bloody or the reverse entered not into
+the calculations of a single individual in the fleet. The sole subject of
+remark was the speed with which we got over the ground, and the probability
+that existed of our soon reaching the point of debarkation. The change of
+climate, likewise, was not without its effect in producing pleasurable
+sensations. The farther we got from Jamaica, the more cool and agreeable became
+the atmosphere; from which circumstance we were led to hope that, in spite of
+its southern latitude, New Orleans would not be found so oppressively hot as we
+had been taught to expect.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The breeze continuing without interruption, on the 29th we came in sight of the
+island of Grand Cayman. It is a small speck in the middle of the sea, lying so
+near the level of the water as to be unobservable at any considerable distance.
+Though we passed along with prodigious velocity, a canoe nevertheless ventured
+off from the shore, and making its way through waves which looked as if they
+would swallow it up, succeeded in reaching our vessel. It contained a white man
+and two negroes, who brought off a quantity of fine turtle, which they gave us
+in exchange for salt pork; and so great was the value put upon salt provisions,
+that they bartered a pound and a half of the one for a pound of the other. To
+us the exchange was very acceptable, and thus both parties remained satisfied
+with their bargain.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having lain-to till our turtle-merchants left us, we again filled and stood our
+course. The land of Cayman was soon invisible; nor was any other perceived till
+the 2nd of December, when the western shores of Cuba presented themselves.
+Towards them we now directed the ship&rsquo;s head, and reaching in within a
+few miles of the beach, coasted along till we had doubled the promontory, which
+forms one of the jaws of the Mexican Gulf. Whilst keeping thus close to the
+shore, our sail was more interesting than usual, for though this side of Cuba
+be low, it is nevertheless picturesque, from the abundance of wood with which
+it is ornamented. There are likewise several points where huge rocks rise
+perpendicularly out of the water, presenting the appearance of old baronial
+castles, with their battlements and lofty turrets; and it will easily be
+believed that none of these escaped our observation. The few books which we had
+brought to sea were all read, many of them twice and three times through; and
+there now remained nothing to amuse except what the variety of the voyage could
+produce.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But the shores of Cuba were quickly passed, and the old prospect of sea and sky
+again met the gaze. There was, however, one circumstance from which we
+experienced a considerable diminution of comfort. As soon as we entered the
+gulf, a short disagreeable swell was perceptible; differing in some respects
+from that in the Bay of Biscay, but to my mind infinitely more unpleasant. So
+great was the motion, indeed, that all walking was prevented; but as we felt
+ourselves drawing every hour nearer and nearer to the conclusion of our
+miseries, this additional one was borne without much repining. Besides, we
+found some amusement in watching, from the cabin windows, the quantity and
+variety of weed with which the surface of the gulf is covered. The current
+being here extremely rapid, the weed sails continually in the same direction;
+that is to say, it goes round by the opposite side of Cuba towards the banks of
+Newfoundland, and is carried sometimes as far as Bermuda, and even to the
+Western Isles.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It is not, however, my intention to continue the detail of this voyage longer
+than may be interesting; I shall therefore merely state that, the wind and
+weather having undergone some variations, it was the 10th of December before
+the shores of America could be discerned. On that day we found ourselves
+opposite to the Chandeleur Islands, and near the entrance of Lake Borgne. There
+the fleet anchored, that the troops might be removed from the heavy ships into
+such as drew least water; and from this and other preparations it appeared that
+to ascend this lake was the plan determined upon.
+</p>
+
+<h3>NEW ORLEANS.</h3>
+
+<p>
+But before I pursue my narrative further, it will be well if I endeavour to
+give some account of the situation of New Orleans, and of the nature of the
+country against which our operations were directed.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+New Orleans is a town of some note, containing from twenty to thirty thousand
+inhabitants. It stands upon the eastern bank of the Mississippi, in 30 degrees
+north latitude, and about 110 miles from the Gulf of Mexico. Though in itself
+unfortified, it is difficult to conceive a place capable of presenting greater
+obstacles to an invader; and at the same time more conveniently situated with
+respect to trade. Built upon a narrow neck of land, which is confined on one
+side by the river, and on the other by impassable morasses, its means of
+defence require little explanation; and as these morasses extend to the
+distance of only a few miles, and are succeeded by Lake Pontchartrain, which
+again communicates through Lake Borgne<a href="#linknote-2"
+name="linknoteref-2" id="linknoteref-2"><sup>[2]</sup></a> with the sea, its
+peculiar commercial advantages must be equally apparent. It is by means of the
+former of these lakes, indeed, that intercourse is maintained between the city
+and the northern parts of West Florida, of which it is the capital; a narrow
+creek, called in the language of the country a bayo or bayouke, navigable for
+vessels drawing less than six feet water, running up through the marsh, and
+ending within two miles of the town. The name of this creek is the Bayouke of
+St. John, and its entrance is defended by works of considerable strength.
+</p>
+
+<p class="footnote">
+<a name="linknote-2" id="linknote-2"></a> <a href="#linknoteref-2">[2]</a>
+These are, properly speaking, one and the same lake. From the entrance,
+however, as far as Ship Island, is called by the inhabitants Lake Borgne,
+whilst all above that point goes under the name of Lake Pontchartrain. They are
+both extremely shallow, varying from 12 to 6 feet in depth.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But to exhibit its advantages in a more distinct point of view, it will be
+necessary to say a few words respecting that mighty river upon which it stands.
+The Mississippi (a corruption of the word Mechasippi, signifying, in the
+language of the natives, &ldquo;the father of rivers&rdquo;) is allowed to be
+inferior, in point of size and general navigability, to few streams in the
+world. According to the Sioux Indians it takes its rise from a large swamp, and
+is increased by many rivers emptying themselves into its course as far as the
+Fall of St. Anthony, which, by their account, is upwards of 700 leagues from
+its source. But this fall, which is formed by a rock thrown across the channel,
+of about twelve feet perpendicular height, is known to be 800 leagues from the
+sea; and therefore the whole course of the Mississippi, from its spring to its
+mouth, may be computed at little short of 5000 miles.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Below the fall of St. Anthony, again, the Mississippi is joined by a number of
+rivers, considerable in point of size, and leading out of almost every part of
+the continent of America. These are the St. Pierre, which comes from the west;
+St. Croix, from the east; the Moingona, which is said to run 150 leagues from
+the west, and forms a junction about 250 below the fall; and the Illinois,
+which rises near the lake Michigan, 200 leagues east of the Mississippi.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But by far the most important of these auxiliary streams is the Missouri, the
+source of which is as little known as that of the Father of Rivers himself. It
+has been followed by traders upwards of 400 leagues, who traffic with the
+tribes which dwell upon its banks, and obtain an immense return for European
+goods. The mouth of this river is five leagues below that of the Illinois, and
+is supposed to be 800 from its source, which, judging from the flow of its
+waters, lies in a north-west direction from the Mississippi. It is remarkable
+enough that the waters of this river are black and muddy, and prevail over
+those of the Mississippi, which running with a clear and gentle stream till it
+meets with this addition, becomes from that time both dark and rapid.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The next river of note is the Ohio, which taking its rise near Lake Erie, runs
+from the north-east to the south-west, and joins the Mississippi about 70
+leagues below the Missouri. Besides this there are the St. Francis, an
+inconsiderable stream, and the Arkansas, which is said to originate in the same
+latitude with Santa Fe in New Mexico, and which, holding its course nearly 300
+leagues, falls in about 200 above New Orleans. Sixty leagues below the
+Arkansas, comes the Yazous from the northeast; and about 58 nearer to the city
+is the Rouge, so called from the colour of its waters, which are of a reddish
+dye, and tinge those of the Mississippi at the time of the floods. Its source
+is in New Mexico, and after running about 200 leagues it is joined by the Noir
+30 miles above the place where it empties itself into the Mississippi.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Of all these rivers there is none which will not answer the purposes of
+commerce, at least to a very considerable extent; and as they join the
+Mississippi above New Orleans, it is evident that this city may be considered
+as the general mart of the whole. Whatever nation, therefore, chances to
+possess this place, possesses in reality the command of a greater extent of
+country than is included within the boundary-line of the whole United States
+since from every direction are goods, the produce of East, West, North, and
+South America, sent down by the Mississippi to the Gulf. But were New Orleans
+properly supplied with fortifications, it is evident that no vessels could pass
+without the leave of its governor; and therefore is it that I consider that
+city as of greater importance to the American government than any other within
+the compass of their territories.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having said so much on its commercial advantages, let me now point out more
+distinctly than I have yet done the causes which contribute to its safety from
+all hostile attempts. The first of these is the shallowness of the river at its
+mouth, and the extreme rapidity of the current. After flowing on in one
+prodigious sheet of water, varying in depth from one hundred to thirty fathoms,
+the Mississippi, previous to its joining the Mexican Gulf, divides into four or
+five mouths, the most considerable of which is encumbered by a sandbank
+continually liable to shift. Over this bank no vessel drawing above seventeen
+feet water can pass; when once across, however, there is no longer a difficulty
+in being floated; but to anchor is hazardous, on account of the huge logs which
+are constantly carried down the stream. Should one of these strike the bow of
+the ship, it would probably dash her to pieces; whilst, independent of this,
+there is always danger of drifting or losing anchors, owing to the number of
+sunken logs which the under-current bears along within a few feet of the
+bottom. All vessels ascending the river are accordingly obliged, if the wind be
+foul, to make fast to the trees upon the banks; because without a breeze at
+once fair and powerful, it is impossible to stem the torrent.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But besides this natural obstacle to invasion, the mouth of the river is
+defended by a fort, which from its situation may be pronounced impregnable. It
+is built upon an artificial causeway, and is surrounded on all sides by swamps
+totally impervious, which extend on both sides of the river to a place called
+the Detour des Anglais, within twenty miles of the city. Here two other forts
+are erected, one on each bank. Like that at the river&rsquo;s mouth, these are
+surrounded by a marsh, a single narrow path conducting from the commencement of
+firm ground to the gates of each. If, therefore, an enemy should contrive to
+pass both the bar and the first fort, he must here be stopped, because all
+landing is prevented by the nature of the soil; and however fair his breeze may
+have hitherto been, it will not now assist his further progress. At this point
+the Mississippi winds almost in a circle, insomuch that vessels which arrive
+are necessitated to make fast till a change of wind occur.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+From the Detour des Anglais towards New Orleans the face of the country
+undergoes an alteration. The swamp does not indeed end, but it narrows off to
+the right, leaving a space of firm ground, varying, from three to one mile in,
+width, between it and the river. At the back of this swamp, again, which may be
+about six or eight miles across, come up the waters of Lake Pontchartrain, and
+thus a neck of arable land is formed, stretching for some way above the city.
+The whole of these morasses are covered as far as the Detour with tall reeds; a
+little wood now succeeds, skirting the open country, but the wood measures no
+more than one mile in depth, when it again gives place to reeds. Such is the
+aspect of that side of the river upon which the city is built; with respect to
+the other I can speak with less confidence, having seen it but cursorily. It
+appears, however, to resemble this in almost every particular, except that it
+is more wooded and less confined with marsh. Both sides are flat, containing no
+broken ground, nor any other cover, for military movements; for on the open
+shore there are no trees, except a few in the gardens of those houses which
+skirt the rivers; the whole being laid out in large fields of sugar-cane;
+separated from one another by rails and ditches.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+From the preceding brief account of the country, the advantages possessed by a
+defending army must; be apparent. To approach by the river is out of the
+question, and therefore an enemy can land only from the lake. But this can be
+done nowhere, except where creeks or bayos offer convenience for that purpose,
+because the banks of the lake are universally swampy; and can hardly supply
+footing for infantry, far less for the transportation of artillery. Of these,
+however, there are not above one or two which could be so used. The Bayo of St.
+John is one; but it is too well defended, and too carefully guarded for any
+attempts; and the Bayo of Catiline is another, about ten miles below the city.
+That this last might be found useful in an attack, was proved by the landing
+affected by our army at that point; but what is the consequence? The invaders
+arrive upon a piece of ground, where the most consummate generalship will be of
+little avail. If the defenders can but retard their progress&mdash;which, by
+crowding the Mississippi with armed vessels, may very easily be done, the
+labour of a few days will cover the narrow neck with entrenchments; whilst the
+opposite bank remaining in their hands, can at all times gall their enemy with
+a close and deadly cannonade. Of wood, as I have already said, or broken ground
+which might conceal an advance, there exists not a particle. Every movement of
+the assailants must, therefore, be made under their eyes; and as one flank of
+their army will be defended by a morass, and the other by the river, they may
+bid defiance to all attempts at turning.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Such are the advantages of New Orleans; and now it is only fair that I should
+state its disadvantages: these are owing solely the climate. From the swamps
+with which it is surrounded, there arise, during the summer months, exhalations
+extremely fatal to the health of its inhabitants. For some months of the year,
+indeed, so deadly are the effects of the atmosphere, that the garrison is
+withdrawn, and most of the families retire from their houses to more genial
+spots, leaving the town as much deserted as if it had been visited by a
+pestilence. Yet, in spite of these cautions, agues and intermittent fevers
+abound here at all times. Nor is it wonderful that the case should be so; for
+independent of the vile air which the vicinity of so many putrid swamps
+occasions, this country is more liable than perhaps any other to sudden and
+severe changes of temperature. A night of keen frost sufficiently powerful to
+produce ice a quarter of an inch in thickness, frequently follows a day of
+intense heat; whilst heavy rains and bright sunshine often succeed each other
+several times in the course of a few hours. But these changes, as may supposed,
+occur only during the winter; the summer being one continued series of
+intolerable heat and deadly fog.
+</p>
+
+<h3>LAKE BORGNE.</h3>
+
+<p>
+Of all these circumstances the conductors of the present expedition were not
+ignorant. To reduce the forts which command the navigation of the river was
+regarded as a task too difficult to be attempted; and for any ships to pass
+without their reduction seemed impossible. Trusting, therefore, that the object
+of the enterprise was unknown to the Americans, Sir Alexander Cochrane and
+General Keane determined to effect a landing somewhere on the banks of the
+lake; and pushing directly on, to take possession of the town, before any
+effectual preparation could be made for its defence. With this view the troops
+were removed from the larger into the lighter vessels, and these, under convoy
+of such gun-brigs as the shallowness of the water would float, began on the
+13th to enter Lake Borgne. But we had not proceeded far, when it was apparent
+that the Americans were well acquainted with our intentions, and ready to
+receive us. Five large cutters, armed with six heavy guns each, were seen at
+anchor in the distances: and as all endeavours to land, till these were
+captured, would have been useless, the transports and largest of the gun-brigs
+cast anchor, whilst the smaller craft gave chase to the enemy.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But these cutters were built purposely to act upon the lake. They accordingly
+set sail as soon as the English cruisers arrived within a certain distance, and
+running on, were quickly out of sight, leaving the pursuers fast aground. To
+permit them to remain in the hands of the enemy, however, would be fatal,
+because, as long as they commanded the navigation of the lake, no boats could
+venture to cross. It was therefore determined at all hazards, and at any
+expense, to take them; and since our lightest craft could not float where they
+sailed, a flotilla of launches and ships&rsquo; barges was got ready for the
+purpose.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+This flotilla consisted of fifty open boats; most of them armed with a
+carronade in the bow, and well manned with volunteers from the different ships
+of war. The command was given to Captain Lockier, a brave and skilful officer,
+who immediately pushed off; and about noon came in sight of the enemy, moored
+fore and aft, with broadsides pointing towards him. Having pulled a
+considerable distance, he resolved to refresh his men before he hurried them
+into action; and, accordingly, letting fall grapplings just beyond the reach of
+the enemy&rsquo;s guns, the crews of the different boats coolly ate their
+dinner.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As soon as that meal was finished, and an hour spent in resting, the boats
+again got ready to advance. But, unfortunately, a light breeze which had
+hitherto favoured them, now ceased to blow, and they were in consequence
+compelled to make way only with the oar. The tide also ran strong against them,
+at once increasing their labour and retarding their progress; but all these
+difficulties appeared trifling to British sailors; and, giving a hearty cheer,
+they moved steadily onward in one extended line.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was not long before the enemy&rsquo;s guns opened upon them, and a
+tremendous shower of balls saluted their approach. Some boats were sunk, others
+disabled, and many men were killed and wounded; but the rest pulling with all
+their might, and occasionally returning the discharges from their carronades,
+succeeded, after an hour&rsquo;s labour, in closing with the Americans. The
+marines now began a deadly fire of musketry; whilst the seamen, sword in hand,
+sprang up the vessels&rsquo; sides in spite of all opposition; and sabring
+every man that stood in their way, hauled down the American ensign, and hoisted
+the British flag in its place.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+One cutter alone, which bore the commodore&rsquo;s broad pendant, was not so
+easily subdued. Having noted its pre-eminence, Captain Lockier directed his own
+boat against it; and happening to have placed himself in one of the lightest
+and fastest sailing barges in the flotilla, he found himself alongside of his
+enemy before any of the others were near enough to render him the smallest
+support. But nothing dismayed by odds so fearful, the gallant crew of this
+small bark, following their leader, instantly leaped on board the American. A
+desperate conflict ensued, in which Captain Lockier received several severe
+wounds; but after fighting from the bow to the stern, the enemy were at length
+overpowered; and other barges coming up to the assistance of their commander,
+the commodore&rsquo;s flag shared the same fate with the others.
+</p>
+
+<h3>PINE ISLAND.</h3>
+
+<p>
+Having destroyed all opposition in this quarter, the fleet again weighed
+anchor, and stood up the lake. But we had not been many hours under sail, when
+ship after ship ran aground: such as still floated were, therefore, crowded
+with the troops from those which could go no farther, till finally the lightest
+vessel stuck fast; and the boats were of necessity hoisted out, to carry us a
+distance of upwards of thirty miles. To be confined for so long a time as the
+prosecution of this voyage would require, in one posture, was of itself no very
+agreeable prospect; but the confinement was but a trifling misery when compared
+with that which arose from the change in the weather. Instead of a constant
+bracing frost, heavy rains, such as an inhabitant of England cannot dream of,
+and against which no cloak could furnish protection, began. In the midst of
+these were the troops embarked in their new and straitened transports, and each
+division, after an exposure of ten hours, landed upon a small desert spot of
+earth, called Pine Island, where it was determined to collect the whole army,
+previous to its crossing over to the main.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Than this spot it is scarcely possible to imagine any place more completely
+wretched. It was a swamp, containing a small space of firm ground at one end,
+and almost wholly unadorned with trees of any sort or description. There were,
+indeed, a few stinted [sic] firs upon the very edge of the water, but these
+were so diminutive in size as hardly to deserve a higher classification than
+among the meanest of shrubs. The interior was the resort of wild ducks and
+other water-fowl; and the pools and creeks with which it was intercepted
+abounded in dormant alligators.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Upon this miserable desert the army was assembled, without tents or huts, or
+any covering to shelter them from the inclemency of the weather; and in truth
+we may fairly affirm that our hardships had here their commencement. After
+having been exposed all day to a cold and pelting rain, we landed upon a barren
+island, incapable of furnishing even fuel enough to supply our fires. To add to
+our miseries, as night closed, the rain generally ceased, and severe frosts set
+in, which, congealing our wet clothes upon our bodies, left little animal
+warmth to keep the limbs in a state of activity; and the consequence was, that
+many of the wretched negroes, to whom frost and cold were altogether new, fell
+fast asleep, and perished before morning.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+For provisions, again, we were entirely dependent upon the fleet. There were
+here no living creatures which would suffer themselves to be caught; even the
+water-fowl being so timorous that it was impossible to approach them within
+musket-shot. Salt meat and ship biscuit were, therefore, our food, moistened by
+a small allowance of rum; fare which, though no doubt very wholesome, was not
+such as to reconcile us to the cold and wet under which we suffered.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+On the part of the navy, again, all these hardships were experienced in a
+four-fold degree. Night and day were boats pulling from the fleet to the
+island, and from the island to the fleet; for it was the 21st before all the
+troops were got on shore; and as there was little time to inquire into
+men&rsquo;s turns of labour, many seamen were four or five days continually at
+the oar. Thus they had not only to bear up against variety of temperature, but
+against hunger, fatigue, and want of sleep in addition; three as fearful
+burdens as can be laid upon the human frame. Yet in spite of all this, not a
+murmur nor a whisper of complaint could be heard throughout the whole
+expedition. No man appeared to regard the present, whilst every one looked
+forward to the future. From the General, down to the youngest drum-boy, a
+confident anticipation of success seemed to pervade all ranks; and in the hope
+of an ample reward in store for them, the toils and grievances of the moment
+were forgotten. Nor was this anticipation the mere offspring of an overweening
+confidence in themselves. Several Americans had already deserted, who
+entertained us with accounts of the alarm experienced at New Orleans. They
+assured us that there were not at present 5000 soldiers in the State; that the
+principal inhabitants had long ago left the place; that such as remained were
+ready to join us as soon as we should appear among them; and that, therefore,
+we might lay our account with a speedy and bloodless conquest. The same persons
+likewise dilated upon the wealth and importance of the town, upon the large
+quantities of Government stores there collected, and the rich booty which would
+reward its capture; subjects well calculated to tickle the fancy of invaders,
+and to make them unmindful of immediate afflictions, in the expectation of so
+great a recompense to come.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap19"></a>CHAPTER XIX.</h2>
+
+<p>
+It is well known that, at the period to which my narrative refers, an alliance,
+offensive and defensive, subsisted between the Government of Great Britain and
+the heads of as many Indian nations or tribes as felt the aggressions of the
+settlers upon their ancient territories, and were disposed to resent them. On
+this side of the continent our principal allies were the Chaktaws and
+Cherokees, two nations whom war and famine had reduced from a state of
+comparative majesty to the lowest ebb of feebleness and distress. Driven from
+hunting-ground to hunting-ground, and pursued like wild beasts wherever seen,
+they were now confined to a narrow tract of country, lying chiefly along the
+coasts of the gulf and the borders of the lakes which adjoin to it. For some
+time previous to the arrival of the expedition, the warriors of these tribes
+put themselves under the command of Colonel Nickolls, of the Royal Marines, and
+continued to harass the Americans by frequent incursions into the cultivated
+districts. It so happened, however, that, being persuaded to attempt the
+reduction of a fort situated upon Mobile Point, and being, as might be
+expected, repulsed with some loss, their confidence in their leader, and their
+dependence upon British aid, had begun of late to suffer a serious diminution.
+Though not very profitable as friends, their local position and desultory mode
+of warfare would have rendered them at this period exceedingly annoying to us
+as enemies; it was accordingly determined to dispatch an embassy to their
+settlements, for the purpose of restoring them to good humour, or at least
+discovering their intentions.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Whilst the troops were assembling upon Pine Island, a cutter, having proper
+officers on board, and carrying presents of clothing, arms, and rum, was
+dispatched upon this business. It reached its place of destination in safety,
+and the ambassadors found very little difficulty in bringing back the fickle
+Indians to their wonted reliance upon British support. Several of the chiefs
+and warriors, indeed, requested and obtained permission to visit our Admiral
+and General, and to follow the fortunes of our troops; and a very grotesque and
+singular appearance they presented as they stood upon the quarter-deck of the
+Tonnant. But the costume, habits, and customs of these savages have been too
+frequently and too accurately described elsewhere, to render any account of
+them on the present occasion desirable. It is sufficient to observe, that
+whilst they gazed upon everything around them with a look expressive of no
+astonishment whatever, they were themselves objects of eager curiosity to us;
+and that they bore our close inspection and somewhat uncourteous deportment
+with the most perfect philosophy. But to my tale.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The enemy&rsquo;s cutters having fallen into our hands, at an early hour on the
+morning of the 16th the disembarkation of the troops began. So deficient,
+however, was the fleet in boats and other small craft fit to navigate the
+lakes, that it was late on the evening of the 21st before the last division
+took up its ground upon Pine Island, and even then the inconveniences of our
+descent were but beginning. The troops had yet to be arranged in corps and
+brigades; to each of these its proportion of Commissaries, Purveyors, and
+Medical attendants, &amp;c., &amp;c., required to be allotted; and some attempt
+at establishing depots of provisions and military stores behoved to be made. In
+adjusting these matters the whole of the 22nd was occupied, on which day the
+General likewise reviewed the whole of the army. This being ended, the force
+was next distributed into divisions, or corps; and the following is the order
+it assumed.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Instead of a light brigade, the General resolved to set apart three battalions
+as an advanced guard. The regiments nominated to that service were the 4th, the
+85th Light Infantry, and the 95th. Rifles; and he selected Colonel Thornton of
+the 85th, as an officer of talent and enterprise, to command them. Attached to
+this corps were a party of rocket-men, with two light three-pounders&mdash; a
+species of gun convenient enough, where celerity of movement is alone regarded,
+but of very little real utility in the field. The rest of the troops were
+arranged, as before, into two brigades. The first, composed of the 21st, 44th,
+and one black regiment, was intrusted to Colonel Brook; and the second,
+containing the 93rd and the other black corps, to Colonel Hamilton, of the 7th
+West India regiment. To each of these, a certain proportion of artillery and
+rockets was allotted: whilst the dragoons, who had brought their harness and
+other appointments on shore, remained as a sort of bodyguard to the General,
+till they should provide themselves with horses.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The adjustment of these matters having occupied a considerable part of the
+22nd, it was determined that all things should remain as they were till next
+morning. Boats, in the mean time, began to assemble from all quarters, supplies
+of ammunition were packed, so as to prevent the possibility of damage from
+moisture, and stores of various descriptions were got ready. But it appeared
+that, even now, many serious inconveniences must be endured, and obstacles
+surmounted, before the troops could reach the scene of action. In the first
+place, from Pine Island to that part of the main towards which prudence
+directed us to steer, was a distance of no less than 80 miles. This, of itself,
+was an obstacle, or at least an inconvenience, of no slight nature; for should
+the weather prove boisterous, open boats, heavily laden with soldiers, would
+stand little chance of escaping destruction in the course of so long a voyage.
+In the next place, and what was of infinitely greater importance, it was found
+that there were not, throughout the whole fleet, a sufficient number of boats
+to transport above one third of the army at a time. But to land in divisions
+would expose our forces to be attacked in detail, by which means one party
+might be cut to pieces before the others could arrive to its support. The
+undertaking was, therefore, on the whole, extremely dangerous, and such as
+would have been probably abandoned by more timid leaders. Ours, however, were
+not so to be alarmed. They had entered upon a hazardous business, in whatever
+way it should be prosecuted; and since they could not work miracles, they
+resolved to lose no time in bringing their army into the field in the best
+manner which circumstances would permit.
+</p>
+
+<h3>THE LAKE.</h3>
+
+<p>
+With this view, the advance, consisting of 1600 men and two pieces of cannon,
+was next morning embarked. I have already stated that there is a small creek,
+called the Bayo de Catiline, which runs up from Lake Pontchartrain through the
+middle of an extensive morass, about ten miles below New Orleans. Towards this
+creek were the boats directed, and here it was resolved to effect a landing.
+When we set sail, the sky was dark and lowering, and before long a heavy rain
+began to fall. Continuing without intermission during the whole of the day,
+towards night, it, as usual, ceased, and was succeeded by a sharp frost; which,
+taking effect upon men thoroughly exposed, and already cramped by remaining so
+long in one posture, rendered our limbs completely powerless. Nor was there any
+means of dispelling the benumbing sensation, or effectually resisting the cold.
+Fires of charcoal, indeed, being lighted in the sterns of the boats, were
+permitted to burn as long as daylight lasted; but as soon as it grew dark, they
+were of necessity extinguished, lest the flame should be seen by row-boats from
+the shore, and an alarm be thus communicated. Our situation was, therefore, the
+reverse of agreeable; since even sleep was denied us, from the apprehension of
+fatal consequences.
+</p>
+
+<h3>THE LAKE&mdash;LANDING.</h3>
+
+<p>
+Having remained in this uncomfortable state till midnight, the boats cast
+anchor and hoisted awnings. There was a small piquet of the enemy stationed at
+the entrance of the creek by which it was intended to effect our landing. This
+it was absolutely necessary to surprise; and whilst the rest lay at anchor, two
+or three fast-sailing barges were pushed on to execute the service. Nor did
+they experience much difficulty in accomplishing their object. Nothing, as it
+appeared, was less dreamt of by the Americans than an attack from this quarter,
+consequently no persons could be less on their guard than the party here
+stationed. The officer who conducted the force sent against them, found not so
+much as a single sentinel posted! but having landed his men at two places,
+above and below the but which they inhabited, extended his ranks so as to
+surround it, and closing gradually in, took them all fast asleep, without noise
+or resistance.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+When such time had been allowed as was deemed sufficient for the accomplishment
+of this undertaking, the flotilla again weighed anchor, and without waiting for
+intelligence of success, pursued their voyage. Hitherto we had been hurried
+along at a rapid rate by a fair breeze, which enabled us to carry canvas; but
+this now left us, and we made way only by rowing. Our progress was therefore
+considerably retarded, and the risk of discovery heightened by the noise which
+that labour necessarily occasions; but in spite of these obstacles, we reached
+the entrance of the creek by dawn; and about nine o&rsquo;clock, were safely on
+shore.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The place where we landed was as wild as it is possible to imagine. Gaze where
+we might, nothing could be seen except one huge marsh covered with tall reeds;
+not a house nor a vestige of human industry could be discovered; and even of
+trees there were but a few growing upon the banks of the creek. Yet it was such
+a spot as, above all others, favoured our operations. No eye could watch us, or
+report our arrival to the American General. By remaining quietly among the
+reeds, we might effectually conceal ourselves from notice; because, from
+appearance of all around, it was easy to perceive that the place which we
+occupied had been seldom, if ever before, marked with a human footstep.
+Concealment, however, was the thing of all others which we required; for be it
+remembered that there were now only sixteen hundred men on the mainland. The
+rest were still at Pine Island, where they must remain till the boats which had
+transported us should return for their conveyance, consequently many hours must
+elapse before this small corps could be either reinforced or supported. If,
+therefore, we had sought for a point where a descent might be made in secrecy
+and safety, we could not have found one better calculated for that purpose than
+the present; because it afforded every means of concealment to one part of our
+force, until the others should be able to come up.
+</p>
+
+<h3>MARCH.</h3>
+
+<p>
+For these reasons, it was confidently expected that no movement would be made
+previous to the arrival of the other brigades; but, in our expectations of
+quiet, we were deceived. The deserters who had come in, and accompanied us as
+guides, assured the General that he had only to show himself, when the whole
+district would submit. They repeated, that there were not five thousand men in
+arms throughout the State: that of these, not more than twelve hundred were
+regular soldiers, and that the whole force was at present several miles on the
+opposite side of the town, expecting an attack on that quarter, and
+apprehending no danger on this. These arguments, together with the nature of
+the ground on which we stood, so ill calculated for a proper distribution of
+troops in case of attack, and so well calculated to hide the movements of an
+army acquainted with all the passes and tracks which, for aught we knew,
+intersected the morass, induced our leader to push forward at once into the
+open country. As soon, therefore, as the advance was formed, and the boats had
+departed, we began our march, following an indistinct path along the edge of
+the ditch or canal. But it was not without many checks that we were able to
+proceed. Other ditches, similar to that whose course we pursued, frequently
+stopped us by running in a cross direction, and falling into it at right
+angles. These were too wide to be leaped, and too deep to be forded;
+consequently, on all such occasions, the troops were obliged to halt, till
+bridges were hastily constructed of such materials as could be procured, and
+thrown across.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having advanced in this manner for several hours, we at length found ourselves
+approaching a more cultivated region. The marsh became gradually less and less
+continued, being intersected by wider spots of firm ground; the reeds gave
+place, by degrees, to wood, and the wood to inclosed fields. Upon these,
+however, nothing grew, harvest having long ago ended. They accordingly
+presented but a melancholy appearance, being covered with the stubble of
+sugar-cane, which resembled the reeds which we had just quitted, in everything
+except altitude. Nor as yet was any house or cottage to be seen. Though we
+knew, therefore, that human habitations could not be far off, it was impossible
+to guess where they lay, or how numerous they might prove; and as we could not
+tell whether our guides might not be deceiving us, and whether ambuscades might
+not be laid for our destruction as soon as we should arrive where troops could
+conveniently act, our march was insensibly conducted with increased caution and
+regularity.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But in a little while some groves of orange-trees presented selves; on passing
+which two or three farm-houses appeared. Towards these, our advanced companies
+immediately hastened, with the hope of surprising the inhabitants, and
+preventing any from being raised. Hurrying on at double-quick time, they
+surrounded the buildings, succeeded in securing the inmates, capturing several
+horses; but becoming rather careless in watching their prisoners, one man
+contrived to effect his escape. Now, then, all hope of eluding observation
+might be laid aside. The rumour of our landing would, we knew, spread faster
+than we could march; and it only remained to make that rumour as terrible as
+possible.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+With this view, the column was commanded to widen its files, and to present as
+formidable an appearance as could be assumed. Changing our order, in obedience
+to these directions, we marched, not in sections of eight or ten abreast, but
+in pairs, and thus contrived to cover with our small division as large a tract
+or ground as if we had mustered thrice our present numbers. Our steps were
+likewise quickened, that we might gain, if possible, some advantageous
+position, where we might be able to cope with any force that might attack us;
+and thus hastening on, we soon arrived at the main road which leads directly to
+New Orleans. Turning to the right, we then advanced in the direction of that
+town for about a mile; when, having reached a spot where it was considered that
+we might encamp in comparative safety, our little column halted; the men piled
+their arms, and a regular bivouac was formed.
+</p>
+
+<h3>HALT.</h3>
+
+<p>
+The country where we had now established ourselves, answered, in every respect,
+the description which I have already given of the neck of land on which New
+Orleans is built. It was a narrow plain of about a mile in width, bounded on
+one side by the Mississippi, and on the other by the marsh from which we had
+just emerged. Towards the open ground this marsh was covered with dwarf wood,
+having the semblance of a forest rather than of a swamp; but on trying the
+bottom, it was found that both characters were united, and that it was
+impossible for a man to make his way among the trees, so boggy was the soil
+upon which they grew. In no other quarter, however, was there a single
+hedge-row, or plantation of any kind; excepting a few apple and other fruit
+trees in the gardens of such houses as were scattered over the plain, the whole
+being laid out in large fields for the growth of sugar-cane, a plant which
+seems as abundant in this part of the world as in Jamaica.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Looking up towards the town, which we at this time faced, the marsh is upon
+your right, and the river upon your left. Close to the latter runs the main
+road, following the course of the stream all the way to New Orleans. Between
+the road and the water is thrown up a lofty and strong embankment, resembling
+the dykes in Holland, and meant to serve a similar purpose; by means of which
+the Mississippi is prevented from overflowing its banks, and the entire flat is
+preserved from inundation. But the attention of a stranger is irresistibly
+drawn away from every other object, to contemplate the magnificence of this
+noble river. Pouring along at the prodigious rate of four miles an hour, an
+immense body of water is spread out before you; measuring a full mile across,
+and nearly a hundred fathoms in depth. What this mighty stream must be near its
+mouth, I can hardly imagine, for we were here upwards of a hundred miles from
+the ocean.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Such was the general aspect of the country which we had entered;&mdash;our own
+position, again, was this. The three regiments turning off from the road into
+one extensive green field, formed three close columns within pistol-shot of the
+river. Upon our right, but so much in advance as to be of no service to us, was
+a large house, surrounded by about twenty wooden huts, probably intended for
+the accommodation of slaves. Towards this house there was a slight rise in the
+ground, and between it and the camp was a small pond of no great depth. As far
+to the rear as the first was to the front, stood another house, inferior in
+point of appearance, and skirted by no outbuildings: this was also upon the
+right; and here General Keane, who accompanied us, fixed his head-quarters; but
+neither the one nor the other could be employed as a covering redoubt, the
+flank of the division extending, as it were, between them. A little way in
+advance, again, where the outposts were stationed, ran a dry ditch and a row of
+lofty palings; affording some cover to the front of our line, should it be
+formed diagonally with the main road. The left likewise was well secured by the
+river; but the right and the rear were wholly unprotected. Though in occupying
+this field, therefore, we might have looked very well had the country around us
+been friendly, it must be confessed that our situation hardly deserved the
+title of a military position.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap20"></a>CHAPTER XX.</h2>
+
+<p>
+Noon had just passed, when the word was given to halt, by which means every
+facility was afforded of posting the piquet&rsquo;s leisure and attention. Nor
+was this deemed enough to secure tranquillity: parties were sent out in all
+directions to reconnoitre, who returned with an account that no enemy nor any
+trace of an enemy could be discerned. The troops were accordingly suffered to
+light fires, and to make themselves comfortable, only their accoutrements were
+not taken off, and the arms were piled in such form as to be within reach at a
+moment&rsquo;s notice.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As soon as these agreeable orders were issued, the soldiers to obey them both
+in letter and in spirit. Tearing up a number of strong palings, large fires
+were lighted in a moment; water was brought from the river, and provisions were
+cooked. But their bare rations did not content them. Spreading themselves over
+the country as far as a regard to safety would permit, they entered every
+house, and brought away quantities of hams, fowls, and wines of various
+descriptions; which being divided among them, all fared well, and none received
+too large a quantity. In this division of good things, they were not unmindful
+of their officers; for upon active warfare the officers are considered by the
+privates as comrades, to whom respect and obedience are due, rather than as
+masters.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was now about three o&rsquo;clock in the afternoon, and all had as yet
+remained quiet. The troops having finished their meal, lay stretched beside
+their fires, or refreshed themselves by bathing, for to-day the heat was such
+as to render this latter employment extremely agreeable, when suddenly a bugle
+from the advanced posts sounded the alarm, which was echoed back from all in
+the army. Starting up, we stood to our arms, and prepared for battle, the alarm
+being now succeeded by some firing; but we were scarcely in order, when
+intelligence arrived from the front that there was no danger, only a few horse
+having made their appearance, who were checked and put to flight at the first
+discharge. Upon this information, our wonted confidence returned, and we again
+betook ourselves to our former occupations, remarking that, as the Americans
+had never yet dared to attack, there was no great probability of their doing so
+on the present occasion.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In this manner the day passed without any further alarm; and darkness having
+set in, the fires were made to blaze with increased splendour, our evening meal
+was eaten, and we prepared to sleep. But about half-past seven o&rsquo;clock,
+the attention of several individuals was drawn to a large vessel, which seemed
+to be stealing up the river till she came opposite to our camp; when her anchor
+was dropped, and her sails leisurely furled. At first we were doubtful whether
+she might not be one of our own cruisers which had passed the fort unobserved,
+and had arrived to render her assistance in our future operations. To satisfy
+this doubt, she was repeatedly hailed; but returning no answer, an alarm
+immediately spread through the bivouac, and all thought of sleep was laid
+aside. Several musket-shots were now fired at her with the design of exacting a
+reply, of which no notice was taken; till at length, having fastened all her
+sails, and swung her broadside towards us, we could distinctly hear some one
+cry out in a commanding voice, &ldquo;Give them this for the honour of
+America.&rdquo; The words were instantly followed by the flashes of her guns,
+and a deadly shower of grape swept down numbers in the camp.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Against this destructive fire we had nothing whatever to oppose. The artillery
+which we had landed was too light to bring into competition with an adversary
+so powerful; and as she had anchored within a short distance of the opposite
+bank, no musketry could reach her with any precision or effect. A few rockets
+were discharged, which made a beautiful appearance in the air; but the rocket
+is at the best an uncertain weapon, and these deviated too far from their
+object to produce even terror amongst those against whom they were directed.
+Under these circumstances, as nothing could be done offensively, our sole
+object was to shelter the men as much as possible from the iron hail. With this
+view, they were commanded to leave the fires, and to hasten under the dyke.
+Thither all accordingly repaired, without much regard to order and regularity,
+and laying ourselves along wherever we could find room, we listened in painful
+silence to the pattering of grape-shot among our huts, and to the shrieks and
+groans of those who lay wounded beside them.
+</p>
+
+<h3>ATTACK.</h3>
+
+<p>
+The night was now as dark as pitch, the moon being but young, and totally
+obscured with clouds. Our fires deserted by us, and beat about by the
+enemy&rsquo;s shot, began to burn red and dull, and, except when the flashes of
+those guns which played upon us cast a momentary glare, not an object could be
+distinguished at the distance of a yard. In this state we lay for nearly an
+hour, unable to move from our ground, or offer any opposition to those who kept
+us there; when a straggling fire of musketry called our attention towards the
+piquets, and warned us to prepare for a closer and more desperate struggle. As
+yet, however, it was uncertain from what cause this dropping fire arose. It
+might proceed from the sentinels, who, alarmed by the cannonade from the river,
+mistook every tree for an American; and till the real state of the case should
+be ascertained, it would be improper to expose the troops by moving any of them
+from the shelter which the bank afforded. But these doubts were not permitted
+to continue long in existence. The dropping fire having paused for a few
+moments, was succeeded by a fearful yell; and the heavens were illuminated on
+all sides by a semi-circular blaze of musketry. It was now manifest that we
+were surrounded, and that by a very superior force; and that no alternative
+remained, except to surrender at discretion, or to beat back the assailants.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The first of these plans was never for an instant thought of; the second was
+immediately put into force. Rushing from under the bank, the 85th and 95th flew
+to support the piquets, whilst the 4th, stealing to the rear of the encampment,
+formed close column, and remained as a reserve. And now began a battle of which
+no language were competent to convey any distinct idea; because it was one to
+which the annals of modern warfare furnish no parallel. All order, all
+discipline were lost. Each officer, as he succeeded in collecting twenty or
+thirty men about him, plunged into the midst of the enemy&rsquo;s ranks, where
+it was fought hand to hand, bayonet to bayonet, and sabre to sabre.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+I am well aware that he who speaks of his own deeds in the field of battle lies
+fairly open to the charge of seeking to make a hero of himself in the eyes of
+the public; and feeling this, it is not without reluctance that I proceed to
+recount the part which I myself took in the affair of this night. But, in
+truth, I must either play the egotist awhile, or leave the reader without any
+details at all; inasmuch as the darkness and general confusion effectually
+prevented me from observing how others, except my own immediate party, were
+employed.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Offering this as my apology for a line of conduct which I should otherwise
+blush to pursue, and premising that I did nothing, in my own person, which was
+not done by my comrades at least as effectually, I go on to relate as many of
+the particulars of this sanguinary conflict as came under the notice of my own
+senses.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+My friend Grey and myself had been supplied by our soldiers with a couple of
+fowls taken from a neighbouring hen-roost, and a few bottles of excellent
+claret, borrowed from the cellar of one of the houses near. We had built
+ourselves a sort of hut, by piling together, in a conical form, a number of
+large stakes and broad rails torn up from one of the fences; and a bright
+wooden fire was blazing at the door of it. In the wantonness of triumph, too,
+we had lighted some six or eight wax-candles; a vast quantity of which had been
+found in the store-rooms of the chateaux hard by; and having done ample justice
+to our luxurious supper, we were sitting in great splendour and in high spirits
+at the entrance of our hut, when the alarm of the approaching schooner was
+communicated to us. With the sagacity of a veteran, Grey instantly guessed how
+matters stood: he was the first to hail the suspicious stranger; and on
+receiving no answer to his challenge, he was the first to fire a musket in the
+direction of her anchorage. But he had scarcely done so when she opened her
+broadside, causing the instantaneous abandonment of fires, viands, and mirth
+throughout the bivouac.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As we contrived to get our men tolerably well around us, Grey and myself were
+among the first who rushed forth to support the piquets and check the advance
+of the enemy upon the right. Passing as rapidly as might be through the ground
+of encampment amidst a shower of grape-shot from the vessel, we soon arrived at
+the pond; which being forded, we found ourselves in front of the farm-house of
+which I have already spoken as composing the head-quarters of General Keane.
+Here we were met by a few stragglers from the outposts, who reported that the
+advanced companies were all driven in, and that a numerous division of
+Americans was approaching. Having attached these fugitives to our little corps,
+we pushed on, and in a few seconds reached the lower extremity of a sloping
+stubble-field, at the other end of which we could discern a long line of men,
+but whether they were friends or foes the darkness would not permit ups to
+determine. We called aloud for the purpose of satisfying our doubts; but the
+signal being disregarded, we advanced. A heavy fire of musketry instantly
+opened upon us; but so fearful was Grey of doing injury to our own troops, that
+he would not permit it to be returned. We accordingly pressed on, our men
+dropping by ones and twos on every side of us, till having arrived within
+twenty or thirty yards of the object of our curiosity, it became to me evident
+enough that we were in front of the enemy. Grey&rsquo;s humane caution still
+prevailed; he was not convinced, till he, should be convinced it was but
+natural that he should alter his plans. There chanced to be near the spot where
+we were standing a huge dung-heap, or rather a long solid stack of stubble,
+behind which we directed the men to take shelter whilst one of us should creep
+forward alone, for the purpose of more completely ascertaining a fact of which
+all except my brave and noble-minded comrade were satisfied. The event proved
+that my sight had not deceived me: I approached within sabre&rsquo;s length of
+the line; and having ascertained beyond the possibility of doubt that the line
+was composed of American soldiers, I returned to my friend and again urged him
+to charge. But there was an infatuation upon him that night for which I have
+ever been unable to account: he insisted that I must be mistaken; he spoke of
+the improbability which existed that any part of the enemy&rsquo;s army should
+have succeeded in taking up a position in rear of the station of one of our
+outposts, and he could not be persuaded that the troops now before him were not
+the 95th Rifle corps. At last it was agreed between us that we should separate;
+that Grey with one half of the party should remain where he was, whilst I with
+the other half should make a short detour to the right, and come down upon the
+flank of the line from whose fire we had suffered so severely. The plan was
+carried into immediate execution. Taking with me about a dozen or fourteen men,
+I quitted Grey, and we never met again.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+How or when he fell I know not; but, judging from the spot and attitude in
+which I afterwards found his body, I conceive that my back could have been
+barely turned upon him when the fatal ball pierced his brain. He was as brave a
+soldier and as good a man as the British army can boast of; beloved by his
+brother officers and adored by his men. To me he was as a brother; nor have I
+ceased even now to feel, as often as the 23rd of December returns, that on that
+night a tie was broken than which the progress of human life will hardly
+furnish one more tender or more strong. But to my tale.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Leaving Grey&mdash;careless as he ever was in battle of his own person, and
+anxious as far as might be to secure the safety of his followers&mdash;I led my
+little party in the direction agreed upon, and fortunately falling in with
+about an equal number of English riflemen, I caused them to take post beside my
+own men, and turned up to the front. Springing over the paling, we found
+ourselves almost at once upon the left flank of the enemy; and we lost not a
+moment in attacking it. But one volley was poured in, and then bayonets,
+musket-butts, sabres, and even fists, came instantly into play. In the whole
+course of my military career remember no scene at all resembling this. We
+fought with the savage ferocity of bull-dogs; and many a blade which till
+to-night had not drunk blood became in a few minutes crimsoned enough.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Such a contest could not in the nature of things be of very long continuance.
+The enemy, astonished at the vigour of our assault, soon began to waver, and
+their wavering was speedily converted into flight. Nor did we give them a
+moment&rsquo;s time to recover from their panic. With loud shouts we continued
+to press upon them; and amidst the most horrible din and desperate carnage
+drove them over the field and through the little village of huts, of which
+notice has already been taken as surrounding the mansion on our advanced right.
+Here we found a number of our own people prisoners, and under a guard of
+Americans. But the guard fled as we approached, and our countrymen catching up
+such weapons as came first to hand, joined in the pursuit.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In this spot I halted my party, increased by the late additions to the number
+of forty; among whom were two gallant young officers of the 95th. We had not
+yet been joined, as I expected be joined, by Grey; and feeling that we were at
+least far enough in advance of our own line, we determined to attempt nothing
+further except to keep possession of the village should it be attacked. But
+whilst placing the men in convenient situations, another dark line was pointed
+out to us considerably to the left our position. That we might ascertain at
+once of what troops was composed, I left my brother officers to complete the
+arrangements which we had begun, and walking down the field, demanded in a loud
+voice to be informed who they were that kept post in so retired a situation. A
+voice from the throng made answer that they were Americans, and begged of me
+not fire upon my friends. Willing to deceive them still further, I asked to
+what corps they belonged; the speaker replied that they were the second
+battalion of the first regiment, and inquired what had become of the first
+battalion. I told him that it was upon my right, and assuming a tone of
+authority, commanded him not to move from his present situation till I should
+join him with a party of which I was at the head.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The conversation ended here, and I returned to the village; when, communicating
+the result of my inquiries to my comrades, we formed our brave little band into
+line and determined to attack. The men were cautioned to preserve a strict
+silence, and not to fire a shot till orders were given; they observed these
+injunctions, and with fixed bayonets and cautious tread advanced along the
+field. As we drew near, I called aloud for the commanding officer of the second
+regiment to step forward, upon which an elderly man, armed with a heavy dragoon
+sabre, stepped out of the ranks. When he discovered by our dress that we were
+English, this redoubtable warrior lost all self-command; he resigned his sword
+to me without a murmur, and consented at once to believe that his battalion was
+surrounded, and that to offer any resistance would but occasion a needless loss
+of blood. Nor was he singular in these respects: his followers, placing
+implicit reliance in our assurances that they were hemmed in on every side by a
+very superior force, had actually begun to lay down their arms, and would have
+surrendered, in all probability, at discretion, but for the superior gallantry
+of one man. An American officer, whose sword I demanded, instead of giving it
+up as his commander had done, made a cut at my head, which with some difficulty
+I managed to ward off; and a few soldiers near him, catching ardour from his
+example, discharged their pieces among our troops. The sound of firing was no
+sooner heard than it became general, and as all hope of success by stratagem
+might now be laid aside, we were of necessity compelled to try the effect of
+violence. Again we rushed into the middle of the throng, and again was the
+contest that of man to man, in close and desperate strife; till a panic arising
+among the Americans, they dispersed in all directions and left us masters of
+the field.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In giving a detail so minute of my own adventures this night, I beg to repeat
+what has been stated already, that I have no wish whatever to persuade my
+readers that I was one whit more cool or more daring than my companions. Like
+them I was driven to depend, from first to last, upon my own energies; and I
+believe the energies of few men fail them when they are satisfied that on them
+alone they must depend. Nor was the case different with my comrades. Attacked
+unexpectedly, and in the dark, surrounded, too, by a numerous enemy, and one
+who spoke the same language with ourselves, it is not to be wondered at if the
+order and routine of civilised warfare were everywhere set at nought. Each man
+who felt disposed to command was obeyed by those who stood near him, without
+any question being asked as to his authority; and more feats of individual
+gallantry were performed in this single night than many regular campaigns might
+furnish an opportunity to perform.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The night was far spent, and the sound of firing had begun to wax faint, when,
+checking the ardour of our brave followers, we collected them once more
+together and fell back into the village. Here likewise considerable numbers
+from other detachments assembled, and here we learned that the Americans were
+repulsed on every side. The combat had been long and obstinately contested: it
+began at eight o&rsquo;clock in the evening and continued till three in the
+morning&mdash;but the victory was ours. True, it was the reverse of a bloodless
+one, not fewer than two hundred fifty of our best men having fallen in the
+struggle: but even at the expense of such a loss, we could not but account
+ourselves fortunate in escaping from the snare in which we had confessedly
+taken.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+To me, however, the announcement of the victory brought no rejoicing, for it
+was accompanied with the intelligence that my friend was among the killed. I
+well recollect the circumstances under which these sad news reached me. I was
+standing with a sword in each hand&mdash;my own and that of the officer who had
+surrendered to me, and, as the reader may imagine, in no bad humour with myself
+or with the brave fellows about me, when a brother officer stepping forward
+abruptly told the tale. It came me upon me like a thunderbolt; and casting
+aside my trophy, thought only of the loss which I had sustained. Regardless of
+every other matter I ran to the rear, and found Grey lying behind the
+dung-heap, motionless and cold. A little pool of blood which had coagulated
+under his head, pointed out the spot where the ball had entered, and the
+position of his limbs gave proof that he must have died without a struggle. I
+cannot pretend to describe what were then my sensations, but of whatever nature
+they might be, little time was given for their indulgence; the bugle sounding
+the alarm, I was compelled to leave him as he lay, and to join my corps. Though
+the alarm proved to be a false one, it had the good effect of bringing all the
+troops together, by which means a regular line was now, for the first time
+since the commencement of the action, formed. In this order, having defiled
+considerably to the left, so as to command the highway, we stood in front of
+our bivouac till dawn began to appear; when, to avoid the fire of the schooner,
+we once more moved to the river&rsquo;s bank and lay down. Here, during the
+whole of the succeeding day, the troops were kept shivering in the cold frosty
+air, without fires, without provisions, and exhausted with fatigue; nor was it
+till the return of night that any attempt to extricate them from their
+comfortless situation could be made.
+</p>
+
+<h3>FIELD OF BATTLE.</h3>
+
+<p>
+Whilst others were thus reposing, I stole away with two or three men for the
+purpose of performing the last sad act of affection which it was possible for
+me to perform to my friend Grey. As we had completely changed our ground, it
+was not possible for me at once to discover the spot where he lay; indeed I
+traversed a large portion of the field before I hit upon it. Whilst thus
+wandering over the arena of last night&rsquo;s contest, the most shocking and
+most disgusting spectacles everywhere met my eyes. I have frequently beheld a
+greater number of dead bodies within as narrow a compass, though these, to
+speak the truth, were numerous enough, but wounds more disfiguring or more
+horrible I certainly never witnessed. A man shot through the head or heart lies
+as if he were in a deep slumber; insomuch that when you gaze upon him you
+experience little else than pity. But of these, many had met their deaths from
+bayonet wounds, sabre cuts, or heavy blows from the butt ends of muskets; and
+the consequence was, that not only were the wounds themselves exceedingly
+frightful, but the very countenances of the dead exhibited the most savage and
+ghastly expressions. Friends and foes lay together in small groups of four or
+six, nor was it difficult to tell almost the very hand by which some of them
+had fallen. Nay, such had been the deadly closeness of the strife, that in one
+or two places an English and American soldier might be seen with the bayonet of
+each fastened in the other&rsquo;s body.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having searched for some time in vain, I at length discovered my friend lying
+where during the action we had separated, and where, when the action came to a
+close, I had at first found him, shot through the temples by a rifle bullet so
+remarkably small as scarcely to leave any trace of its progress. I am well
+aware that this is no fit place to introduce the working of my own personal
+feelings, but he was my friend, and such a friend as few men are happy enough
+to possess. We had known and loved each other for years; our regard had been
+cemented by a long participation in the same hardships and dangers, and it
+cannot; therefore surprise, if even now I pay that tribute to his worth and our
+friendship which, however unavailing it may be, they both deserve.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+When in the act of looking for him I had flattered myself that I should be able
+to bear his loss with something like philosophy, but when I beheld him pale and
+bloody, I found all my resolution evaporate. I threw myself on the ground
+beside him and wept, like a child. But this was no time for the indulgence of
+useless sorrow. Like the royal bard, I knew that I should go to him, but he
+could not return to me, and I knew not whether an hour would pass before my
+summons might arrive. Lifting him therefore upon a cart, I had him carried down
+to head-quarter house, now converted into an hospital, and having dug for him a
+grave at the bottom of the garden, I laid him there as a soldier should be
+laid, arrayed, not in a shroud, but in his uniform. Even the privates whom I
+brought with me to assist at his funeral mingled their tears with mine, nor are
+many so fortunate as to return to the parent dust more deeply or more sincerely
+lamented.
+</p>
+
+<h3>FIELD OF BATTLE&mdash;HOSPITAL.</h3>
+
+<p>
+Retiring from the performance of this melancholy duty, I strolled into the
+hospital and visited the wounded. It is here that war loses its grandeur and
+show, and presents only a real picture of its effects. Every room in the house
+was crowded with wretches mangled, and apparently in the most excruciating
+agonies. Prayers, groans, and, I grieve to add, the most horrid exclamations,
+smote upon the ear wherever I turned. Some lay at length upon straw, with eyes
+half closed and limbs motionless; some endeavoured to start up, shrieking with
+pain, while the wandering eye and incoherent speech of others indicated the
+loss of reason, and usually foretold the approach of death. But there was one
+among the rest whose appearance was too horrible ever to be forgotten. He had
+been shot through the windpipe, and the breath making its way between the skin
+and the flesh had dilated him to a size absolutely terrific. His head and face
+were particularly shocking. Every feature was enlarged beyond what can well be
+imagined; whilst his eyes were so completely hidden by the cheeks and forehead
+as to destroy all resemblance to a human countenance.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Passing through the apartments where the private soldiers lay, I next came to
+those occupied by officers. Of these there were five or six in one small room,
+to whom little better accommodation could be provided than to their inferiors.
+It was a sight peculiarly distressing, because all of them chanced to be
+personal acquaintances of my own. One had been shot in the head, and lay
+gasping and insensible; another had received a musket- ball in the belly, which
+had pierced through and lodged in the backbone. The former appeared to suffer
+but little, giving no signs of life, except what a heavy breathing produced;
+the latter was in the most dreadful agony, screaming out, and gnawing the
+covering under which he lay. There were many besides these, some severely and
+others slightly hurt; but as I have already dwelt at sufficient length upon a
+painful subject, I shall only observe, that to all was afforded every
+assistance which circumstances would allow, and that the exertions of their
+medical attendants were such as deserved and obtained the grateful thanks of
+even the most afflicted among the sufferers themselves.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap21"></a>CHAPTER XXI.</h2>
+
+<h3>ADVANCE.</h3>
+
+<p>
+In the mean time the rest of the troops were landing as fast as possible, and
+hastening to join their comrades. Though the advance had set out from Pine
+Island by themselves, they did not occupy all the boats in the fleet. Part of
+the second brigade, therefore, had embarked about twelve hours after their
+departure; and rowing leisurely on, were considerably more than half way across
+the lakes when the action began. In the stillness of night, however, it is
+astonishing at what distance a noise is heard. Though they must have been at
+least twenty miles from the Bayo when the schooner first opened her fire, the
+sound reaching them roused the rowers from their indolence, who, pulling with
+all their might, hurried on, whilst the most profound silence reigned among the
+troops, and, gaining the creek in little more than three hours, sent fresh
+reinforcements to share in the danger and glory of the night.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Nor was a moment lost by the sailors in returning to the island. Intelligence
+of the combat spread like wildfire; the boats were loaded even beyond what was
+strictly safe, and thus, by exerting themselves in a degree almost
+unparalleled, our gallant seamen succeeded in bringing the whole army into
+position before dark on the 24th. The second and third brigades, therefore, now
+took up their ground upon the spot where the late battle had been fought, and,
+resting their right upon the woody morass, extended so far towards the river,
+as that the advance by wheeling up might continue the line across the entire
+plain.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But instead of taking part in this formation, the advance was still fettered to
+the bank, from which it was additionally prevented from moving by the arrival
+of another large ship, which, cast anchor about a mile above the schooner. Thus
+were three battalions kept stationary by the guns of these two formidable
+floating batteries, and it was clear that no attempt to extricate them could be
+made without great loss, unless under cover of night. During the whole of the
+24th, therefore, they remained in this uncomfortable situation; but as soon as
+darkness had well set in, a change of position was effected. Withdrawing the
+troops, company by company, from behind the bank, General Keane stationed them
+in the village of huts, by which means the high road was abandoned to the
+protection of a piquet, and the left of the army covered by a large chateau.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Being now placed beyond risk of serious annoyance from the shipping the whole
+army remained quiet for the night. How long we were to continue in this state
+nobody appeared to know; not a whisper was circulated as to the time of
+advancing, nor a surmise ventured respecting the next step likely to be taken.
+In our guides to whose rumours we had before listened with avidity, no
+confidence was reposed. It was quite evident, either that they had purposely
+deceived us, or that their information was gathered from a most imperfect
+source; and hence, though they were not exactly placed in confinement, they
+were strictly watched, and treated more like spies than deserters. Instead of
+an easy conquest, we had already met with a vigorous opposition; instead of
+finding the inhabitants ready and eager to join us, we found the houses
+deserted, the cattle and horses driven away, and every appearance of hostility.
+To march by the only road was rendered impracticable; so completely was it
+commanded by the shipping. In a word, all things had turned out diametrically
+opposite to what had been anticipated; and it appeared that, instead of a
+trifling affair more likely to fill our pockets than to add to our renown, we
+had embarked in an undertaking which presented difficulties not to be
+surmounted without patience and determination.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having effected this change of position, and covered the front of his army with
+a strong chain of outposts, General Keane, as I have said, remained quiet
+during the remainder of the night, and on the morrow was relieved from further
+care and responsibility by the unexpected arrival of Sir Edward Pakenham and
+General Gibbs. As soon as the death of Ross was known in London, the former of
+these officers was dispatched to take upon himself the command of the army.
+Sailing immediately with the latter as his second in command, he had been
+favoured during the whole voyage by a fresh and fair wind, and now arrived in
+time to see his troops brought into a predicament from which all his abilities
+could scarcely expect to extricate them. Nor were the troops themselves
+ignorant of the unfavourable circumstances in which they stood. Hoping
+everything, therefore, from a change, they greeted their new leader with a
+hearty cheer; whilst the confidence which past events had tended in some degree
+to dispel, returned once more to the bosoms of all. It was Christmas-day, and a
+number of officers, clubbing their little stock of provisions, resolved to dine
+together in memory of former times. But at so melancholy a Christmas dinner I
+do not recollect at any time to have been present. We dined in a barn; of
+plates, knives, and forks, there was a dismal scarcity; nor could our fare
+boast of much either in intrinsic good quality or in the way of cooking. These,
+however, were mere matters of merriment; it was the want of many well-known and
+beloved faces that gave us pain; nor were any other subjects discussed besides
+the amiable qualities of those who no longer formed part of our mess, and never
+would again form part of it. A few guesses as to the probable success of future
+attempts alone relieved this topic, and now and then a shot from the schooner
+drew our attention to ourselves; for though too far removed from the river to
+be in much danger, we were still within cannon-shot of our enemy. Nor was she
+inactive in her attempts to molest. Elevating her guns to a great degree, she
+contrived occasionally to strike the wall of the building within which we sat;
+but the force of the ball was too far spent to penetrate, and could therefore
+produce no serious alarm.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Whilst we were thus sitting at table a loud shriek was heard after one of these
+explosions, and on running out we found that a shot had taken effect in the
+body of an unfortunate soldier. I mention this incident because I never beheld
+in any human being so great a tenacity of life. Though fairly cut in two at the
+lower part of the belly, the poor wretch lived for nearly an hour, gasping for
+breath and giving signs even of pain.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But to return to my narrative. As soon as he reached the camp Sir Edward
+proceeded to examine with a soldier&rsquo;s eye every point and place within
+view. Of the American army nothing, whatever could be perceived except a corps
+of observation, composed of five or six hundred mounted riflemen, which hovered
+along our front and watched our motions. The town itself was completely hid;
+nor was it possible to see beyond the distance of a very few miles either in
+front or rear, so flat and unbroken was the face of the country. Under these
+circumstances little insight into the state of affairs could be obtained by
+reconnoitring. The only, thing, indeed, which he could learn from it was, that
+while the vessels kept their present station upon river no advance could be
+made; and as he felt that every moment&rsquo;s delay was injurious to us and
+favourable to the enemy, he resolved to remove these incumbrances and to push
+forward as soon as possible.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+With this view nine field-pieces, two howitzers, and one mortar were brought
+down to the brink of the stream as soon as it was dark. Working parties were
+likewise ordered out, by whom was thrown up opposite to the schooner; and
+having got all things in readiness, at dawn on the 26th a heavy cannonade was
+opened upon her with red-hot shot. It was not long before we could perceive her
+crew hastening into their boats, whilst the smoke which began to rise from her
+decks proved that the balls had taken effect. She was, in fact, on fire, and
+being abandoned without resistance, in little more than an hour she blew up. In
+itself the sight was a fine one, but to us it was peculiarly gratifying, for we
+could not but experience something like satiated revenge at the destruction of
+a vessel from which we had suffered so much damage. A loud shout accordingly
+followed the explosion, and the guns were immediately turned against the ship.
+But the fate of her companion had warned her not to remain till she herself
+should be attacked. Setting every inch of canvas, and hoisting out her boats,
+she began, to stem the stream at the very instant the schooner took fire, and
+being impelled forward both by towing and sailing, she succeeded in getting
+beyond the range of shot before the guns could be brought to bear. One shell,
+however, was thrown with admirable precision, which falling upon her deck
+caused considerable execution; but excepting this, she escaped without injury,
+and did not anchor again till she had got too far for pursuit.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having thus removed all apparent obstacles to his future progress, the General
+made dispositions for a speedy advance. Dividing the army into two columns, he
+appointed General Gibbs to the command of one, and General Keane to the command
+of the other. The left column, led on by the latter officer, consisted of the
+95th, the 85th, the 93rd, and one black corps; the right, of the 4th, 21st,
+44th, and the other black corps. The artillery, of which we had now ten pieces
+in the field, though at present attached to the left column, was designed to
+act as circumstances and the nature of the ground would permit; whilst the
+dragoons, few of whom had as yet provided themselves with horses, were
+appointed to guard the hospitals, and to secure the wounded from any sudden
+surprise or molestation from the rear.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But the day was too far spent in making these arrangements, and in clearing the
+way for future operations, to permit any movement before the morrow. The whole
+of the 26th was therefore spent in bringing up stores, ammunition, and a few
+heavy guns from the ships, which being placed in battery upon the banks of the
+river, secured us against the return of our floating adversary. All this was
+done quietly enough, nor was there any cause of alarm till after sunset; but
+from that time till towards dawn, we were kept in a constant state of anxiety
+and agitation. Sending down small bodies of riflemen, the American General
+harassed our piquets, killed and wounded a few of the sentinels, and prevented
+the main body from obtaining any sound refreshing sleep. Scarcely had the
+troops lain down when they were roused by a sharp firing at the outposts, which
+lasted only till they were in order, and then ceased; but as soon as they had
+dispersed and had once more addressed themselves to repose, the same cause of
+alarm returned, and they were again called to their ranks. Thus was the entire
+night spent in watching, or at best in broken and disturbed slumbers, than
+which nothing is more trying, both to the health and spirits of an army.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+With the piquets, again, it fared even worse. For the outposts of an army to
+sleep is at all times considered as a thing impossible; but in modern and
+civilized warfare they are nevertheless looked upon as in some degree sacred.
+Thus, whilst two European armies remain inactively facing each other, the
+outposts of neither are molested, unless a direct attack upon the main body be
+intended; nay, so far is this tacit good understanding carried, that I have
+myself seen French and English sentinels not more than twenty yards apart. But
+the Americans entertained no such chivalric notions. An enemy was to them an
+enemy, whether alone or in the midst of five thousand companions; and they
+therefore counted the death of every individual as so much taken from the
+strength of the whole. In point of fact they no doubt reasoned correctly, but
+to us at least it appeared an ungenerous return to barbarity. Whenever they
+could approach unperceived within proper distance of our watch-fires, six or
+eight riflemen would fire amongst the party that sat around them, while one or
+two, stealing as close to each sentinel as a regard to their own safety would
+permit, acted the part of assassins rather than that of soldiers, and attempted
+to murder him in cold blood. For the officers, likewise, when going their
+rounds, they constantly lay in wait, and thus, by a continued dropping fire,
+they not only wounded some of those against whom their aim was directed, but
+occasioned considerable anxiety and uneasiness throughout the whole line.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was on this night, and under these circumstances, that I was indebted to the
+vigilance of my faithful dog for my life. Amid all the bustle of landing, and
+throughout the tumult of the nocturnal battle, she never strayed from me; at
+least if she did lose me for a time, she failed not to trace me out again as
+soon as order was restored, for I found her by my side when the dawn of the
+24th came in, and I never lost sight of her afterwards. It was my fortune on
+the night of the 26th to be put in charge of an outpost on the left front of
+the army; on such occasions I seldom experienced the slightest inclination to
+sleep; and on the present, I made it a point to visit my sentinels at least
+once in every, half-hour. Going my rounds for this purpose, it was necessary
+that I should pass a little copse of low underwood, just outside the line of
+our videttes; and I did pass it again and again, without meeting with any
+adventure. But about an hour after midnight, my dog, which, as usual, trotted a
+few paces before me, suddenly stopped short at the edge of the thicket, and
+began to bark violently, and in great apparent anger. I knew the animal well
+enough to be aware that some cause must exist for such conduct; and I too
+stopped short, till I should ascertain whether danger were near. It was well
+for me that I had been thus warned; for at the instant of my halting, about
+half a dozen muskets were discharged from the copse, the muzzles of which, had
+I taken five steps forward, must have touched my body. The balls whizzed
+harmlessly past my head; and, on my returning the fire with the pistol which I
+carried in my hand, the ambuscade broke up, and the party composing it took to
+their heels. I was Quixote enough to dash sword in hand into the thicket after
+them: but no one waited for me; so I continued my perambulations in peace.
+</p>
+
+<h3>MARCH.</h3>
+
+<p>
+Having continued this detestable system of warfare till towards morning, the
+enemy retired and left us at rest. But as soon as day began to break, our
+piquets were called in, and the troops formed in order of attack. The right
+column, under General Gibbs, took post near the skirts of the morass, throwing
+out skirmishers half way across the plain, whilst the left column drew up upon
+the road covered by the rifle corps, which in extended order met the
+skirmishers from the other. With this last division went the artillery, already
+well supplied with horses; and, at the signal given the whole moved forward.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was a clear frosty morning, the mists had dispersed, and the sun shone
+brightly upon our arms when we began our march. The enemy&rsquo;s corps of
+observation fell back as we advanced, without offering in any way to impede our
+progress, and it was impossible to guess, ignorant as we were of the position
+of his main body, at what moment opposition might be expected. Nor, in truth,
+was it matter of much anxiety. Our spirits, in spite of the troubles of the
+night, were good, and our expectations of success were high, consequently many
+rude jests were bandied about, and many careless words spoken: for soldiers
+are, of all classes of men, the freest from care, and on that account, perhaps,
+the most happy. By being continually exposed to it, danger, with them, ceases
+to be frightful; of death they have no more terror than the beasts that perish;
+and even hardships, such as cold, wet, hunger, and broken rest, lose at least
+part of their disagreeableness, by the frequency of their recurrence.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Moving on in this merry mood, we advanced about four or five miles without the
+smallest check or hindrance; when, at length, we found ourselves in view of the
+enemy&rsquo;s army, posted in a very advantageous manner. About forty yards in
+their front was a canal, which extended from the morass to within a short
+distance of the high road. Along their line were thrown up breastworks, not
+indeed completed, but even now formidable. Upon the road at several other
+points were erected powerful batteries; whilst the ship, with a large flotilla
+of gun-boats, flanked the whole position from the river.
+</p>
+
+<h3>ATTACK.</h3>
+
+<p>
+When I say that we came in sight of the enemy, I do not mean that he was
+gradually exposed to us in such a manner as to leave time for cool examination
+and reflection. On the right, indeed, he was seen for some time, but on the
+left a few houses built at a turning in the road entirely concealed him; nor
+was it till they gained that turning, and beheld the muzzles of his guns
+pointed towards them, that those who moved in this direction were aware of
+their proximity to danger. But that danger was indeed near they were quickly
+taught; for scarcely had the head of the column passed the houses when a deadly
+fire was opened from both the battery and the shipping. That the Americans are
+excellent marksmen, as well with artillery as with rifles, we have had frequent
+cause to acknowledge; but, perhaps, on no occasion did they assert their claim
+to the title of good artillery-men more effectually than on the present. Scarce
+a ball passed over or fell short of its mark, but all striking full into the
+midst of our ranks, occasioned terrible havoc. The shrieks of the wounded,
+therefore, the crash of firelocks, and the fall of such as were killed; caused
+at first some little confusion; and what added to the panic was, that from the
+houses beside which we stood bright flames suddenly burst out. The Americans,
+expecting this attack, had filled them with combustibles for the purpose; and
+directing against them one or two guns, loaded with red-hot shot, in an instant
+set them on fire. The scene was altogether very sublime. A tremendous cannonade
+mowed down our ranks, and deafened us with its roar; whilst two large chateaux
+and their outbuildings almost scorched us with the flames, and blinded us with
+the smoke which they emitted.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The infantry, however, was not long suffered to remain thus exposed; but being
+ordered to quit the path and to form line in the fields, the artillery was
+brought up, and opposed to that of the enemy. But the contest was in every
+respect unequal, since their artillery far exceeded ours, both in numerical
+strength and weight of metal. The consequence was, that in half an hour two of
+our field-pieces and one field-mortar were dismounted: many of the gunners were
+killed; and the rest, after an ineffectual attempt to silence the fire of the
+shipping, were obliged to retire.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In the mean time the infantry having formed line, advanced under a heavy
+discharge of round and grape shot, till they were checked by the appearance of
+the canal. Of its depth they were of course ignorant, and to attempt its
+passage without having ascertained whether it could be forded might have been
+productive of fatal consequences. A halt was accordingly ordered, and the men
+were commanded to shelter themselves as well as they could from the
+enemy&rsquo;s fire. For this purpose they were hurried into a wet ditch, of
+sufficient depth to cover the knees, where, leaning forward, they concealed
+themselves behind some high rushes which grew upon its brink, and thus escaped
+many bullets which fell around them in all directions.
+</p>
+
+<h3>RETREAT.</h3>
+
+<p>
+Thus fared it with the left of the army, whilst the right, though less exposed
+to the cannonade, was not more successful in its object. The same impediment
+which checked one column forced the other likewise to pause; and after having
+driven in an advanced body of the enemy, and endeavoured, without effect, to
+penetrate through the marsh, it also was commanded to halt. In a word, all
+thought of attacking was for this day abandoned; and it now only remained to
+withdraw the troops from their present perilous situation, with as little loss
+as possible.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The first thing to be done was to remove the dismounted guns. Upon this
+enterprise a party of seamen were employed, who, running forward to the spot
+where they lay, lifted them, in spite of the whole of the enemy&rsquo;s fire,
+and bore them off in triumph. As soon as this was effected, regiment after
+regiment stole away; not in a body, but one by one, under the same discharge
+which saluted their approach. But a retreat thus conducted necessarily occupied
+much time. Noon had therefore long passed before the last corps was brought
+off; and when we again began to muster twilight was approaching. We did not,
+however, retire to our former position; but having fallen back only about two
+miles from the canal, where it was supposed that we should be beyond reach of
+annoyance from the American artillery, we there established ourselves for the
+night, having suffered less during the day than, from our exposed situation and
+the enemy&rsquo;s heavy fire, might have been expected.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The ground which we now occupied resembled, in almost every particular, that
+which we had quitted. We again extended across the plain, from the marsh to the
+river; no wood or cover of any description concealing our line, or obstructing
+the view of either army; while both in front and rear was an open space, laid
+out in fields and intersected by narrow ditches. Our outposts, however were
+pushed forward to some houses within a few hundred yards of the enemy&rsquo;s
+works, sending out advanced sentinels even farther; and the head-quarters of
+the army were established near the spot where the action of the 23rd had been
+fought.
+</p>
+
+<h3>PREPARATIONS.</h3>
+
+<p>
+In this state we remained during the 28th, the 29th, and 30th, without any
+efforts being made to fortify our own position, or to annoy that of the enemy.
+Some attempts were, I believe, set on foot to penetrate into the wood on the
+right of our line, and to discover a path through the morass, by which the
+enemy&rsquo;s left might be turned. But all of these proved fruitless, and a
+few valuable lives having been sacrificed, the idea was finally laid aside. In
+the meanwhile the American General directed the whole of his attention to the
+strengthening of his post. Day and night we could observe numerous parties at
+work upon his lines, whilst from the increased number of tents, which almost
+every hour might be discerned, it was evident that strong reinforcements were
+continually pouring into his camp. Nor did he leave us totally unmolested. By
+giving to his guns a great degree of elevation, he contrived at last to reach
+our bivouac; and thus were we constantly under a cannonade which, though it did
+little execution, proved nevertheless extremely annoying. Besides this, he now
+began to erect batteries on the opposite bank of the river; from which a
+flanking fire could be thrown across the entire front of his position. In
+short, he adopted every precaution which prudence could suggest, and for the
+reception of which the nature of his ground was so admirably adapted.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Under these circumstances it was evident that the longer an attack was delayed
+the less likely was it to succeed; that something must be done immediately
+every one perceived, but how to proceed was the difficulty. If we attempted to
+storm the American lines, we should expose ourselves to almost certain
+destruction from their artillery; to turn them was impossible; and to draw
+their troops by any manoeuvring from behind their entrenchments was a thing
+altogether out of the question. There seemed therefore to be but one
+practicable mode of assault; which was, to treat these field-works as one would
+treat a regular fortification; by erecting breaching batteries against them,
+and silencing, if it were possible, at least some of their guns. To this plan,
+therefore, our leader had recourse; and, in consequence, the whole of these
+three days were employed in landing heavy cannon, bringing up ammunition, and
+making such preparations as might have sufficed for a siege.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At length, having completed his arrangements, and provided such means as were
+considered sufficient to ensure success, General Pakenham determined to
+commence operations without delay. One half of the army was accordingly ordered
+out on the night of the 31st, and marched to the front, passing the piquets,
+and halting about three hundred yards from the enemy&rsquo;s line. Here it was
+resolved to throw up a chain of works; and here the greater part of this
+detachment, laying down their firelocks, applied themselves vigorously to their
+tasks, whilst the rest stood armed and prepared for their defence.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The night was dark, and our people maintained a profound silence; by which
+means, not an idea of what was going on existed in the American camp. As we
+laboured, too, with all diligence, six batteries were completed long before
+dawn, in which were mounted thirty pieces of heavy cannon; when, falling back a
+little way, we united ourselves to the remainder of the infantry, and lay down
+behind some rushes, in readiness to act, as soon as we should be wanted.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In the erection of these batteries, a circumstance occurred worthy of notice,
+on account of its singularity. I have already stated that the whole of this
+district was covered with the stubble of sugar-cane; and I might have added,
+that every storehouse and barn, attached to the different mansions scattered
+over it, was filled with barrels of sugar. In throwing up these works, the
+sugar was used instead of earth. Rolling the hogsheads towards the front, they
+were placed upright in the parapets of batteries; and it was computed that
+sugar to the value of many thousand pounds sterling was thus disposed of.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap22"></a>CHAPTER XXII.</h2>
+
+<h3>PREPARATIONS&mdash;ATTACK.</h3>
+
+<p>
+The infantry having retired, and the gunners taken their station, dawn was
+anxiously expected. But the morning of the 1st of January chanced to be
+peculiarly gloomy. A thick haze obscured for a long time the rays of the sun,
+nor could objects be discerned with any accuracy till a late hour.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But at length the mist gave way, and the American camp was fully exposed to
+view. Being at this time only three hundred yards distant, we could perceive
+all that was going forward with great exactness. The different regiments were
+upon parade; and being dressed in holiday suits, presented really a fine
+appearance. Mounted officers were riding backwards and forwards through the,
+ranks, bands were playing, and colours floating in the air; in a word, all
+seemed jollity and gala; when suddenly our batteries opened, and the face of
+affairs was instantly changed. The ranks were broken; the different corps
+dispersing, fled in all directions, whilst the utmost terror and disorder
+appeared to prevail. Instead of nicely-dressed lines, nothing but confused
+crowds could now be observed; nor was it without much difficulty that order was
+finally restored. Oh, that we had charged at that instant!
+</p>
+
+<h3>RETREAT&mdash;PAUSE.</h3>
+
+<p>
+Whilst this consternation prevailed among the infantry, their artillery
+remained silent; but as soon as the former rallied, they also recovered
+confidence, and answered our salute with great rapidity and precision. A heavy
+cannonade quickly commenced on both sides, and continued during the whole of
+the day; till, towards evening, our ammunition began to fail, and our fire in
+consequence to slacken. The fire of the Americans, on the other hand, was
+redoubled: landing a number of guns from the flotilla, they increased their
+artillery to a prodigious amount; and directing at the same time the whole
+force of their cannon on the opposite bank against the flank of our batteries,
+they soon convinced us that all endeavours to surpass them in this mode of
+fighting would be useless. Once more, therefore, were we obliged to retire,
+leaving our heavy guns to their fate; but as no attempt was made by the
+Americans to secure them, working parties were again sent out after dark, and
+such as had not been destroyed were removed.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Of the fatigue undergone during these operations by the whole army, from the
+General down to the meanest sentinel, it would be difficult to form an adequate
+conception. For two whole nights and days not a man had closed an eye, except
+such as were cool enough to sleep amidst showers of cannon-ball; and during the
+day scarcely a moment had been allowed in which we were able so much as to
+break our fast. We retired, therefore, not only baffled and disappointed, but
+in some degree disheartened and discontented. All our plans had as yet proved
+abortive; even this, upon which so much reliance had been placed, was found to
+be of no avail; and it must be confessed that something like murmuring began to
+be heard through the camp. And, in truth, if ever an army might be permitted to
+murmur, it was this. In landing they had borne great hardships, not only
+without repining, but with cheerfulness; their hopes had been excited by false
+reports, as to the practicability of the attempt in which they were embarked;
+and now they found themselves entangled amidst difficulties from which there
+appeared to be no escape, except by victory. In their attempts upon the
+enemy&rsquo;s line, however, they had been twice foiled; in artillery they
+perceived themselves to be so greatly overmatched, that their own could hardly
+assist them; their provisions, being derived wholly from the fleet, were both
+scanty and coarse; and their rest was continually broken. For not only did the
+canon and mortars from the main of the enemy&rsquo;s position play
+unremittingly upon them both by day and night, but they were likewise exposed
+to a deadly fire from the opposite bank of the river, where no less than
+eighteen pieces of artillery were now mounted, and swept the entire line of our
+encampment. Besides all this, to undertake the duty of a piquet was as
+dangerous as to go into action. Parties of American sharpshooters harassed and
+disturbed those appointed to that service from the time they took possession of
+their post till they were relieved; whilst to light fires at night was
+impossible, because they served but as certain marks for the enemy&rsquo;s
+gunners. I repeat, therefore, that a little murmuring could not be wondered at.
+Be it observed, however, that these were not the murmurs of men anxious to
+escape from a disagreeable situation by any means. On the contrary, they
+resembled rather the growling of a chained dog, when he sees his adversary and
+cannot reach him; for in all their complaints, no man ever hinted at a retreat,
+whilst all were eager to bring matters to the issue of a battle, at any
+sacrifice of loves.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Nor was our gallant leader less anxious to fight than his followers. To fight
+upon something like equal terms was, however, his wish; and for this purpose a
+new scheme was invented, worthy, for its boldness, of the school in which Sir
+Edward had studied his profession. It was determined to divide the army, to
+send part across the river, who should seize the enemy&rsquo;s guns, and turn
+them on themselves; whilst the remainder should at time make a general assault
+along the whole entrenchment. But before this plan could be put into execution,
+it would be necessary to cut a canal across the entire neck of land from the
+Bayo de Catiline to the river, of sufficient width and depth to admit of boats
+being brought up from the lake. Upon this arduous undertaking were the troops
+immediately employed. Being divided into four companies, they laboured by
+turns, day and night; one party relieving another after a stated number of
+hours, in such order as that the work should never be entirely deserted. The
+fatigue undergone during the prosecution of this attempt no words can
+sufficiently describe; yet it was pursued without repining, and at length, by
+unremitting exertions, they succeeded in effecting their purpose by the 6th of
+January.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Whilst these things were going on, and men&rsquo;s minds were anxiously turned
+towards approaching events, fresh spirit was given to the army by the
+unexpected arrival of Major-General Lambert, with the 7th and 43rd; two fine
+battalions, mustering each 800 effective men. By this reinforcement, together
+with the addition of a body of sailors and marines from the fleet, our numbers
+amounted now to little short of 6000 men; a force which, in almost any other
+quarter of America, would have been irresistible. Of the numbers of the enemy,
+again, various reports were in circulation; some stating them at 20,000, others
+at 30,000; but I believe that I come nearer the truth when I suppose their
+whole force to have comprised 12,000 men of all arms. It is, at least, certain
+that they exceeded us in numbers as much as they did in resources; and that
+scarcely an hour passed which did not bring in new levies to their camp.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The canal, as I have stated, being finished on the 6th, it was resolved to lose
+no time in making use of it. Boats were accordingly ordered up for the
+transportation of 1400 men; and Colonel Thornton, with the 85th regiment, the
+marines, and a party of sailors, was appointed to cross the river. But a number
+of untoward accidents occurred, to spoil a plan of operations as accurately
+laid down as any in the course of the war. The soil through which the canal was
+dug being soft, part of the bank gave way, and, choking up the channel,
+prevented the heaviest of the boats from getting forward. These again blocked
+up the passage, so that none of those which were behind could proceed; and
+thus, instead of a flotilla for the accommodation of 1400 men, only a number of
+boats sufficient to contain 350 was enabled to reach their destination. Even
+these did not arrive at the time appointed. According to the preconcerted plan,
+Colonel Thornton&rsquo;s detachment was to cross the river immediately after
+dark. They were to push forward, so as to carry all the batteries, and point
+the guns before daylight; when, on the throwing up of a rocket, they were to
+commence firing upon the enemy&rsquo;s line, which at the same moment was to be
+attacked by the main off our army.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In this manner was one part of the force to act, whilst the rest thus
+appointed:&mdash;Dividing his troops into three columns, Sir Edward directed
+that General Keane, at the head of the 95th, the light companies of the 21st,
+4th, and 44th, together with the two black corps, should make a demonstration,
+or sham attack, upon the right; that General Gibbs, with the 4th, 21st, 44th,
+and 93rd, should force the enemy&rsquo;s left, whilst General Lambert, with the
+7th and 43rd, remained in reserve, ready to act as circumstances might require.
+But in storming an entrenched position, something more than bare courage is
+required. Scaling ladders and fascines had, therefore, been prepared, with
+which to fill up the ditch and mount the wall; and since to carry these a
+service of danger, requiring a corps well worthy of dependence, the 44th was
+for that purpose selected, as a regiment of sufficient numerical strength, and
+already accustomed to American warfare. Thus were all things arranged on the
+night the 7th, for the 8th was fixed upon as the day decisive of the fate of
+New Orleans.
+</p>
+
+<h3>ATTACK.</h3>
+
+<p>
+Whilst the rest of the army lay down to sleep till they should be roused up to
+fight, Colonel Thornton, with the 85th, and a corps of marines and seamen,
+amounting in all to 1400 men, moved down to the brink of the river. As yet,
+however, no boats had arrived; hour after hour elapsed before they came; and
+when they did come, the misfortunes which I have stated above were discovered,
+for out of all that had been ordered up, only a few made their appearance.
+Still it was absolutely necessary that this part of the plan should be carried
+into execution. Dismissing, therefore, the rest of his followers, the Colonel
+put himself at the head of his own regiment, about fifty seamen, and as many
+marines, and with this small force, consisting of no more than 340 men, pushed
+off. But, unfortunately, the loss of time nothing could repair. Instead of
+reaching the opposite bank at latest by midnight, dawn was beginning to appear
+before the boats quitted the canal. It was in vain that they rowed on in
+perfect silence, and with oars muffled, gaining the point of debarkation
+without being perceived. It was in vain that they made good their landing and
+formed upon the beach, without opposition or alarm; day had already broke, and
+the signal-rocket was seen in the air, while they were yet four miles from the
+batteries, which ought hours ago to have been taken.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In the mean time, the main body armed and moved forward some way in front of
+the piquets. There they stood waiting for daylight, and listening with the
+greatest anxiety for the firing which ought now to be heard on the opposite
+bank. But their attention was exerted in vain, and day dawned upon them long
+before they desired its appearance. Nor was Sir Edward Pakenham disappointed in
+this part of his plan alone. Instead of perceiving everything in readiness for
+the assault, he saw his troops in battle array, but not a ladder or fascine
+upon the field. The 44th, which was appointed to carry them, had either
+misunderstood or neglected their orders; and now headed the column of attack,
+without any means being provided for crossing the enemy&rsquo;s ditch or
+scaling his rampart.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The indignation of our brave leader on this occasion may be imagined, but
+cannot be described. Galloping towards Colonel Mullens, who led the 44th, he
+commanded him instantly to return with his regiment for the ladders, but the
+opportunity of planting them was lost, and though they were brought up, it was
+only to be scattered over the field by the frightened bearers. For our troops
+were by this time visible to the enemy. A dreadful fire was accordingly opened
+upon them, and they were mowed down by hundreds, while they stood waiting for
+orders.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Seeing that all his well-laid plans were frustrated, Pakenham gave the word to
+advance, and the other regiments, leaving the 44th with the ladders and
+fascines behind them, rushed on to the assault. On the left, a detachment under
+Colonel Rennie, of the 21st regiment, stormed a three-gun battery, and took it.
+Here they remained for some time in expectation of support; but none arriving,
+and a strong column of the enemy forming for its recovery, they determined to
+anticipate the attack, and pushed on. The battery which they had taken was in
+advance of the body of the works, being cut off from it by a ditch, across
+which only a single plank was thrown. Along this plank did these brave men
+attempt to pass; but being opposed by overpowering numbers, they were repulsed;
+and the Americans, in turn, forcing their way into the battery, at length
+succeeded in recapturing it with immense slaughter. On the right, again, the
+21st and 4th, supported by the 93rd, though thrown into some confusion by the
+enemy&rsquo;s fire, pushed on with desperate gallantry to the ditch; but to
+scale the parapet without ladders was a work of no slight difficulty. Some few,
+indeed, by mounting one upon another&rsquo;s shoulders, succeeded in entering
+the works, but these were speedily overpowered, most of them killed, and the
+rest taken; whilst as many as stood without were exposed to a sweeping fire,
+which cut them down by whole companies. It was in vain that the most obstinate
+courage was displayed. They fell by the hands of men whom they absolutely did
+not see; for the Americans, without so much as lifting their faces above the
+rampart, swung their firelocks by one arm over the wall, and discharged them
+directly upon their heads. The whole of the guns likewise, from the opposite
+bank, kept up a well-directed and deadly cannonade upon their flank; and thus
+were they destroyed without an opportunity being given of displaying their
+valour, or obtaining so much as revenge.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Sir Edward saw how things were going, and did all that a general could do to
+rally his broken troops. Riding towards the 44th, which had returned to the
+ground, but in great disorder, he called out for Colonel Mullens to advance;
+but that officer disappeared, and was not to be found. He therefore prepared to
+lead them on himself, and had put himself at their head for that purpose, when
+he received a slight wound in the knee from a musket-ball, which killed his
+horse. Mounting another, he again headed the 44th, when a second ball took
+effect more fatally, and he dropped lifeless into the arms of his aide-de-camp.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Nor were Generals Gibbs and Keane inactive. Riding through the ranks, they
+strove by all means to encourage the assailants and recall the fugitives; till
+at length both were wounded, and borne off the field. All was now confusion and
+dismay. Without leaders, ignorant of what was to be done, the troops first
+halted and then began to retire; till finally the retreat was changed into a
+flight, and they quitted the ground in the utmost disorder. But the retreat was
+covered in gallant style by the reserve. Making a forward motion, the 7th and
+43rd presented the appearance of a renewed attack; by which the enemy were so
+much awed, that they did not venture beyond their lines in pursuit of the
+fugitives.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Whilst affairs were thus disastrously conducted in this quarter, the party
+under Colonel Thornton had gained the landing-place. On stepping ashore, the
+first thing they beheld was a rocket thrown up as a signal that the battle was
+begun. This unwelcome sight added wings to their speed. Forming in one little
+column, and pushing forward a single company as an advanced guard, they
+hastened on, and in half an hour reached a canal, along the opposite bank of
+which a detachment of Americans was drawn up. To dislodge them was the work of
+a moment a boat, with a carronade in her bow, got upon their flank, gave them a
+single discharge of grape, whilst the advanced guard extended its ranks, and
+approached at double-quick time. But they scarcely waited till the latter were
+within range, when, firing a volley, they fled in confusion. This, however, was
+only an outpost: the main body was some way in rear, and amounted to no fewer
+than 1500 men.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It was not long, however, before they likewise presented themselves. Like their
+countrymen on the other side, they were strongly entrenched, a thick parapet
+with a ditch covering their front; whilst a battery upon their left swept the
+whole position, and two field-pieces commanded the road. Of artillery the
+assailants possessed not a single piece, nor any means beyond what nature
+supplied of scaling the rampart. Yet nothing daunted by the obstacles before
+them, or by the immense odds to which they were opposed, dispositions for an
+immediate attack were made. The 85th, extending its files, stretched across the
+entire line of the enemy; the sailors in column prepared to storm the battery,
+whilst the marines remained some little way in rear of the centre as a reserve.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+These arrangements being completed, the bugle sounded, and our troops advanced.
+The sailors raising a shout, rushed forward, but were met by so heavy a
+discharge of grape and canister that for an instant they paused. Recovering
+themselves, however, they again pushed on; and the 85th dashing forward to
+their aid, they received a heavy fire of musketry, and endeavoured to charge. A
+smart firing was now for a few minutes kept up on both sides, but our people
+had no time to waste in distant fighting, and accordingly hurried on to storm
+the works, upon which a panic seized the Americans, they lost their order, and
+fled, leaving us in possession of their tents and of eighteen pieces of cannon.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In this affair our loss amounted to only three men killed and about forty
+wounded, among the latter of whom was Colonel Thornton. Nor could the loss on
+the part of the enemy greatly exceed our own. Had they stood firm, indeed, it
+is hardly conceivable that so small a force could have wrested an entrenched
+position from numbers so superior; at least it could not have been done without
+much bloodshed. But they were completely surprised. An attack on this side was
+a circumstance of which they had not dreamed; and when men are assaulted in a
+point which they deem beyond the reach of danger, it is well known that they
+defend themselves with less vigour than where such an event was anticipated.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+When in the act of storming these lines the word was passed through our ranks
+that all had gone well on the opposite bank. This naturally added to the vigour
+of the assault; but we had not followed our flying enemy above two miles when
+we were commanded to halt. The real state of the case had now reached us, and
+the same messenger who brought the melancholy news brought likewise an order to
+return.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The place where we halted was in rear of a canal, across which was thrown a
+wooden bridge, furnishing apparently the only means of passing. At the opposite
+end of this bridge stood a collection of wooden cottages and one chateau of
+some size. Here a company was stationed to serve the double purpose of a piquet
+and a rear-guard; whilst the main body, having rested for half an hour, began
+their march towards the point where they had landed.
+</p>
+
+<h3>RE-EMBARKATION&mdash;THE CAMP.</h3>
+
+<p>
+As soon as the column had got sufficiently on their way the piquet likewise
+prepared to follow. But in doing so it was evident that some risk must be run.
+The enemy having rallied, began again to show a front; that is to say, parties
+of sixty or a hundred men approached to reconnoitre. These, however, must be
+deceived, otherwise a pursuit might be commenced, and the re-embarkation of the
+whole corps hindered or prevented. It so happened that the piquet in question
+was this day under my command; as soon, therefore, as I received information
+that the main body had commenced its retreat, I formed my men, and made a show
+of advancing. The Americans perceiving this, fled; when, wheeling about, we set
+fire to the chateau, and under cover of the smoke destroyed the bridge and
+retreated. Making all haste towards the rear, we overtook our comrades just as
+they had begun to embark; when the little corps being once more united, entered
+their boats, and reached the opposite bank without molestation.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap23"></a>CHAPTER XXIII.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE CAMP.</h3>
+
+<p>
+As soon as the whole army was re-united, and the broken regiments had recovered
+their order, a flag of truce was dispatched with proposals for the burial of
+the dead. To accomplish this end a truce of two days was agreed upon, and
+parties were immediately sent out to collect and bury their fallen comrades.
+Prompted by curiosity, I mounted my horse and rode to the front; but of all the
+sights I ever witnessed, that which met me there was beyond comparison the most
+shocking and the most humiliating. Within the narrow compass of a few hundred
+yards were gathered together nearly a thousand bodies, all of them arrayed in
+British uniforms. Not a single American was among them; all were English; and
+they were thrown by dozens into shallow holes, scarcely deep enough to furnish
+them with a slight covering of earth. Nor was this all. An American officer
+stood by smoking a cigar, and apparently counting the slain with a look of
+savage exultation, and repeating over and over to each individual that
+approached him, that their loss amounted only, to eight men killed and fourteen
+wounded.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+I confess that when I beheld the scene I hung down my head, half in sorrow and
+half in anger. With my officious informant I had every inclination to pick a
+quarrel; but he was on duty, and an armistice existed, both of which forbade
+the measure. I could not, however, stand by and repress my choler, and since to
+give it vent would have subjected me to more serious inconvenience than a mere
+duel, I turned my horse&rsquo;s head and galloped back to the camp.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But the change of expression visible there in every countenance no language can
+portray. Only twenty hours ago, and all was life and animation; wherever you
+went you were enlivened by the sound of merriment and raillery; whilst the
+expected attack was mentioned in terms indicative not only of sanguine hope,
+but, of the most perfect confidence as to its result. Now gloom and discontent
+everywhere prevailed. Disappointment, grief, indignation, and rage, succeeded
+each other in all bosoms; nay, so completely were the troops overwhelmed by a
+sense of disgrace, that for awhile they retained their sorrow without so much
+as hinting at its cause. Nor was this dejection occasioned wholly by the
+consciousness of laurels tarnished. The loss of comrades was to the full as
+afflicting as the loss of honour; for out of more than 5000 men brought on this
+side into the field, no fewer than 1500 had fallen. Among these were two
+generals (for Gibbs survived his wound but a few hours), and many officers of
+courage and ability; besides which, hardly an individual survived who had not
+to mourn the loss of some particular and well-known companion.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Yet it is most certain that amidst all this variety of conflicting passions no
+feeling bordering upon despair or even terror found room. Even among the
+private soldiers no fear was experienced; for if you attempted to converse with
+them on the subject of the late defeat, they would end with a bitter curse upon
+those to whose misconduct they attributed their losses, and refer you to the
+future, when they hoped for an opportunity of revenge. To the Americans they
+would allow no credit, laying the entire blame of the failure upon certain
+individuals among themselves; and so great was the indignation expressed
+against one corps, that the soldiers of other regiments would hardly exchange
+words with those who chanced to wear that uniform. Though deeply afflicted,
+therefore, we were by no means disheartened, and even, yet anticipated, with an
+eagerness far exceeding what was felt before, a renewal of the combat.
+</p>
+
+<h3>PREPARATIONS FOR RETREAT.</h3>
+
+<p>
+But General Lambert, on whom the chief command had devolved, very prudently
+determined not to risk the safety of his army by another attempt upon works
+evidently so much beyond their strength. He considered, and considered justly,
+that his chances of success were in every respect lessened by the late repulse.
+In the first place, an extraordinary degree of confidence was given to the
+enemy; in the next place, the only feasible plan of attack having been already
+tried, they would be more on their guard to prevent its being again put in
+execution; and lastly, his own force was greatly diminished in numbers, whilst
+theirs continued every day to increase. Besides, it would be casting all upon
+the hazard of a die. If again defeated, nothing could save our army from
+destruction, because unless it retreated in force no retreat could be effected.
+A retreat, therefore, whilst yet the measure appeared practicable, was resolved
+upon, and towards that end were all our future operations directed.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+To the accomplishment of this desirable object, however, one great obstacle
+existed: by what road were the troops to travel, and in what order were they to
+regain the fleet? On landing we had taken advantage of the creek or bayo, and
+thus come up by water within two miles of the cultivated country. But to adopt
+a similar course in returning was impossible. In spite of our losses there were
+not throughout the armament a sufficient number of boats to transport above
+one-half of the army at a time. If, however, we should separate, the chances
+were that both parties would be destroyed; for those embarked might be
+intercepted, and those left behind would be obliged to cope with the entire
+American force. Besides, even granting that the Americans might be repulsed, it
+would be impossible to take to our boats in their presence, and thus at least
+one division, if not both, must be sacrificed.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+To obviate this difficulty prudence required that the road which we had formed
+on landing should be continued to the very margin of the lake; whilst
+appearances seemed to indicate the total impracticability of the scheme. From
+firm ground to the water&rsquo;s edge was here a distance of many miles,
+through the very centre of a morass where human foot had never before trodden.
+Yet it was desirable at least to make the attempt; for if it failed we should
+only be reduced to our former alternative of gaining a battle or surrendering
+at discretion.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having determined to adopt this course, General Lambert immediately dispatched
+strong working parties, under the guidance of engineer officers, to lengthen
+the road, keeping as near as possible to the margin of the creek. But the task
+assigned to them was burthened with innumerable difficulties. For the extent of
+several leagues no firm footing could be discovered on which to rest the
+foundation of a path; nor any trees to assist in forming hurdles. All that
+could be done, therefore, was to bind together large quantities of reeds, and
+lay them across the quagmire; by which means at least the semblance of a road
+was produced, however wanting in firmness and solidity. But where broad ditches
+came in the way, many of which intersected the morass, the workmen were
+necessarily obliged to apply more durable materials. For these, bridges
+composed in part of large branches brought with immense labour from the woods,
+were constructed; but they were, on the whole, little superior in point of
+strength to the rest of the path, for though the edges were supported by
+timber, the middle was filled up only with reeds.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+To complete this road, bad as it was, occupied the space of nine days, during
+which time our army remained in position without making any attempt to molest
+the enemy. The Americans, however, were not so inactive. In the course of two
+days six guns were again mounted upon the bank of the river, from which a
+continual fire was kept up upon our camp. The same mode of proceeding was
+adopted in front, and thus, night and day, were we harassed by danger against
+which there was no fortifying ourselves. Of the extreme unpleasantness of our
+situation it is hardly possible to convey any adequate conception. We never
+closed our eyes in peace, for we were sure to be awakened before many minutes
+elapsed, by the splash of a round shot or shell in the mud beside us. Tents we
+had none, but lay, some in the open air, and some in huts made of boards, or
+any materials that could be procured. From the first moment of our landing not
+a man had undressed excepting to bathe; and many had worn the same shirt for
+weeks together, Besides all this, heavy rains now set in, accompanied with
+violent storms of thunder and lightning, which lasting during the entire day,
+usually ceased towards dark, and gave place to keen frosts. Thus were we
+alternately wet and frozen: wet all day, and frozen all night. With the
+outposts again there was constant skirmishing. With what view the Americans
+wished to drive them in I cannot tell; but every day were they attacked, and
+compelled to maintain their ground by dint of hard fighting. In one word, none
+but those who happened to belong to this army can form a notion of the
+hardships which it endured and the fatigue which it underwent.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Nor were these the only evils which tended to lessen our numbers. To our
+soldiers every inducement was held out by the enemy to desert. Printed papers,
+offering lands and money as the price of desertion, were thrown into the
+piquets, whilst individuals made a practice of approaching our posts, and
+endeavouring to persuade the very sentinels to quit their stations. Nor could
+it be expected that bribes so tempting would always be refused. Many desertions
+began daily to take place, and became before long so frequent, that the evil
+rose to be of a serious nature.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+There occurred, however, one instance of magnanimous fidelity on the part of a
+British soldier, which I cannot resist the inclination of repeating. A private
+of the 95th, whose name I should have joyfully mentioned had I not forgotten
+it, chanced one day to stand sentinel, when he was addressed by an American
+officer. The American offered him a hundred dollars and a quantity of land if
+he would come over; representing, at the same time, the superiority of a
+democratical government, and railing, as these persons generally do, against
+the title of king. Though the Englishman heard what was said distinctly enough,
+he nevertheless pretended to be deaf, and begged his tempter to come a little
+nearer, that, in his own words, &ldquo;he might tell him all about it.&rdquo;
+Jonathan, exulting at the prospect of drawing this fine fellow from his duty,
+approached within twenty paces of where he stood, when just as he had opened
+his mouth to renew his offer, the sentinel levelled his piece and shot him
+through the arm. Nor was he contented with inflicting this punishment. Walking
+forward, he seized his wounded enemy, and reproaching him with dishonourable
+dealings, brought him in a prisoner to the camp. But, unhappily, conduct such
+as this was rare; in the course of a week many men quitted their colours, and
+fled to the enemy.
+</p>
+
+<h3>RETREAT.</h3>
+
+<p>
+In the mean time the whole of the wounded, except such as were too severely
+hurt to be removed, were embarked upon the canal, and sent off to the fleet.
+Next followed the baggage and stores, with the civil officers, commissaries,
+purveyors, &amp;c.; and last of all, such of the light artillery as could be
+withdrawn with out trouble or the risk of discovery. But of the heavy
+artillery, of which about ten pieces were mounted in front of the bivouac, and
+upon the bank of the river, no account was taken. They were ship&rsquo;s guns,
+of little value, and extremely cumbersome; consequently their removal, had it
+been practicable, would scarcely have rewarded the trouble. It was therefore
+determined to leave them behind; and they were accordingly permitted to retain
+their stations to the last.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+These preparations being continued for some days, on the 17th no part of our
+force remained in camp except the infantry. Having therefore delayed only till
+the abandoned guns were rendered unserviceable, on the evening of the 18th it
+also began its retreat. Trimming the fires, and arranging all things in the
+same order as if no change were to take place, regiment after regiment stole
+away, as soon as darkness concealed their motions; leaving the piquets to
+follow as a rear-guard, but with strict injunctions not to retire till daylight
+began to appear. As may be supposed, the most profound silence was maintained;
+not a man opening his mouth, except to issue necessary orders, and even then
+speaking in a whisper. Not a cough or any other noise was to be heard from the
+head to the rear of the column; and even the steps of the soldiers were planted
+with care, to prevent the slightest stamping or echo. Nor was this extreme
+caution in any respect unnecessary. In spite of every endeavour to the
+contrary, a rumour of our intended movement had reached the Americans for we
+found them of late watchful and prying, whereas they had been formerly content
+to look only to themselves.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+For some time, that is to say, while our route lay along the high road and
+beside the brink of the river, the march was agreeable enough; but as soon as
+we began to enter upon the path through the marsh all comfort was at an end.
+Being constructed of materials so slight, and resting upon a foundation so
+infirm, the treading of the first corps unavoidably beat it to pieces; those
+which followed were therefore compelled to flounder on in the best way they
+could; and by the time the rear of the column gained the morass all trace of a
+way had entirely disappeared. But not only were the reeds torn asunder and sunk
+by the pressure of those who had gone before, but the bog itself, which at
+first might have furnished a few spots of firm footing, was trodden into the
+consistency of mud. The consequence was, that every step sank us to the knees,
+and frequently higher. Near the ditches, indeed, many spots occurred which we
+had the utmost difficulty in crossing at all; and as the night was dark, there
+being no moon, nor any light except what the stars supplied, it was difficult
+to select our steps, or even to follow those who called to us that they were
+safe on the opposite side. At one of these places I myself beheld an
+unfortunate wretch gradually sink till he totally disappeared. I saw him
+flounder in, heard his cry for help, and ran forward with the intention of
+saving him; but before I had taken a second step, I myself sank at once as high
+as the breast. How I contrived to keep myself from smothering is more than I
+can tell, for I felt no solid bottom under me, and continued slowly to go
+deeper and deeper till the mud reached my arms. Instead of endeavouring to help
+the poor soldier, of whom nothing could now be seen except the head and hands,
+I was forced to beg assistance for myself: when a leathern canteen strap being
+thrown to me, I laid hold of it, and was dragged out just as my fellow-sufferer
+became invisible.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Over roads such as these did we continue our journey during the whole of the
+night: and in the morning reached a place called Fisherman&rsquo;s huts, upon
+the margin of the lake. The name is derived from a clump of mud-built cottages,
+situated in as complete a desert as the eye of man was ever pained by
+beholding. They stand close to the water, upon a part of the morass rather more
+firm than the rest. Not a tree or bush of any description grows near them. As
+far as the eye could reach a perfect ocean of reeds everywhere presented
+itself, except on that side where a view of the lake changed without
+fertilizing the prospect. Were any set of human beings condemned to spend their
+lives here, I should consider their fate as little superior to that of the
+solitary captive: but during many months of the year these huts are wholly
+unoccupied, being erected, as their name denotes, merely to shelter a few
+fishermen while the fishing season lasts.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Here at length we were ordered to halt; and perhaps I never rejoiced more
+sincerely at any order than at this. Wearied with my exertions, and oppressed
+with want of sleep, I threw myself on the ground without so much as pulling off
+my muddy garments, and in an instant all my cares and troubles were forgotten.
+Nor did I wake from that deep slumber for many hours, when I rose cold and
+stiff, and creeping beside a miserable fire of reeds, addressed myself to the
+last morsel of salt pork which my wallet contained.
+</p>
+
+<h3>HALT.</h3>
+
+<p>
+The whole army had now come up, the piquets having escaped without notice, or
+at least without annoyance. Forming along the brink of the lake, a line of
+outposts was planted, and the soldiers were commanded to make themselves as
+comfortable as they could. But, in truth, the word comfort is one which cannot
+in any sense be applied to people in such a situation. Without tents or huts of
+any description (for the few from which the place is named were occupied by the
+General and other heads of departments), our bed was the morass, and our sole
+covering the clothes which had not quitted our backs for upwards of a month.
+Our fires, upon the size and goodness of which much of a soldier&rsquo;s
+happiness depends, were composed solely of reeds; a species of fuel which, like
+straw, soon blazes up, and soon expires again, almost without communicating any
+degree of warmth. But, above all, our provisions were expended, and from what
+quarter to obtain an immediate supply it defied the most inventive genius to
+discover. Our sole dependence was upon the boats. Of these a flotilla lay ready
+to receive us, in which were embarked the black corps, with the 44th; but they
+had brought with them only food for their own use. It was therefore necessary
+that they should reach the fleet and return again before they could furnish us
+with what we so much wanted. But the distance to the nearest of the shipping
+could not be less than eighty miles; and if the weather should become
+boisterous or the winds obstinately adverse we might starve before any supply
+could arrive.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+These numerous grievances were, however, without remedy, and we bore them with
+patience; though for two whole days the only provisions issued to the troops
+were some crumbs of biscuit and a small allowance of rum. For my own part I did
+not fare so badly as many others. Having been always fond of shooting, I took a
+firelock and went in pursuit of wild ducks, which abounded throughout the bog.
+Wandering along in this quest I reached a lake, by the margin of which I
+concealed myself and waited for my prey; nor was it long before I had an
+opportunity of firing. Several large flocks flew over me, and I was fortunate
+enough to kill three birds. But, alas, those birds, upon which I had already
+feasted in imagination, dropped into the water: my dog, more tired than her
+master, would not fetch them out, and they lay about twenty yards off,
+tantalizing me with the sight of a treasure which I could not reach. Moving off
+to another point, I again took my station where I hoped for better fortune; but
+the same evil chance once more occurred, and the ducks fell into the lake. This
+was too much for a hungry man to endure; the day was piercingly cold, and the
+edge of the pool was covered with ice; but my appetite was urgent, and I
+resolved at all hazards to indulge it. Pulling off my clothes, therefore, I
+broke the ice and plunged in; and though shivering like an aspen-leaf, I
+returned safely to the camp with a couple of birds. Next day I adopted a
+similar course with like success, but at the expense of what was to me a
+serious misery. My stockings of warm wool were the only part of my dress which
+I did not strip off, and to-day it unfortunately happened that one was lost.
+Having secured my ducks, I attempted to land where the bottom was muddy; but my
+leg stuck fast, and in pulling it out off came the stocking; to recover it was
+beyond my power, for the mud closed over it directly, and the consequence was
+that till I regained the transport only one of my feet could be warm at a time.
+To those who can boast of many pairs of fine cotton and woollen hose, this
+misfortune of mine may appear light, but to me, who had only two stockings on
+shore, the loss of one was very grievous; and I therefore request that I may
+not be sneered at when I record it as one of the disastrous consequences of
+this ill-fated expedition.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap24"></a>CHAPTER XXIV.</h2>
+
+<h3>THE LAKE.</h3>
+
+<p>
+As soon as the boats returned, regiment after regiment embarked and set sail
+for the fleet; but the distance being considerable and the wind foul, many days
+elapsed before the whole could be got off. Excepting in one trifling instance,
+however, no accident occurred, and by the end of the month we were all once
+more on board our former ships. But our return was far from triumphant. We, who
+only seven weeks ago had set out in the surest confidence of glory, and I may
+add of emolument, were brought back dispirited and dejected. Our ranks were
+wofully thinned, our chiefs slain, our clothing tattered and filthy, and even
+our discipline in some degree injured. A gloomy silence reigned throughout the
+armament, except when it was broken by the voice of lamentation over fallen
+friends; and the interior of each ship presented a scene well calculated to
+prove the short-sightedness of human hope and human prudence.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The accident to which I allude was the capture of a single boat by the enemy.
+About thirty men of the 14th dragoons having crowded into an unarmed barge,
+were proceeding slowly down the lake, when a boat mounting a carronade in its
+bow suddenly darted from a creek and made towards them. To escape was
+impossible, for their barge was too heavily laden to move at a rate of even
+moderate rapidity; and to fight was equally out of the question, because of the
+superiority which their cannon gave to the Americans. The whole party was
+accordingly compelled to surrender to six men and an officer; and having thrown
+their arms into the lake, their boat was taken in tow and they were carried
+away prisoners.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+This, however, was the only misfortune which occurred. Warned by the fate of
+their comrades, the rest kept together in little squadrons, each attended by
+one or more armed launches; and thus rowing steadily on, they gained the
+shipping without so much as another attempt at surprisal being made.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+On reaching the fleet, we found that a considerable reinforcement of troops had
+arrived from England. It consisted of the 40th foot, a fine regiment,
+containing nearly a thousand men, which, ignorant of the fatal issue of our
+attack, had crossed the lakes only to be sent back to the ships without so much
+as stepping on shore. The circumstance, however, produced little satisfaction.
+We felt that the coming of thrice the number could not recover what was lost or
+recall past events; and therefore no rejoicing was heard, nor the slightest
+regard paid to the occurrence. Nay, so great was the despondency which had
+taken possession of men&rsquo;s minds, that not even a rumour respecting the
+next point of attack obtained circulation; whilst a sullen carelessness, a sort
+of indifference as to what might happen, seemed to have succeeded all our
+wonted curiosity and confidence of success in every undertaking.
+</p>
+
+<h3>THE LAKE&mdash;MOBILE.</h3>
+
+<p>
+In this state we remained wind-bound till the 4th of February, when, at length
+getting under weigh, the fleet ran down as far as Cat Island. This is a spot of
+sandy soil at the mouth of the lake, remarkable for nothing except a solitary
+Spanish family which possesses it. Completely cut off from the rest of the
+world, an old man, his wife, two daughters, and a son, dwell here in apparent
+happiness and contentment. Being at least one hundred and twenty miles from the
+main, it is seldom that their little kingdom is visited by strangers; and I
+believe that till our arrival the daughters, though grown up to womanhood, had
+seen few faces besides those of their parents and brother. Their cottage,
+composed simply of a few boughs, thatched and in-woven with straw, is
+beautifully situated within a short distance of the water. Two cows and a few
+sheep grazed beside it; whilst a small tract of ground covered with stubble,
+and a little garden well stocked with fruit-trees and vegetables, at once gave
+proof of their industry, and showed the source from whence they supplied
+themselves with bread.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having remained here till the 7th, we again took advantage of a fair wind and
+stood to sea. As soon as we had cleared the lake, we directed our course
+towards the east, steering, as it was rumoured, upon Mobile; nor was it long
+before we came in sight of the bay which bears that name. It is formed by a
+projecting headland called Point Bayo, and a large island called Isle Dauphin.
+Upon the first is erected a small fort, possessing the same title with the
+promontory which commands the entrance; for though the island is, at least five
+miles from the main, there is no water for floating a ship of any burthen
+except within a few hundred yards of the latter. The island is, like Cat
+Island, uninhabited, except by one family, and unprovided with any works of
+defence.
+</p>
+
+<h3>SIEGE.</h3>
+
+<p>
+As the attack of Mobile was professedly our object, it was clear that nothing
+could be done previous to the reduction of the fort. The ships accordingly
+dropped anchor at the mouth of the bay, and immediate preparations were made
+for the siege. But the fort was too inconsiderable in point of size to require
+the employment of all our forces in its investment. Whilst one brigade,
+therefore, was allotted to this service, the rest proceeded to establish
+themselves on the island, where, carrying tents and other conveniences on
+shore, the first regular encampment which we had seen since our arrival in this
+hemisphere was formed.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The spot of ground, of which we had now taken possession, extended twelve miles
+in length, and from one to three in width. Its soil is in general dry and
+sandy, well covered with grass, and ornamented by continued groves of pine,
+cedar, oak, and laurel. On one side only is there a swamp, but not of
+sufficient size to contaminate the atmosphere of the whole, which is considered
+so peculiarly healthy, that the place is generally used as a depot for the sick
+in the American army. At present, as I have said, it was tenanted by no more
+than a single family, the master of which was a midshipman in the American
+navy, and banished hither for some misdemeanor; but what was to us of much
+greater importance, it was likewise stocked with cattle resembling in
+appearance the black cattle of the Highlands of Scotland, and not behind them
+in point of wildness.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Whilst the remainder of the army spent their time here, the 4th, 21st, and
+44th, being landed above the fort, were busied in the siege. This small work
+stands, as I have stated, at the extremity of a promontory. Towards the sea its
+fortifications are respectable enough, but on the land side it is little better
+than a blockhouse. The ramparts being composed of sand, not more than three
+feet in thickness, are faced with plank barely cannon-proof; whilst a sand-hill
+rising within pistol-shot of the ditch, completely commands them. Within,
+again, the fort is as much wanting in accommodation as it is in strength. There
+are no bomb-proof barracks, nor any hole or arch under which men might find
+protection from shells; indeed, so deficient is it in common lodging-rooms,
+that a great part of the garrison slept in tents. To reduce this place,
+therefore, occupied but a short time. The troops having assembled on the 8th,
+drove the enemy within their lines on the 9th, and broke ground the same
+evening. On the 10th, four eighteen-pounders with two howitzers were placed in
+battery upon the top of the sand-hill; on the 11th, the fort surrendered; and
+on the 12th, the garrison, consisting of four hundred men of the second
+American regiment, marched out with all the honours of war, and laid down their
+arms upon the glacis.
+</p>
+
+<h3>PEACE.</h3>
+
+<p>
+With the reduction of this trifling work ended all hostilities in this quarter
+of America, for the army had scarcely re-assembled when intelligence arrived
+from England of peace. The news reached us on the 14th, and I shall not deny
+that it was received with general satisfaction. Though war is the
+soldier&rsquo;s harvest, yet it must be confessed, that when carried on as it
+had of late been conducted, it is a harvest of which men in time become weary;
+and many of us having been absent for several years from our native shores,
+experienced absolute delight at the prospect of returning once more to the
+bosom of our families. The communication was therefore welcomed with unfeigned
+joy, nor could any other topic of conversation gain attention throughout the
+camp, except the anticipated re-embarkation. .
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But as the preliminaries only had been signed, and as Mr. Maddison&rsquo;s
+approval was required before we should be at liberty to depart, our army still
+continued stationary upon the island. Of the President&rsquo;s conduct,
+however, no doubts were entertained; all thoughts of future military operations
+were in consequence laid aside; and the sole aim of every individual
+thenceforth was to make himself as comfortable as circumstances would permit.
+To effect this end various expedients were adopted. Among others a theatre was
+erected, in which such officers as chose to exhibit performed for their own
+amusement and the amusement of their friends. In shooting and fishing,
+likewise, much of our time was spent; and thus, by adopting the usual
+expedients of idle men, we contrived to pass some days in a state of tolerable
+comfort.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Occupations such as these, however, soon grew insipid, and it was with sincere
+rejoicing that on the 5th of March we were made acquainted with Mr.
+Maddison&rsquo;s agreement to the terms proposed. All was now hope and
+exultation, an immediate departure was anticipated, and those were pitied as
+unfortunate whose lot it was supposed, might detain them even a day behind
+their fellows. But as yet no movement took place; our provisions were not
+sufficient to authorize the undertaking so long a voyage as we must undertake,
+did we attempt to run for the nearest British settlement; we were therefore
+compelled to remain where we were, till a frigate should return, which had been
+sent forward to solicit supplies from the Governor of Cuba.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+During this interval, the same occupations were resorted to; and others of a
+less agreeable nature undertaken. As summer came on, the island sent forth
+multitudes of snakes from their lurking- places, which infested the camp,
+making their way in some instances into our very beds. This was bad enough, but
+it was not the only nuisance to which we were subject. The alligators, which
+during the winter months lie in a dormant state, now began to awaken, and
+prowling about the margin of the pool, created no little alarm and agitation.
+Apparently confounded at our invasion of their territories, these monsters at
+first confined themselves to the marshy part of the island, but becoming by
+degrees more familiar, they soon ventured to approach the very precincts of the
+camp. One of them at length entered a tent; in which only a woman and child
+chanced to be, and having stared round as if in amazement, walked out again
+without offering to commit any violence. But the visit was of too serious a
+nature to be overlooked. Parties were accordingly formed for their destruction,
+and it was usual on the return of each from an excursion, instead of asking how
+many birds, to demand how many snakes and alligators they had shot. Of the
+former, indeed, great numbers were killed,`and of the latter not a few, the
+largest of which measured about nine feet from the snout to the tail.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Another employment, also, deserves to be noted, because it is truly
+characteristic of the boyish jollity of young soldiers. Wearied with a state of
+idleness, the officers of the 7th, 43rd, and 14th dragoons made an attack with
+fir-apples upon those of the 85th, 93rd, and 95th. For the space of some days
+they pelted each other from morning till night, laying ambuscades and
+exhibiting, on a small scale, all the stratagems of war; whilst the whole army,
+not even excepting the Generals themselves, stood by and spurred them on.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But to continue a detail of such proceedings would only swell my narrative,
+without amusing my reader; I shall therefore content myself with observing,
+that things remained in this state till the 14th of March, when the long-looked
+for frigate at length arrived, and on the 15th, the first division of the army
+embarking, set sail for England. The wind, however, was foul, nor did the ships
+make any way till the 17th, when a fresh breeze springing up, we stood our
+course, and by ten o&rsquo;clock on the 21st could distinguish the high land of
+Cuba. But the violence of the gale having driven us considerably to leeward, we
+were forced to bear up, and beat along the coast, on which account it was not
+till the 23rd that we came opposite to the port of Havannah.
+</p>
+
+<h3>HAVANNAH.</h3>
+
+<p>
+Than the approach to this city, and its first appearance from the water, it is
+impossible to conceive anything more grand and imposing. A little bay,
+extremely narrow at the entrance, forms the harbour. On each side of it stand
+forts of prodigious strength, particularly those on the left, where the ground
+is considerably elevated, whilst the city itself, with its ramparts and towers,
+its numerous steeples, spires, and public buildings, gives an assurance of
+wealth and magnificence peculiarly striking. When we entered, every tower was
+surmounted by a national banner half-mast high, a circumstance which did not at
+least diminish the effect of a first view; and the guns from the forts
+answering our salute, showed us how desperate must be the condition of an enemy
+that should venture within their range. Why the flags should thus indicate a
+general mourning, we were at a loss to guess, till the pilot informed us that
+this was Holy week. Then, indeed, we remembered that we had returned to a Roman
+Catholic country, and rejoiced at the lucky accident which had brought us
+thither at such a season.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+As it was late before we anchored, I was prevented from landing that night, but
+on the morrow I went on shore at an early hour, with the intention of seeing as
+much as my time would allow. But in my proposed visits to the different points
+worthy of attention I was interrupted. It was Good-Friday, consequently all
+public places were shut, and neither guides nor carriages could be procured.
+But if I was disappointed in this, my disappointment was amply compensated by a
+view of the religious ceremonies peculiar to that day.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Walking into the largest church in the city, I beheld beside the altar a figure
+of our Saviour as large as life nailed to a cross. Beside this figure stood a
+number of monks, one of whom presented a rod with a sponge affixed to its
+mouth, while a second thrust a spear into its side, from which came out a
+liquor having the colour of blood and water. This being carefully caught in a
+golden dish, the figure was taken down from the cross, wrapped round with white
+linen clothes, and laid upon a bier, when an imposing procession began in the
+following order: First marched a military band playing slow and solemn music;
+next came a guard of soldiers with heads bent down and arms reversed; then
+followed about two hundred monks belonging to different orders, arrayed in
+their dark robes, with hands and feet bare, and crucifixes suspended from their
+necks. A short interval now succeeded, and another party of monks dressed in
+white appeared, singing hymns in honour of the Virgin. Next came a splendid
+couch surmounted by a canopy covered with white silk and sparkling with gold
+and jewels, upon which sat a waxen image of the Mother of God, clothed in
+gorgeous apparel. Following this was another party of white-robed monks,
+chanting a requiem for a departed soul, and then a second interval. At the
+distance of perhaps twenty yards from these came two monks bearing two large
+silver nails, then two others bearing a spear and a rod, and then the body of
+our Saviour stretched at full length upon the bier. After the bier came two
+monks bearing two other nails, and then another two bearing a small cross and a
+ladder. Here, again, there was another interval, which was succeeded by a third
+white-robed party likewise chanting a requiem. Next to these came about twenty
+canons arrayed in scarlet; then another couch covered with crimson velvet,
+which supported a figure of Mary Magdalen, likewise in a sitting posture; then
+a second body of canons, succeeded by about two hundred monks in black; after
+these another guard of soldiers, and last of all a second military band.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+In spite of prejudice I could not avoid being deeply struck by this solemn
+procession. The airs performed by the bands were slow and mournful, the voices
+of the singers were deep and musical, the dresses were rich to a degree of
+splendour, and the whole was gone through with much apparent devotion. No
+doubt, when regarded with the eye of reflection, the whole may seem something
+worse than ludicrous, but it is impossible to witness the scene and to reason
+on its propriety at the same time. As long as the pageant is before your eyes
+you cannot avoid being powerfully impressed by it; nor is it till after it has
+disappeared that you are inclined to ask yourself why you gave way to feelings
+of that nature. Yet among the natives I thought I could observe a considerable
+degree of levity. It is true that as many as were in the streets or at the
+windows dropped upon their knees while the procession passed, but their
+careless looks and suppressed smiles sufficiently proved that they knelt only
+because they were obliged to kneel.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Commencing at the door of the church where the representation of the
+crucifixion had been exhibited, the funeral party (for it was neither more nor
+less) proceeded through the principal streets in the town with a slow and
+measured pace. As all except the soldiers walked two and two, it covered, I
+should conceive, little less than a mile in extent, and after winding from lane
+to lane and from square to square, directed its steps towards a particular
+convent, where the waxen image was solemnly deposited in a vault. It is said,
+but with what truth I cannot pretend to determine, that a different image is
+made use of every year, and that the vault is now so full of waxen corpses,
+that it will be necessary before long to have some of them destroyed.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having now got rid of the most sacred part of their burthen, the monks, bearing
+only the two couches, returned in procession by the same route and in the same
+order as they had proceeded, only the bands struck up lively airs and the
+singers chanted hymns of rejoicing and hallelujahs. Instead of walking at a
+slow pace likewise, they stepped out almost in a sort of dance, and reaching
+the door of the great church they there separated, each party hastening to its
+own house to celebrate mass.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Into one or two of the convent chapels I likewise entered, and was present
+during the performance of their very striking service. I found them ornamented
+in the most magnificent manner, the rafters of many being gilded over and all
+the windows crowded with stained glass. Of pictures, and what struck me as
+something better than mere daubs, there were also great numbers. In a word, it
+seemed as if I had reached the heart and capital of Roman Catholic splendour.
+Nothing that I had beheld in the mother-country could at all compare with what
+was now before me, and I returned in the evening to my ship, not indeed a
+convert to the principles of that religion, but decidedly astonished and
+confounded at the solemn magnificence of its ceremonies.
+</p>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<div class="chapter">
+
+<h2><a name="chap25"></a>CHAPTER XXV.</h2>
+
+<p>
+At an early hour next morning I returned to the city, and found that the face
+of affairs had undergone a complete revolution. No more melancholy
+countenances, no closed shops and vacant streets were now to be seen; all was
+bustle and rejoicing, bells ringing, carriages rattling along, flags flying,
+and guns firing. The solemnity of Good-Friday ends, it appeared, at ten
+o&rsquo;clock on Saturday morning, and from that time the merriments of Easter
+have their commencement.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The whole of this day I spent in strolling over the different walks and points
+of view from whence the town and surrounding country may be seen to most
+advantage; and I certainly must pronounce it to be by far the most magnificent
+colonial capital which I have visited. The streets are in general wide, clean,
+and airy; the houses, except in the suburbs, are composed entirely of stone,
+and being occasionally intermingled with convents, churches, and other public
+buildings, produce a very striking and handsome effect. Though surrounded by a
+rampart, Havannah has little of the confined and straitened appearance by which
+fortified towns are generally disfigured. The works being of great extent, have
+left within their circumference abundant room for the display of elegance and
+neatness in its construction, an advantage which has not been neglected; whilst
+from their situation they command as glorious a prospect as can well be
+imagined.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+When you ascend a bastion which overhangs the harbour, the city, with all its
+towers and spires, lies immediately and distinctly beneath your gaze. Beyond
+it, again, you perceive a winding of the bay, which washes three sides of the
+promontory where the city stands; numerous fields of sugar-cane and Indian corn
+succeed, intersected by groves of orange and other fruit trees, which extend
+for some miles in a sort of inclined plane, and are at length bounded by lofty
+and rugged mountains. On your left, again, is the creek or entrance to the bay,
+separating you from the Moro, a line of castles remarkable for their strength
+and extent. Behind sweep the waters of the Gulf of Mexico; and on the right is
+another view much resembling that which lies before you, only that it is more
+narrowed; the high ground bearing in this direction closer upon the city. On
+the whole I do not remember to have been more forcibly struck by any scenery
+than that which I beheld from this bastion; so well were town and country,
+castles and convents, land and water, hill and valley combined.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Having spent some hours in wandering through the city, I endeavoured to make my
+way into the forts, and to examine the state of the works. But in both of these
+attempts I was interrupted. Without an order from the Governor, I was informed,
+that none, even of the natives, are permitted to enter the Moro, and all
+applications on the part of foreigners are uniformly refused. There was a
+degree of jealousy in this, as needless as it was illiberal; but indeed the
+whole conduct of the Spanish authorities gave proof of their reluctance to
+admit their old allies, even to the common rites of hospitality. From the
+moment we entered the harbour the militia of the island were called out, many
+of the guns which commanded our shipping were shotted, and artillerymen with
+lighted fuzes stood constantly beside them. An order was likewise issued,
+prohibiting more than two persons to land at the same time from each vessel,
+and many other precautions were taken, little complimentary to the good faith
+of those to whom Spain must feel that she owes her very existence. In spite of
+these drawbacks, however, I contrived to spend a week in this city with much
+satisfaction. The opera and theatre opening on Easter Sunday, and continuing
+open during the remainder of our stay, furnished sufficient amusement for the
+evenings, whilst in walking or riding about, in examining the different
+churches and chapels, and in chatting with nuns through the grate, or monks
+within their cells, my mornings passed away more quickly than I desired.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At length our victualling and watering being complete, on the 9th of April we
+bade adieu to the shores of Cuba, and running along with the Gulf-stream, took
+our course towards Bermuda. The wind favoured us greatly, and on the 17th we
+again reached these islands; where we delayed till the 23rd, when, once more
+setting sail, we steered directly for England. During the remainder of the
+voyage nothing of importance occurred till the 7th of May, when, reaching in
+towards the shores of Brest, we were astonished by beholding the tri-coloured
+flag floating from the citadel. Of the mighty events which had taken place in
+Europe, we were as yet in perfect ignorance. Though surprised, therefore, at
+the first view of that beacon of war, we naturally concluded it to be no more
+than a signal, and passed on without inquiry. As we ascended the channel,
+however, we were hailed by a schooner, which professed to communicate some news
+concerning Buonaparte; but the wind being high, we could not distinctly tell
+what was said; nor was it till the 9th, when we had anchored off Spithead, that
+the reappearance of that wonderful man was made known.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The effect of this intelligence it would be difficult to describe. At first it
+was received with acclamations, but by and bye those who had dreamed of home
+began to perceive in it the destruction of their visions. Yet we considered
+that we were soldiers, and certainly no regret was experienced when we were
+ordered to re-embark, and sail for the Downs.
+</p>
+
+<h3>REMARKS.</h3>
+
+<p>
+Having thus brought my narrative to a conclusion, I cannot lay aside my pen
+without offering a few remarks upon the events of this busy year, and the
+nature of an American war in general. In doing so, I shall begin with the
+unfortunate attack upon New Orleans, and endeavour, in as few words as
+possible, to assign the true causes of its failure.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+From the account which I have given of this affair, it will appear that, from
+its very commencement, it was replete with error, and gave promise of no better
+result than actually occurred. I do not here allude to the spot fixed upon for
+landing, because that was as appropriate as could be chosen. Neither do I refer
+to the groundless rumours brought in by deserters; for to such all assailants
+are liable; but the error lay in the steps subsequently taken; in the unhappy
+advance of the first division from a place of concealment into the open
+country, without pushing forward to the extent required. The fact is, that
+having reached the main land in safety, one out of two plans might have been
+selected by General Keane; which, in all probability, would have been equally
+attended with success. Either he might have remained in the morass till the
+whole army was assembled, or, if this were deemed too dangerous, he ought to
+have advanced upon the city with the first division alone. If it be objected
+that a force of 1600 men was incompetent for an undertaking so important as the
+latter, I reply that there could be no more hazard in it than in the course
+actually pursued. New Orleans is not a regular fortification requiring a large
+army and a powerful battering train for its reduction. In obtaining possession
+of such a place there would have been no difficulty, because it has since been
+ascertained that the American troops were, at the time of our landing, some
+miles above the city; and surely it would not have been more difficult to
+repulse an attack within a town than in the open country. But neither of these
+courses was adopted. The advance was drawn from concealment, and halted just
+where it became most exposed, as if it had been our design to warn the American
+General of his danger; the consequence of which was a well-directed attack upon
+our bivouac, and an immediate commencement of those works which afterwards
+resisted and repelled all our efforts.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The second error evident in this business was the selection of the schooner
+instead of the ship for destruction. Had the latter, which lay farther up the
+stream been destroyed, the former never could have passed our battery, nor been
+of further annoyance to us; whereas, the schooner being burnt, the ship was
+only removed out of the reach of danger, and posted where she could be
+infinitely more advantageous to her friends and detrimental to her enemies.
+This in itself was a grave error, which beyond all doubt contributed, in some
+degree, to our repulse on the 29th of December.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The third error, and one which continued to exert its influence throughout the
+whole campaign, was the delay in bringing on a general action. Why our troops
+fell back on the 29th I confess is to me a mystery. It was not to be supposed
+that an officer who had shown so much judgment as the American General,
+Jackson, in his first endeavours to check our advance, would lose the advantage
+which the nature of his position afforded. That he would fortify the neck of
+land, indeed, was exactly what might have been expected: and, therefore, every
+hour during which an attack was deferred, contributed so much to his strength
+and to our weakness. It is true that we should have suffered, and perhaps
+suffered severely; but our chances of suffering were certainly not diminished
+by delay. We ought, therefore, instead of falling back, to have pursued our
+operations with vigour on that day; because the American lines, being then
+incomplete, would have assisted rather than retarded our progress.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+It has been said, and perhaps truly, that the movement on the 29th was never
+intended for more than a reconnoissance: and that the scheme subsequently
+adopted, of overpowering the enemy&rsquo;s fire by a superior artillery brought
+from the fleet, was a wise one. All this may be true; but as we did not succeed
+in silencing the enemy&rsquo;s batteries, who, on the contrary, put ours to
+silence, either the project was faulty in its design, or some grievous error
+was committed in its execution. As far as our position was affected by it, the
+results were these:&mdash;Three days more were lost in making preparations,
+which ended in nothing; while, by the enemy, these same days were judiciously
+and indefatigably employed to improve their deficiency and recruit their force.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+At last came the idea of digging a canal from the lakes to the river, by means
+of which a portion of our army might be thrown to the other side; a project
+which is said to have been suggested by Sir Alexander Cochrane; but which,
+wheresoever originating, was at once bold and judicious. The canal was
+accordingly formed; not, however, with sufficient attention to the rules of art
+in like cases, as was shown by the falling in of the banks, and the consequent
+impossibility of bringing up boats to transport the whole detachment. Still
+there it was, and 350 men, instead of 1400, made good their landing on the
+right bank of the river. It is deeply to be regretted that Sir Edward Pakenham
+did not delay his own advance with the main body till this fact had been
+ascertained. His plan of battle was to carry the enemy&rsquo;s works on the
+right bank, to turn their own guns from that flank against themselves, and to
+alarm them for their communications, ere he should attack the main position on
+the left. Nor can it be doubted, that had the detached corps arrived at the
+hour first named, an easy triumph would have been achieved. But Pakenham was
+too fiery to restrain his troops, after they had assumed their ground on his
+own side. Instead, therefore, of causing the columns to fall back out of
+gun-shot, and wait quietly till the battle began on the left, he hurried them
+into action as soon as the day dawned; and they became exposed to the whole of
+that volume of fire which it was one main object of his movement across the
+Mississippi to destroy. Moreover, from all the moral effects of a partial
+defeat the enemy were saved; and I need not say how serious such things are to
+irregular and undisciplined bodies. I do not mean to assert that, in spite of
+all this, the American lines ought not to have been carried. On the contrary,
+had every officer and man done his duty, the victory would have been complete,
+though purchased, beyond a doubt, at a severe cost. Yet it is absurd to deny
+that, speaking of the movement as an operation of war, the attack on the right
+ought to have been withheld till that on the left had either failed or
+succeeded. So far, therefore, the General is liable to censure; and chivalrous
+and high-minded as he was, it is just that he should receive it. But there were
+other causes of defeat than this; among which, the gross misconduct of one
+individual deserves to be especially noticed.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+To Lieutenant-Colonel Mullens, with the 44th regiment, of which he was in
+command, was intrusted the arduous and therefore honourable duty of carrying
+the fascines and ladders. The orders were given in good time over night; and
+Colonel Mullens received them as if they had conveyed a sentence of death. He
+stated, in the hearing of the private soldiers, that his corps was devoted to
+destruction; and conducted himself, in every respect, like a condemned criminal
+on the night previous to his execution. When the troops got under arms, instead
+of bringing his battalion to the redoubt, where he had been instructed to find
+the ladders, he marched directly past it, and led them into the field without a
+single ladder or fascine. When the day dawned, and he was sent back for these
+instruments, he headed his corps in its retrograde movement, but left it to
+return as it could to the front; and when sought for to guide the attack, he
+was nowhere to be found. That a regiment thus abused and deserted by its
+commanding officer should fall into confusion, cannot occasion any surprise; it
+would have been surprising indeed, had a different result ensued. But the
+melancholy effect of such confusion was, that other regiments were likewise
+broken; and before order could be restored, all the Generals were borne dead or
+wounded from the field. A large share, therefore, of the blame attachable to
+this failure must rest where fidelity of narration has obliged me to place it.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Again, the recall of the victorious detachment from the left to the right bank
+of the Mississippi, and the consequent abandonment of that complete command of
+the river which this partial success had obtained, was a military error of the
+gravest kind. Great as our numerical loss had been in the principal action of
+the 8th, the advantages of position were at the close of the day so decidedly
+with us, that for General Jackson to maintain himself any longer in front of
+New Orleans was physically impossible. His own dispatch, indeed, addressed to
+the Secretary-at-War, shows that he felt the truth so forcibly, that he had
+actually issued orders for a retreat, when the removal of the English from his
+menaced flank was reported to him; and his battalions, which had begun to get
+under arms, were directed to resume their places. It is, however, but just to
+state, that such was the miserable condition of our commissariat, that the
+fleet contained not provisions enough to feed the people on half rations during
+a quick passage to Cuba; and General Lambert did not feel that he would be
+justified in risking the total loss of his army, which, had the campaign been
+prolonged another fortnight, must under such circumstances have taken place.
+That he erred in this supposition is certain; but his was probably an error
+into which most men similarly circumstanced would have fallen.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+But the primary cause of all our disasters may be traced to a source even more
+distant than any yet mentioned; I mean, to the disclosure of our designs to the
+enemy. How this occurred I shall not take it upon me to declare, though several
+rumours bearing at least the guise of probability have been circulated. The
+attack upon New Orleans was professedly a secret expedition; so secret, indeed,
+that it was not communicated to the inferior officers and soldiers in the
+armament till immediately previous to our quitting Jamaica. To the Americans,
+however, it appears to have been known long before; and hence it was that,
+instead of taking them unawares, we found them fully prepared for our
+reception. Nor is this all. It appears difficult to account for the degree of
+negligence which affected the naval heads of the present expedition, as far as
+the providing a competent number of boats and small craft to transport the
+troops is concerned. Throughout the whole fleet, barges enough to carry
+one-half of the army could not be found; whereas there ought to have been a
+sufficient quantity to contain not only the entire force, but all its stores
+and ammunition. To this neglect, indeed, more perhaps than to any other
+circumstances, is the failure of the attempt to be attributed; since not a
+doubt can exist that, if General Keane had been enabled to bring the whole of
+his army to land on the morning of the 23rd, he would have reached New Orleans,
+without firing a shot, before nightfall. But the opportunity is past, it cannot
+be recalled, and therefore to point out errors on the part of my countrymen can
+serve no good end. That the failure is to be lamented no one will deny, since
+the conquest of New Orleans would have proved beyond all comparison the most
+valuable acquisition that could be made to the British dominions throughout the
+whole western hemisphere. In possession of that post we should have kept the
+entire southern trade of the United States in check, and furnished means of
+commerce to our own merchants of incalculable value.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+The fact, however, is, that when we look back upon the whole series of events
+produced by the late American war, we shall find little that is likely to
+flatter our vanity or increase our self-importance. Except a few successes in
+Canada at its very commencement, and the brilliant inroad upon Washington, it
+will be found that our arms have been constantly baffled or repulsed on shore;
+whilst at sea, with the exception of the capture of the Chesapeake and one or
+two other affairs towards its conclusion, we have been equally unsuccessful.
+From what cause does this proceed? Not from any inferiority in courage or
+discipline, because in these particulars British soldiers and sailors will
+yield to none in the world. There must, then, be some other cause for these
+misfortunes, and the cause is surely one which has continually baffled all our
+plans of American warfare.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+We have long been habituated to despise the Americans as an enemy unworthy of
+serious regard. To this alone it is to be attributed that frigates half manned
+were sent out to cope with ships capable of containing them within their hulls;
+and to this also the trifling handfuls of troops dispatched to conduct the war
+by land. Instead of fifteen hundred, had ten thousand men sailed from the
+Garonne under General Ross, how differently might he have acted! There would
+have been then no necessity for a reembarkation after the capture of
+Washington, and consequently no time given for the defence of Baltimore; but,
+marching across the country, he might have done to the one city what he did to
+the other. And it is thus only that a war with America can be successfully
+carried on. To penetrate up the country amidst pathless forests and boundless
+deserts, and to aim at permanent conquest, is out of the question. America must
+be assaulted only on her coasts. Her harbours destroyed, her shipping burned,
+and her seaport towns laid waste, are the only evils which she has reason to
+dread; and were a sufficient force embarked with these orders, no American war
+would be of long continuance.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+A melancholy experience has now taught us that such a war must not be entered
+into, unless it be conducted with spirit; and there is no conducting it with
+spirit, except with a sufficient numerical force. To the plan proposed of
+making desert the whole line of coast, it may be objected, that by so doing we
+should distress individuals, and not the Government. But they who offer this
+objection, forget the nature both of the people whose cause they plead, and of
+the Government under which they live. In a democratical Government, the voice
+of the people must at all times prevail. The members of the House of
+Representatives are the very persons who, from such proceedings, would suffer
+most severely, and we all know how far private suffering goes to influence a
+man&rsquo;s public opinions. Besides, the principle upon which the advocates
+for the sacredness of private property proceed, is erroneous. Every one will
+allow that, in absolute monarchies, where war is more properly the pastime of
+kings than the desire of subjects, non-combatants ought to be dealt with as
+humanely as possible. Not so, how ever, in States governed by popular
+assemblies. By compelling the constituents to experience the real hardships and
+miseries of warfare, you will compel the representatives to a vote of peace;
+and surely that line of conduct is, upon the whole, most humane, which puts the
+speediest period to the cruelties of war. There are few men who would not
+rather endure a raging fever for three days, than a slow and lingering disease
+for three months. So it is with a democracy at war. Burn their houses, plunder
+their property, block up their harbours, and destroy their shipping in a few
+places; and before you have time to proceed to the rest, you will be stopped by
+entreaties for peace. Whereas, if you do no mischief that can be avoided, if
+you only fight their fleets and armies wherever you meet them, and suffer the
+inhabitants to live in undisturbed tranquillity, they will continue their
+hostilities till they have worn out the means of one party, and greatly
+weakened those of both.
+</p>
+
+<p>
+Should another war break out between Great Britain and America, this is the
+course to be adopted by the former. Besides which, I humbly conceive that a
+second attempt might be hazarded upon New Orleans, because the importance of
+the conquest would authorise almost any sacrifice for its attainment; and once
+gained, it could easily be defended. The neck of land, upon which it is built,
+extends in the same form above as below the town; and the same advantages which
+it holds out to its present defenders would, of course, be afforded to us. A
+chain of works thrown across from the river to the marsh would render it
+inaccessible from above; whilst by covering the lakes and the Mississippi with
+cruisers, all attacks from below would be sufficiently guarded against.
+</p>
+
+<h5>THE END.</h5>
+
+</div><!--end chapter-->
+
+<pre>
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Campaigns of the British Army at Washington and New Orleans, 1814-1815, by G. R. Gleig
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+</body>
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+
+
diff --git a/18479.txt b/18479.txt
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+++ b/18479.txt
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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Campaigns of the British Army at
+Washington and New Orleans 1814-1815, by G. R. Gleig
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
+almost no restrictions whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or
+re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
+with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
+
+
+Title: The Campaigns of the British Army at Washington and New Orleans 1814-1815
+
+Author: G. R. Gleig
+
+Release Date: June 1, 2006 [EBook #18479]
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK BRITISH ARMY AT WASHINGTON ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Geoffrey Cowling
+
+
+
+
+The Campaigns of the British Army at Washington and New Orleans
+1814-1815
+
+by
+
+Rev. G. R. Gleig, M.A.,
+
+Chaplain-General to the forces;
+
+Author of 'The Subaltern'; 'Story of the Battle of Waterloo';
+'Life of Lord Clive'; 'Life of Sir Thomas Munro', etc.
+
+
+
+New Edition 1879
+
+
+
+
+
+ADVERTISEMENT.
+
+The following Narrative contains, it is believed, the only connected
+and authentic account, which has yet been given, of the expedition
+directed against Washington and New Orleans, towards the close of the
+late American war.  It has been compiled, not from memory alone, but
+from a journal kept by the author whilst engaged in the enterprise;
+and as the adventures of each were faithfully noted down as they
+occurred, and such remarks made upon passing events as suggested
+themselves to his mind at the moment, the public may rely with
+confidence upon general correctness of the details.  The issues of the
+expedition were not, indeed, of the most gratifying nature, but it is
+hoped that a plain relation of the proceedings of those to whom it was
+intrusted, will not, on that account, prove uninteresting; whilst
+nothing can be more evident than that the portion of our history which
+it embraces ought not to be overlooked because it is little conducive
+to the encouragement of national vanity.  It was chiefly, indeed, upon
+this account, as well as with a view to redeem from an oblivion which
+they hardly merit, the actions and sufferings of a few brave men, that
+the Narrative now submitted to the public was written.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER  I.
+Cessation of Hostilities--Expected Embarkation for America--Encampment
+near Passages--March towards Bordeaux-Anglet. . .
+
+CHAPTER II.
+Bayonne--St. Etienne--March through Bayonne, to Ondres
+
+CHAPTER  III.
+Les Landes--March to Bordeaux--Bordeaux--Macan--La  Moe--At Sea
+
+CHAPTER  IV.
+
+At Sea--St. Michael's--Villa Franca . . .
+
+CHAPTER  V.
+
+St  Michael's--Ponto del Gada--At Sea .
+
+CHAPTER  VI.
+
+Bermuda . . . . . . . . . .
+
+CHAPTER  VII.
+America--The Chesapeake--The Partuxent--St. Benedicts . . .
+
+CHAPTER  VIII.
+Nottingham--Marlborough . . . .
+
+CHAPTER  IX.
+March to Washington--Bladensburg . .
+
+CHAPTER X.
+Washington . . . . . . . . .
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+Washington--Bladensburg--Marlborough-St  Benedicts
+. . . . . .
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+Alexandria--The Patuxent--The Patapsco . . . . . . . . . .
+
+CHAPTER  XIII.
+March--Attack--Halt . . . . .
+
+CHAPTER  XIV.
+March--Halt--Search--March--Rally--Halt . . . . . . . .
+
+CHAPTER XV.  The Patuxent--The Potomac--The Chesapeake--At Sea--The
+West Indies . . . . . . . . . .
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+The West Indies--Port Royal--Kingston--Jamaica--The Blue Mountains
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+The Blue Mountains--Port Royal--Negril Bay . . . . . . . . .
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+At Sea--New Orleans--Lake Borgne--Pine Island . . . . . . .
+
+CHAPTER  XIX.
+Pine Island--The Lake--Landing--March--Halt . . . . . . .
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+Halt--Attack--Field of Battle-Hospital . . . . . . . . . .
+
+CHAPTER XXI.  Advance--Attack--March--Attack--Retreat--Preparations
+. . . . .
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+Attack--Retreat--Pause--Attack--Re-embarkation . . . . . . .
+
+CHAPTER XXIII
+The Camp--Preparations for Retreat--Retreat--Halt . . . . . . .
+
+ CHAPTER XXIV.
+The Lake--Mobile--Siege--Peace--Havannah . . . . . . . .
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+Havannah--Remarks . . . . .
+
+
+
+THE BRITISH ARMY
+
+AT
+
+WASHINGTON  AND  NEW  ORLEANS.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER  I.
+
+
+A REVOLUTION must occur in the condition and sentiments of
+mankind more decided than we have any reason to expect that the
+lapse of ages will produce, before the mighty events which
+distinguished the spring of 1814 shall be spoken of in other
+terms than those of unqualified admiration.  It was then that
+Europe, which during so many years had groaned beneath the
+miseries of war, found herself at once, and to her remotest
+recesses, blessed with the prospect of a sure and permanent
+peace.  Princes, who had dwelt in exile till the very hope of
+restoration to power began to depart from them, beheld themselves
+unexpectedly replaced on the thrones of their ancestors;
+dynasties, which the will of one man had erected, disappeared
+with the same abruptness with which they had arisen; and the
+influence of changes which a quarter of a century of rapine and
+conquest had produced in the arrangements of general society,
+ceased, as if by magic, to be felt, or at least to be acknowledged.
+It seemed, indeed, as if all which had been passing during the
+last twenty or thirty years, had passed not in reality,
+but in a dream; so perfectly unlooked for were the issues of
+a struggle, to which, whatever light we may regard it,
+the history of the whole world presents no parallel.
+
+At the period above alluded to, it was the writer's fortune to
+form one of a body of persons in whom the unexpected cessation of
+hostilities may be supposed to have excited sensations more
+powerful and more mixed than those to which the common
+occurrences of life are accustomed to give birth.  He was then
+attached to that portion of the Peninsular army to which the
+siege of Bayonne had been intrusted; and on the 28th of  April
+beheld, in common with his comrades, the tri-coloured flag,
+which, for upwards of two months, had waved defiance from the
+battlements, give place to the ancient drapeau blanc of the
+Bourbons.  That such a spectacle could be regarded by any
+British soldier without stirring up in him strong feelings of
+national pride and exultation, is not to be imagined.  I believe,
+indeed, that there was not a man in our ranks, however humble his
+station, to whose bosom these feelings were a stranger.  But the
+excitation of the moment having passed away, other and no less
+powerful feelings succeeded; and they were painful, or the
+reverse, according as they ran in one or other of the channels
+into which the situations and prospects of individuals not
+unnaturally guided them.  By such as had been long absent from
+their homes, the idea of enjoying once more the society of
+friends and relatives, was hailed with a degree of delight too
+engrossing to afford room for the occurrence of any other
+anticipations; to those who had either no homes to look to, or
+had quitted them only a short time ago, the thoughts of
+revisiting England came mixed with other thoughts, little
+gratifying, because at variance with all their dreams of
+advancement and renown.  For my own part I candidly confess, that
+though I had just cause to look forward to a return to the bosom
+of my family with as much satisfaction as most men, the
+restoration of peace excited in me sensations of a very equivocal
+nature.  At the age of eighteen, and still enthusiastically
+attached to my profession, neither the prospect of a reduction to
+half-pay, nor the expectation of a long continuance in a
+subaltern situation, were to me productive of any pleasurable
+emotions; and hence, though I entered heartily into all the
+arrangements by which those about me strove to evince their
+gratification at the glorious termination of the war, it must be
+acknowledged that I did so, without experiencing much of the
+satisfaction with the semblance of which my outward behaviour
+might be marked.
+
+EXPECTED EMBARKATION FOR AMERICA.
+
+Such being my own feelings, and the feelings of the great
+majority of those immediately around me, it was but natural that
+we should turn our views to the only remaining quarter of the
+globe in which the flame of war still continued to burn.  Though
+at peace with France, England, we remembered; was not yet at
+peace with the United States; and reasoning, not as statesmen but
+as soldiers, we concluded that she was not now likely to make
+peace with that nation till she should be able to do so upon her
+own terms.  Having such an army on foot, what line of policy
+could appear so natural or so judicious as that she should
+employ, if not the whole, at all events a large proportion of it,
+in chastising an enemy, than whom none had ever proved more
+vindictive or more ungenerous?  Our view of the matter accordingly
+was, that some fifteen or twenty thousand men would be forthwith
+embarked on board of ship and transported to the other side of
+the Atlantic; that the war would there be carried on with a
+vigour conformable to the dignity and resources of the country
+which waged it; and that no mention of peace would be made till
+our general should be in a situation to dictate its conditions in
+the enemy's capital.
+
+Whether any design of the kind was ever seriously entertained, or
+whether men merely asserted as a truth what they earnestly
+desired to be such, I know not; but the white flag had hardly
+been hoisted on the citadel of Bayonne, when a rumour became
+prevalent that an extensive encampment of troops, destined for
+the American war, was actually forming in the vicinity of
+Bordeaux.  A variety of causes led me to anticipate that the
+corps to which I was attached would certainly be employed upon
+that service.  In the progress of the war which had been just
+brought to a conclusion, we had not suffered so severely as many
+other corps; and though not excelling in numbers, it is but
+justice to affirm that a more effective or better organized
+battalion could not be found in the whole army.  We were all,
+moreover, from our commanding officer down to the youngest
+ensign, anxious to gather a few more laurels, even in America;
+and we had good reason to believe that those in power were not
+indisposed to gratify our inclinations.  Under these
+circumstances we clung with fondness to the hope that our martial
+career had not yet come to a close; and employed the space which
+intervened between the eventful 28th of April and the 8th of the
+following month, chiefly in forming guesses as to the point of
+attack towards which it was likely that we should be turned.
+
+ENCAMPMENT NEAR PASSAGES.
+
+Though there was peace between the French and British nations,
+the form of hostilities was so far kept up between the garrison
+of Bayonne and the army encamped around it, that it was only by
+an especial treaty that the former were allowed to send out
+parties for the purpose of collecting forage and provisions from
+the adjacent country.  The foraging parties, however, being
+permitted to proceed in any direction most convenient to
+themselves, the supplies of corn and grass, which had heretofore
+proved barely sufficient for our own horses and cattle, soon
+began to fail, and it was found necessary to move more than one
+brigade to a distance from the city.  Among others, the brigade of
+which my regiment formed a part, received orders on the 7th of
+May to fall back on the road towards Passages.  These orders we
+obeyed on the following morning; and after an agreeable march of
+fifteen or sixteen miles, pitched our tents in a thick wood,
+about half-way between the village of Bedart and the town of
+St. Jean de Luz.  In this position we remained for nearly a week,
+our expectations of employment on the other side of the Atlantic
+becoming daily less and less sanguine, till at length all doubts
+on the subject were put an end to by the sudden arrival of a
+dispatch, which commanded us to set out with as little delay as
+possible towards Bordeaux.
+
+It was on the evening of the 14th that the route was received,
+and on the following morning, at daybreak, we commenced our
+march.  The country through which we moved had nothing in it,
+unconnected with past events, calculated in any extraordinary
+degree to attract attention.  Behind us, indeed, rose the
+Pyrenees in all their grandeur, forming, on that side, a noble
+boundary to the prospect; and on our left was the sea, a boundary
+different it is true in kind, though certainly not less
+magnificent.  But, excepting at these two extremities, there was
+nothing in the landscape on which the eye loved particularly to
+rest, because the country, though pretty enough, has none of
+that exquisite richness and luxuriance which we had been led to
+expect as characteristic of the South of France.  The houses,
+too, being all in a ruinous and dilapidated condition, reminded
+us more forcibly of the scenes of violence and outrage which
+had been lately acted among them, than of those ideas of rural
+contentment and innocence which various tales and melodramas had
+taught us to associate in our own minds with thoughts of the
+land of the vine.
+
+MARCH TOWARDS BORDEAUX
+
+Regarded, however, in connexion with past events, the scene was
+indeed most interesting; though to a stranger fresh from
+England--a man, we will suppose, of retired and peaceful habits,
+I can readily imagine that it would have been productive of much
+pain; for on each side of the road, in whatever direction we cast
+our eyes, and as far as the powers of vision extended, we beheld
+cottages unroofed and in ruins, chateaux stripped of their doors
+and windows, gardens laid waste, the walls demolished, and the
+fruit-trees cut down; whole plantations levelled, and vineyards
+trodden under foot.  Here and there, likewise, a redoubt or
+breastwork presented itself; whilst caps, broken firelocks,
+pieces of clothing, and accoutrements scattered about in
+profusion, marked the spots where the strife had been most
+determined, and where many a fine fellow had met his fate.  Our
+journey lay over a field of battle, through the entire extent of
+which the houses were not only thoroughly gutted (to use a
+vulgar but most expressive phrase), but for the most part were
+riddled with cannon-shot.  Round some of the largest, indeed,
+there was not a wall nor a tree which did not present evident
+proofs of its having been converted into a temporary place of
+defence, whilst the deep ruts in what had once been lawns and
+flower-gardens, showed that all their beauty had not protected
+them from being destroyed by the rude passage of heavy artillery.
+
+Immediately beyond the village of Bedart such spectacles were
+particularly frequent.  It was here, it may be remembered, that
+in the preceding month of December there had been fighting for
+four successive days; and the number of little hillocks now
+within our view; from under most of which legs and arms were
+beginning to show themselves, as well as the other objects which
+I have attempted to describe, sufficiently attested the obstinacy
+with which that fighting had been maintained.
+
+In the bosom of a man of peace it is very conceivable that all
+this would have excited feelings exceedingly painful; in ours,
+such feelings were overborne by others of a very different
+nature.  If we gazed with peculiar interest upon one hovel more
+than upon another, it was because some of us had there maintained
+ourselves; if we endeavoured to count the number of shot-holes in
+any wall, or the breaks in any hedge, it was because we had stood
+behind it when "the iron hail" fell thick and fast around us.
+Our thoughts, in short, had more of exultation in them than of
+sorrow; for though now and then, when the name of a fallen
+comrade was mentioned, it was accompanied with a "poor fellow"
+the conversation soon returned again to the exploits and
+hair-breadth escapes of the survivors.  On the whole, therefore,
+our march was one of deep interest and high excitement, feelings
+which did not entirely evaporate when we halted, about two hours
+after noon, at the village of Anglet.
+
+MARCH TOWARDS BORDEAUX--ANGLET
+
+We found this village in the condition in which it was to be
+expected that a place of so much importance during the progress
+of the late siege would be found, in other words, completely
+metamorphosed into a chain of petty posts.  Being distant from
+the outworks of Bayonne not more than a mile and a half, and
+standing upon the great road by which all the supplies for the
+left of the British army were brought up, no means, as may be
+supposed, had been neglected, which art or nature could supply,
+towards rendering it as secure against a sudden excursion of the
+garrison as might be.  About one hundred yards in front of it
+felled trees were laid across the road, with their branches
+turned towards the town, forming what soldiers, in the language
+of their profession, term an abattis.  Forty or fifty yards in
+rear of this a ditch was dug, and a breastwork thrown up, from
+behind which a party might do great execution upon any body of
+men struggling to force their way over that impediment.  On each
+side of the highway again, where the ground rises into little
+eminences, redoubts and batteries were erected, so as to command
+the whole with a heavy flanking fire; while every house and hovel
+lying at all within the line of expected operations was
+loop-holed, and otherwise put in a posture of defence.  But upon
+the fortification of the church a more than ordinary degree of
+care seemed to have been bestowed.  As it stood upon a little
+eminence in the middle of the hamlet, it was no hard matter to
+convert it into a tolerably regular fortress, which might serve
+the double purpose of a magazine for warlike stores and a post of
+defence against the enemy.  With this view the churchyard was
+surrounded by a row of stout palings, called in military
+phraseology stockades, from certain openings in which the muzzles
+of half a dozen pieces of light artillery protruded.  The walls
+of the edifice itself were, moreover, strengthened by an
+embankment of earth to the height of perhaps four or five feet
+from the ground, above which narrow openings were made, in order
+to give to its garrison an opportunity of levelling their
+muskets; while on the top of the tower a small howitzer was
+mounted, from which either shot or shell could be thrown with
+effect into any of the lanes or passes near.  It is probably
+needless to add that the interior arrangements of this house of
+God had undergone a change as striking as that which affected its
+exterior.  Barrels of gunpowder, with piles of balls of all sizes
+and dimensions, now occupied the spaces where worshippers had
+often crowded; and the very altar was heaped up with spunges,
+wadding, and other implements necessary in case of an attack.
+
+I have been thus minute in my description of Anglet, because what
+has been said of it will apply more or less exactly to every
+village, hamlet, or cluster of cottages, within the compass of
+what were called the lines.  It is true that neither here nor
+elsewhere, excepting at one particular point, and that on the
+opposite side of the river, were any serious intentions
+entertained of broaching or storming the place; and that the sole
+object of these preparations was to keep the enemy within his
+works, and to cut him off from all communication with the
+surrounding country.  But to effect even this end, the utmost
+vigilance and precaution were necessary, not only because the
+number of troops employed on the service was hardly adequate to
+discharge it, but because the garrison hemmed in was well known to
+be at once numerous and enterprising.  The reader may
+accordingly judge what appearance a country presented which, to
+the extent of fifteen or twenty miles round, was thus treated;
+where every house was fortified, every road blocked up, every
+eminence mined with fieldworks, and every place swarming with
+armed men.  Nor was its aspect less striking by night than by
+day.  Gaze where he might, the eye of the spectator then rested
+upon some portion of one huge circle of fires, by the glare of
+which the white tents or rudely constructed huts of the besiegers
+were from time to time made visible.
+
+ While things continued thus, the condition of the peaceful
+inhabitant of this district could hardly fail to be one of
+extreme discomfort.  Of these the greater number had indeed fled
+on the advance of the British army, leaving their houses and
+effects a prey to the conquerors; but there were some who, having
+probably no place of refuge to retire to, remained in their
+homes, and threw themselves upon our mercy for protection.  It is
+not requisite that I should now inform the reader of the strict
+discipline which Lord Wellington preserved in every division of
+his army; his first step, on entering France, had been to inform
+the people that against them no violence was intended; and the
+assurance thus given, was in no instance, at least wantonly,
+violated.  But, however orderly the conduct of an invading force
+may be, their very presence must occasion a thousand
+inconveniences to those upon whom they are quartered; not the
+least distressing of which is, perhaps, the feeling of
+degradation which the consciousness of being in the power of
+armed foreigners can hardly fail to produce.  Then there is the
+total destruction of all domestic comfort, which the occupation
+of a man's house by large bodies of soldiers produces; the
+liability to which the females, in particular, are exposed to
+insult from the common troopers; and the dread of vengeance from
+any delinquent on whom their complaints may have brought down
+chastisement, all these things must and do create a degree of
+misery, of which the inhabitants of Great Britain may thank God
+that they know nothing except by name.  In the vicinity of
+Bayonne, moreover, the country people lived in daily and nightly
+expectation of finding themselves involved in all the horrors and
+dangers of a battle.  Sorties were continually looked for, and
+however these might terminate, the non-combatants felt that they
+must be equally the sufferers.  Nay, it was no uncommon ground of
+complaint among them, that even the total defeat of our forces
+would bring with it no relief, because, by remaining to receive
+us, they had disobeyed the proclamations of Marshal Soult, and
+were consequently liable to punishment as traitors.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+
+A soon as the bustle of encamping was over, and my time
+absolutely at my own disposal, I took advantage of an offered
+passport, and proceeded into Bayonne.  It will be readily believed
+that I entered this city with feelings very different from those
+of a common traveller.  Having lain before it as a besieger for
+upwards of two months, its shops, its trade, its public buildings
+and places of amusement were to me objects of, comparatively
+speaking, little interest or curiosity.  Its fortifications and
+means of defence were, in truth, what I was principally anxious
+to examine.  Hitherto I could judge of them only from outward
+appearances and vague reports; and now that an opportunity offered
+of so doing with greater accuracy, I confess that my inclination
+prompted me to embrace that opportunity, rather than to hunt for
+pictures which I could not value, or fatigue my imagination by
+endeavouring to discover fine specimens  of architecture amidst
+heavy and ill-built churches.
+
+It is not my intention to attempt any scientific or technical
+review of the works which a very natural curiosity tempted me to
+examine; partly because I confess myself little competent to the
+task and partly because, were the contrary the case, I am
+inclined to believe that such a review would not prove very
+interesting to the public in general.  Enough is done if I
+endeavour to impress my reader with as many of the feelings which
+I then experienced, as may be done by detailing them; and, at
+the same time, enable him to form some general idea of a place
+before whose walls no trifling quantity of British blood has been
+spilt.
+
+The city of Bayonne stands, as everybody knows, upon the Adour,
+about six or eight miles from the point where that river falls
+into the sea.  On the southern or Spanish bank, where the whole
+of the city, properly so called, is built, the country, to the
+distance of two or three miles from the walls, is perfectly flat
+and the soil sandy, and apparently not very productive.  On the
+bank the ground rises rather abruptly from the brink of the
+stream, sloping upwards likewise from the sea, till you arrive at
+the pinnacle upon which the citadel is erected, and which hangs
+immediately over the town.  Thus, though the Adour in fact
+separates the city from the suburbs and citadel, yet as the
+ramparts of the former extend to the water's edge on both sides,
+and as those of the latter continue the sweep from points
+immediately opposite, the general appearance presented is that of
+one considerable town, with a broad river flowing through the
+middle of it.
+
+It will be seen, even from this short and imperfect sketch, that
+its situation gives to Bayonne, considered as a military post, a
+superiority over most cities; inasmuch as it affords peculiar
+facilities towards rendering it a place of great strength.  On one
+side there is a plain, always accounted by engineers the most
+convenient for the construction of fortifications; on the other
+an eminence, lofty enough to command the surrounding country, and
+at the same time sufficiently level at the summit to receive the
+walls of a fortress, powerful at once from its position and
+regularity.  But the great strength of Bayonne arose at this
+juncture not so much from its original defences as from the
+numerous outworks which had been lately added to it.  It was along
+the course of the Adour, as the reader will probably recollect,
+or rather between the Adour and the Nieve, that Soult formed his
+famous intrenched camp.  The right of this chain of stupendous
+works rested upon the city, the importance of which was
+consequently much increased; and as the capture of it would have
+occasioned not only the loss of a town, but the turning of the
+whole position, no pains were spared in rendering it as nearly
+impregnable as possible.  That I may convey some notion to the
+minds of others of the nature of these works, I will describe the
+aspect which they presented to myself, as I rode from Anglet
+towards the city.
+
+When I had proceeded about a mile and a half beyond our advanced
+posts, I found myself in front of the first line of defence.
+This consisted of a battery mounting three eighteen-pounders,
+upon the road, flanked by other batteries, one on each side; all
+so placed as that whichsoever of them should be attacked, it
+might be defended by a cross-fire from the rest.  These were of
+course additionally strengthened by ditches and felled trees; but
+they were open in the rear; and though very formidable to an
+assailing party, yet, when taken, could have been of small
+service to the conquerors, being themselves exposed to the fire
+of the second line.  The situation of the second line, again, was
+similar in every respect to that of the first, being, like it,
+open in the rear, and placed under the guns of the town.  Thus,
+after having forced two powerful lines of defence, the besiegers
+would find themselves almost as far as ever from the attainment
+of their object, being then only arrived at the point where the
+labours of a siege could commence.
+
+But the maintenance of Bayonne must at all times depend upon
+keeping possession of the citadel.  The city lying upon a plain,
+and the castle standing upon an eminence immediately above it, it
+is clear that, were the latter taken, the former must either
+surrender or be speedily reduced to ruins.  It is true that, by
+destroying the bridge which connects them, all communication
+between the two places would be cut off; but the distance from
+the one to the other being not more than half-musket shot, and
+the guns of the fort pointing directly down upon the streets and
+of the city, any attempt to hold out could cause only the
+destruction of the town, and the unavenged slaughter of its
+garrison.  Of the truth of this the French were as much aware as
+their enemies, nor did they neglect any means which an accurate
+knowledge of engineering could point out, for the defence of what
+they justly considered as the key of the entire position.  In
+addition to its own very regular and well-constructed
+fortifications, two strong redoubts were thrown up, on two sides
+of the fort, upon the only spots of ground calculated for the
+purpose; both of which, I was informed by my guide, were
+undermined and loaded with gunpowder, ready to be sprung as soon
+as they should fill into our hands.  They had judged, and judged
+correctly, that if ever the place should be invested, it would be
+that the trenches would be opened and the breaching batteries
+erected; and they made every preparation to meet the danger which
+great prudence and military skill could suggest.
+
+Bayonne, though a populous place, does not cover so much ground
+as a stranger would be led to suppose.  Like most walled towns,
+its streets, with the exception of one or two, are in general
+narrow, and the houses lofty: but it is compact, and, on the
+whole, clean, and neatly built.  The number of inhabitants I
+should be inclined to estimate at somewhere about thirty
+thousand, exclusive of the garrison, which at this time amounted
+to fourteen or fifteen thousand men; but as most of the families
+appear to live in the style of those in the old town of
+Edinburgh, that is to say, several under the same roof, though
+each in a separate story or flat, it is not difficult to conceive
+how they contrive to find sufficient room, within a compass
+apparently so narrow.  Of its commerce and manufactures I can say
+little, except that I should not imagine either to be extensive.
+I am led to form this opinion, partly from having seen no
+shipping at the wharfs, and partly because the Adour, though
+here both wide and deep, is rendered unnavigable to vessels of
+any size, by a shallow or bar at its mouth.  There was, indeed,
+a sloop of war close to the town, but how it got there I am at a
+loss to conceive, unless it were built upon the river, and kept
+as an additional protection against a surprise from the water.
+The shops are, however, good, particularly those where jewellery
+is sold; an article in the setting and adorning of which the
+French, if they do not excel us in really substantial value,
+undoubtedly surpass us in elegance.
+
+When I had taken as complete a survey of the town as I felt
+disposed to take, I crossed the bridge with the intention of
+inspecting the interior of the citadel.  Here, however, I was
+disappointed, no strangers being admitted within its gates; but
+as there was no objection made to my reconnoitring it from
+without, I proceeded towards the point where our trenches had
+been dug, and where it had been designed to breach and storm the
+place.  To this I was urged by two motives, partly from the desire
+of obtaining the best view possible of the fort, and partly that
+I might examine the ground upon which the desperate affair
+of the 14th of April took place.  The reader cannot have
+forgotten, that some hours before daylight on the morning of
+that day, a vigorous and well-arranged sortie was made by the
+garrison, and that it was not without hard fighting and a severe
+loss on both sides that the attack was finally repulsed.
+
+Mounting the heights, I soon arrived at St. Etienne, a little
+village nearly on a level with the citadel, and not more than a
+quarter of a mile from its walls.  From this point I could
+satisfy my curiosity to the full, and as the account may not,
+perhaps, be uninteresting, I shall describe, as well as I am
+able, the scene which here met my eyes.
+
+St. Etienne
+
+The ridge of little hills upon which the fort and village are
+built, though it rises by gentle gradation from the sea, towards
+the spot where I now stood, is nevertheless intersected and
+broken here and there by deep glens or ravines.  Two of these
+glens, one to the right, the other to the left, chance to occur
+immediately under the ramparts of the fortress, supplying, in
+some measure, the purposes of a ditch, and leaving a sort of
+table or elevated neck of land between them, the extremity of
+which is occupied by the village.  On this neck of land the
+besieged had constructed one of the redoubts to which I alluded
+as having been lately thrown up; whilst on another table, at the
+opposite side of the left ravine, which winds round in the
+direction of the wall, as nearly as if it were the work of art,
+stands the other redoubt.  Beyond this, again, there is a
+perpendicular precipice, the hills there abruptly ending; so that
+on two sides the walls of the fort skirt the extremity of a bare
+rock.  It was along the outer ridges of these ravines, and
+through the churchyard of St. Etienne, that our trenches were
+drawn, the village itself being the most advanced British post;
+and it was along these ridges, and in the street of this village,
+that the action of the 14th of April was fought.
+
+It is not my business, neither indeed is it my intention, to
+relate here the particulars of that affair.  The French, having
+contrived, in a dark night, to elude the vigilance of our
+sentinels, came upon the piquets unperceived, and took them
+completely by surprise.  The battle was maintained on both sides
+with great determination, and had it not been for the unfortunate
+capture of Sir John Hope and the fall of General Hay, the
+assailants would have had little cause to rejoice at the result:
+for though the loss of the English was certainly great, that of
+the French was at least not inferior.  Yet the business was an
+unfortunate one to both parties, since, before it took place,
+Buonaparte had already abdicated, and the preliminaries of peace
+were already signed between the two nations.
+
+I found the village, in which the fighting had been most
+obstinately maintained, in the condition of most villages where
+such dramas have been acted.  The street had been barricaded, but
+the barricade was almost entirely torn down; the houses, trees,
+and church, like those we had passed upon the march, were covered
+with the marks of cannon and musket balls, whilst quantities of
+round and grape shot, of musket and pistol bullets, broken
+bayonets, swords, &c. &c., lay scattered about in every
+direction.  Nor were these the only evidences of strife
+discernible.  In many places--on the pavement of the street, in
+the churchyard, but above all, on the floor of the church itself,
+--the traces of blood were still distinctly visible.  Beside the
+remains of the barricade there stood a solitary six-pounder,
+which had been taken and re-taken nine times during the struggle;
+and a sprinkling of what looked like a mixture of blood and
+brains still adhering to its carriage and breech, showed that it
+had never been given up without the most desperate resistance.
+The mounds, too, under which the dead were buried, presented a
+peculiarly striking appearance; for the field of action having
+been narrow, those that fell, fell in heaps together, and being
+buried in the same way, one was led to form an idea of greater
+slaughter than if double the number of graves had been
+distinguishable in a more extended space.
+
+Having now accomplished my wishes as far as I could, and
+beginning to feel somewhat fatigued with strolling about, I
+adjourned to an hotel in the city, from whence, in the evening,
+I went to the play.  The house was poor and the performance
+miserable, consequently there was no great inducement to sit out
+the whole of the piece.  After witnessing an act or two,
+therefore, I returned to the inn, where I slept, and at an early
+hour next morning rejoined my regiment, already under arms and
+making preparations for the continuance of the march.
+
+MARCH THROUGH BAYONNE--TO ONDRES
+
+As it would have been considerably out of our way to go round by
+the floating bridge*, permission was applied for and granted, to
+pass directly through Bayonne.  With bayonets fixed, band
+playing, and colours flying, we accordingly marched along the
+streets of that city; a large proportion of the garrison being
+drawn up to receive us, and the windows crowded with spectators,
+male and female, eager to behold the troops from whom not long
+ago they had probably expected a visit of a very different
+nature.  The scene was certainly remarkable enough, and the
+transition from animosity to good-will as singular as it was
+sudden; nor do I imagine that it would be easy to define the
+sensations of either party, on being thus strangely brought n
+contact with the other.  The females, indeed, waved their
+handkerchiefs, whilst we bowed and kissed our hands; but I
+thought I could discover something like a suppressed scowl upon
+the countenances of the military.  Certain it is, that in
+whatever light the new state of affairs might be regarded by the
+great bulk of the nation, with the army it was by no means
+popular; and at this period they appeared to consider the passage
+of British troops through their lines as the triumphal
+entrance of a victorious enemy.
+
+_________________________
+* The bridge here alluded to was thrown across the Adour by the
+  Duke of Wellington at the commencement of the siege.  It was
+  composed of a number of small fishing vessels fastened together
+  with cords, and planked from one to another, the whole firmly
+  moored about three miles below Bayonne.  Whether the
+  daringness of the attempt, or the difficulties surmounted in
+  its completion, be considered, the construction of this bridge
+  may be looked upon as one of the most extraordinary actions of
+  that extraordinary man.
+---------------------------
+
+As soon as we had cleared the entrenchments of Bayonne, and got
+beyond the limits of the allied camps, we found ours in a country
+more peaceful and more picturesque than any we had yet traversed.
+There were here no signs of war or marks of violence.  The
+cottages were covered with honeysuckle and roses, the gardens
+were blooming in the most perfect order; the corn was growing in
+great plenty and richness, and the vines were clustering round
+their poles like the hops in the gardens of Kent.  It is
+impossible to describe the feeling of absolute refreshment which
+such a sight stirred up in men who, for so long a time, had
+looked upon nothing but ruin and devastation.  It is true that
+with respect to grandeur, or even beauty, the scenery through
+which we now travelled was not to be compared with the sublime
+passes of the Pyrenees, or with many spots which we had beheld;
+but in truth, a hamlet uninjured and tenanted by its own rude
+peasantry, a field of Indian corn exhibiting no wasteful track of
+foragers, nay, a single cottage with its flowers and evergreens
+budding around it, was at this a more welcome object to our eyes
+than the wildest mountains or most romantic valleys displaying no
+habitations except white tents and no inhabitants except
+soldiers.  For my own part I felt as if I had once more returned
+into the bosom of civilized and domestic life, after having been
+for many months a wanderer and a savage.
+
+The road along which we proceeded had been made by Napoleon, and
+was remarkably good.  It was sheltered, on each side, from the
+rays of the sun, by groves of cork-trees mingled with fir; by
+which means, though the day was overpoweringly hot, we did not
+suffer so much as we should otherwise have done.  Our march was,
+therefore, exceedingly agreeable, and we came in, about noon,
+very little fatigued, to the village of Ondres, where the tents
+were pitched, and we remained till the morrow.
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+LES LANDES
+
+
+THE dawn was just beginning to appear, when the bugles sounded,
+and the tents were struck.  For the first few leagues, our route
+to-day resembled that of yesterday, in almost every particular.
+There was the same appearance of peaceful quiet, the same
+delightful intermingling of woods, corn-fields, vineyards, and
+pasture; but we had not proceeded far, when a marked difference
+was perceptible; every step we trod, the soil became more and
+more sandy, the cultivation less frequent, and the wood more
+abundant, till at last we found ourselves marching through the
+heart of an immense forest of pines.  We had diverged, it
+appeared, from the main road, which carries the traveller through
+a rich and open country, and were pursuing another through the
+middle of those deserts and savannahs which lie towards the
+coast; a district known by the name of les Landes.  There was
+something, if not beautiful, at least new and striking in the
+scenery now around us.  Wherever the eye turned, it was met by
+one wide waste of gloomy pine-trees; diversified, here and there,
+by the unexpected appearance of a modest hamlet, which looked as
+if it were the abode of some newly arrived settlers in a country
+hitherto devoid of human habitations.
+
+Were I to continue the detail of a long march through these
+barren regions, I should soon fatigue, without amusing my reader:
+I shall, therefore, content myself with observing, that day after
+day the same dreary prospect presented itself, varied by the
+occasional occurrence of huge uncultivated plains, which
+apparently chequer the forest, at certain intervals, with spots
+of stunted and unprofitable pasturage; upon these there were
+usually flocks of sheep grazing, in the mode of watching which,
+the peasants fully evinced the truth of the old proverb, that
+necessity is the mother of invention.  I do not know whether the
+practice to which I allude be generally known, but as it struck
+me as very remarkable, I shall offer no apology for relating it.
+
+The whole of this district, as well where it is wooded, as where
+it is bare, is perfectly flat, containing scarcely a knoll or
+eminence any sort, as far as the eye can reach.  In addition to
+this, the vast plains where the sheep are fed, many of which
+extend two or three leagues in every direction, produce not so
+much as a fir-tree, by climbing which, a man might see to any of
+its extremities: and the consequence is, that the shepherds are
+constantly in danger of losing their sheep, as one loses sight of
+a vessel at sea, in the distance.  To remedy this evil, they have
+fallen upon a plan not more simple than ingenious; they all walk
+on stilts, exactly similar to those with which our school-boys
+amuse themselves; the only difference lying here, that whereas
+the school-boys' stilts are with us seldom raised above ten or
+twelve inches from the ground, those of the French peasants are
+elevated to the height of six or eight feet.
+
+When we first caught a glimpse of these figures, it was in the
+dusk of the morning, and for awhile we were willing to persuade
+ourselves that the haze had deceived us, by seeming to enlarge
+bodies beyond their real dimensions.  But when we looked at the
+trees, we saw them in their own proper size, nor could we suppose
+that the atmosphere would have an effect upon one object, which
+it had not upon another; yet there appeared to be no other way of
+accounting for the phenomenon, unless indeed this wild country
+were the parent of a race of giants, for the men whom we saw
+resembled moving towers rather than mortals.  I need not observe
+that our astonishment was very great; nor, in was it much
+diminished when, on a nearer approach, we discovered the truth,
+and witnessed the agility with which they moved, and the ease
+with which, aided by the poles which each carried in his hand,
+they would stoop to the ground, pick up the article, and stand
+upright again.  But if we admired the skill of one or two
+individuals, our admiration rose to a still higher pitch when we
+saw crowds of them together, all equally skilful; till they
+informed us that the thing was not an amusement, but universally
+practised for the purpose I have stated.
+
+Besides this, I know of nothing in the customs of this isolated
+people at all worthy of notice, unless, indeed, it be their
+method of supplying themselves with lights.  Being completely cut
+off from the rest of the world, it is not in their power, except
+when once or twice a-year they travel to the nearest towns with
+their wool, to purchase candles; and as they have no notion how
+these can be made, they substitute in their room a lamp, fed with
+the turpentine extracted from the fir-trees.  The whole process
+is simple and primitive: to obtain the turpentine they out a hole
+in the tree, and fasten a dish in it to catch the sap as it oozes
+through; and as soon as the dish is filled, they put a wick of
+cotton into the midst of the liquor, and burn it as we do a lamp.
+The light is not indeed of the most brilliant nature, but it is
+at least better than none; and as they have fir-trees in
+abundance within their reach, there is no danger of their oil
+being quickly exhausted.
+
+MARCH TO BORDEAUX
+
+In this manner was an entire week expended, each succeeding day
+introducing us to a repetition of the same adventures, and a
+renewal of the same scenery, which had amused us during the day
+before; nor was it till the morning of the twenty-third that we
+at last began to emerge from the forests, and to find ourselves
+once again in a more open country.  At first, however, it cannot
+be said that, with respect to beauty, the change was greatly for
+the better.  Upon the borders of the deserts there is a little
+village called Le Barp, where we spent the night of the
+twenty-second; from whence, till you arrive at a place called
+Belle-Vue, the country is exactly in that state which land
+assumes when nature has begun to lose ground, and art to gain
+it--when the wild simplicity of the one is destroyed, and the
+rich luxuriance of the other has not yet been superinduced.  So
+far, therefore, we proceeded, regretting, rather than rejoicing,
+that we had quitted the woods; but no sooner had we attained that
+point, than there burst upon us, all on a sudden, a prospect as
+gloriously fertile as ever delighted the eyes of a weary
+traveller.
+
+BORDEAUX
+
+Instead of boundless forests of pine, the whole face of the
+country was now covered with vineyards, interspersed, in the most
+exquisite and tasteful manner, with corn-fields and meadows of
+the the richest pasturage.  Nor was there any deficiency of
+timber; a well-wooded chateau, with its lawn and plantations,
+here and there presenting itself, while quiet hamlets and
+solitary cottages, scattered in great abundance over the scene,
+gave to it an appearance of life and prosperity exceedingly
+bewitching.  Had there been but the addition of a fine river
+flowing through the midst of it, and had the ground been somewhat
+more broken into hill and dale, I should have pronounced it the
+most enchanting prospect of the kind I had ever beheld; but,
+unfortunately, both these were wanting.  Though the effect of a
+first view, therefore, was striking and delightful, and though to
+the last we could not help acknowledging the richness of the land
+and its high state of cultivation, its beauty soon began to pall.
+The fact is, that an immense plain, however adorned by the
+labour of man, is not an object upon which it is pleasing to gaze
+for any length of time; the eye becomes wearied with the extent
+of its own stretch, and as there is no boundary but the horizon,
+the imagination is left to picture a continuance of the same
+plain, till it becomes as tired of fancying as the eye is of
+looking.  Besides, we were not long in discovering that the
+vineyards were unworthy to be compared, in point of luxuriant
+appearance, with those of Spain and the more southern regions of
+France.  In this neighbourhood the vine is not permitted to grow
+to a greater height than or four feet from the ground; whereas in
+Spain, and on the borders, it climbs, like the hop-plant in
+England, to the top of high poles, and hangs over from one row to
+another, in the most graceful festoons.  In spite of these
+objections, however, no one could do otherwise than admit that
+the change we had experienced was agreeable, and we continued to
+move on with greater alacrity, till it was evident, from the increasing
+number of seats and villas, that we were rapidly approaching the vicinity
+of Bordeaux.
+
+Nor was it long before the towers and buildings of that
+magnificent city began to be discernible in the distance.
+Prompted by I know not what impulse, we almost involuntarily
+quickened our pace at the sight, and in a short time reached the
+suburbs, which like those of most French towns, are composed of
+low houses, inhabited by the poorest and meanest of the people.
+Here we halted for a few minutes to refresh the men, when having
+again resumed the line of march, we advanced under a triumphal
+arch, originally erected in honour of Napoleon, but now inscribed
+with the name of the Duke d'Angouleme, and ornamented with
+garlands of flowers.  Passing under this, we proceeded along one
+or two handsome streets, till we reached the Military Hospital, a
+large and commodious structure fitted up for the reception of
+several thousands of sick, where it was arranged that we should
+spend the night.
+
+The city of Bordeaux has been too often described, and is too
+well known to my countrymen, in general, to render any particular
+account of it at all necessary from me; and were the case
+otherwise, I confess that my opportunities of examining it were
+not sufficient to authorize my entering upon such an attempt.  The
+whole extent of our sojourn was only during the remainder of that
+day (and it was past noon before we got in) and the ensuing
+night; a space of time which admitted of no more than a hurried
+stroll through some of the principal streets, and a hasty visit
+to such public buildings as are considered most worthy of
+attention.  The palace of the Duke d'Angouleme, the Military
+Hospital, the Theatre, and the Cathedral, are all remarkably fine
+of their kind; whilst the public gardens, the Exchange, and
+fashionable promenades, are inferior only to those of Paris
+itself.
+
+MACAU
+
+I have said that our sojourn in Bordeaux was limited to the short
+space of a few hours.  We could have wished indeed to prolong it,
+but to wish was needless, for at an early hour next morning we
+were again in motion, and proceeded to an extensive common, near
+the village of Macau, about three leagues from Bordeaux, where we
+found a considerable force already assembled.  Judging from the
+number of tents upon the heath, I conceive that there could not
+be fewer than eight or ten thousand men in that camp, the whole
+of whom, we naturally concluded, were destined for the same
+service with ourselves.  The sight was at once pleasing and
+encouraging, because there could be no doubt that such a force,
+ably commanded, would carry everything before it.
+
+In this situation we continued, without the occurrence of any
+incident deserving of record, till the 27th, when an order
+arrived for the officers to dispose of their horses without
+delay.  This was necessarily done at an enormous loss; and on the
+morning of the 28th, we set forward towards the point of
+embarkation.  But, alas! in the numbers allotted for the
+trans-Atlantic war, we found ourselves grievously disappointed,
+since, instead of the whole division, only two regiments, neither
+of them surpassingly numerous, were directed to move; it was not
+our business, however, to question the wisdom of any measure
+adopted by our superiors; and we accordingly marched on in as
+high spirits as if we had been followed by the entire Peninsular
+army.
+
+The remainder of our journey occupied two days, nor do I often
+remember to have spent a similar space of time with greater
+satisfaction; our route lay through some of the most fertile
+districts in France, passing Chateau Margaux, famous for its
+wine, with other places not inferior to it either in richness of
+soil or in beauty of prospect.  The weather was delightful, and
+the grapes, though not yet ripe, were hanging in heavy bunches
+from the vines, giving promise of much wealth to come; the hay
+season had commenced, and numerous groups of happy-looking peasants
+were busy in every field; in short, it was a march upon which I shall
+never look back without pleasure.
+
+ LA MOE.--AT SEA
+
+The close of the first day's progress brought us to a village
+called La Moe, beautifully situated within view of the majestic
+waters of the Garonne.  Here, for the first time since we quitted
+Bayonne, were we quartered upon the inhabitants--a measure which
+the loss of our tents rendered necessary.  They received us with
+so much frankness, and treated us with so much civility, I had
+almost said kindness, that it was not without a feeling of
+something like regret that we parted from them.  The second day
+carried us to Pauliac, an inconsiderable town upon the banks of
+the same river, where we found boats ready to convey us to the
+shipping, which lay at anchor to receive us.
+
+To embark the troops in these boats, and to huddle them on board
+two dirty little transports, occupied some time, and the
+provoking part of the business was, that all this trouble was to
+be gone through again.  The men-of-war in which we were to cross
+the Atlantic, could not come up so high for want of water; and on
+this account it was that transports were sent as passage-boats to
+carry us to them.  But the wind was foul, and blew so strong that
+the masters would not venture to hoist a sail; so we were obliged
+to endure the misery of a crowd in a small vessel for two nights
+and a day; nor was it till past noon on the 31st, that the
+regiment to which I was attached found itself finally settled in
+His Majesty's ship -------- of 64 guns.
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+AT SEA
+
+THE land army, destined for the invasion of the United States,
+which took shipping at this period in the Garonne, consisted but
+of three battalions of infantry, the 4th, 44th, and 85th
+regiments; the two former mustering each about eight hundred
+bayonets, the last not more than six hundred.  In addition to
+these, there were two officers of engineers, a brigade of
+artillery, a detachment of sappers and miners, a party of
+artillery drivers, with a due proportion of officers belonging to
+the Medical and Commissariat departments.  The whole together
+could not be computed at more than two thousand five hundred men,
+if indeed it amounted to so great a number; and was placed under
+the command of Major-General Ross, a very gallant and experienced
+officer.
+
+The fleet, again, consisted of the Royal Oak, of 74 guns, bearing
+the flag of Rear-Admiral Malcolm; the Diadem and Dictator, two
+sixty-fours, armed en flute; the Pomone, Menelaus, Trave, Weser,
+and Thames, frigates, the three last armed in the same manner as
+the Diadem and Dictator; the Meteor and Devastation,
+bomb-vessels; together with one or two gun-brigs, making in all a
+squadron of eleven or twelve ships of war, with several
+storeships and transports.
+
+On board the Royal Oak were embarked the General, with his staff,
+and the artillery; the Trave and Weser were filled with the 4th;
+the 44th were divided between the Dictator and the Thames, in the
+first of which ships were also the engineers; the 85th occupied
+the Diadem; and the rest were scattered through the fleet, partly
+in the men-of-war and partly in the transports.
+
+As soon as the troops, with all their baggage, were finally
+settled in the vessels allotted for their accommodation, the
+signal was made to weigh; but the wind being adverse, and the
+navigation of the Garonne far from simple, it could not be
+obeyed with safety.  Every thing, therefore, remained quiet till
+the evening of the 2nd of June, when the gale moderating a
+little, the anchors were raised and the sails hoisted.  The tide
+was beginning to ebb when this was done, favoured by which the
+ships drifted gradually on their course; but before long, the
+breeze shifting, blew directly in their sterns, when they stood
+gallantly to sea, clearing the river before dark; and, as there
+was no lull during the whole of the night, by daybreak the coast
+of France was not to be discerned.  All was now one wide waste
+of waters, as far as the eye could reach, bounded on every side by
+the distant horizon; a scene which, though at first it must
+strike with awe and wonder a person unaccustomed to it, soon
+becomes insipid, and even wearisome, from its constant sameness.
+
+ST. MICHAEL'S
+
+The fair wind which carried us out of the Garonne continuing to
+blow without any interruption till the 19th of June, it was that
+day calculated, by consulting the log and taking observations,
+that the Azores, or Western Islands, could not be very distant.
+Nor, as it turned out, were these calculations incorrect; for, on
+ascending the deck next morning, the first object that met our
+eyes was the high land of St Michael's rising, like a collection
+of blue clouds, out of the water.  With such a prospect before
+us our consternation may be guessed at, when we found ourselves
+deserted by the breeze which had hitherto so uniformly favoured
+us, and lying as motionless as logs, under the influence of a
+dead calm.
+
+But the complaints to which we had begun to give utterance, were
+speedily changed again into rejoicings, for before mid-day the
+breeze once more freshened, and we approached every moment nearer
+and nearer to the object of our wishes.  As soon, too, as we
+contrived to double the projecting headland which had attracted
+our attention in the morning, our course became productive of
+much interest and pleasure.  We had neared the shore
+considerably, and were moving at a rate sufficiently rapid to
+prevent further repining, and at the same time slow enough to
+permit a distinct and calm survey of the beach, with the numerous
+villages, seats, and convents that adorned it.
+
+The island of St. Michael is mountainous, even to the very edge
+of the water, but the heights, though lofty, do not present a
+rugged or barren appearance.  Here and there, indeed, bare rocks
+push themselves into notice, but in general the ascent is easy,
+and the hills are covered to the tops with groves of orange-trees
+and beautiful green pasturage.  Like other Portuguese
+settlements, this island abounds in religious houses, the
+founders of many of which do not appear to have been deficient in
+taste when they pitched upon situations for building.  There was
+one of these in particular that struck me: it stood upon a sort
+of platform or terrace, about half-way between the sea and the
+summit of the mountain; above it were hanging woods, whether
+natural or artificial I cannot say, broken in upon here and there
+by projecting rocks; and round it were plantations of orange-trees
+loaded with fruit, and interspersed with myrtles and other
+odoriferous shrubs.  Being greatly pleased with the mansion and
+the surrounding scenery, I naturally inquired from the pilot (for
+one had already come off to us) as to its use, and the quality of
+Its owner; and from him I learnt that it was a convent, I forget
+of what order,--a piece of intelligence which was soon confirmed
+by the sound of bells distinctly audible as we passed.
+
+VILLA FRANCA.
+
+In this manner we continued to coast along, being seldom at a
+greater distance than four or five miles from the land, till we
+came opposite to a small town called Villa Franca.  Here, as the
+wind threatened to die away, several others and myself agreed to
+go onshore: a boat was accordingly lowered, and we pushed off
+from the ship; but the operation of landing did not prove to be
+altogether so simple as we had expected.  An immense reef of
+rocks, some under water, others barely above it, but none
+distinguishable till we had almost run against them, opposed our
+progress; and it was not without considerable difficulty, and
+the assistance of the country people, who made signals to us from
+the beach, that we contrived to discover a narrow channel leading
+up to the strand.
+
+Having at length so far attained our wishes as to tread once more
+upon firm ground, the next thing to be done was to find out some
+inn, or house of public entertainment, where we might pass the
+night, a measure which the increasing darkness rendered
+necessary.  In this, however, we were disappointed, the town of
+Villa Franca boasting of no such convenience on any scale.  But
+we were not on that account obliged to bivouac; for the Alcalde,
+or mayor of the place, politely insisted upon our accompanying
+him home, and entertained us with great hospitality; nor, in
+truth, had we any cause to regret the unsuccessful issue of our
+inquiries, since, in addition to the good cheer with which we
+were presented, our host, being an intelligent person, did not
+fail to render himself an agreeable companion; and what
+contributed in no slight degree to the facility of our
+intercourse was, that though he assured us he had never quitted
+St. Michael's in his life, he spoke English with the fluency of a
+native.  Among other pieces of information we learnt from him
+that the reef which impeded our progress towards the land, had
+formerly been an island.  It appeared, he affirmed, one morning,
+in the most sudden and extraordinary manner, as if it had been
+thrown up by an earthquake during the night, and having continued
+so long above water as to embolden a single family of fishers to
+settle upon it, it disappeared again as suddenly as it had come,
+leaving no trace of its existence except the rocks which we had
+found so troublesome.  Whether there be truth in this story, I
+cannot pretend to determine; and yet I see no reason to doubt the
+word of a man of respectability, who could have no motive
+whatever for deceiving us.  But this was not all that we learnt
+from him respecting the reef.  He declared that previous to the
+appearance of the island, the water in that very spot was
+unfathomable; and it was not till after it had sunk, that a
+single rock stood in the way to prevent the largest ship of war
+from anchoring within a stone's throw of the beach.
+
+Finding our new acquaintance so civil and obliging, we naturally
+informed him of our intention to proceed next morning to Ponto
+del Gada, the principal town in St. Michael's, and requested his
+assistance in procuring some mode of conveyance; but we were
+startled by the intelligence that nothing of the kind could be
+had, and that there were not even horses or mules to be hired at
+any place nearer than the very town whither we were going.  This
+was rather an alarming piece of news, for our boat had left us,
+the weather was too hot for walking, and the distance to be
+travelled full fifteen miles.  Had we been prudent enough to
+detain our boat, the matter would have been easily managed,
+because we might have sailed round to the point where the fleet
+was to anchor; but this was no longer in our power, and being
+rather unwilling to pursue our journey on foot, we were
+altogether at a loss upon what course to determine.  Whilst we
+thus hesitated, the Alcalde suggested that if we would condescend
+to ride upon asses, he thought he could obtain a sufficient
+number for our party; a proposal with which we gladly closed,
+prudently determining that any mode of being carried was better
+than walking.  Leaving the arrangement of this affair, therefore,
+to our obliging friend, we retired to rest upon clean comfortable
+mattresses spread for us on the floor; and on waking in the
+morning, we found that he had not been negligent in the charge
+assigned to him.  Our party consisted of five officers, with five
+servants, for whose accommodation we found ten asses at the door,
+each attended by its driver, who wielded a long pole tipped with
+an iron spike, for the purpose of goading the animal whenever it
+should become lazy.
+
+It was not without a good deal of laughing that the cavalcade,
+after bidding adieu to the hospitable Mayor, began to move
+forward.  Our asses, of no larger size than ordinary English
+donkeys, were uncaparisoned, at least with bridles; and the
+saddles were neither more nor less than the pack-saddles upon
+which goods are transported to market.  For our own comfort,
+therefore, we were obliged to sit a la femelle, and having no
+command over the heads of our steeds, we were content to be
+guided by the hallooing and punching of the drivers.  In spite,
+however, of these inconveniences, if so they may be called, I
+shall never cease to congratulate myself on having been of the
+party, because the ride proved to be one of the most agreeable I
+remember at any time to have taken.
+
+The road from Villa Franca to Ponto del Gada quits the water's
+edge, and turns, for a little way, inland, carrying you through a
+region as romantic and beautiful as can well be imagined.  There
+are here no level plains, no smooth paths over which a landau or
+tilbury might glide, but, on the contrary, a rugged and stony
+track, sometimes leading down the face of steep hills, sometimes
+scaling heights which at the distance of a mile appear to be
+almost perpendicular, and sometimes winding along the side of a
+cliff, and by the edge of a fearful precipice.  Except when you
+reach the summit of a mountain, the road is in general shaded by
+the richest underwood, hanging over it from above; but the whole
+aspect of the country is decidedly that of a volcanic production:
+the rocks seem to have been cast up and torn asunder by some
+prodigious violence, and hurled, by a force which nothing but a
+volcano could possess, into the most grotesque and irregular
+shapes.  It is no uncommon thing to pass under a huge crag,
+leaning almost horizontally over the road, and bedded in the
+earth by a foundation apparently so slight, as to appear liable
+to fall every moment, precipitating the enormous mass upon the
+luckless wretch beneath.  Nay, the very colour of the stones, and
+the quantity of what bears every resemblance to vitrification,
+scattered about, all tend to induce the, belief that the main
+island owes its formation to the same cause which doubtless
+produced the smaller one that has now disappeared.
+
+ ST. MICHAEL'S
+
+It is not, however, to be inferred from the above description
+that St. Michael's is nothing but a barren rock; far from it.
+There is, indeed, in this direction at least, a fair proportion
+of that commodity; but tracts of cultivated ground are not
+therefore wanting.  I should not certainly suppose that the soil
+was remarkably rich in any part of the island; but it produces
+the fig, the orange-tree, and a grape from which the inhabitants
+make very tolerable wine; and there is excellent pasture for
+sheep, and a competent supply of grain.  But that in which the
+Azores, and St. Michael's among the number, particularly excel,
+is the extreme salubrity of the climate.  Lying in nearly the
+same degree of latitude with Lisbon, the intense heat which
+oppresses in that city is here alleviated by refreshing
+sea-breezes; by which means, though I believe there is no
+occasion at any season to complain of cold, it is only in the
+very height of the dog-days, if then, that a person, not actually
+engaged in violent exercise, is justified in complaining of
+sultriness.
+
+The trade of St. Michael's, as far as I could learn, is confined
+exclusively to fruit: the fig and the orange are the staple
+commodities; and being both very abundant, they are, of course,
+proportionably cheap.  Into the praise of a St. Michael's orange
+it is unnecessary for me to enter, because it is generally
+allowed to be the best with which the English market is supplied;
+but of the excellence of the St. Michael's fig, I am not sure
+that my countrymen in general are so much aware.  It might be,
+that not having seen a fig for a considerable lapse of time, my
+appetite was peculiarly sharpened towards its good qualities, but
+it struck me that I never before tasted any so highly flavoured
+or so delicate.  Besides these, they sell to vessels putting in,
+as we did, for water, some of the wine made in this and the
+neighbouring islands; but the quantity thus disposed of must be
+too inconsiderable to entitle it to be classed among the articles
+of merchandise.
+
+I find, however, that I am entering upon subjects in which I am
+but little versed, and digressing from my narrative.  Let me
+return, then, to self, that beloved idol of all travellers, and
+state that, after we had ridden about six miles, the road, which
+had hitherto conducted us along a narrow glen, where the vision
+was intercepted on both sides, now carried us to the summit of a
+lofty mountain, from whence we enjoyed the satisfaction of an
+extensive prospect, both of the sea and of the interior.  Looking
+towards the former, we beheld our own fleet bearing down
+majestically upon Ponto del Gada, and fast approaching the
+anchorage.  Turning our eyes inland again, we were delighted with
+a view of mountain and valley, rock and culture, wood and
+pasturage, intermingled in the most exquisite degree of
+irregularity; but what principally attracted our attention was a
+thick dark smoke rising slowly from the summit of a high hill
+that bounded the prospect.  Our curiosity being excited by this
+phenomenon, we inquired from our guides into its cause, and were
+informed that the mountain in question was a volcano, and that at
+its base and along its sides were hot springs of water, of a
+temperature sufficient to boil an egg in three minutes.  This
+piece of intelligence confirmed me in my former opinion relative
+to the operative cause in the production of these islands;
+though, indeed, had such evidence been wanting, I should have
+equally concluded, either that they were thrown up, in their
+present form, from the bottom of the sea, or at least that they
+were torn asunder from one another by the force of fire.  It must
+be confessed, however, that mine is the opinion of one who has
+devoted little of his attention to geology; but I would by all
+means advise the disciples of Werner to come hither, if they
+desire further helps in the prosecution of that very interesting
+and practically useful study.
+
+
+
+Chapter V.
+
+
+DESCENDING the mountain, on which we had paused for a few minutes
+to feast our eyes and satisfy our curiosity, we arrived at a
+small hamlet, or rather a group of two or three hovels, as
+romantically situated as it is possible for the imagination of
+man to conceive.  They stood at the further end of a sort of
+recess, formed by the hills, which are here broken into a
+circular valley, cut off, to all appearance, from the rest of the
+habitable world; behind them rose a towering crag, as
+perpendicular as the drop of a plummet, from the top of which a
+little rivulet came tumbling down, giving to the scene an
+appearance of the most delightful coolness, and amusing the ear
+with the unceasing roar of a waterfall.  From the very face of
+the cliff, where there seemed to be scarcely soil enough to
+nourish a thistle, numerous shrubs and dwarf trees protruded
+themselves; whilst above it, and on every side of the area, the
+hills were covered with wood, interrupted now and then by the
+bald forehead of a blackened rock.  In front of the hamlet again,
+there was an opening sufficient to admit the most delicious
+glimpse of the ocean; and through this the stream, after boiling
+for awhile in a little basin, which it has excavated for itself
+out of what resembles the foundation of the cliff, makes its way,
+brawling over a clear pebbly bottom, till it joins the sea.
+
+This paragon of valleys burst upon us as such scenes, to be
+witnessed with advantage, ought to do, without the slightest
+warning or expectation.  The road by which we approached it,
+being completely shut in with wood, and winding considerably to
+aid the descent, brought us out nearly at the gorge of the vale,
+so as to throw the hamlet, the cliff, and the waterfall into the
+background; and as the whole was of such extent as to be taken in
+at one glance, the effect was striking beyond anything of the
+kind I ever witnessed.  It is but natural to suppose that we had
+no desire to hurry through such a glen as this; and seeded not
+the additional motive which the weariness of our donkeys
+afforded, to persuade us to a temporary halt.  Giving the
+animals, therefore, to the care of their owners, we dismounted,
+and went into some of the cabins, the inhabitants of which
+appeared to be as simple as the situation of their abodes had
+prepared us to expect.  The men were all goatherds, and the women
+seemed to be as idle as their countrywomen in Portugal, sitting
+at the doors of their houses, surrounded by groups of half-naked
+and filthy-looking children.  If it be fair to judge from their
+dress and the furniture of their hovels, they were miserably
+poor, though perfectly contented; they did not ask us for money,
+but astonished, I suppose, at the glaring colour of our coats,
+they were very inquisitive to know who we were and whence we had
+come.  The English, the French, and the Portuguese seemed to be
+the only three nations of whose existence they had any knowledge;
+and having been assured, in answer to their first question, that
+we were not French, they immediately added, "Then you must be
+English."  They did not appear, however, to be without some
+degree of cunning, for as long as we paused in replying to their
+query, they were silent; but no sooner had we answered in the
+negative than they launched forth into the most violent
+invectives against the French; convincing us that the animosity
+of the mother-country towards its barbarous invaders was not more
+implacable than that of the colonies.
+
+Having loitered away half an hour in this romantic spot, and
+distributed a few dollars among its inhabitants, we remounted our
+steeds and continued our journey.  The remainder of the ride
+carried us through scenery very similar to what we had already
+passed; the only difference was, that the nearer we approached to
+Ponto del Gada the more frequent became the spots of cultivation,
+the width and smoothness of the road improving in proportion;
+till at last, when we had attained the brow of an eminence, from
+whence the town with its port and bay were distinguishable, we
+looked down upon an extensive valley, richly covered with fields
+of standing corn.  Quickening our pace, we soon entered the
+capital of St. Michael's, and were conducted by the drivers to a
+good hotel, kept by an Englishwoman of the name of Currie, where
+we found every accommodation which we could desire, at a very
+moderate expense.
+
+PONTO DEL GADA
+
+As we had started at an early hour from Villa Franca, the clocks
+were just striking ten when we alighted at Mrs. Currie's hotel;
+consequently, there was a long day yet before us, in which we
+might see everything that was to be seen in the place.  Having
+discharged our muleteers, therefore, who seemed overjoyed at the
+receipt of one dollar a-piece, swallowed a hasty breakfast, and
+made ourselves somewhat comfortable, we lost no time in setting
+out upon a stroll of examination and discovery.
+
+Ponto del Gada is, on the whole, rather a neat town, containing
+from twelve to fourteen thousand inhabitants; but being built,
+especially in the outskirts, without much regard to compactness,
+it covers more ground than many places of double the amount in
+population.  It stands upon a little bay, formed by two
+projecting headlands, and can boast of a tolerable harbour
+excellent roadstead.  In its immediate vicinity the country a
+more uniformly level than any I had yet observed; the vale
+extending to the distance of four or five miles on every side,
+had ending in an amphitheatre of low green hills, which resemble
+appearance, the downs as they are seen from Eastbourne in Sussex.
+The whole of this flat is in a state of high cultivation, being
+cleared, perhaps too completely, of wood, and portioned off into
+different fields and parks by hedges and stone walls.  Judging
+from the appearance of the crops, I should conceive that the
+soil was here of some depth, as well as fertility, the whole
+valley being covered with wheat, barley, and Indian corn.  And in
+truth, if the aspect of the country beyond the downs, where rocks
+tower one above another in rude and barren grandeur, furnish a
+legitimate criterion by which to determine respecting the general
+fertility of the island, I should be almost tempted to believe
+that the whole industry of its people has been expended upon this
+spot, simply because it was the only one capable of rewarding it.
+I was assured, however, by the natives, that such is not the case;
+and that, in the interior, and towards the opposite coast, the
+rugged magnificence of mountain scenery gives place to a more
+profitable though less picturesque champaign.
+
+The principal streets of Ponto del Gada are paved, and kept once
+cool and clean by a. constant sprinkling of water, which is the
+business of two or three men stationed at pumps within obtain
+distance of one another, to scatter over them.  Of the by-streets
+little can be said in praise, they being, like those of other
+Portuguese towns, composed of mean cottages, unpaved,  and
+extremely dirty.  There is, however, an air of elegance given to
+the town, particularly when looked at from a distance, by the
+intermixture of orange-groves among the houses; the largest of
+these, wherever they happen to stand, being, in general,
+surrounded by extensive gardens, all of which are abundantly
+stocked with that graceful and odoriferous plant.  Add to this
+the number of towers and spires with which its numerous churches
+and convents are supplied, and the first aspect of the whole may
+be conceived to be extremely striking and imposing.
+
+As soon as we had taken a hurried survey of the streets, the next
+object of attention was the religious houses.  In these there was
+but little to admire, the architecture being of the plainest
+kind, and even the chapels as much wanting in ornament as can be
+imagined.  There were, indeed, in most of them some trifling
+attempts at carved work and gilding upon the roof, a little
+stained glass, neither rich nor ancient, in the windows, and a
+few tawdry pictures suspended above the altars; but the general
+appearance was decidedly that of buildings which did not even aim
+at beauty or grandeur.  The monks we found a good-natured,
+obliging set of men, very willing to give us any information in
+their power; by one of whom we were fortunate enough to be
+conducted through a convent of Augustine friars.  Into their mode
+of living it is not to be supposed that we could obtain much
+insight.  It seemed, however, to be less indolent than that of
+some convents which we had visited in the old country, and
+approached proportionably nearer to a college life among
+ourselves; though it must be admitted that the fellows and
+undergraduates of Oxford and Cambridge have a better notion of
+both comfort and elegance than the Augustine friars of
+St. Michael's.  Of the nuns we of course saw nothing, excepting
+through the grates.  We found them full of curiosity, and eager
+to know as much as they could learn of the world from which they
+were excluded; but quite as fond of flirting as any set of young
+ladies at a boarding-school.  It was amusing to observe their
+mode of begging, for all the nuns in this part of the world are
+licensed beggars.  The younger and fairer members of the
+sisterhood came to the grate first; chatted, sung, and presented
+us with artificial flowers, and then retiring, made way for the
+old and the ugly, who requested a little money for the good of
+our souls and their bodies.  To solicitations thus expressed it
+was impossible to turn a deaf ear, and the consequence was, that
+we soon discovered it to be quite as expensive an amusement to
+flirt with a nun, as with any other belle in London or elsewhere.
+
+Besides the churches and convents, amounting in all to not fewer
+than nine, there is a fort erected for the protection of the
+harbour, which we likewise endeavoured to see, but were prevented
+by the sentinel at the gate, who refused us admittance.  The
+disappointment, however, was not great, as it was easy to
+perceive, from its outward appearance, that the fort could
+possess few points worthy of observation; and, indeed, we
+attributed the reluctance evinced in admitting strangers to its
+utter uselessness as a place of defence.
+
+To describe all this occupies but a small portion of time; but to
+see it was the laborious employment of an entire day.  Wearied
+out at length with my exertions, and not feeling much rewarded,
+at least for the latter part of my trouble, I returned in
+the evening to the hotel, where, as the ships were still at
+anchor, taking on board water and fresh provisions, I ventured to
+spend the night.
+
+Having thus discovered that there was little in the works of art,
+and a great deal in those of nature, throughout St. Michael's, to
+interest the traveller, a friend and myself determined to set off
+next morning on a visit to the volcano.  With this design we
+ordered asses, for asses are the only animals for hire, to be in
+readiness by daybreak; and finding them in waiting at the time
+appointed, we took a guide with us and pushed forward in the
+direction of the dark smoke.  The mountain with its crater being
+distinctly visible from Ponto del Gada, we took it for granted
+the distance between the two places could not exceed twelve or
+fourteen miles; but, on inquiring of our guide, we learned that
+the nearest road would carry us at least twenty-seven miles from
+the town.  This was at once a startling and unpleasant piece of
+intelligence, affecting our arrangements in no trifling degree.
+To proceed was dangerous, because, mounted as we were, to go and
+return in one day was impossible; and, if we remained so far from
+the shipping during the night, the fleet might sail v before we
+should be able to get back.  On the the other hand, to give up
+our design, and quit a country where a volcano was to be seen,
+without seeing it, appeared rather a mortifying prospect.  After
+weighing for a few minutes the chances on both sides, I shall not
+say with the utmost impartiality, curiosity finally prevailed
+over apprehension; and, in order to prevent any further
+repentance and consequent change of mind, we put our donkeys into
+a gallop, and hurried on as fast as they could carry us.  But the
+speed of the asses and our own venturous determination proved,
+after all, equally unavailing; for, on gaining the summit of the
+downs, and looking back upon the fleet, we beheld, to our great
+sorrow, the signal for sailing displayed at the topmasts of all
+the ships.  Mortified at our disappointment, and at the same time
+rejoicing that we had got no farther on our journey, we were
+compelled to turn our asses' heads, and to retrace our steps
+towards Ponto del Gada, where we found everything in the bustle
+and confusion of a re-embarkation.  The beach was covered with
+sailors, soldiers, bullocks, and casks of fresh water, hurrying,
+and being hurried, indiscriminately into the boats which had
+arrived to take them off.  The townspeople were running about
+upon the strand, some offering their skiffs to convey the
+officers on board the ships, some helping to swing the bullocks
+into the barges, and others shouting and hallooing apparently
+from the disinterested love of noise.  In short, it was a scene
+of great liveliness and bustle, perhaps rather too much so to be
+agreeable.
+
+Seeing this universal eagerness to reach the fleet, we, like the
+rest, threw ourselves into the first boat we could approach, and
+in a short time found ourselves on board our own ship.  But here
+a very tantalizing piece of intelligence awaited us, for we
+learnt that, in spite of all this show of preparation, the
+Admiral had not begun to weigh anchor; and that no intention of
+moving was entertained, at soonest, before the morrow.  The
+opportunity, however, was lost; it could not be recovered, and we
+were obliged to submit as cheerfully as we could, though it was
+impossible to help regretting, what had at first been a source of
+consolation, the circumstance of our having caught a view of the
+signal at the time we did.  But, as the event proved, all had
+turned out for the best; for on the day following the signal was
+again repeated; and by way of giving additional weight to it, the
+Admiral began to shake loose his topsails.  Nor did it prove,
+like that of yesterday, a false alarm.  By mid-day, the
+victualling and watering being complete, the fleet immediately
+began to get under weigh; and, as the wind blew fair and fresh,
+before dark the mountains of St. Michael's could be seen only
+like a thin vapour in the sky.  Next morning nothing but the old
+prospect of air and water met the gaze, as we stood our course,
+at a rapid rate, towards Bermuda.
+
+AT SEA
+
+The voyage from St. Michael's to Bermuda occupied the space of
+almost an entire month, the first having been lost sight of on
+the 27th of June, and it being the 24th of July before the low
+shores of the last could be discerned.  It was, however, a
+passage of more interest and productive of more variety than that
+from Bordeaux to the Azores.  We had now arrived within the
+influence of the tropical climate, and were not unfrequently
+amused with water-spouts, and other phenomena peculiar to warm
+regions.  The flying-fish, likewise, and its pursuer, the
+dolphin, afforded at least something to look at; whilst many idle
+hours were whiled away in attempts to catch or strike the latter
+with harpoons.  In these we were not always unsuccessful,
+consequently we enjoyed several opportunities of watching the
+change of colour which that fish undergoes whilst it is dying;
+and though the description generally given of it is certainly
+indebted in some degree to the imagination of voyagers, I must
+confess that the transitions from blue to purple, and from
+purple to green, with all their intermediate shades, are
+extremely beautiful.  When the fish is in the water, it is by no
+means remarkable for brilliancy of hue, and as as soon as it is
+dead it returns to its original colour--a dingy sea-green; but
+whilst it is floundering and flapping upon the deck, it is
+impossible to say what is its real appearance, so many and so
+different are the hues which it assumes.  Nor did we escape
+without the occasional occurrence of a less agreeable species of
+variety; I mean squalls, thunder-storms, and whirlwinds.  As we
+approached Bermuda, indeed, these became too frequent to excite
+any interest beyond an earnest desire that they would cease: but
+while we were yet a good way off, and the incident rare, they
+were witnessed with more of admiration than terror.
+
+Besides these amusements with which nature supplied us, we were
+not backward in endeavouring to amuse ourselves.  Being now
+pretty well accustomed to the atmosphere of a ship, we began to
+consider ourselves at home, and to give balls and other public
+entertainments through the fleet.  One of these I shall take leave
+to describe, because I am sure it must interest from its novelty.
+On the 19th of July, at an early hour in the morning, a signal
+was made from the Royal Oak, that the Admiral would be happy to
+see the officers of the fleet on board his ship that evening.
+Boats were accordingly sent off from the different vessels,
+loaded with visitors; and on mounting the gangway, a stage, with
+a green curtain before it, was discovered upon the quarter-deck.
+The whole of the deck, from the poop to the mainmast, was hung
+round with flags, so as to form a moderate-sized theatre; and the
+carronades were removed from their port-holes, in order to make
+room for the company.  Lamps were suspended from all parts of the
+rigging and shrouds, casting a brilliant light upon this singular
+playhouse; and the crew, arrayed in their best attire, crowded
+the booms, yards, and fore part of the deck; whilst the space
+from the mainmast to the foot of the stage was set with benches
+for the more genteel part of the audience.
+
+At seven o'clock the curtain drew up, and discovered a scene
+painted with such taste as would not have disgraced any theatre
+in London.  The play was the 'Apprentice,' with the 'Mayor of
+Garret' as an afterpiece, performed by the officers of the ship
+and of the artillery, and went off in high style, applauded, as
+it deserved to be applauded, with the loudest acclamations.  The
+quarter-deck of a British line-of-battle ship has often enough
+been a stage for the exhibition of bloody tragedies; but to
+witness a comedy and a farce upon that stage, and in the middle
+of the Atlantic Ocean, was delightful from its very singularity.
+When the performance came to an end, the stage was knocked down,
+the seats removed, and everything cleared for dancing.  The music
+was excellent, being composed of the band of the Royal Oak; and
+the ball was opened by Admiral Malcolm and the Honourable Mrs.
+Mullens, in a country dance, followed by as many couples as the
+space would permit; the greater number of officers dancing, as
+necessity required, with one another.  In this amusement every
+person, from the Admiral and General, down to the youngest ensign
+and midshipman, joined, laying aside for the time all restraint
+or form of discipline; and having kept it up with great spirit
+till considerably beyond midnight, a blue light was hoisted as a
+signal for the different boats to come off for the strangers, and
+each returned to his own ship highly gratified with the evening's
+entertainment.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+BERMUDA
+
+By employing ourselves in this manner, and by keeping up what is
+emphatically called a good heart, we contrived to pass out time
+agreeably enough.  As often as the weather would permit, and the
+fleet lay well together, we made parties of pleasure to the
+different ships; when the wind was too high, and the fleet too
+much scattered for such proceedings, we remained at home, and
+amused ourselves in the best way we could.  Some of the captains,
+and ours among the number, were possessed of very tolerable
+libraries, the doors of which they politely threw open for the
+benefit of their military guests; and thus, by reading, fishing,
+and boating, we were enabled to make head, with some success,
+against the encroachments of ennui.  It must be confessed,
+however, that in spite of strenuous efforts to the contrary, that
+determined enemy of all idle persons was beginning to gain ground
+upon us, when, about mid-day on the 24th of July, a cry of land
+was heard from the mast-head.  All eyes were immediately turned
+in the direction to which the sailor pointed, and as wind blew
+fair and moderately fresh, no great length of time before the
+same object was distinguishable from the deck.  A signal was
+immediately hoisted for a pilot, who lost no time in coming off
+to us; and before dark we were at anchor opposite to the tanks in
+Bermuda.
+
+The appearance of Bermuda is altogether as different from that of
+St. Michael's as one thing can be from another.  Whilst the last,
+with its lofty mountains and bold shores, can be seen at the
+distance of many leagues, a ship must be within a few miles of
+the first before the slightest symptom of land is discernible.
+On this account it is that mariners find greater difficulty in
+making Bermuda than perhaps any other island or continent in the
+known world; the most experienced seaman frequently sailing past
+it, and not a few suffering shipwreck every year upon its
+numerous shoals and rocks.  For not only is the land itself low,
+and thus apt to be run against by vessels which may have
+approached in stormy weather too near to put about, but for many
+miles round, reefs of sunken rocks stretch out into the sea in
+every direction; insomuch, that even the approach to the
+principal anchorage is no more than a narrow channel between two
+reefs, in many places scarcely exceeding a mile or a mile and a
+half in width.  The navigation, even in calm weather, is
+therefore attended with considerable danger; the idea of which is
+greatly heightened by the remarkable clearness of the water and
+the peculiar brightness of the rocks.  In some places this is so
+much the case, that the bottom may be seen at the depth of six or
+seven fathoms; whilst the aspect of the reefs which lie on each
+side, as you steer towards the anchorage, is such, as almost to
+persuade you, contrary to the evidence of reason, that a man
+might leap upon them from a boat without incurring the danger of
+being wet above the knees.  Yet these very reefs are seldom
+covered with less than six, and sometimes with fourteen and
+fifteen feet of water.
+
+Low as they are, the shores of Bermuda are nevertheless extremely
+beautiful.  They are covered with cedar, a tree which here, at
+least, seldom exceeds the height of twenty feet, and from which,
+before the sun has risen and after he has set, the land breeze
+comes loaded with the most delicious perfume.  Under the wood
+there grows a rich short turf, apparently struggling to spread
+itself over the chalky rocks, of which the entire island, or
+rather islands, seem to be composed; and, as the houses of the
+better orders are chiefly built within reach of the cool air from
+the water, they, with their little lawns and gardens, produce a
+lively and pleasing effect.
+
+As darkness had come on before the ship could be properly moored,
+no boats were permitted to leave her that night; but at an early
+hour next morning I embraced the first opportunity of going on
+shore.  To reach St. George's, the capital of the colony, you are
+obliged to row for several miles up a narrow frith called the
+ferry, immediately on entering which the scenery becomes in the
+highest degree picturesque.  Though still retaining its character
+of low, the ground on each side looks as if it were broken into
+little swells, the whole of them beautifully shaded with groves
+of cedar, and many of them crowned with country-houses as white
+as the drifted snow.  But the fact is, that this appearance of
+hill and dale is owing to the prodigious number of islands which
+compose the cluster; there being in all, according to vulgar
+report, not fewer than three hundred and sixty-five, of which the
+largest exceeds not seven or eight miles in diameter.  Yet it is
+only when you follow what at first you are inclined to mistake for
+a creek or the mouth of a river, that you discover the absence of
+valleys from between these hills; and even then you are more apt
+to fancy yourself upon the bosom of a lake studded with islets,
+than steering amid spots of earth which stand, each of them
+distinct, in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.
+
+In the town of St. George's there is nothing to be seen at all
+worthy of record.  It consists of about fifty or sixty houses,
+the glare from which, as they are all built of the chalk stone, is
+extremely dazzling to the eyes.  It is called the capital,
+because here the court-house stands and the magisterial sittings
+are held; but in point of size, and, as far as I could learn, in
+every other respect, it is greatly inferior to Hamilton, another
+town at the opposite extremity of the cluster, which I did not
+visit.  A little way from St. George's, and on the summit of a
+bare rock, stand the barracks, fitted up for the accommodation of
+a thousand men; and about a mile and a half beyond them are the
+tanks, well worth the notice of travellers.  The object of this
+work is to catch and preserve the rain--a measure which the total
+deficiency of fresh springs throughout the colony renders
+absolutely necessary.  There are, indeed, wells dug upon the
+beach, but the water in these is nothing more than sea-water,
+filtered and rendered brackish in making its way through the
+sand, and by no means fit to be used, at least in any quantity.
+To supply this deficiency, the bad effects of which were
+experienced in the unhealthiness of many of the crews upon the
+American station, Government was induced to build these tanks;
+consequently the water contained in them is the property of the
+king, and none but king's ships, with the troops in garrison, are
+permitted, except in extreme cases, to be supplied from thence.
+
+The climate of Bermuda has been extolled by many, and among the
+rest by Mr. Moore in his odes and epistles, as salubrious and
+delightful.  It is possible that he, and the rest of its
+eulogists, may have visited these islands at a season of the year
+different from that in which I visited them, but to me the heat
+was beyond measure oppressive.  Lying, as they do, under the
+influence of a vertical sun, and abounding in all directions with
+cliffs of white chalk, it is obvious that the constant reflection
+of the sun's rays thereby occasioned must be quite overpowering.
+If these panegyrists mean to say, that as long as you contrive to
+keep in the shade, and take care not to stir abroad till after
+sunset, you will find the Bermudas deserving of their title of
+summer-islands, then I will agree with them; but I believe there
+is no man who ever walked the street of St. George's at noon, or
+any other spot where the sun-beams could reach him, that did not
+consider the heat as anything rather than temperate.
+
+But whatever may be thought of the climate, there can, I think,
+be but one opinion as to the soil.  It is generally admitted that
+there is no more unproductive spot of earth upon the face of the
+deep than Bermuda.  The only animals which appear to thrive are
+the goat and the duck; the cedar and a few calabash-trees are the
+only wood, and, except the most common kinds of vegetables, such
+as cabbages, onions, and sweet potatoes; I know of hardly another
+thing brought to perfection, even in the gardens.  The fruits
+which a stranger may meet with are no doubt delicious, since
+among them he will find the shaddock and the pine-apple; but for
+these, as well as for almost all their other comforts and
+luxuries, the Bermudians are indebted to the continent of America
+or to the West Indies.  Whether this be owing to the natural
+sterility of the soil, or to the extreme indolence of the
+inhabitants, I cannot pretend to decide; though I should be
+inclined to suspect that both were, in some degree, to blame; but
+its consequences are felt by all visitors, in a very sensible
+manner, every article of living being here sold for thrice its
+intrinsic value.  That provisions should be dear in this country
+cannot surprise, when it is considered that this small colony is
+the general depot and place of resort for repairs and stores to a
+large proportion of the British navy, scattered along the coast
+of America; but, surely, if the natives were a little more
+industrious, they might afford to sell their goods at a cheaper
+rate, and at the same time secure an equal, if not a greater
+profit.  But their indolence is beyond all conception, and can be
+attributed only to, what I believe is its real cause, the
+facility with which they acquire fortunes, from men who are
+necessitated to give whatever they demand for the most trifling
+article.  The poorest and meanest freeman upon the island never
+dreams of applying his own hand, or even his own head, to the
+cultivation of the ground; and being abundantly supplied with
+negro slaves, they leave everything, even the care of providing
+necessaries for themselves, to the industry of that ill-used
+race.  I may perhaps be considered as expressing myself with
+too much severity towards the Bermudians, but, in truth, I repeat
+only what I was told by some of themselves; nor did I, from my
+own personal observation, discover any cause to question the
+veracity of my informers.
+
+In the praise bestowed by Mr. Moore upon the beauty of these
+regions, I do, however, most cordially join.  There is something
+bewitchingly pretty, for pretty is perhaps the most appropriate
+epithet to be used, in every one of the many views which you may
+obtain from different points.  The low and elegant cedar, the
+green short turf, the frequent recurrence of the white and
+dazzling rock, the continual rise and fall of the numerous small
+islands, but above all, the constant intermingling of land and
+water, seem more like a drawing of fairy land than a reality.
+There is nothing grand, nothing imposing, or calculated to excite
+any feeling bordering upon the awful, throughout the whole; but
+it is soft, gentle, and exquisitely pleasing.
+
+Having spent the day at St. George's, I returned on board to
+sleep; and on the morrow removed, with my baggage, to a transport
+then lying at anchor within the ferry, which was thenceforth to
+be my head-quarters.  Thither my friend Grey also removed, and as
+our ship was well stored, and its commander civil and
+accommodating, we had no reason to complain of any suffering
+consequent upon our change of residence.
+
+It will be readily believed that a very small portion of our time
+was now wasted on board ship; for economy's sake we usually slept
+there, because at the inn the charge for beds, as well as for
+everything else, was enormous; but all the hours of daylight were
+devoted to rowing round the different islands, and climbing the
+different eminences, from whence the most extensive prospects
+were to be obtained.  Among other curiosities, we were informed
+of two caves in one of the little isles, distant about four or
+five miles from the place where we lay.  Being assured that they
+were highly deserving of notice, we determined to visit them; and
+setting off one evening for that purpose, we reached the spot
+which had been pointed out to us a little before dark.  We
+fastened the boat to the stump of a tree, and were proceeding
+towards the caves, when a fine manly voice, singing one of the
+Irish melodies, attracted our attention.  Being rather curious to
+discover who, in this extramundane place, had learnt to sing with
+so much taste, we followed the direction of the sound, till we
+came upon a party sitting under the shade of a tent, and, like
+ourselves, enjoying the cool of the evening; on perceiving us,
+some of them came forward, and the satisfaction was mutual when
+we recognised one another as old acquaintances.  They urged us to
+relinquish our design, and to partake of their good cheer, with
+which, as the hour was late, we had small reluctance in
+complying; and it was agreed, that instead of going on without
+proper guides, and at so unseasonable a time, we should breakfast
+together at the same spot in the morning, and proceed in a body
+to examine the caverns.  Here, therefore, we remained till the
+moon had risen, when we returned to our boat, and sailed back to
+the ship.
+
+Next morning everything was prepared for the expedition, but a
+heavy squall coming on, prevented us from setting out as early as
+we had intended; as soon, however, as this blew over, we took to
+our boat, and reached the place of rendezvous in time to share
+the remains of a good breakfast which our friends had prepared
+for themselves and us.  When our meal was finished, we supplied
+ourselves with torches from some dry branches of the
+calabash-tree, and, headed by a guide, moved towards the mouth of
+the nearest and largest of the two caves.  We descended into this
+by a ladder of sixteen steps, and arrived upon a broad ledge of
+rock, where we halted for a few minutes to light the torches, and
+accustom our vision to the gloom; when, both of these ends being
+attained, we advanced a few paces into the cave, and a sight of
+the most indescribable sublimity burst upon us.  The appearance
+was that of a huge Gothic cathedral, having its roof supported
+upon pillars of spar, moulded into the most regular shapes, and
+fluted and carved after the most exact models of architecture.
+The roof itself was indeed too lofty to be discerned, nor could
+the eye penetrate to anything like an extremity, all beyond a
+certain extent being wrapped in the most profound darkness; but
+the flashes of light which at intervals streamed out, as the
+glare of the torches fell upon pieces of spar as clear as
+crystal, and the deep echo of our own voices as we spoke,
+inspired us with a feeling of awe bordering upon superstition.
+It is in such a situation as this, that the poverty of the
+mightiest monument of human art becomes conspicuous.  The most
+magnificent churches and abbeys, with their sculptured pillars
+and vaulted ceilings, were thought of as mean in comparison of
+what was now before us; indeed, I for one could not help
+imagining that these very churches and abbeys had been built in
+humble imitation of this, which looked like a temple reared by
+some beings more powerful than men.  It seemed a shrine worthy of
+the genii of old, while yet they were in the zenith of their
+glory, ere they had been driven from their thrones and oracles of
+darkness by the light of Christianity.
+
+As we moved onward we found the sides of the cave gradually
+narrow upon us, and the roof become lower and lower.  There was,
+however, a continuance of the same fane-like appearance to the
+last, though growing more and more contracted; till, finally, we
+were compelled to advance one by one, and to stoop in order to
+prevent our heads from coming into contact with the rock.  We had
+proceeded as far as it was possible to proceed with any degree of
+comfort, and were informed by the guide that we were upwards of
+three hundred yards from the entrance, when we found it expedient
+to wheel about, and to return to the open air.  But the effect of
+so sudden a change from darkness to light was exceedingly
+disagreeable; insomuch that we hastened into the smaller cave, as
+well for the purpose of deferring the moment of suffering as to
+continue our search after the sublime.
+
+The entrance to this cavern is extremely dangerous, and not to be
+ventured upon without either a trusty guide or a thorough
+knowledge of the ground.  After descending a ladder, not quite so
+deep as that which leads into the larger cave, we arrived at the
+brink of a fearful chasm, across which a flat stone, about two
+feet in width, was laid, connecting the edges by a bridge four or
+five feet in length.  To what depth the chasm may reach, the
+guide could not inform us; but that it is considerable we
+discovered by dropping a large stone, which we could hear for
+some time as it dashed against the projecting edges of the rock,
+and at length splashed with a tremendous echo into water.  The
+man maintained that the sea beat under the foundation of the
+island as far as the spot where we now stood, and his story was
+rendered at least probable by the number of pools of salt water
+which we met with in the interior of the cave.
+
+After having visited the larger cavern, this certainly appeared
+to disadvantage; though in truth it is in its dimensions only
+that the one can be pronounced inferior to the other.  The spar
+is equally clear and proportionably as abundant in both: the
+pillars are quite as regularly formed, and the lesser has an
+advantage over its rival in two or three broken columns, which
+give to it the semblance of a temple in ruins.  There is also in
+this cave a strange propinquity of salt and fresh water pools,
+the situation of two of which struck me as peculiarly curious.
+They were divided from each other by a piece of rock not much
+thicker than a man's hand; and yet the water from the one tasted
+as if it had been taken from the German Ocean, whilst that from
+the other was as fresh and pleasant as possible.
+
+We had by this time fully gratified our curiosity, and once more
+ascended to the world of sunshine, the splendour of which was at
+first almost insupportable.  By degrees, however, our eyes became
+accustomed to the change and recovered their original tone, when
+we separated, each party returning to its respective ship in high
+good humour with the day's employment.
+
+But to dine quietly on board was no longer endurable.  A tent was
+accordingly carried on shore, and having sought out the most
+shady and agreeable nook within a moderate distance of the
+vessel, our dinner was brought thither, and we spent the evening,
+as we had done the morning, among the works of nature.  Here we
+remained till a late hour, talking over the adventures of the
+day, and occasionally attempting a blind peep into futurity, till
+our friend the moon having risen, we again pulled on board by her
+light, and lay down to dream of sparry domes and enchanted
+temples.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+
+AMERICA
+
+SOME apology is due to the reader, whose attention has been thus
+long withdrawn from other and more important matters, to follow
+the adventures of an humble individual like myself.  The fault,
+however, of which I have been guilty may be at once repaired,
+when I inform him that on our arrival at Bermuda we found Sir
+Alexander Cochrane, in the Tonnant, of eighty guns, waiting to
+receive us, and to take the command of the whole fleet.  The
+secret of our destination likewise, which up to that moment had
+been kept, transpired almost as soon as we cast anchor off the
+island; and it was publicly rumoured that our next point of
+debarkation would be somewhere on the shores of the Bay of
+Chesapeake.  Nor are these the only interesting public
+occurrences of which no notice has as yet been taken.  On the 4th
+of June our little army was reinforced by the arrival of the 21st
+Fusiliers, a fine battalion, mustering nine hundred bayonets,
+under the command of Colonel Patterson.  On the evening of the
+29th a squadron of four frigates and several transports appeared
+in the offing, which by mid-day on the day following were all at
+anchor in the roads.  They proved to be from the Mediterranean,
+having the 21st, 29th, and 62nd Regiments on board, of which the
+two latter were proceeding to join Sir George Prevost's army in
+Canada, whilst the former attached itself to that under the
+command of General Ross.  By this very acceptable reinforcement,
+our numbers were increased to upwards of three thousand effective
+men, and a greater confidence in themselves, as well as a better
+grounded hope of success in whatever they might undertake, was at
+the same time given to the troops.
+
+Having already dwelt sufficiently upon my own personal Adventures
+at Bermuda, I shall not waste time by a particular detail of the
+various preparations which during this interval were making
+throughout the fleet.  Stores of provisions, fresh water,
+ammunition, clothing, &c., were provided, and magazines for the
+future supply of the expedition established; when, on the 3rd
+of August, all things being complete, the ships once more got
+under weigh, and stood towards America.
+
+THE CHESAPEAKE
+
+During the whole of this day the wind was light and unsteady,
+consequently little progress was made, nor did the white rocks of
+Bermuda disappear till darkness concealed them; but towards
+morning a fresher and more favourable breeze springing up, the
+rest of the voyage was performed in reasonable time, and without
+the occurrence of any incident worthy of notice.  The heat,
+indeed, became more and more oppressive every day, and the
+irksomeness of renewed confinement was more sensibly experienced
+from the long holiday which we had enjoyed on shore; but, in
+other respects, everything returned to its former state, till
+towards evening on the 14th, when a signal was made by the
+Admiral that land was in sight.  As yet, however, there was no
+appearance of it from the deck of our transport, nor for a full
+half-hour could our anxious gaze be rewarded by the slightest
+trace of what it sought; but at the end of that time the low
+sandy point of Cape Charles began to show itself, and we rejoiced
+in the prospect of a speedy release from the ennui of a seafaring
+life.
+
+The coast of America, at least in this quarter, is universally
+low and uninteresting; insomuch, that for some time before the
+land itself can be discerned, forests of pines appear to rise, as
+it were, out of the water.  It is also dangerous from the
+numerous shoals and sandbanks which run out in many places to a
+considerable extent into the sea, and which are so formidable
+that no master of a vessel, unless he chance to be particularly
+well acquainted with the navigation, will venture to approach
+after dark.  The fleet was accordingly anchored within a few
+miles of the shore, but no sooner had the day begun to break than
+the sails were again hoisted, and the ships, steering under the
+influence of a leading wind, between the Capes Charles and Henry,
+stood in gallant style up the Chesapeake.
+
+This noble bay is far too wide, and the land on each side too
+flat, to permit any but an indistinct glimpse of the shore from
+the deck of a vessel which keeps well towards the middle.  On the
+present occasion we could distinguish nothing, on either hand,
+except the tops of trees, with occasionally a windmill or a
+lighthouse; but the view of our own fleet was in truth so
+magnificent as to prevent any murmuring on that account.
+Immediately on entering, we were joined by Admiral Cockburn with
+three line-of-battle ships, several frigates, and a few sloops of
+war and gun-brigs, by which means the squadron could now muster
+above twenty vessels entitled to display the pendant, besides an
+equal if not a greater number of victuallers and transports.  Nor
+were we strengthened by this addition in the naval part of the
+expedition alone.  On board these ships was embarked a powerful
+reinforcement for the army, consisting of a battalion of seven
+hundred marines, a hundred negroes lately armed and disciplined,
+and a division of marine artillery, so that we could now
+calculate on landing a corps of at least four thousand men.  The
+spectacle was therefore as agreeable and imposing as might be;
+because we could not help remembering that this magnificent fleet
+was sailing in an enemy's bay, and that it was filled with troops
+for the invasion of that enemy's country.  Thus, like a snowball,
+we had gathered as we went on, and from having set out a mere
+handful of soldiers, were now become an army, formidable as well
+from its numbers as its discipline.
+
+The shoals and sandbanks which abound on the outside of the bay,
+continue to encumber the navigation after it is entered, and the
+fleet was in consequence compelled to anchor every night.  This
+proceeding unavoidably occasioned much delay.  The first day's
+sail carried us only to the mouth of the James river, and the
+second to the mouth of the Potomac; but, on both occasions, we
+brought up at too great a distance from the beach to permit
+perfect or distinct view of either of these rivers.  Opposite to
+the latter, indeed, we remained for a night and a considerable
+part of the following day, and the sky being remarkably clear, we
+saw something more of it than we had been able to see of the
+other river.  It appeared to be a fine piece of water making its
+way through the centre of huge forests, and, though the current
+is in reality strong, flowing on without any apparent motion.
+But it would have been impossible to trace its course, even had
+we been nearer to the shore, above a few miles, on account of its
+numerous windings, the first of which, overshadowed as it is with
+wood, shuts it out from further observation.  By continuing here
+so long, we had begun to conjecture that a landing somewhere on
+the banks of this river was in contemplation.  In this, however,
+we were deceived, for about one o'clock the fleet was again
+under sail, and moving towards the Patuxent, a river which
+empties itself into the bay, several miles above the Potomac.
+
+THE PATUXENT.
+
+It was singular enough, that the ships had scarcely begun to lift
+their anchors, when the sky, which had hitherto continued clear
+and serene, became suddenly darkened and overcast with heavy
+clouds: and the water, which before had been as smooth and bright
+as a mirror, began to rise in black waves tipped with foam,
+though there was not a breath of air to fill the
+sails.  Hurricanes are, I believe, not unfrequent in this part of
+the world, and it was expected that these changes in the sea and
+sky foreboded the arrival of one; but they passed by without
+producing any violent results, and when we brought up, which was
+done in the evening, the clouds had dispersed, and the water was
+again like a glassy lake.
+
+The 18th of August had now arrived, and as yet we had advanced no
+farther than to the mouth of the Patuxent.  There we lay, as we
+had done the day before, anxiously expecting a breeze; till about
+noon, the wind beginning to blow fair, the fleet entered the
+river and made its way slowly and majestically against the
+stream.  The voyage soon became picturesque and interesting in
+the highest degree.  Fields of Indian corn, with meadows of the
+most luxuriant pasture, stretched along the margin of the stream
+on either hand; whilst the neat wooden houses of the settlers,
+all of them painted white, and surrounded with orchards and
+gardens, presented a striking contrast to the boundless forests
+which formed a background to the scene.  Of the prodigious extent
+and gloomy appearance of these forests, it is impossible for any
+language to convey an adequate conception.  There is nothing, at
+least nothing which I have seen, in the Old World, at all
+resembling or to be compared with them; and hemming in, as they
+do, on every side, the tiny spots of cultivation, they certainly
+convey no very enlarged idea of the power of human industry.  The
+cleared fields on the banks of the Patuxent, for example, could
+in no direction measure above half a mile across,--in many places
+their breadth fell short of that, from the river to the woods;
+and then all was one vast forest, through which no eye could
+penetrate, nor any traveller venture to seek his way.  We were,
+as may be imagined, greatly taken by scenery so novel; and we
+continued to gaze upon it with the liveliest interest, till our
+attention was drawn away to other and more important matters.
+
+ST. BENEDICT'S.
+
+We had not proceeded many miles from the river's mouth when a
+telegraph from the Admiral gave orders for the troops to be in
+readiness to land at a moment's notice.  Everything was forthwith
+put in a state of forwardness; provisions for three days, that is
+to say, three pounds of pork, with two pounds and a half of
+biscuit, were cooked and given to the men; the cartouch-boxes
+were supplied with fresh ammunition, and the arms and
+accoutrements handed out.  The fleet, however, continued to move
+on, without showing any inclination to bring to; till at length,
+having ascended to the distance of ten leagues from the bay, the
+ships of the line began to take the ground; and in a little while
+after, even the frigates could proceed no farther.  But by this
+time the sun had set, and darkness was coming on; consequently,
+there was no possibility, for that day, of getting the troops on
+shore without much confusion, if not danger.  All therefore
+remained quiet for the night, with this exception, that the
+soldiers were removed from the large ships into such as drew
+least water; which running up as high as prudence would permit,
+under convoy of the gun-brigs and sloops of war, there cast
+anchor.
+
+As soon as the dawn began to appear, on the morning of the 19th,
+there was a general stir throughout the fleet.  A gun-brig had
+already taken her station within a hundred and fifty yards of a
+village called St. Benedict's, on the left bank of the river,
+where it was determined that the disembarkation should be
+effected.  Her broadside was turned towards the shore, and her
+loaded with grape and round shot, were pointed at the beach, to
+cover the landing of the boats; and being moored and aft with
+spring-cables, she was altogether as manageable as if she had
+been under sail.  The rest of the ships were several miles lower
+down the stream, some of them being aground the distance of four
+leagues from this point; but the boats were quickly hoisted out
+from every one of them, and the river as covered in a trice with
+a well-manned and warlike flotilla.  The disembarkation was
+conducted with the greatest regularity and dispatch.  Though the
+stream ran strong against them, and some of them were obliged to
+row fourteen or fifteen miles backwards and forwards, so
+strenuously did the sailors exert themselves, that by three
+o'clock in the afternoon the whole army was landed, and occupied
+a strong position about two miles above the village.
+
+From what I have stated respecting the gun-brig, it will be seen
+that all things were in readiness to meet and repel opposition,
+should such be offered.  Her broadside being pointed directly
+towards the village, whilst it hindered the enemy from bringing
+down troops in that direction, gave to our people an opportunity
+of forming, and being able to meet, in good order, whatever force
+might be posted to check their advance up the country.  Had a few
+pieces of artillery been mounted, indeed, upon the high ground,
+afterwards taken possession of by us, some execution might have
+been done upon the boats as they drew towards the beach; but even
+that would have been trifling, because, unless they had had
+leisure to heat their shot, no artillery, in the open country
+could have long stood before the fire of even a gun-brig, armed
+as this was for the occasion with long thirty-two pounders.  Each
+boat-load of soldiers, likewise, drew up the moment they stepped
+on shore, forming line without any regard to companies or
+battalions; whilst parties were instantly dispatched to
+reconnoitre, and to take possession of every house, as well as to
+line every hedge, in front of the shore where their comrades were
+arriving.  But these preparations, though no more than common
+prudence required, were unnecessary; since there was not only no
+opposition to the landing, but, apparently, no enemy within many
+miles of the place.
+
+So much time was unavoidably expended in establishing the
+different regiments on the ground allotted to them, in bringing
+up the hospital and commissariat stores, and arranging the
+materiel, that when all things were ready, the day appeared too
+far spent to permit an advance into a country, of the nature and
+military situation of which we were of course ignorant.  The
+afternoon was accordingly devoted to a proper distribution of the
+force; which was divided into three brigades, in the following
+order:--
+
+The first, or light brigade, consisted of the 85th, the light
+infantry companies of the 4th, 21st, and 44th regiments, with the
+party of disciplined negroes, and a company of marines, amounting
+in all to about eleven hundred men; to the command of which
+Colonel Thornton, of the 85th regiment, was appointed.
+
+The second brigade, composed of the 4th and 44th regiments, which
+mustered together fourteen hundred and sixty bayonets, was
+intrusted to the care of Colonel Brooke, of the 44th; and the
+third, made up of the 21st, and the battalion of marines, and
+equalling in number the second brigade, was commanded by Colonel
+Patterson, of the 21st.  The whole of the infantry may,
+therefore, be estimated at four thousand and twenty men.  Besides
+these, there were landed about a hundred artillery-men, and an
+equal number of drivers; but for want of horses to drag them, no
+more than one six-pounder and two small three-pounder guns were
+brought on shore.  Except those belonging to the General and
+staff-officers, there was not a single horse in the whole army.
+To have taken on shore a large park of artillery would have been,
+under such circumstances, absolute folly, indeed, the pieces
+which were actually landed, proved in the end of very little
+service, and were drawn by seamen sent from the different ships
+for the purpose.  The sailors, thus employed, may be rated at a
+hundred, and those occupied in carrying stores, ammunition, and
+other necessaries, at a hundred more; and thus, by adding these,
+together with fifty sappers and miners, to the above amount, the
+whole number of men landed at St. Benedict's may be computed at
+four thousand five hundred.
+
+This little army was posted upon a height which rises at the
+distance of two miles from the river.  In front was a valley,
+cultivated for some way, and intersected with orchards; at the
+further extremity of which the advanced piquets took their
+ground; pushing forward a chain of sentinels to the very skirts
+of the forest.  The right of the position was protected by a
+farm-house with its enclosure and outbuildings, and the left
+rested upon the edge of the hill, or rather mound, which there
+abruptly ended.  On the brow of the hill, and about the centre of
+the line were placed the cannon, ready loaded, and having lighted
+fusees beside them; whilst the infantry bivouacked immediately
+under the ridge, or rather upon the slope of the hill which
+looked towards the shipping, in order to prevent their
+disposition from being seen by the enemy; should they come down
+to attack.  But as we were now in a country where we could not
+calculate upon being safe in rear, any more than in front, the
+chain of piquets was carried round both flanks, and so arranged,
+that no attempt could be made to get between the army and the
+fleet, without due notice, and time given to oppose and prevent
+it.  Everything, in short, was arranged with the utmost skill,
+and every chance of surprise provided against; but the night
+passed in quiet, nor was an opportunity afforded of evincing the
+utility of the very soldier-like dispositions which had been
+made.
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+NOTTINGHAM
+
+NEXT morning the troops, as is customary during a state of active
+warfare, were under arms an hour before daylight, and remained in
+position till after the sun had risen.  It was then confidently
+expected that the column would be put in motion, though in what
+direction it was to proceed, or what was the object of the
+descent, none but the General himself appeared to know.  A
+rumour, indeed, prevailed, that a flotilla of gun-boats upon the
+Patuxent, commanded by the American Commodore Barney, was the
+point of attack; and that while the land force advanced up the
+river to prevent their retreat, armed boats from the fleet were
+to engage them in front.  That such was in reality the primary
+object of the landing, I have every reason to believe, though
+circumstances afterwards occurred to bring about a change in the
+plan of operations.  Into these, however, I shall not now enter,
+because they are in no way, connected with the present stage of
+my narrative, but shall merely observe, that in their
+expectations of an immediate advance the troops were
+disappointed.  Whether it was that the arrangements had not been
+completed, or that intelligence respecting the state of the
+country and the enemy's preparations was wanting, I do not know;
+but the regiments returned to the ground which they had occupied
+during the night, and everything resumed the same face which it
+had worn on the evening before.
+
+In this state affairs continued till four o'clock in the
+afternoon, when the General suddenly made his appearance in the
+camp, the bugles sounded, and the regiments formed in order for
+marching.  Nor did many minutes elapse before the word was given,
+and the army began to move, taking the direction of Nottingham, a
+town situated on the river, where it was understood that the
+flotilla lay at anchor.  The march was conducted with the same
+caution and good order that had marked the choice of ground for
+encamping and the disposition of the troops in position.  The
+advanced-guard, consisting of three companies of infantry, led
+the way.  These, however, were preceded by a section of twenty
+men, moving before them at the distance of a hundred yards; and
+even these twenty were but the followers of two files, sent
+forward to prevent surprise, and to give warning of the approach
+of the enemy.  Parallel with the head of the three companies
+marched the flank patrols; parties of forty or fifty men, which,
+extending in files from each side of the road, swept the woods
+and fields to the distance of nearly half a mile.  After the
+advanced guard, leaving an interval of a hundred or a hundred and
+fifty yards, came the light brigade; which, as well as the
+advance, sent out flankers to secure itself against ambuscades.
+Next to it, again, marched the second brigade, moving steadily
+on, and leaving the skirmishing and reconnoitring to those
+in front; then came the artillery, consisting, as I have already
+stated, of one six and two three-pounder guns, drawn by seamen;
+and last of all came the third brigade, leaving a detachment at
+the same distance from the rear of the column, as the advanced
+guard was from its front.
+
+In moving through an enemy's country, the journeys of an army
+will, except under particular circumstances, be regulated by the
+nature of the ground over which it passes: thus, though eight,
+ten, or even twelve miles may be considered as a short day's
+march, yet if at the end of that space an advantageous position
+occur (that is, a piece of ground well defended by natural or
+accidental barriers, and at the same time calculated for the
+operations of that species of force of which the army may be
+composed), it would be the height of imprudence to push forward,
+merely because a greater extent of country might be traversed
+without fatiguing the troops.  On the other hand, should an army
+have proceeded eighteen, twenty, or even twenty-five miles,
+without the occurrence of any such position, nothing except the
+prospect of losing a large proportion of his men from weariness
+ought to induce a general to stop, until he has reached some spot
+at least more tenable than the rest.  Our march to-day was, upon
+this principle, extremely short, the troops halting when they had
+arrived at a rising ground distant not more than six miles from
+the point whence they set out; and having stationed the piquets,
+planted the sentinels, and made such other arrangements as the
+case required, fires were lighted, and the men were suffered to
+lie down.
+
+It may seem strange, but it is nevertheless true, that during
+this short march of six miles a greater number of soldiers
+dropped out of the ranks, and fell behind from fatigue, than I
+recollect to have seen in any march in the Peninsula of thrice
+its duration.  The fact is that the men, from having been so long
+cooped up in ships, and unused to carry their baggage and arms,
+were become relaxed and enervated to a degree altogether
+unnatural; and this, added to the extreme sultriness of the day,
+which exceeded anything we had yet experienced, quite
+overpowered them.  The load which they carried, likewise, was far
+from trifling, since, independent of their arms and sixty rounds
+of ball-cartridge, each man bore upon his back a knapsack,
+containing shirts, shoes, stockings, &c., a blanket, a haversack,
+with provisions for three days, and a canteen or wooden keg
+filled with water.  Under these circumstances, the occurrence of
+the position was extremely fortunate, since not only would the
+speedy failure of light have compelled a halt, whether the ground
+chanced to be favourable or the reverse, but even before darkness
+had come on scarcely two-thirds of the soldiers would have been
+found in their places.
+
+The ground upon which we bivouacked, though not remarkable for
+its strength, was precisely such as might tempt a General to
+halt, who found his men weary and in danger of being
+benighted.  It was a gentle eminence, fronted by an open and
+cultivated country, and crowned with two or three houses, having
+barns and walled gardens attached to them.  Neither flank could be
+said to rest upon any point peculiarly well defended, but they
+were not exposed; because, by extending or condensing the line,
+almost any one of these houses might be converted into a
+protecting redoubt.  The outposts, again, were so far arranged
+differently from those of yesterday, that, instead of covering
+only the front and the two extremities, they extended completely
+round the encampment, enclosing the entire army within a
+connected chain of sentinels; and precluding the possibility of
+even a single individual making his way within the lines
+unperceived.
+
+These precautions were, however, like those of the preceding day,
+unnecessary; no enemy making his appearance, even to reconnoitre:
+and yet it cannot be said that the night was passed in
+uninterrupted quiet, for the troops had scarcely lain down when
+they were disturbed by a tremendous storm of thunder and
+lightning, accompanied by a heavy fall of rain.  The effect of
+the lightning, as it glanced for a moment upon the bivouac, and
+displayed the firelocks piled in regular order, and the men
+stretched like so many corpses beside them, was extremely fine.
+The effect of the rain, however, was not so agreeable, for, being
+perfectly destitute of shelter, we were speedily wet to the skin;
+and the remainder of our resting-time was rendered thereby the
+reverse of comfortable.  But the feeling of fretfulness, natural on
+such an occasion, lasted no longer than till the day dawned, and
+the line of march was again formed; when their former good-humour
+returning, and seasoned in some degree by the fatigues of
+yesterday, the troops moved on in excellent order and in the
+highest spirits.
+
+The route to-day was different, in many respects, from that of
+yesterday.  In the first place, we had now got beyond the stretch
+of cultivation, and were proceeding through forests of
+immeasurable extent; this, of itself, gave a very different
+aspect to all around, because hitherto we had seen houses and
+fields of corn on each side of the road, and now we could
+discover nothing but wild savannahs, apparently untenanted by a
+single human being.  In the next place, we learnt from some of
+the country people, who had been impressed as guides into our
+service, that numerous detached bodies of riflemen lay in ambush
+among the thickets; and the very expectation of having something
+to do, created a degree of excitement which, till now, we had not
+experienced.  In consequence of that information, the flank
+patrols were strengthened and commanded to extend to a greater
+distance; the advanced guard marched at a greater interval from
+the head of the column, and the whole army moved forward with
+more caution and circumspection than had hitherto been used.
+
+In the course of this day's march a little adventure occurred to
+myself, which, in the illiberality of my heart, I could not but
+regard as strikingly characteristic of the character of the
+people to whom we were now opposed, and which, as at the time it
+had something in it truly comical, I cannot resist the
+inclination of repeating, though aware that its title to drollery
+must in a great measure be lost in the relation.  Having been
+informed that in a certain part of the forest a company of
+riflemen had passed the night, I took with me a party of
+soldiers, and proceeded in the direction pointed out, with the
+hope of surprising them.  On reaching the place, I found that
+they had retired, but I thought I could perceive something like
+the glitter of arms a little farther towards the middle of the
+wood.  Sending several files of soldiers in different directions,
+I contrived to surround the spot, and then moving forward, I
+beheld two men dressed in black coats, and armed with bright
+firelocks and bayonets, sitting under a tree; as soon as they
+observed me, they started up and took to their heels, but being
+hemmed in on all sides, they quickly perceived that to escape was
+impossible, and accordingly stood still.  I hastened towards
+them, and having arrived within a few paces of where they stood,
+I heard the one say to the other, with a look of the most perfect
+simplicity, "Stop, John, till the gentlemen pass."  There was
+something so ludicrous in this speech, and in the cast of
+countenance which accompanied it, that I could not help laughing
+aloud; nor was my mirth diminished by their attempts to persuade
+me that they were quiet country people, come out for no other
+purpose than to shoot squirrels.  When I desired to know whether
+they carried bayonets to charge the squirrels, as well as muskets
+to shoot them, they were rather at a loss for a reply; but they
+grumbled exceedingly when they found themselves prisoners, and
+conducted as such to the column.
+
+But to return to the principal narrative.  The army had now
+advanced within a few miles of Nottingham, and the men were
+beginning to look forward with some anxiety to a halt; whilst as
+yet nothing beyond the capture of a few stragglers had occurred
+to confirm the rumours which, in the morning, and during the
+whole of the march, had occasioned so much more circumspection
+than appeared to be requisite.  The day was likewise far spent,
+and, as was to be expected, the ranks were beginning to be less
+carefully preserved, when a smart firing in the wood upon the
+right of the road gave new life and energy to the soldiers.  It
+was now confidently expected that the enemy would make a stand.
+The column closed its order, ready to wheel into line in a
+moment, and everything was on the qui vive: but it proved to be
+no more than a rencounter between a party of American riflemen
+and the flank patrol.  After firing a few shots, the enemy gave
+way, and our main body, which had continued to move on during the
+skirmish, came in without the slightest opposition to the town of
+Nottingham.
+
+We found this place (a town or large village, capable of
+containing from a thousand to fifteen hundred inhabitants)
+completely deserted.  Not an individual was to be seen in the
+streets, or remained in the houses; whilst the appearance of the
+furniture, &c., in some places the very bread left in the ovens,
+showed that it had been evacuated in great haste, and immediately
+before our arrival.  The town itself stands upon the banks of the
+Patuxent, and consists of four short streets, two running
+parallel with the river, and two others crossing them at right
+angles, The houses are not such as indicate the existence of much
+wealth or grandeur among the owners, being in general built of
+wood, and little superior to cottages; but around the village are
+others of a far better description, which convey the idea of good
+substantial farm-houses, a species of mansion very common in the
+United States.  For several miles in every direction the country
+was in a high state of cultivation; though, instead of the maize
+and wheat which we had hitherto seen, the fields were covered
+with an abundant and luxuriant crop of tobacco.  This plant
+seems, indeed, to be at all times the staple commodity of that
+district; for, besides what was growing and unripe, we found
+numerous barns filled with the remains of last year's crop; the
+whole of which was, of course, seized in the name of His Majesty
+King George the Third.  But in the main object of our pursuit we
+were disappointed.  The flotilla, which had been stationed
+opposite to Nottingham, retired, on our approach, higher up the
+stream; and we were consequently in the situation of a huntsman
+who sees his hounds at fault, and has every reason to apprehend
+that his game will escape.
+
+MARLBOROUGH
+
+In this posture the army continued during the night, having its
+right defended by the river, and its left extending considerably
+beyond the town, and secured, as usual, by a connected chain of
+outposts; nor was it put in motion, as had been done the day
+before, as soon as there was sufficient light to distinguish
+objects.  There seemed, indeed, to be something like hesitation
+as to the course to be pursued,--whether to follow the gun-boats,
+or to return to the shipping; but, at last, the former proceeding
+was resolved upon, and the column set forward about eight
+o'clock, in the direction of Marlborough, another village, about
+ten miles beyond Nottingham.  The road by which we travelled, as
+well to-day as during the whole of the excursion, was
+remarkably good; in some places rather heavy, from being cut
+through a sandy soil, but in general hard, dusty, and, to use an
+expressive phrase, having a sound bottom.  Running, as it did for
+the most part, through the heart of thick forests, it was also
+well sheltered from the rays of the sun; a circumstance which, in
+a climate like this, is of no slight importance.  To-day, our
+whole journey was of this description, nor did we reach a single
+cultivated spot till we approached the vicinity of Marlborough;
+when we found ourselves in a country not more fertile than
+beautiful.  The ground, which had been hitherto perfectly flat,
+was now broken into the most graceful swells, generally cleared
+of wood to within a short space of the summits, and then crowned
+with hoar and venerable forests.  The village itself lies in a
+valley formed by two green hills; the distance from the base of
+one hill to the base of the other may be about two miles, the
+whole of which was laid out in fields of corn, hay, and tobacco;
+whilst the slopes themselves were covered with sheep, for whose
+support they furnished ample means.  But Marlborough is not, like
+an English village, compact, and consisting of one or two lanes
+the houses are scattered over the plain, and along the sides of
+the hills, at considerable intervals from one another, and are
+all surrounded by orchards and gardens, abounding in peaches and
+other fruits of the most delicious flavour.  To add to the beauty
+of the place, a small rivulet makes its way through the bottom,
+and winding round the foot of one of these ridges, falls into the
+Patuxent, which flows at its back.
+
+During our progress to-day the same caution was observed which
+had been practised yesterday.  Nor was it altogether unnecessary,
+several bodies of the enemy's horse occasionally showing
+themselves, and what appeared to be the rear-guard of a column
+of infantry evacuating Marlborough, as our advance entered.
+
+MARCH TO WASHINGTON.
+
+There was, however, little or no skirmishing, and we were allowed
+to remain in the village all night without molestation.  But if we
+were not harassed, we were at least startled on the march by
+several heavy explosions.  The cause of these we were at first
+unable to discover; but we soon learnt that they were occasioned
+by the blowing up of the very squadron of which we were in
+pursuit, and which Commodore Barney, perceiving the impossibility
+of preserving, prudently destroyed, in order to prevent its
+falling into our hands.
+
+In Marlborough we remained not only during the night, but till
+past noon on the following day.  The hesitation which had caused
+the loss of a few hours at Nottingham again interfered, and
+produced a delay which might have been attended with serious
+consequences.  At length, however, orders were given to form, and
+we quitted Marlborough about two in the afternoon, taking the
+road to Washington.  During this day's march there was more
+skirmishing than had yet occurred.  We had scarcely got above
+three miles from the village, when the advanced guard fell in
+with a party of riflemen, who maintained a sharp contest before
+they gave way.  The column, however, continued to move on without
+molestation, till arriving at a point where two roads meet, the
+one leading to Washington, the other to Alexandria, a strong body
+of troops, with some artillery, were observed upon the slope of a
+height opposite.  The capture of Washington was now the avowed
+object of our invasion; but the General, like an experienced
+officer, was desirous of keeping his enemy in the dark as to his
+plan of operations.  Whilst the advanced guard, therefore,
+reinforced by two additional companies, marched directly forward
+to dislodge the party from the heights, the rest of the army
+wheeled to the left, taking the road which leads, not to
+Washington, but to Alexandria.  These movements were not lost
+upon the enemy, who, observing by the dust in what direction the
+main body had filed off, immediately began to retreat, without
+waiting for the approach of the detachment sent against ahem.  As
+they ascended the hill, however, they made a show of halting and
+forming a line.  Our men moved steadily on in column, covered by
+one company in extended order along the front; but the enemy,
+having merely thrown a few round shot with great precision among
+the skirmishers, broke once again into marching order, and were
+quickly hid by the rising ground.  As soon as they had
+disappeared, the advance halted; and having remained for about an
+hour on a little hill to watch their motions, turned to the left,
+and followed the rest of the army, which they found
+advantageously posted at a place called Woodyard.
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+
+I HAD almost forgotten to state that, from the first moment of
+our landing, the want of cavalry, so useful in obtaining
+information and reconnoitring the open country, was very sensibly
+felt.  To remedy this evil, as far as it could by such means be
+remedied, orders had been issued to catch and bring in all the
+horses that were found in the fields or stables of any houses
+along the road; and these orders being punctually obeyed, there
+were now fifty or sixty in the camp.  Upon these some of the
+artillery-drivers were mounted, and the command of the troop
+being given to an officer of experience, it was found of great
+service during the remainder of the march.
+
+The advanced guard having joined the main body, the whole army,
+with the exception of a party which had been sent to the rear to
+bring up a convoy of provisions, was now bivouacked upon a rising
+ground, well defended by hedge-rows and thickets.  The night,
+however, was not spent in as much quietness as usual.  It was
+late before the troops got to their ground, consequently the
+piquets, for want of light, could not be posted in their
+customary good order, neither had there been time to examine the
+country in the neighbourhood of the position.  The outposts were,
+therefore, kept in a state of constant anxiety by the frequent
+appearance of small parties of the enemy, who hovered about,
+probably with the design of cutting off stragglers, or perhaps of
+surprising, if they could, some of the piquets themselves.  But
+whatever their intentions might be, the vigilance of the sentries
+contrived to render them abortive; nor did anything occur during
+the night productive of serious alarm; and the following day,
+being joined by the convoy which came up in safety, the column
+was again in motion, hastening across the country into the
+highroad, which had been deserted for no other purpose than to
+mislead the Americans.
+
+Having started on the 24th at an early hour, our march was for
+some time both cool and agreeable.  The road--if road it could be
+called--wound for the first five miles through the heart of an
+immense forest, and being, in every sense of the word, a by-path,
+was completely overshadowed by projecting branches of trees, so
+closely interwoven, as to prevent a single sunbeam from making
+its way, even at noon, within the arch.  We continued to move on,
+therefore, long after the sun had risen, without being sensible
+that there was not a cloud in the sky to screen us from his
+influence; whilst a heavy moisture continually emitted from the
+grass and weeds on both sides of us, produced a coolness which,
+had it been less confined, would have proved extremely
+pleasant.  So far, then, we proceeded without experiencing any
+other inconvenience than what was produced by the damp and fetid
+atmosphere which we breathed; but no sooner had we begun to
+emerge from the woods and to enter the open country, than an
+overpowering change was perceived.  The sun, from which we had
+been hitherto defended, now beat upon us in full force; and the
+dust rising in thick masses from under our feet, without a breath
+of air to disperse it, flew directly into our faces, occasioning
+the greatest inconvenience both to the eyes and respiration.  I
+have stated this at length, because I do not recollect a period
+of my military life during which I suffered more severely from
+heat and fatigue; and as a journey of a few miles, under such
+circumstances, tells more than one of thrice the distance in a
+cool day and along a firm wintry road, it is not surprising that
+before many hours had elapsed numbers of men began to fall behind
+from absolute inability to keep up.
+
+Yet, in spite of all this, there was that in to-day's march which
+rendered it infinitely more interesting than any we bad performed
+since the landing.  We had learnt, from various quarters, that
+the enemy was concentrating his forces for the purpose of
+hazarding a battle in defence of his capital.  The truth of these
+rumours we had no cause to doubt, confirmed as they were by what
+we had ourselves witnessed only the evening before; indeed the
+aspect of various fields on each side of the high road (which we
+had now regained), where smoking ashes, bundles of straw, and
+remnants of broken victuals were scattered about, indicated that
+considerable bodies of troops had passed the night in this
+neighbourhood.  The appearance of the road itself, likewise,
+imprinted as it was with fresh marks of many feet and hoofs,
+proved that these troops could be no great way before us; whilst
+our very proximity to Washington, being now distant from it not
+more than ten or twelve miles, all tended to assure us that we
+should at least see an American army before dark.
+
+It was now that we experienced the great usefulness of our badly
+mounted troopers, or as they were called by the private soldiers,
+our Cossacks.  The country, from being extremely close, had
+become open on every side to a considerable extent, although
+thick groves, instead of hedges, frequently separated one field
+from another.  This was exactly the ground on which cavalry could
+act with advantage; because they might lie in ambush behind these
+groves, totally unperceived, and when an opportunity offered,
+charge the column, before it had time to prepare for their
+reception.  There were one or two places, indeed, where such
+events were confidently anticipated; whole rows of paling having
+been pulled up from the side of the road, and open spaces left,
+through which several squadrons of horse might gallop; and the
+consequence was that every man held his breath in expectation,
+and prepared himself to form square in a moment.  It was here
+that the mounted drivers became peculiarly useful.  They were
+divided into small parties of six or eight, and sent out in
+different directions to reconnoitre, two of them generally taking
+post at every suspicious corner, that one might give notice to
+the column, whilst the other watched the motions of an enemy.
+
+It so happened that these precautions were unnecessary, for
+whatever might be the strength of the Americans in cavalry, their
+General did not think fit to employ it in harassing our
+march.  But the very knowledge that every danger was provided
+against, and that they could not be attacked without having time
+to make ready, gave to the soldiers a degree of steady confidence
+which they would otherwise have wanted; and the want of which,
+had the case been different, might have been productive of
+disorder at a moment when good order was of vital importance.
+
+BLADENSBURG.
+
+We had now proceeded about nine miles, during the last four of
+which the sun's rays had beat continually upon us, and we had
+inhaled almost as great a quantity of dust as of air.  Numbers of
+men had already fallen to the rear, and many more could with
+difficulty keep up; consequently, if we pushed on much farther
+without resting, the chances were that at least one half of the
+army would be left behind.  To prevent this from happening, and
+to give time for the stragglers to overtake the column, a halt
+was determined upon, and being led forward to a spot of ground
+well wooded, and watered by a stream which crossed the road, the
+troops were ordered to refresh themselves.  Perhaps no halt ever
+arrived more seasonably than this, or bid fair to be productive
+of more beneficial effects; yet so oppressive was the heat, that
+we had not resumed our march above an hour, when the banks by the
+way side were again covered with stragglers; some of the finest
+and stoutest men in the army being literally unable to go on.
+
+The hour of noon was approaching, when a heavy cloud of dust,
+apparently not more than two or three miles distant, attracted
+our attention.  From whence it originated there was little
+difficulty in guessing, nor did many minutes expire before
+surmise was changed into certainty: for on turning a sudden angle
+in the road, and passing a small plantation, which obstructed the
+vision towards the left, the British and American armies became
+visible to one another.  The position occupied by the latter was
+one of great strength and commanding attitude.  They were drawn
+up in three lines upon the brow of a hill, having their front and
+left flank covered by a branch of the Potomac, and their right
+resting upon a thick wood and a deep ravine.  This river, which
+may be about the breadth of the Isis at Oxford, flowed between
+the heights occupied by the American forces and the little town
+of Bladensburg.  Across it was thrown a narrow bridge, extending
+from the chief street in that town to the continuation of the
+road, which passed through the very centre of their position; and
+its right bank (the bank above which they were drawn up) was
+covered with a narrow stripe of willows and larch trees, whilst
+the left was altogether bare, low, and exposed.  Such was the
+general aspect of their position as at the first glance it
+presented itself; of which I must endeavour to give a more
+detailed account, that my description of the battle may be in
+some degree intelligible.
+
+I have said that the right bank of the Potomac was covered with a
+narrow stripe of willow and larch trees.  Here the Americans had
+stationed strong bodies of riflemen, who, in skirmishing order,
+covered the whole front of their army.  Behind this plantation,
+again, the fields were open and clear, intersected, at certain
+distances, by rows of high and strong palings.  About the middle
+of the ascent, and in the rear of one of these rows, stood the
+first line, composed entirely of infantry; at a proper interval
+from this, and in a similar situation, stood the second line;
+while the third, or reserve, was posted within the skirts of a
+wood, which crowned the heights.  The artillery, again, of which
+they had twenty pieces in the field, was thus arranged on the
+high road, and commanding the bridge, stood two heavy guns; and
+four more, two on each side of the road, swept partly in the same
+direction, and partly down the whole of the slope into the
+streets of Bladensburg.  The rest were scattered, with no great
+judgment, along the second line of infantry, occupying different
+spaces between the right of one regiment and the left of another;
+whilst the cavalry showed itself in one mass, within a stubble
+field, near the extreme left of the position.  Such was the
+nature of the ground which they occupied, and the formidable
+posture in which they waited our approach; amounting, by their
+own account, to nine thousand men, a number exactly doubling that
+of the force which was to attack them.
+
+In the mean time, our column continued to advance in the same
+order which it had hitherto preserved.  The road, having
+conducted us for about two miles in a direction parallel with the
+river, and of consequence with the enemy's line, suddenly turned,
+and led directly towards the town of Bladensburg.  Being of
+course ignorant whether this town might not be filled with
+American troops, the main body paused here till the advanced
+guard should reconnoitre.  The result proved that no opposition
+was intended in that quarter, and that the whole of the enemy's
+army had been withdrawn to the opposite side of the stream,
+whereupon the column was again put in motion, and in a short time
+arrived in the streets of Bladensburg, and within range of the
+American artillery.  Immediately on our reaching this point,
+several of their guns opened upon us, and kept up a quick and
+well-directed cannonade, from which, as we were again commanded
+to halt, the men were directed to shelter themselves as much as
+possible behind the houses.  The object of this halt, it was
+conjectured, was to give the General an opportunity of examining
+the American line, and of trying the depth of the river; because
+at present there appeared to be but one practicable mode of
+attack, by crossing the bridge, and taking the enemy directly in
+front.  To do so, however, exposed as the bridge was, must be
+attended with bloody consequences, nor could the delay of a few
+minutes produce any mischief which the discovery of a ford would
+not amply compensate.
+
+But in this conjecture we were altogether mistaken; for without
+allowing time to the column to close its ranks, or to be joined
+by such of the many stragglers as were now hurrying, as fast as
+weariness would permit, to regain their places, the order to halt
+was countermanded, and the word given to attack; and we
+immediately pushed on at double quick time, towards the head of
+the bridge.  While we were moving along the street, a continued
+fire was kept up, with some execution, from those guns which
+stood to the left of the road; but it was not till the bridge was
+covered with our people that the two-gun battery upon the road
+itself began to play.--Then, indeed, it also opened, and with
+tremendous effect; for at the first discharge almost an entire
+company was swept down; but whether it was that the guns had been
+previously laid with measured exactness, or that the nerves of
+the gunners became afterwards unsteady, the succeeding discharges
+were much less fatal.  The riflemen likewise began to gall us
+from the wooded bank with a running fire of musketry; and it was
+not without trampling upon many of their dead and dying comrades
+that the light brigade established itself on the opposite side of
+the stream.
+
+When once there, however, everything else appeared easy.
+Wheeling off to the right and left of the road, they dashed into
+the thicket, and quickly cleared it of the American skirmishers;
+who, falling back with precipitation upon the first line, threw
+it into disorder before it had fired a shot.  The consequence
+was, that our troops had scarcely shown themselves when the whole
+of that line gave way, and fled in the greatest confusion,
+leaving the two guns upon the road in possession of the victors.
+
+But here it must be confessed that the light brigade was guilty
+of imprudence.  Instead of pausing till the rest of the army came
+up, the soldiers lightened themselves by throwing away their
+knapsacks and haversacks; and extending their ranks so as to show
+an equal front with the enemy, pushed on to the attack of the
+second line.  The Americans, however, saw their weakness, and
+stood firm, and having the whole of their artillery, with the
+exception of the pieces captured on the road, and the greater
+part of their infantry in this line, they first checked the
+ardour of the assailants by a heavy fire, and then, in their
+turn, advanced to recover the ground which was lost.  Against this
+charge the extended order of the British troops would not permit
+them to offer an effectual resistance, and they were accordingly
+borne back to the very thicket upon the river's brink; where they
+maintained themselves with determined obstinacy, repelling all
+attempts to drive them through it; and frequently following, to
+within a short distance of the cannon's mouth, such parts of the
+enemy's line as gave way.
+
+In this state the action continued till the second brigade had
+likewise crossed, and formed upon the right bank of the river;
+when the 44th regiment moving to the right, and driving in the
+skirmishers, debouched upon the left flank of the Americans, and
+completely turned it.  In that quarter, therefore, the battle was
+won; because the raw militia-men, who were stationed there as
+being the least assailable point, when once broken could not be
+rallied.  But on their right the enemy still kept their ground
+with much resolution; nor was it till the arrival of the 4th
+regiment, and the advance of the British forces in firm array to
+the charge, that they began to waver.  Then, indeed, seeing their
+left in full flight, and the 44th getting in their rear, they
+lost all order, and dispersed, leaving clouds of riflemen to
+cover their retreat; and hastened to conceal themselves in the
+woods, where it would have been madness to follow them.  The rout
+was now general throughout the line.  The reserve, which ought to
+have supported the main body, fled as soon as those in its front
+began to give way; and the cavalry, instead of charging the
+British troops, now scattered in pursuit, turned their horses'
+heads and galloped off, leaving them in undisputed possession of
+the field, and of ten out of the twenty pieces of artillery.
+
+This battle, by which the fate of the American capital was
+decided, began about one o'clock in the afternoon, and lasted
+till four.  The loss on the part of the English was severe,
+since, out of two-thirds of the army, which were engaged, upwards
+of five hundred men were killed and wounded; and what rendered it
+doubly severe was, that among these were numbered several
+officers of rank and distinction.  Colonel Thornton, who
+commanded the light brigade, Lieutenant-Colonel Wood, commanding
+the 85th regiment, and Major Brown, who led the advanced guard,
+were all severely wounded; and General Ross himself had a horse
+shot under him.  On the side of the Americans the slaughter was
+not so great.  Being in possession of a strong position, they
+were of course less exposed in defending, than the others in
+storming it; and had they conducted themselves with coolness and
+resolution, it is not conceivable how the battle could have been
+won.  But the fact is, that, with the exception of a party of
+sailors from the gun-boats, under the command of Commodore
+Barney, no troops could behave worse than they did.  The
+skirmishers were driven in as soon as attacked, the first line
+gave way without offering the slightest resistance, and the left
+of the main body was broken within half an hour after it was
+seriously engaged.  Of the sailors, however, it would be
+injustice not to speak in the terms which their conduct merits.
+They were employed as gunners, and not only did they serve their
+guns with a quickness and precision which astonished their
+assailants, but they stood till some of them were actually
+bayoneted, with fuzes in their hands; nor was it till their
+leader was wounded and taken, and they saw themselves deserted on
+all sides by the soldiers, that they quitted the field.  With
+respect to the British army, again, no line of distinction can be
+drawn.  All did their duty, and none more gallantly than the
+rest; and though the brunt of the affair fell upon the light
+brigade, this was owing chiefly to the circumstance of its being
+at the head of the column, and perhaps also, in some degree, to
+its own rash impetuosity.  The artillery, indeed, could do
+little; being unable to show itself in presence of a force so
+superior; but the six-pounder was nevertheless brought into
+action, and a corps of rockets proved of striking utility.
+
+Our troops being worn down from fatigue, and of course as
+ignorant of the country as the Americans were the reverse, the
+pursuit could not be continued to any distance.  Neither was it
+attended with much slaughter.  Diving into the recesses of the
+forests, and covering themselves with riflemen, the enemy were
+quickly beyond our reach; and having no cavalry to scour even the
+high road, ten of the lightest of their guns were carried off in
+the flight.  The defeat, however, was absolute, and the army which
+had been collected for the defence of Washington was scattered
+beyond the possibility of, at least, an immediate reunion; and as
+the distance from Bladensburg to that city does not exceed four
+miles, there appeared to be no further obstacle in the way to
+prevent its immediate capture.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER X.
+
+WASHINGTON
+
+AN opportunity so favourable was not endangered by any needless
+delay.  While the two brigades which had been engaged remained
+upon the field to recover their order, the third, which had
+formed the reserve, and was consequently unbroken, took the lead,
+and pushed forward at a rapid rate towards Washington.
+
+As it was not the intention of the British Government to attempt
+permanent conquests in this part of America, and as the General
+was well aware that, with a handful of men, he could not pretend
+to establish himself, for any length of time, in an enemy's
+capital, he determined to lay it under contribution, and to
+return quietly to the shipping.  Nor was there anything unworthy
+of the character of a British officer in this determination.  By
+all the customs of war, whatever public property may chance to be
+in a captured town, becomes, confessedly, the just spoil of the
+conqueror; and in thus proposing to accept a certain sum of money
+in lieu of that property, he was showing mercy rather than
+severity to the vanquished.  It is true that if they chose to
+reject his terms he and his army would be deprived of their
+booty, because without some more convenient mode of transporting
+it than we possessed, even the portable part of the property
+itself could not be removed.  But, on the other hand, there was
+no difficulty in destroying it; and thus, though we should gain
+nothing, the American Government would lose probably to a much
+greater amount than if they had agreed to purchase its
+preservation by the money demanded.
+
+Such being the intention of General Ross, he did not march the
+troops immediately into the city, but halted them upon a plain
+in its immediate vicinity, whilst a flag of truce was sent
+forward with terms.  But whatever his proposal might have been,
+it was not so much as heard; for scarcely had the party bearing
+the flag entered the street, when it was fired upon from the
+windows of one of the houses, and the horse of the General
+himself, who accompanied it, killed.  The indignation excited by
+this act throughout all ranks and classes of men in the army, was
+such as the nature of the case could not fail to occasion.  Every
+thought of accommodation was instantly laid aside; the troops
+advanced forthwith into the town, and having first put to the
+sword all who were found in the house from which the shots were
+fired, and reduced it to ashes, they proceeded without a moment's
+delay to burn and destroy everything in the most distant degree
+connected with Government.  In this general devastation were
+included the Senate-house, the President's palace, an extensive
+dock-yard and arsenal, barracks for two or three thousand men,
+several large storehouses filled with naval and military stores,
+some hundreds of cannon of different descriptions, and nearly
+twenty thousand stand of small-arms.  There were also two or
+three public ropewalks which shared the same fate, a fine frigate
+pierced for sixty guns, and just ready to be launched, several
+gun brigs and armed schooners, with a variety of gun-boats and
+small craft.  The powder-magazines were set on fire, and exploded
+with a tremendous crash, throwing down many houses in their
+vicinity, partly by pieces of the walls striking them, and partly
+by the concussion of the air; whilst quantities of shot, shell,
+and hand-grenades, which could not otherwise be rendered useless,
+were cast into the river.  In destroying the cannon a method was
+adopted which I had never before witnessed, and which, as it was
+both effectual and expeditious, I cannot avoid relating.  One gun
+of rather a small calibre was pitched upon as the executioner of
+the rest, and being loaded with ball and turned to the muzzles of
+the others, it was fired, and thus beat out their breechings.
+Many, however, not being mounted, could not be thus dealt with;
+these were spiked, and having their trunnions knocked off, were
+afterwards cast into the bed of the river.
+
+All this was as it should be, and had the arm of vengeance been
+extended no further, there would not have been room given for so
+much as a whisper of disapprobation.  But unfortunately it did not
+stop here; a noble library, several printing-offices, and all
+the national archives were likewise committed to the flames,
+which, though no doubt the property of Government, might better
+have been spared.  It is not, however, my intention to join the
+outcry which was raised at the time against what the Americans
+and their admirers were pleased to term a line of conduct at once
+barbarous and unprofitable.  On the contrary, I conceive that too
+much praise cannot be given to the forbearance and humanity of
+the British troops, who, irritated as they had every right to be,
+spared, as far as possible, all private property, neither
+plundering nor destroying a single house in the place, except
+that from which the General's horse had been killed.
+
+Whilst the third brigade was thus employed, the rest of the army,
+having recalled its stragglers, and removed the wounded into
+Bladensburg, began its march towards Washington.  Though the
+battle came to a close by four o'clock, the sun had set before
+the different regiments were in a condition to move, consequently
+this short journey was performed in the dark.  The work of
+destruction had also begun in the city before they quitted their
+ground; and the blazing of houses, ships, and stores, the report
+of exploding magazines, and the crash of falling roofs, informed
+them, as they proceeded, of what was going forward.  It would be
+difficult to conceive a finer spectacle than that which presented
+itself as they approached the town.  The sky was brilliantly
+illumined by the different conflagrations; and a dark red light
+was thrown upon the road, sufficient to permit each man to view
+distinctly his comrade's face.  Except the burning of
+St. Sebastian's, I do not recollect to have witnessed at any
+period of my life a scene more striking or more sublime.
+
+Having advanced as far as the plain, where the reserve had
+previously paused, the first and second brigades halted; and
+forming into close column, passed the night in bivouac.  At first
+this was agreeable enough, because the air was mild, and
+weariness made up for what was wanting in comfort.  But towards
+morning a violent storm of rain, accompanied with thunder and
+lightning, came on, which disturbed the rest of all who were
+exposed to it.  Yet in spite of the inconvenience arising from
+the shower, I cannot say that I felt disposed to grumble at the
+interruption, for it appeared that what I had before considered
+as superlatively sublime, still wanted this to render it
+complete.  The flashes of lightning vied in brilliancy with the
+flames which burst from the roofs of burning houses, whilst the
+thunder drowned for a time the noise of crumbling walls, and was
+only interrupted by the occasional roar of cannon, and of large
+depots of gunpowder, as they one by one exploded.
+
+I need scarcely observe, that the consternation of the
+inhabitants was complete, and that to them this was a night of
+terror.  So confident had they been of the success of their
+troops, that few of them had dreamt of quitting their houses or
+abandoning the city; nor was it till the fugitives from the
+battle began to rush in, filling every place as they came with
+dismay, that the President himself thought of providing for his
+safety.  That gentleman, as I was credibly informed, had gone
+forth in the morning with the army, and had continued among his
+troops till the British forces began to make their appearance.
+Whether the sight of his enemies cooled his courage or not I
+cannot say, but according to my informant, no sooner was the
+glittering of our arms discernible, than he began to discover
+that his presence was more wanted in the senate than in the
+field; and having ridden through the ranks, and exhorted every
+man to do his duty, he hurried back to his own house, that he
+might prepare a feast for the entertainment of his officers, when
+they should return victorious.  For the truth of these details I
+will not be answerable; but this much I know, that the feast was
+actually prepared, though, instead of being devoured by American
+officers, it went to satisfy the less delicate appetites of a
+party of English soldiers.  When the detachment sent out to
+destroy Mr. Maddison's house, entered his dining parlour, they
+found a dinner-table spread, and covers laid for forty guests.
+Several kinds of wine in handsome cut-glass decanters were
+cooling on the sideboard; plate-holders stood by the fire-place,
+filled with dishes and plates; knives, forks, and spoons, were
+arranged for immediate use; everything in short was ready for the
+entertainment of a ceremonious party.  Such were the arrangements
+in the dining-room, whilst in the kitchen were others answerable
+to them in every respect.  Spits loaded with joints of various
+sorts turned before the fire; pots, saucepans, and other culinary
+utensils stood upon the grate; and all the other requisites for
+an elegant and substantial repast were in the exact state which
+indicated that they had been lately and precipitately abandoned.
+
+The reader will easily believe that these preparations were
+beheld, by a party of hungry soldiers, with no indifferent
+eye.  An elegant dinner, even though considerably over-dressed,
+was a luxury to which few of them, at least for some time back,
+had been accustomed; and which, after the dangers and fatigues
+of the day, appeared peculiarly inviting.  They sat down to it,
+therefore, not indeed in the most orderly manner, but with
+countenances which would not have disgraced a party of aldermen
+at a civic feast; and having satisfied their appetites with fewer
+complaints than would have probably escaped their rival
+gourmands, and partaken pretty freely of the wines, they finished
+by setting fire to the house which had so liberally entertained
+them.
+
+I have said that to the inhabitants of Washington this was a
+night of terror and dismay.  From whatever cause the confidence
+arose, certain it is that they expected anything rather than the
+arrival among them of a British army; and their consternation was
+proportionate to their previous feeling of security, when an
+event, so little anticipated, actually came to pass.  The first
+impulse naturally prompted them to fly, and the streets were
+speedily crowded with soldiers and senators, men, women, and
+children, horses, carriages, and carts loaded with household
+furniture, all hastening towards a wooden bridge which crosses
+the Potomac.  The confusion thus occasioned was terrible, and the
+crowd upon the bridge was such as to endanger its giving way.
+But Mr. Maddison, as is affirmed, having escaped among the first,
+was no sooner safe on the opposite bank of the river, than he
+gave orders that the bridge should be broken down; which being
+obeyed, the rest were obliged to return, and to trust to the
+clemency of the victors.
+
+In this manner was the night passed by both parties; and at
+daybreak next morning the light brigade moved into the city,
+whilst the reserve fell back to a height about half a mile in the
+rear.  Little, however, now remained to be done, because
+everything marked out for destruction was already consumed.  Of
+the Senate-house, the President's palace, the barracks, the
+dockyard, &c., nothing could be seen, except heaps of smoking
+ruins; and even the bridge, a noble structure upwards of a mile
+in length, was almost entirely demolished.  There was, therefore,
+no further occasion to scatter the troops, and they were
+accordingly kept together as much as possible on the Capitol
+Hill.
+
+Of the city of Washington I have purposely declined attempting
+any minute description, because it possesses no leading features,
+by catching which I might hope to convey to a person who has not
+seen it, something like an accurate notion of the whole.  It was
+then, and is, I believe, still in its infancy, few of the streets
+being finished, and many containing not more than three or four
+houses, at wide intervals from each other.  But its situation
+gives to it advantages such as few capitals either in the new or
+old world can boast of, and if it continue to be the head of the
+American States for another century, it will become, I doubt not,
+one of the most flourishing cities in existence.  America is, and
+always will be, a commercial nation, nor can a single town
+throughout the whole of that vast continent boast of a better
+harbour than Washington.  Standing upon the Potomac, one of the
+most navigable of all the rivers that empty themselves into the
+Chesapeake, the depth of which is sufficient to float a frigate
+for some way above the town, it possesses unrivalled facilities
+for the carrying on of an extensive trade; whilst its distance
+from the coast is such as to place it, in a great measure, beyond
+reach of insult from an enemy.  Such an assertion, coming from
+one who has just detailed the particulars of its capture, may,
+indeed, appear to partake not slightly of the nature of a
+paradox; but there is no denying that the fall of Washington
+ought to be attributed much more to the misconduct of the
+Americans themselves, than to the skill or enterprise of those
+who effected it.  Had the emergency been contemplated, and in a
+proper manner provided against, or had the most moderate
+ingenuity and courage been displayed in retarding the progress of
+our troops, the design, if formed at all, would have been either
+abandoned immediately, or must have ended in the total
+destruction of the invaders.
+
+Like other infant towns, Washington is but little ornamented with
+fine buildings; except the Senate-house, I really know of none
+worthy to be noticed.  This however is, or rather was, an edifice
+of some beauty.  It stood, where its ruins now stand, upon a mound
+called the Capitol Hill, and near a trifling stream named the
+Tiber; from which circumstances these modern republicans are led
+to flatter themselves that the days are coming when it will rival
+in power and grandeur the Senate-house of ancient Rome
+herself.  It was built entirely of freestone, tastefully worked
+and highly polished; and, besides its numerous windows, was
+lighted from the top by a large and handsome cupola.  Perhaps it
+could not be said to belong to any decided style of architecture;
+but its central appearance was light, airy, and elegant.  After
+traversing a wide and spacious entrance-hall, you arrived at the
+foot of a handsome spiral hanging staircase; on the right of
+which were two spacious apartments, one above the other, which
+were occupied as sitting chambers by the two houses of
+representatives.  From these branched off several smaller rooms,
+fitted up as offices, and probably used as such by the various
+officers of state.  On the right of the staircase, again, were two
+other apartments equal in size to those on the left, with a like
+number of smaller rooms branching off from them.  These were
+furnished as a public library, the two larger being well stocked
+with valuable books, principally in modern languages, whilst the
+others, filled with archives, national statutes, acts of
+legislature, &c., were used as the private rooms of the
+librarians.
+
+The President's house, on the other hand, though likewise a
+public building, was remarkable for nothing except the absence of
+taste exhibited in its structure.  It was small, incommodious,
+and plain; in no respect likely to excite the jealousy of a
+people peculiarly averse to all pomp or parade, even in their
+chief magistrate.  Besides these, there were also a custom-house,
+several banking-houses, and a school or college, all claiming to
+themselves the destruction of public works; but in them there was
+a plainness amounting almost to coarseness, and a general air of
+republicanism, by no means imposing.  With respect to the number
+of inhabitants which Washington contained, I confess that I
+cannot pretend to give an opinion: but if any judgment may be
+formed from the extent of ground covered by what is considered as
+the town, I should say that they amounted to somewhere about
+sixty thousand.  George Town, the quarter where the President's
+house stood, is compact and regular, containing, I should
+conceive, at least twenty thousand souls within itself; nor can
+the population of the other quarters be estimated at less than
+double that number.
+
+Such was then the city of Washington, of which our hasty and
+unfriendly visit did not allow us to take a very minute survey.
+I return now to the movements of the British army.
+
+I have stated above that our troops were this day kept as much
+together as possible upon the Capitol Hill.  But it was not alone
+on account of the completion of their destructive labours that
+this was done.  A powerful army of Americans already began to show
+themselves upon some heights, at the distance of two or three
+miles from the city; and as they sent out detachments of horse
+even to the very suburbs, for the purpose of watching our
+motions, it would have been unsafe to permit more straggling than
+was absolutely necessary.  The army which we had overthrown the
+day before, though defeated, was far from annihilated; it had by
+this time recovered its panic, began to concentrate itself in our
+front, and presented quite as formidable an appearance as
+ever.  We learnt, also, that it was joined by a considerable force
+from the back settlements, which had arrived too late to take
+part in the action, and the report was, that both combined
+amounted to nearly twelve thousand men.
+
+Whether or not it was their intention to attack, I cannot pretend
+to say, because it was noon before they showed themselves; and
+soon after, when something like a movement could be discerned in
+their ranks, the sky grew suddenly dark, and the most tremendous
+hurricane ever remembered by the oldest inhabitant in the place
+came on.  Of the prodigious force of the wind it is impossible
+for one who was not an eye-witness to its effects to form a
+conception.  Roofs of houses were torn off by it, and whirled
+into the air like sheets of paper; whilst the rain which
+accompanied it resembled the rushing of a mighty cataract rather
+than the dropping of a shower.  The darkness was as great as if
+the sun had long set, and the last remains of twilight had come
+on, occasionally relieved by flashes of vivid lightning streaming
+through it; which, together with the noise of the wind and the
+thunder, the crash of falling buildings, and the tearing of roofs
+as they were stript from the walls, produced the most appalling
+effect I ever have, and probably ever shall, witness.  The storm
+lasted for nearly two hours without intermission, during which
+time many of the houses spared by us were blown down, and thirty
+of our men, besides several of the inhabitants, buried beneath
+their ruins.  Our column was as completely dispersed as if it had
+received a total defeat; some of the men flying for shelter
+behind walls and buildings, and others falling flat upon the
+ground, to prevent themselves from being carried away by the
+tempest; nay, such was the violence of the wind, that two pieces
+of light cannon, which stood upon the eminence, were fairly
+lifted from the ground, and borne several yards to the rear.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XI.
+
+
+WHEN the hurricane had blown over, the camp of the Americans
+appeared to be in as great a state of confusion as our own; nor
+could either party recover themselves sufficiently during the
+rest of the day to try the fortune of a battle.  Of this General
+Ross did not fail to take advantage.  He had already attained all
+that he could hope, and perhaps more than he originally expected
+to attain; consequently, to risk another action would only be to
+spill blood for no purpose.  Whatever might be the issue of the
+contest, he could derive from it no advantage.  If he were
+victorious, it would not do away with the necessity which existed
+of evacuating Washington; if defeated, his ruin was certain.  To
+avoid fighting was therefore his object, and perhaps he owed its
+accomplishment to the fortunate occurrence of the storm.  Be
+that, however, as it may, a retreat was resolved upon; and we now
+only waited for night, to put the resolution into practice.
+
+There was, however, one difficulty to be surmounted in this
+proceeding.  Of the wounded, many were so ill as to preclude all
+possibility of their removal, and to leave them in the hands of
+an enemy whom we had beaten was rather a mortifying
+anticipation.  But for this there was no help; and it now only
+remained to make the best arrangements for their comfort, and to
+secure for them, as far as could be done, civil treatment from
+the Americans.
+
+It chanced that, among other prisoners taken at Bladensburg, was
+Commodore Barney, an American officer of much gallantry and high
+sense of honour.  Being himself wounded, he was the more likely
+to feel for those who were in a similar condition, and having
+received the kindest treatment from our medical attendants, as
+long as he continued under their hands, he became, without
+solicitation, the friend of his fellow-sufferers.  To him, as
+well as to the other prisoners, was given his parole, and to his
+care were our wounded, in a peculiar manner, intrusted,--a trust
+which he received with the utmost willingness, and discharged
+with the most praiseworthy exactness.  Among other stipulations,
+it was agreed that such of our people as were left behind should
+be considered as prisoners of war, and should be restored to us
+as soon as they were able to travel; and that, as soon as they
+reached the ships, the Commodore and his countrymen would, in
+exchange, be released from their engagements.
+
+As soon as these arrangements were completed, and darkness had
+come on, the third brigade, which was posted in the rear of our
+army, began to withdraw.  Then followed the guns, afterwards the
+second, and last of all the light brigade, exactly reversing the
+order which had been maintained during the advance.  Instead of an
+advanced guard, this last now furnished a party to cover the
+retreat, and the whole procession was closed by the mounted
+drivers.
+
+It being a matter of great importance to deceive the enemy and to
+prevent pursuit, the rear of the column did not quit its ground
+upon the Capitol till a late hour.  During the day an order had
+been issued that none of the inhabitants should be seen in the
+streets after eight o'clock; and as fear renders most men
+obedient, the order was punctually attended to.  All the horses
+belonging to different officers were removed to drag the guns, no
+one being allowed to ride, lest a neigh, or even the trampling of
+hoofs, should excite suspicion.  The fires were trimmed, and made
+to blaze brightly; fuel enough was left to keep them so for some
+hours; and finally, about half-past nine o'clock the troops
+formed in marching order, and moved off in the most profound
+silence.  Not a word was spoken, nor a single individual
+permitted to step one inch out of his place, by which means they
+passed along the streets perfectly unnoticed, and cleared the
+town without any alarm being given.  Our pace, it will be
+imagined, was none of the most tardy, consequently it was not
+long before we reached the ground which had been occupied by the
+other brigades.  Here we found a second line of fires blazing in
+the same manner as those deserted by ourselves; and the same
+precautions in every respect adopted, to induce a belief that our
+army was still quiet.--Beyond these, again, we found two or three
+solitary fires, placed in such order as to resemble those of a
+chain of piquets.  In a word, the deception was so well managed,
+that even we ourselves were at first doubtful whether the rest of
+the troops had fallen back.
+
+When we reached the ground where yesterday's battle had been
+fought, the moon rose, and exhibited a spectacle by no means
+enlivening.--The dead were still unburied, and lay about in every
+direction completely naked.  They had been stripped even of their
+shirts, and having been exposed in this state to the violent rain
+in the morning, they appeared to be bleached to a most unnatural
+degree of whiteness.  The heat and rain together had likewise
+affected them in a different manner; and the smell which rose
+upon the night air was horrible.
+
+There is something in such a scene as this extremely humbling,
+and repugnant to the feelings of human nature.  During the
+agitation of a battle, it is nothing to see men fall in hundreds
+by your side.  You may look at them, perhaps, for an instant, but
+you do so almost without being yourself aware of it, so
+completely are your thoughts carried away by the excitation of
+the moment and the shouts of your companions.--But when you come
+to view the dead in an hour of calmness, stripped as they
+generally are, you cannot help remembering how frail may have
+been the covering which saved yourself from being the loathsome
+thing on which you are now gazing.--For myself, I confess that
+these reflections rose within my mind on the present occasion;
+and if any one should say that, similarly situated, they would not
+rise in his, I should give him no credit for a superior degree of
+courage, though I might be inclined to despise him for his want
+of the common feelings of a reasonable being.
+
+BLADENSBURG.
+
+In Bladensburg the brigade halted for an hour, while those men
+who had thrown away their knapsacks endeavoured to recover them.
+During this interval I strolled up to a house which had been
+converted into an hospital, and paid a hasty visit to the
+wounded.  I found them in great pain, and some of them deeply
+affected at the thought of being abandoned by their comrades, and
+left to the mercy of their enemies.  Yet, in their apprehension
+of evil treatment from the Americans, the event proved that they
+had done injustice to that people; who were found to possess at
+least one generous trait in their character, namely, that of
+behaving kindly and attentively to their prisoners.
+
+As soon as the stragglers had returned to their ranks, we again
+moved on, continuing to march without once stopping to rest
+during the whole of the night.  Of the fatigue of a night march
+none but those who have experienced it can form the smallest
+conception.  Oppressed with the most intolerable drowsiness, we
+were absolutely dozing upon our legs; and if any check at the
+head of the column caused a momentary delay, the road was
+instantly covered with men fast asleep.  It is generally
+acknowledged that no inclination is so difficult to resist as the
+inclination to sleep; but when you are compelled not only to bear
+up against that, but to struggle also with weariness, and to walk
+at the same time, it is scarcely possible to hold out long.  By
+seven o'clock in the morning, it was found absolutely necessary
+to pause, because numbers had already fallen behind, and numbers
+more were ready to follow their example; when throwing ourselves
+upon the ground, almost in the same order in which we had
+marched, in less than five minutes there was not a single
+unclosed eye throughout the whole brigade.  Piquets were of
+course stationed, and sentinels placed, to whom no rest was
+granted, but, except these, the entire army resembled a heap of
+dead bodies on a field of battle, rather than living men.
+
+ARLBOROUGH
+
+In this situation we remained till noon, when we were again
+roused to continue the retreat.  Though the sun was oppressively
+powerful, we moved on without resting till dark, when having
+arrived at our old position near Marlborough, we halted for the
+night.  During this day's march we were joined by numbers of
+negro slaves, who implored us to take them along with us,
+offering to serve either as soldiers or sailors, if we would but
+give them their liberty; but as General Ross persisted in
+protecting private property of every description, few of them
+were fortunate enough to obtain their wishes.
+
+We had now proceeded a distance of thirty-five miles, and began
+to consider ourselves beyond the danger of pursuit.  The
+remainder of the retreat was accordingly conducted with more
+leisure; our next march carrying us no farther than to
+Nottingham, where we remained during an entire day, for the
+purpose of resting the troops.  It cannot, however, be said that
+this resting-time was spent in idleness.  A gun-brig, with a
+number of ships' launches and long-boats, had made their way up
+the stream, and were at anchor opposite to the town.  On board
+the former were carried such of the wounded as had been able to
+travel, whilst the latter were loaded with flour and tobacco, the
+only spoil which we found it practicable to bring off.
+
+Whilst the infantry were thus employed, the cavalry was sent back
+as far as Marlborough, to discover whether there were any
+American forces in pursuit; and it was well for the few
+stragglers who had been left behind that this recognizance was
+made.  Though there appeared to be no disposition on the part of
+the American General to follow our steps and to harass the
+retreat, the inhabitants of that village, at the instigation of a
+medical practitioner called Bain, bad risen in arms as soon as we
+departed; and falling upon such individuals as strayed from the
+column, put some of them to death, and made others prisoners.  A
+soldier whom they had taken, and who had escaped, gave
+information of these proceedings to the troopers, just as they
+were about to return to head-quarters; upon which they
+immediately wheeled about, and galloping into the village, pulled
+the doctor out of his bed (for it was early in the morning),
+compelled him, by a threat of instant death, to liberate his
+prisoners; and mounting him before one of the party, brought him
+in triumph to the camp.
+
+ST.  BENEDICT'S.
+
+The wounded, the artillery, and plunder, being all embarked on
+the 28th, at daybreak on the 29th we took the direction of
+St. Benedict's, where we arrived, without any adventure, at
+a late hour in the evening.  Here we again occupied the ground of
+which we had taken possession on first landing, passing the night
+in perfect quiet; and next day, the boats of the fleet being
+ready to receive us, the regiments, one by one, marched down to
+the beach.  We found the shore covered with sailors from the
+different ships of war, who welcomed our arrival with loud
+cheers; and having contrived to bring up a larger flotilla than
+had been employed in the disembarkation, they removed us within a
+few hours, and without the occurrence of any accident, to our
+respective vessels.
+
+Such is a plain impartial account of the inroad upon Washington,
+an affair than which the whole war produced none more brilliant
+or more daring.  In whatever light we may regard it, whether we
+look to the amount of difficulties which it behoved him to
+overcome, the inadequacy of the force which he commanded, or the
+distance which he was called upon to march, in the midst of a
+hostile population, and through deep and trackless forests, we
+cannot deny to General Ross the praise which is his due, of
+having planned and successfully accomplished an expedition which
+none but a sagacious mind could have devised, and none but a
+gallant spirit carried into execution.  Among the many important
+transactions which then occupied the public attention, the
+campaign at Washington was, I believe, but little spoken of; and
+even now, it is overwhelmed in the recollections of the
+all-engrossing Waterloo; but the time will probably come, when he
+who at the head of four thousand men penetrated upwards of sixty
+miles into an enemy's country; overthrew an army more than double
+his own in point of numbers; took possession of the capital of a
+great nation, and having held it as long as it suited his own
+purposes to hold it, returned again in triumph to his fleet, will
+be ranked, as he deserves to be ranked, among the number of those
+who have most successfully contributed to elevate Great Britain
+to the height of military glory on which she now stands.
+
+It has been said that the entire merit of this brilliant
+expedition is due, not so much to the brave man who conducted it,
+as to Sir George Cockburn, at whose suggestion it was undertaken.
+To the great gallantry and high talents of Sir George Cockburn no
+one who served within the compass of the Bay of Chesapeake will
+refuse to bear testimony, nor is it improbable that in
+attributing to him the original, design of laying Washington
+itself under contribution, common report speaks truly.  But with
+whomsoever the idea first originated, to General Boss belongs the
+undivided of having, carried it into effect.  From Sir George
+Oockburn, and indeed from the whole fleet, the army received
+every assistance which it was in the power of the the fleet to
+bestow; but had no Ross been at the head of the land forces, the
+capital of the United States would have suffered no insult.  I
+have ventured to make these remarks, not with any design of
+taking away, in the slightest degree, from the well-earned
+reputation of the living; but merely as an act of justice towards
+the memory of the gallant dead, whose services have hardly
+received all the notice, either from the Government or the
+country, which they deserved.
+
+Of the degree of military sagacity exhibited on both sides,
+during the progress of hostilities, it scarcely becomes me to
+speak.  Perhaps our leader delayed something too long in making,
+up his mind as to the ultimate end to be pursued, after the troop
+had penetrated so far into the interior as Marlborough.  Had he
+pushed on at once, it is barely possible that Washington might
+have fallen at a less expense of human life than actually
+occurred.  Perhaps, too, he commenced she attack at Bladensburg
+with a degree of precipitancy which hindered him from, taking
+advantage of an open ford, and compelled him to expose his troops
+to the fire of the enemy's artillery whilst crossing a narrow
+bridge in a single column.  But these errors, if errors they may
+be termed, were amply compensated by the perfect success of his
+operations; whilst in every other particular his conduct was
+beyond the reach of censure.  In his choice of ground for
+halting, in the order both of his advance and retreat, and in
+the rapidity of his movements as soon as his plans had been
+arranged, General Ross exhibited himself in the light of an able
+and diligent commander.  No man could possess, more than he a
+soldier's eye in examining the face of a country; and in what
+little manoeuvring the circumstances permitted, he displayed the
+proficiency of one well practised in the arts of campaigning.  It
+will be recollected, that on the 23rd, the day previous to the
+battle, we fell in with a strong body of the enemy, to deceive
+whom we wheeled off from the main road, and took the direction of
+Alexandria.  The plan was attended by the most perfect success;
+the party deceived, being in fact the advanced guard of the main
+army.  Thinking that Alexandria, and not Washington, was
+threatened, the American General abandoned a strong position,
+which he had seized on the main road, harassed his troops by
+a needless march towards that town; and discovered his mistake
+only time enough to occupy the heights of Bladensburg a very few
+minutes before we came in sight.
+
+With respect to the Americans, again, criticism necessarily
+degenerates into unqualified censure.  From the beginning to the
+end of the affair, they acted in no one instance like prudent or
+sagacious men.  In the first place, they ought on no account to
+have risked a general action in an open country, however strong
+and steep; and, secondly, they deserved to suffer much more
+severely than they did suffer, for permitting an enemy's army to
+penetrate beyond Nottingham.  In allowing us to land without
+opposition, they were perhaps guilty of no great mistake; but
+having done so, instead of concentrating their forces in one
+place, they ought to have harassed us with continual skirmishing;
+felled trees on each side, and thrown them across the road; dug
+deep ditches at certain intervals; in a word, it was their wisdom
+to adopt the mode of warfare to which their own habits, as, well
+as the nature of their country, invited them.
+
+In America, every man is a marksman from his very boyhood, and
+every man serves in the militia; but to bring an army of raw
+militia-men, however excellent they might be as marksmen, into a
+fair field against regular troops, could end in nothing but
+defeat.  When two lines oppose each other, very little depends
+upon the accuracy with which individuals take aim.  It is then
+that the habit of acting in concert, the confidence which each
+man feels in his a companions, and the rapidity and good order in
+which different movements can be executed, are alone of real
+service.  But put these raw militia-men into thick woods, and
+send your regular troops to drive them out, and you will
+immediately lose all the advantages of discipline, and reduce
+your battle to so many single combats.
+
+Here, therefore, lay their principal error: had they left all
+clear, and Permitted us to advance as far as Nottingham, then
+broken up the roads, and covered them with trees, it would have
+been impossible for us to go a step beyond.  As soon as this was
+effected, they might have skirmished with us in front, and kept
+our attention alive with part of their troops, till the rest,
+acquainted as they doubtless were with every inch of the country,
+had got into our rear, and, by a similar mode of proceeding, cut
+off our retreat.  Thus we should have been taken in a snare, from
+which it would have been no easy task to extricate ourselves, and
+might, perhaps, have been obliged in the end to surrender at
+discretion.
+
+But so obvious and so natural a plan of defence they chose to
+reject ad determining to trust all to the fate of a battle, they
+were guilty of a monstrous error again.  Bladensburg ought not to
+have been left unoccupied.  The most open village, if resolutely
+defended, will cost many men before it falls; whereas
+Bladensburg, being composed of substantial brick houses, might
+have been maintained for hours against all our efforts.  In the
+next place, they displayed great want of military knowledge in
+the disposition of both their infantry and artillery.  There was
+not, in the whole space of their position, a single point where
+an enemy would be exposed to a cross fire.  The troops were drawn
+up in three straight lines, like so many regiments upon a gala
+parade; whilst the guns were used as connecting links to a chain,
+being posted in the same order, by ones and twos, at every
+interval.
+
+In maintaining themselves, likewise, when attacked, they exhibited
+neither skill nor resolution.  Of the personal courage of the Americans
+there can be no doubt; they are, individually taken, as brave a nation
+as any in the world.  But they are not soldiers; they have not the
+experience nor the habits of soldiers.  It was the height of folly,
+therefore, to bring them into a situation where nothing except that
+experience and those habits will avail; and it is on this account that
+I repeat what I have already said, that the capture of Washington was
+more owing to the blindness of the Americans themselves than to any
+other cause.
+
+
+CHAPTER XII.
+
+ALEXANDRIA
+
+WHILST the army was thus actively employed, the fleet did not remain
+idle.  A squadron of frigates, with two bomb-ships, under the command
+of Captain Gordon, of the Sea-horse, penetrated up the Potomac, and
+appeared before Alexandria.  The whole of the militia of the district
+was at this time called away for the defence of the capital,
+consequently no place could be less prepared to resist an invader
+than that city.  A party accordingly landed from the ships without
+opposition, and having destroyed the barracks, public works, and all
+the cannon which they found on shore, they seized a number of
+schooners and other small craft then lying in the harbour, and loading
+them with flour and tobacco to a considerable amount, prepared to
+rejoin the fleet in the bay.
+
+But by this time the country was alarmed; a detachment was sent from
+the main army, and being joined by the reserve of militia, it was
+determined to intercept the squadron on its return.  With this view,
+several pieces of heavy cannon were mounted upon a steep part of the
+bank, where the river, in making an angle, narrows considerably in its
+channel.  Thither also hastened large bodies of infantry; and before
+the frigates had begun to weigh anchor nearly 5000 men were assembled
+to prevent their passage.
+
+Of these preparations Captain Gordon did not long remain ignorant; nor
+was he backward in making the best arrangements possible to meet the
+danger.  By shifting the ballast in each of the vessels entirely to
+one side, he caused them to lean in such a manner as that their
+artillery could be elevated to a surprising degree, and the shot rise
+even to the summit of the hill.  The guns were then stuffed, rather
+than loaded, with grape and musket-balls; and the ships, taking their
+stations according to their draft of water, the lightest keeping
+nearest to the enemy's shore, set sail, and, favoured by a leading
+breeze, stood leisurely down the river.
+
+As soon as they arrived within tangible distance, a brisk
+cannonade was opened upon them from the heights, and the whole of
+the infantry appeared in line along, the brow of the eminence.
+Regardless of these formidable salutations, the ships continued
+to hold their course without changing their order or returning a
+shot, till they reached the base of the hill upon which the
+infantry stood, and received a volley of musketry into their
+decks.  Then, indeed, they answered the fire; and with such
+effect, that at the first broadside the enemy's guns were
+abandoned, and their infantry took to flight.  The Americans had
+persuaded themselves that no ship could point her guns so as to
+sweep the top of the hill; and under this idea had drawn up their
+troops along the ridge, with the intention of overawing the
+squadron by a display of their numbers.  But in the event they
+found themselves mistaken, for so well had Captain Gordon
+arranged matters, that not a single shot fell under its mark; and
+as the ships' artillery had been loaded for the occasion, a
+shower of balls of every size and description came amongst them,
+such as it was impossible to withstand.  A single broadside was
+sufficient to secure the safe passage of his squadron; but with
+this Captain Gordon was not contented.  Seeing the enemy driven
+from their cannon, he immediately landed his marines, spiked the
+guns, and blew up the expense magazines; when, having received
+them all safely on board again, he continued his voyage, and
+regained the Chesapeake without further molestation.
+
+Nor was this the only operation in which the navy were employed.
+Cruising about in every direction, they threatened the whole line
+of coast, from the entrance to the very bend of the bay; and thus
+kept the Americans in a constant state of alarm.  Whenever a
+favourable opportunity presented itself, parties landed,
+plundered or destroyed the Government stores, laid towns and
+districts under contribution, and brought off all the shipping
+which could be reached.  In a word, the hostilities carried on in
+the Chesapeake resembled the expeditions of the ancient Danes
+against Great Britain, rather than a modern war between civilized
+nations.  But these hasty excursions, though generally
+successful, were not always performed without loss to the
+invaders.  Many men and some officers were killed and wounded,
+among whom was Captain Sir Peter Parker, of the Menelaus frigate,
+an officer distinguished for his gallantry and knowledge of naval
+tactics.  Having learnt that an encampment of 300 men and six
+pieces of cannon had been formed, at the distance of a few miles
+from the banks of the Potomac, and about nine leagues below
+Alexandria, he determined, with part of his ship's crew, to
+surprise it, and to capture the guns.  Running his frigate with
+this view up the river, he cast anchor opposite to the place
+where the American forces lay; and leaving on board only a
+sufficient number of sailors to manage the ship, and to guard
+against surprise, with the rest, amounting to 200 seamen and
+marines, he landed, and marched rapidly towards the enemy's camp.
+But intelligence of his proceedings had already reached them;
+patrols of horse hovering continually along the coast for the
+purpose of watching the motions of our fleet.  When, therefore,
+he arrived at the point of destination, he found the bivouac
+deserted, and the rear-guard in full retreat.  With these a
+little skirmishing ensued, and he received a rifle-ball in the
+thigh.  Not suspecting that the wound was dangerous, he continued
+to push forward, till he fell exhausted from loss of blood; when,
+on examining the hurt, it was found that the femoral artery had
+been cut; and before any proper assistance could be afforded, he
+literally bled to death.  Seeing their leader killed, and the
+enemy retiring, apparently with the design of drawing them away
+from the coast, the sailors now halted; and taking up their dead
+commander, returned to the river without being able to effect
+anything which might, in any degree, console them for their loss.
+
+THE PATUXENT.
+
+In the meantime the army continued, for some days, quietly on
+board the ships in the Patuxent.  The wounded whose cases
+appeared most desperate were removed to vessels fitted up for
+their reception, and sailed, some for Halifax, and others for
+England.  The dispatches were likewise made out and sent off in
+the Iphigenia, whilst a sort of breathing-time was given to those
+who had been of late so actively employed.  Whilst this sabbath
+continued, I amused myself by landing; and under the pretext of
+shooting, strolled sometimes farther up the country than prudence
+exactly warranted.  The houses and villas, upon the immediate
+banks of the river, I found universally deserted, and thoroughly
+plundered.  The corn, however, was uninjured; and even flocks of
+sheep were seen grazing within a short distance of the water,
+protected only by negro slaves.  Of these none were taken without
+an equivalent being as faithfully paid as if they had been sold
+in the market-place of New York; a circumstance which favoured
+the belief that the houses had been ransacked, not by the British
+troops, but by the inhabitants themselves.  Whether it was really
+so or not I cannot say, but this I know, that from the time of
+our arrival in the Chesapeake, all acts of individual plunder or
+violence were strictly prohibited, and severely punished.
+
+But this appearance of ruin and desertion extended not more than
+a mile or two from the coast.  Beyond that, I found the cottages
+occupied by their owners, and everything remaining as if no enemy
+were within a hundred miles.  The young men, indeed, were
+generally absent, because every man fit to bear arms was now
+serving with the army; but the old men and the women seemed to
+live as comfortably as if the most profound peace had reigned
+throughout the State.  Nor did I find them altogether so hostile
+to our interest as I had expected.  They professed to be
+Federalists; and though they regretted the events of the war,
+they blamed their own rulers for its commencement.  Tempted by
+this show of quietness, I one day continued my walk to a greater
+distance from the fleet than I had yet ventured to do.  My
+servant was with me, but had no arms, and I was armed only with a
+double-barrelled fowling-piece.  Having wearied myself with
+looking for game, and penetrated beyond my former landmarks, I
+came suddenly upon a small hamlet, occupying a piece of cleared
+ground in the very heart of a thick wood.  With this, to confess
+the truth, I was by no means delighted, more especially as I
+perceived two stout-looking men sitting at the door of one of the
+cottages.  To retire unobserved was, however, impossible, because
+the rustling which I had made among the trees attracted their
+attention, and they saw me; probably, before I had seen them.
+Perceiving that their eyes were fixed upon me, I determined to
+put a bold face upon the matter; and calling aloud, as if to a
+party to halt, I advanced, with my servant, towards them.  They
+were dressed in sailors' jackets and trowsers, and rose on my
+approach, taking off their hats with much civility.  On joining
+them, I demanded to be informed whether they were not Englishmen,
+and deserters from the fleet, stating that I was in search of two
+persons very much answering their description.  They assured me
+that they were Americans, and no deserters, begging that I would
+not take them away; a request to which, after some time, I
+assented.  They then conducted me into the house, where I found
+an old man and three women, who entertained me with bread,
+cheese, and new milk.  While I was sitting here, a third youth,
+in the dress of a labourer, entered, and whispered to one of the
+sailors, who immediately rose to go out, but I commanded him to
+sit still, declaring that I was not satisfied, and should
+certainly arrest him if he attempted to escape.  The man sat down
+sulkily; and the young labourer coming forward, begged permission
+to examine my gun.  This was a request which I did not much
+relish, and with which I, of course, refused to comply; telling
+the fellow that it was loaded, and that I was unwilling to trust
+it out of my own band, on account of a weakness in one of the
+locks.
+
+I had now kept up appearances as long as they could be kept up,
+and therefore rose to withdraw; a measure to which I was
+additionally induced by the appearance of two other countrymen at
+the opposite end of the hamlet.  I therefore told the sailors
+that, if they would pledge themselves to remain quietly at home,
+without joining the American army, I would not molest them;
+warning them, at the same time, not to venture beyond the
+village, lest they should fall into the hands of other parties,
+who were also in search of deserters.  The promise they gave, but
+not with much alacrity, when I rose, and keeping my eye fixed
+upon them, and my gun ready cocked in my hand, walked out,
+followed by my servant.  They conducted us to the door, and stood
+staring after us till we got to the edge of the wood; when I
+observed them moving towards their countrymen, who also gazed
+upon us, without either advancing or flying.  The reader will
+readily believe, that as soon as we found ourselves concealed by
+the trees, we lost no time in endeavouring to discover the direct
+way towards the shipping; but plunging into the thickets, ran
+with all speed, without thinking of aught except an immediate
+escape from pursuit.  Whether the Americans did attempt to
+follow, or not, I cannot tell.  If they did, they took a wrong
+direction, for in something more than an hour I found myself at
+the edge of the river, a little way above the shipping, and
+returned safely on board, fully resolved not again, to expose
+myself to such risks, without necessity.
+
+THE PATAPSCO.
+
+In this manner the time was spent till daybreak on the 6th of
+September, when the whole fleet got under weigh, and stood
+towards the Chesapeake.  The wind was fair, and we speedily
+cleared the river; but instead of standing up the bay, as we had
+expected, we ran down a few miles below the mouth of the
+Patuxent, and there anchored.  A signal was then made by
+telegraph for all ships to send in a return of the number of
+seamen whom, in addition to marines, they could land with
+small-arms.  Every ship's crew was accordingly mustered, and it
+was found that, besides the numbers necessary for conveying
+stores and dragging guns, one thousand sailors could be spared
+from the fleet.  Thus, in spite of our loss at Bladensburg, we
+were enabled on our next debarkation to bring into the field
+about five thousand fighting men.
+
+Next morning we again weighed, and directed our course towards the
+Potomac.  We entered this river soon after midday, and continued to
+stem the stream during the night, and till dusk on the following
+evening, when we again brought up.  Here we were joined by Admiral
+Cockburn, who had quitted the anchorage some days before the rest of
+the fleet, with a large flotilla of prizes and small craft; and
+having on the 9th once more set sail, and steered for a few hours in
+the direction of Alexandria, we suddenly put about, and, favoured by a
+fresh breeze, ran down to the bay, turning our heads upwards towards
+the Patapsco.  Baltimore, it was now understood, was the point of
+attack; and towards the river upon which that town is built we
+hastened under a heavy press of sail.
+
+The object of this manoeuvring was evidently to deceive the
+enemy, and by keeping him in suspense as to the place threatened,
+to prevent his concentrating his forces, or throwing up works for
+its defence.  But in the attainment of our object, the event
+proved that we were but partially successful.  Certain it is,
+however, that the utmost consternation prevailed in every town or
+village opposite to which we made our appearance.  In passing
+Anapolis, a considerable town built upon the bay, and possessing
+a tolerable harbour, we stood in so close as to discern the
+inhabitants flying from their houses; carts and waggons loaded
+with furniture hurrying along the roads, and horsemen galloping
+along the shore, as if watching the fearful moment when the boats
+should be hoisted out, and the troops quit the vessels.  Wherever
+a lighthouse or signal station was erected, alarm-guns were fired
+and beacons lighted.  In a word, all the horrors of doubt and
+apprehension seemed to oppress the inhabitants of this devoted
+district.
+
+The fair wind continuing to blow without interruption, on the
+11th we came in sight of the projecting headland, where it was
+designed to disembark the troops.  It was a promontory washed by
+the Patapsco on one side, and a curvature of the bay itself on
+the other.  It was determined to land here, rather than to ascend
+the river, because the Patapsco, though broad, is far from deep.
+It is, in fact, too shallow to admit a line-of-battle ship; and,
+as no one could guess what impediments might be thrown in the way
+to obstruct the navigation, prudence forbade that five thousand
+men should be intrusted to the convoy of the smaller vessels
+alone.  Besides, the distance from the point to Baltimore did not
+exceed fourteen or fifteen miles, a space which might easily be
+traversed in a day.
+
+But while the land forces moved in this direction upon Baltimore, it
+was resolved that the frigates and bomb-ships should endeavour to
+force their way through every obstacle, and to obtain possession of
+the navigation of the river, so as, if possible, to co-operate with
+the army by bombarding the place from the water.  A frigate was
+accordingly dispatched to try the depth, and to take soundings of the
+channel, whilst the remainder of the fleet came to an anchor off the
+point.  In the meantime all was again bustle and preparation on board
+the troop-ships and transports.  Three days' provisions were cooked, as
+before, and given to the men; and as we were now to carry everything
+by a coup-de-main, twenty rounds of ammunition were added to the sixty
+with which soldiers are usually loaded; whilst a smaller quantity of
+other baggage was directed to be taken on shore.  A blanket, with a
+spare shirt and pair of shoes, was considered enough for each man on
+an expedition of so rapid a nature; whilst brushes and other articles
+of that description were divided between comrades, one carrying what
+would suffice for both.  Thus the additional load of twenty cartridges
+was more than counterbalanced by the clothing and necessaries left
+behind.
+
+It was dusk when we reached the anchorage, consequently no
+landing could take place before the morrow.  But as the boats
+were ordered to be in readiness at dawn, every man slept in his
+clothes, that he might be prepared to start at a moment's
+warning.  There was something in this state of preparation at
+once solemn and exciting.  That we should obtain possession of a
+place so important as Baltimore without fighting was not to be
+expected; and, therefore, this arming and this bustle seemed in
+fact to be the prelude to a battle.  But no man of the smallest
+reflection can look forward to the chance of a sudden and violent
+death without experiencing sensations very different from those
+which he experiences under any other circumstances.  When the
+battle has fairly begun, I may say with truth that the feelings
+of those engaged are delightful; because they are in fact so many
+gamblers playing for the highest stake that can be offered.  But
+the stir and noise of equipping, and then the calmness and
+stillness of expectation, these are the things which force a man
+to think.  On the other hand, the warlike appearance of
+everything about you, the careless faces and rude jokes of the
+private soldiers, and something within yourself, which I can
+compare to nothing more seemly than the mirth which criminals are
+said sometimes to experience and to express previous to their
+execution; all these combine to give you a degree of false
+hilarity, I had almost said painful from its very excess.  It is
+an agitation of the nerves, such as we may suppose madmen feel,
+which you are inclined to wish removed, though you are not
+unwilling to admit that it is agreeable.
+
+And yet, as if in mockery of these deadly preparations, I do not
+recollect to have seen a more heavenly night than the present.
+The heat of the day was past, a full clear moon shone brightly in
+a sky where not a cloud could be discerned, and a heavy dew
+falling appeared to refresh the earth, which had been parched and
+burnt up by the sun.  We lay at this time within two miles of the
+shore, consequently every object there was distinctly visible.
+Around us were moored numerous ships, which, breaking the tide as
+it flowed gently onwards, produced a ceaseless murmur like the
+gushing of a mountain stream.  The voices of the sentinels too,
+as they relieved one another on the decks, and the occasional
+splash of oars, as a solitary boat rowed backwards and forwards
+to the Admiral's ship for orders, sounded peculiarly musical in
+the perfect stillness of a calm night.  Though I am far from
+giving the preference, in all respects, to a sailor's life, it
+must nevertheless be confessed that it has in it many moments of
+exquisite enjoyment, and the present seemed to me to be of the
+number.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIII.
+
+MARCH
+
+BUT the stillness of night soon passed away, and at three o'clock in
+the morning every ship in the fleet began to lower her boats, and the
+soldiers were roused from their slumbers.  The same precautions which
+had been formerly used to cover the landing were again adopted,
+several gun-brigs laying themselves within cable's length of the
+beach, and the leading boats in every division being armed with
+carronades, loaded and ready for action.  But, as had been the case at
+St. Benedict's, they were unnecessary, for the troops reached the
+shore without opposition, and leisurely formed in an open field close
+to the river.
+
+It was seven o'clock before the whole army was disembarked and in
+order for marching.  The same arrangements which had been made on the
+late expedition were, as far as circumstances would permit, again
+adopted on this.  The light brigade, now commanded by Major Jones of
+the 4th regiment, led the advance; then followed the artillery,
+amounting to six field-pieces and two howitzers, all of them drawn by
+horses; next came the second brigade, then the sailors, and last of
+all the third brigade.  Flank patrols and reconnoitring parties were
+likewise sent out; in short, the same admirable dispositions regulated
+the present march which had governed our march to Washington.
+
+The column being put in motion, advanced, without the occurrence
+of any incident deserving of notice, for about an hour, when it
+arrived at a piece of ground which appeared as if it had been
+lately in possession of the enemy.  It was a narrow neck of land,
+confined between the river on one side, and the head of a creek
+on the other, measuring, perhaps, a mile across.  From the river
+to the creek a breastwork had been begun, and was partly
+completed.  In front of it there were lines drawn, apparently for
+the purpose of marking out the width of a ditch; in some places
+the ditch itself was dug, and the commencement of what resembled
+an enfilading battery in the centre, showed that a considerable
+degree of science had been displayed in the choice of this spot
+as a military position.  And, in truth, it was altogether such a
+position as, if completed, might have been maintained by a
+determined force against very superior numbers.  Both flanks were
+completely protected, not only by water, but by thick wood, while
+a gentle eminence in the very middle of the line offered the most
+desirable situation for the projecting battery which had been
+begun; because a fire from it would have swept the whole, both to
+the right and left.  In its present state, however, it was
+untenable, unless by a force as able to attack as to defend;
+consequently the Americans, who acted solely on the defensive,
+did wisely in choosing another.
+
+But the aspect of the ground was such as led us to conclude that
+the enemy could not be very distant.  The troops were accordingly
+halted, that the rear might be well up, and the men fresh and
+ready for action.  Whilst this was done part of the flank patrol
+came in, bringing with them three light-horse men, as prisoners.
+These were young gentlemen belonging to a corps of volunteers,
+furnished by the town of Baltimore, who had been sent out to
+watch our motions, and convey intelligence to the American
+General.  Being but little accustomed to such service, they had
+suffered themselves to be surprised; and, instead of reporting to
+their own leader as to the number and dispositions of their
+adversaries, they were now catechized by General Ross respecting
+the strength and preparations of their friends.  From them we
+learned that a force of no less than twenty thousand men was
+embodied for the defence of Baltimore; but as the accounts of
+prisoners are generally over-rated, we took it for granted that
+they made their report only to intimidate.
+
+ATTACK
+
+
+Having rested for the space of an hour, we again moved forward,
+but had not proceeded above a mile when a sharp fire of musketry
+was heard in front, and shortly afterwards a mounted officer came
+galloping to the rear, who desired us to quicken our pace, for
+that the advanced guard was engaged.  At this intelligence the
+ranks were closed, and the troops advanced at a brisk rate, and
+in profound silence.  The firing still continued, though, from
+its running and irregular sound, it promised little else than a
+skirmish; but whether it was kept up by detached parties alone,
+or by the outposts of a regular army, we could not tell; because,
+from the quantity of wood with which the country abounded, and
+the total absence of all hills or eminences, it was impossible to
+discern what was going on at the distance of half a mile from the
+spot where we stood.
+
+We were already drawing near to the scene of action, when another
+officer came at full speed towards us, with horror and dismay in
+his countenance, and calling loudly for a surgeon.  Every man
+felt within himself that all was not right, though none was
+willing to believe the whispers of his own terror.  But what at
+first we would not guess at, because we dreaded it so much, was
+soon realized; for the aide-de-camp had scarcely passed, when the
+General's horse, without its rider, and with the saddle and
+housings stained with blood, came plunging onwards.  Nor was much
+time given for fearful surmise as to the extent of our
+misfortune.  In a few moments we reached the ground where the
+skirmishing had taken place, and beheld General Ross laid by the
+side of the road, under a canopy of blankets, and apparently in
+the agonies of death.  As soon as the firing began, he had ridden
+to the front, that he might ascertain from whence it originated,
+and, mingling with the skirmishers, was shot in the side by a
+rifleman.  The wound was mortal: he fell into the arms of his
+aide-de-camp, and lived only long enough to name his wife, and to
+commend his family to the protection of his country.  He was
+removed towards the fleet, but expired before his bearers could
+reach the boats.
+
+It is impossible to conceive the effect which this melancholy
+spectacle produced throughout the army.  By the courteousness and
+condescension of his manners, General Ross had secured the
+absolute love of all who served under him, from the highest to
+the lowest; and his success on a former occasion, as well as his
+judicious arrangements on the present, had inspired every one
+with the most perfect confidence in his abilities.  His very
+error, if error it may be called, in so young a leader--I mean
+that diffidence in himself which had occasioned some loss of time
+on the march to Washington, appeared now to have left him.  His
+movements were at once rapid and cautious; nay, his very
+countenance indicated a fixed determination, and a perfect
+security of success.  All eyes were turned upon him as we passed,
+and a sort of involuntary groan ran from rank to rank, from the
+front to the rear of the column.
+
+By the fall of our gallant leader, the command now devolved upon
+Colonel Brook, of the 44th regiment, an officer of decided
+personal courage, but, perhaps, better calculated to lead a
+battalion than to guide an army.  Being informed of his
+unexpected and undesired elevation, he came to the front, and
+under him we continued to move on; sorrowful, indeed, but not
+dejected.  The skirmishing had now ceased, for the American
+riflemen were driven in; and in a few minutes we found ourselves
+opposite to a considerable force, drawn up with some skill, and
+occupying a strong position.  Judging from appearances, I should
+say that the corps now opposed to us amounted to six or seven
+thousand men.  They covered a neck of land, very much resembling
+that which we had passed; having both flanks defended by little
+inland lakes; the whole of their position was well wooded, and in
+front of their line was a range of high palings, similar to those
+which intersected the field of Bladensburg.  About the centre,
+though some way advanced, was a farm-house, with its outbuildings
+and stack-yard; and near to the right ran the main road.  Their
+artillery, which could not greatly exceed our own, either in
+weight of metal or number of guns, was scattered along the line
+of infantry in nearly the same order as had been preserved at
+Bladensburg, and their reserve was partly seen, and partly hid by
+a thick wood.
+
+The whole of this country is flat and unbroken.  About half a
+mile in rear of the enemy's position were some heights, but to
+occupy these as they should be occupied would have required a
+much greater number of men than the American army could muster.
+Their General, therefore, exhibited some judgment in his choice
+of ground, but, perhaps, he would have exhibited more had he
+declined a pitched battle altogether.  Yet, to do him justice, I
+repeat that the ground was well chosen; for, besides the covering
+of wood which he secured for his own people, he took care to
+leave open fields in his front; by which means we were of
+necessity exposed to a galling fire, as soon as we came within
+range.  Of one error, however, he was guilty.  Either he did not
+possess himself of the farm-house at all, or he suffered it to be
+taken from him with very little resistance; for on the arrival of
+the column at the ground where it was to form, it was in the
+occupation of our advanced guard.  He was likewise to blame in
+not filling the wood upon our left with skirmishers.  In short,
+he acted unwisely in merely attempting to repel attacks, without
+ever dreaming that the most effectual mode of so doing is to turn
+the tables, and attack the assailants.
+
+As our troops came up they filed off to the right and left, and
+drew up just within cannon shot in the following order.  The
+light brigade, consisting, as I have formerly stated, of the 85th
+regiment and the light companies of the other corps, in extended
+order, threatened the whole front of the American army.  The 21st
+remained in column upon the road; the 4th moved off to the right,
+and advanced through a thicket to turn the enemy's left; and the
+44th, the seamen and marines, formed line in rear of the light
+brigade.
+
+While this formation was going on, the artillery being brought
+up, opened upon the American army, and a smart cannonade ensued
+on both sides.  That our guns were well served I myself can bear
+witness; for I saw the Shrapnel shells which were thrown from
+them strike among the enemy, and make fearful gaps in the line.
+Our rockets likewise began to play, one of which falling short,
+lighted upon a haystack in the barn-yard belonging to the
+farm-house, and immediately set it on fire.  The house itself,
+the stables, barns, and outhouses, as well as all the other
+stacks, one after another caught the flames, and were quickly in
+a state of conflagration; and the smoke and blaze which they
+emitted, together with the roar of cannon and flashes of the
+guns, produced altogether a very fine effect.
+
+In the meantime the American artillery was not idle.  Pushing
+forward two light field-pieces upon the road, they opened a
+destructive fire of grape upon the 21st regiment, and such of the
+sailors as occupied that point.  Three other guns were directed
+against our artillery, between which and several of our pieces a
+sort of duel was maintained; and the rest played without ceasing
+upon the 85th and the light companies, who had lain down while
+the other regiments took up their ground.  Neither was their
+infantry altogether quiet.  They marched several strong bodies
+from the right to the left, and withdrew others from the left to
+the right of their line, though for what end this marching and
+countermarching was undertaken I am at a loss to conceive.  While
+thus fluctuating it was curious to observe their dread of every
+spot where a cannon-ball had struck.  Having seen the shots fall,
+I kept my eye upon one or two places, and perceived that each
+company as it drew near to those points hung back; and then
+assuming as it were a momentary courage, rushed past, leaving a
+vacancy between it and the company which next succeeded.
+
+All this while the whole of our infantry, except the 4th
+regiment, lay or stood in anxious expectation of an order to
+advance.  This, however, was not given till that corps had
+reached the thicket through which it was to make its way; when
+Colonel Brook, with his staff, having galloped along the line to
+see that all was ready, commanded the signal to be made.  The
+charge was accordingly sounded, and echoed back from every bugle
+in the army, when, starting from the ground where they had lain,
+the troops moved on in a cool and orderly manner.  A dreadful
+discharge of grape and canister shot, of old locks, pieces of
+broken muskets, and everything which they could cram into their
+guns, was now sent forth from the whole of the enemy's artillery,
+and some loss was on our side experienced.  Regardless of this,
+our men went on without either quickening or retarding their
+pace, till they came within a hundred yards of the American
+line.  As yet not a musket had been fired, nor a word spoken on
+either side, but the enemy, now raising a shout, fired a volley
+from right to left, and then kept up a rapid and ceaseless
+discharge of musketry.  Nor were our people backward in replying
+to these salutes; for giving them back both their shout and their
+volley, we pushed on at double-quick, with the intention of
+bringing them to the charge.
+
+The bayonet is a weapon peculiarly British; at least it is a
+weapon which in the hands of a British soldier is irresistible.
+Though they maintained themselves with great determination, and
+stood to receive our fire till scarcely twenty yards divided us,
+the Americans would not hazard a charge.  On the left, indeed,
+where the 21st advanced in column, it was not without much
+difficulty and a severe loss that any attempt to charge could be
+made; for in that quarter seemed to be the flower of the enemy's
+infantry, as well as the main body of their artillery; towards
+the right, however, the day was quickly won.  The only thing to
+be regretted, indeed, was that the attack had not been for some
+time longer deferred; because the Americans were broken and fled,
+just as the 4th regiment began to show itself upon the brink of
+the water which covered their flank; and before a shallow
+part could be discovered, and the troops were enabled to pass,
+they had time to escape.
+
+As soon as their left gave way, the whole American army fell into
+confusion; nor do I recollect on any occasion to have witnessed a
+more complete rout.  Infantry, cavalry, and artillery were
+huddled together, without the smallest regard to order or
+regularity.  The sole object of anxiety seemed to be, which
+should escape first from the field of battle; insomuch, that
+numbers were actually trodden down by their countrymen in the
+hurry of the flight.  Yet, in spite of the short duration of the
+action, which lasted little more than two hours from its first
+commencement, the enemy's loss was severe.  They stood in some
+respects better than at Bladensburg, consequently we were more
+mingled with them when they gave way, and were thus enabled to
+secure some prisoners, an event which their more immediate flight
+had on the other occasion prevented.  In the capture of guns,
+however, we were not so fortunate.  Their pieces being light, and
+well supplied with horses, they contrived to carry off all except
+two; both of which would have also escaped but for the shooting
+of the leaders.
+
+I have said that the number of killed and wounded in the American
+army was very great; in ours, on the other hand, the casualties
+were fewer by far than might have been expected.  The 21st and
+seamen suffered a good deal, the 85th and light companies a
+little; but had our gallant General been spared, we should have
+pronounced this a glorious, because a comparatively bloodless
+day.  In the loss of that one man, however, we felt ourselves
+more deeply wounded than if the best battalion in the army had
+been sacrificed.
+
+In following up the flying enemy the same obstacles which
+presented themselves at Bladensburg again came in the way.  The
+thick woods quickly screened the fugitives, and as even our
+mounted drivers were wanting, their horses having been taken for
+the use of the artillery, no effectual pursuit could be
+attempted.  We accordingly halted upon the field of battle, of
+necessity content with the success which we had obtained; and
+having collected the stragglers and called in the pursuers, it
+was resolved to pass the night in this situation.  Fires were
+speedily lighted, and the troops distributed in such a manner as
+to secure a tolerable position in case of attack; and the wounded
+being removed into two or three houses scattered along the
+ground, the victors lay down to sleep under the canopy of heaven.
+
+Having thus given a distinct and connected detail of this affair,
+I shall beg leave to finish the present chapter with one or two
+anecdotes, which may not be unamusing.  It is said that when
+Admiral Cockburn, who accompanied the army, and attended General
+Ross with the fidelity of an aide-de-camp, was in the wood where
+the latter fell, he observed an American rifleman taking
+deliberate aim at him from behind a tree.  Instead of turning
+aside, or discharging a pistol at the fellow, as any other man
+would have done, the brave Admiral, doubling his fist, shook it
+at his enemy, and cried aloud, "O you d--d Yankee, I'll give it
+you!" upon which the man dropped his musket in the greatest
+alarm, and took to his heels.
+
+It is likewise told of an officer of engineers, that having
+overtaken an American soldier, and demanded his arms, the fellow
+gave him his rifle very readily, but being ordered to resign a
+handsome silver-hilted dagger and silver-mounted cartouch-box,
+which graced his side, he refused to comply, alleging that they
+were private property, and that, by our own proclamations,
+private property should be respected.  This was an instance of
+low cunning which reminded me of my own adventure with the
+squirrel-hunters, and which was attended with equal success.
+
+One other anecdote, of a different nature, and for the truth of
+which I can myself answer, may likewise be related.  In strolling
+over the field of battle, I came unexpectedly upon a wounded
+American, who lay among some bushes with his leg broken.  I drew
+near to offer him assistance, but on seeing me the wretch
+screamed out, and appeared in the greatest alarm; nor was it
+without some difficulty that I could persuade him e had nothing
+to fear.  At last, being convinced that I intended him no harm,
+the fellow informed me that it was impressed upon the minds of
+the American levies that from the British they might expect no
+quarter; and that it was consequently their determination to
+give no quarter to the British troops.  The fellow might belie
+his countrymen, and I hope and believe he did, but such was his
+report to me.  To convince him of the erroneousness of his
+notions, I removed him to one of our hospitals, where his leg was
+amputated; and he saw himself, as well as many others of his
+wounded comrades, treated with the same attention which was
+bestowed upon our own soldiers.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIV.
+
+
+AT an early hour on the 13th the troops were roused from their lairs,
+and forming upon the ground, waited till daylight should appear.  A
+heavy rain had come on about midnight, and now fell with so much
+violence, that some precautions were necessary, in order to prevent
+the firelocks from being rendered useless by wet.  Such of the men as
+were fortunate enough to possess leathern cases, wrapped them round
+the locks of their muskets, whilst the rest held them in the best
+manner they could, under their elbows; no man thinking of himself, but
+only how he could best keep his arms in a serviceable condition.
+
+As soon as the first glimmering of dawn could be discerned, we
+moved to the road, and took up our wonted order of march; but
+before we pushed forward, the troops were desired to lighten
+themselves still further, by throwing off their blankets, which
+were to be left under a slender guard till their return.  This
+was accordingly done; and being now unencumbered, except by a
+knapsack almost empty, every man felt his spirits heightened in
+proportion to the diminution of his load.  The grief of soldiers
+is seldom of long duration, and though I will not exactly say
+that poor Ross was already forgotten, the success of yesterday
+had reconciled at least the privates to the guidance of their new
+leader; nor was any other issue anticipated than what would have
+attended the excursion had he still been its mainspring and
+director.
+
+The country through which we passed resembled, in every
+particular, that already described.  Wood and cultivation
+succeeded each other at intervals, though the former surpassed
+the latter in tenfold extent; but instead of deserted villages
+and empty houses, which had met us on the way to Washington, we
+found most of the inhabitants remaining peaceably in their homes,
+and relying upon the assurance of protection given to them in our
+proclamations.  Nor had they cause to repent of that confidence.
+In no instance were they insulted, plundered, or ill-treated;
+whereas every house which was abandoned fell a prey to the scouts
+and reconnoitring parties.
+
+But our march to-day was not so rapid as our motions generally
+were.  The Americans had at last adopted an expedient which,
+if carried to its proper length, might have entirely stopped
+our progress.  In most of the woods they had felled trees,
+and thrown them across the road; but as these abattis were
+without defenders, we experienced no other inconvenience than
+what arose from loss of time; being obliged to halt on all such
+occasions till the pioneers had removed the obstacle.  So great,
+however, was even this hinderance, that we did not come in sight
+of the main army of the Americans till evening, although the
+distance travelled could not exceed ten miles.
+
+It now appeared that the corps which we had beaten yesterday was only
+a detachment, and not a large one, from the force collected for the
+defence of Baltimore; and that the account given by the volunteer
+troopers was in every respect correct.  Upon a ridge of hills, which
+concealed the town itself from observation, stood the grand army,
+consisting of twenty thousand men.  Not trusting to his superiority in
+numbers, their General had there entrenched them in the most
+formidable manner, having covered the whole face of the heights with
+breastworks, thrown back his left so as to rest it upon a strong fort
+erected for the protection of the river, and constructed a chain of
+field redoubts which covered his right and commanded the entire
+ascent.  Along the side of the hill were likewise fleches and other
+projecting works, from which a cross fire might be kept up; and there
+were mounted throughout this commanding position no less than one
+hundred pieces of cannon.
+
+It would be absurd to suppose that the sight of preparations so
+warlike did not in some degree damp the ardour of our leader; at
+least it would have been madness to storm such works without
+pausing to consider how it might best be attempted.  The whole of
+the country within cannon-shot was cleared from wood, and laid
+out in grass and corn-fields; consequently there was no cover to
+shelter an attacking army from any part of the deadly fire which
+would be immediately poured upon it.  The most prudent plan,
+therefore, was to wait till dark; and then, assisted by the
+frigates and bombs, which he hoped were by this time ready to
+co-operate, to try the fortune of a battle.
+
+Having resolved thus to act, Colonel Brook halted his army;
+and, secured against surprise by a well-connected line of piquets,
+the troops were permitted to light fires and to cook their
+provisions.  But though the rain still fell in torrents, no
+shelter could be obtained; and as even their blankets were no
+longer at hand, with which to form gipsy-tents, this was the
+reverse of an agreeable bivouac to the whole army.
+
+Darkness had now come on, and as yet no intelligence had
+arrived from the shipping.  To assail such a position, however,
+without the aid of the fleet, was deemed impracticable; at least
+our chance of success would be greatly diminished without their
+co-operation.  As the left of the American army extended to a
+fort built upon the very brink of the river, it was clear that
+could the ships be brought to bear upon that point, and the fort
+be silenced by their fire, that flank of the position would be
+turned.  This once effected, there would be no difficulty in
+pushing a column within their works; and as soldiers entrenched
+always place more reliance upon the strength of their
+entrenchments than upon their own personal exertions, the very
+sight of our people on a level with them would in all probability
+decide the contest.  At all events, as the column was to advance
+under cover of night, it might easily push forward and crown the
+hill above the enemy, before any effectual opposition could be
+offered; by which means they would be enclosed between two fires,
+and lose the advantage which their present elevated situation
+bestowed.  All, however, depended upon the ability of the fleet
+to lend their assistance; for without silencing the fort, this
+flank could scarcely be assailed with any chance of success,
+and, therefore, the whole plan of operations must be changed.
+
+SEARCH.
+
+Having waited till it was considered imprudent to wait longer,
+without knowing whether he was to be supported, Colonel Brook
+determined, if possible, to open a communication with the fleet.
+That the river could not be far off we knew, but how to get to it
+without falling in with wandering parties of the enemy was the
+difficulty.  The thing, however, must be done; and as secrecy,
+and not force, was the main object, it was resolved to dispatch
+for the purpose a single officer without an escort.  On this
+service a particular friend of mine chanced to be employed.
+Mounting his horse, he proceeded to the right of the army, where,
+having delayed a few minutes till the moon rising gave light
+enough through the clouds to distinguish objects, he pushed
+forward at a venture, in as straight a line as he could guess at.
+It was not long before his progress was stopped by a high hedge.
+Like knight-errants of old, he then gave himself up to the
+guidance of his horse, which taking him towards the rear, soon
+brought him into a narrow lane, that appeared to wind in the
+direction of the enemy's fort: this lane he determined to follow,
+and holding a cocked pistol in his hand, pushed on, not perhaps
+entirely comfortable, but desirous at all hazards of executing
+his commission.  He had not ridden far, when the sound of voices
+through the splashing of the rain arrested his attention.
+Pulling up, he listened in silence, and soon discovered that they
+came from two American soldiers, whether stragglers or sentinels
+it was impossible to divine; but whoever they were, they seemed
+to be approaching.  It now struck him that his safest course
+would be to commence the attack, and having therefore waited till
+he saw them stop short, as if they had perceived him, he rode
+forward, and called out to them to surrender.  The fellows turned
+and fled, but galloping after them, he overtook one, at whose
+head he presented a pistol, and who instantly threw down his
+rifle, and yielded himself prisoner; whilst the other, dashing
+into a thicket, escaped, probably to tell that he had been
+attacked by a whole regiment of British cavalry.  Having thus
+taken a prisoner, my friend resolved to make him of some use;
+with this view he commanded him to lay hold of his thigh, and to
+guide him directly to the river, threatening, if he attempted to
+mislead or betray him into the hands of the Americans, that he
+would instantly blow out his brains.  Finding himself completely
+in my friend's power, the fellow could not refuse to obey; and
+accordingly, the man resting his hand upon the left thigh of the
+officer, they proceeded along the lane for some time, till they
+came to a part where it branched off in two directions.  My
+friend here stopped for a moment; and again repeated his threat,
+swearing that the instant his conduct became suspicious should be
+the last of his life.  The soldier assured him that he would keep
+his word, and moreover informed him that some of our ships were
+almost within gun-shot of the fort; a piece of information which
+was quickly confirmed by the sound of firing, and the appearance
+of shells in the air.  They now struck to the right, and in half
+an hour gained the brink of the river: where my friend found a
+party just landed from the squadron, and preparing to seek their
+way towards the camp.  By them he was conducted to the Admiral,
+from whom he learnt that no effectual support could be given to
+the land force; for such was the shallowness of the river, that
+none except the very lightest craft could make their way within
+six miles of the town; and even these were stopped by vessels
+sunk in the channel, and other artificial bars, barely within a
+shell's longest range of the fort.  With this unwelcome news he
+was accordingly forced to return; and taking his unwilling guide
+along with him, he made his way, without any adventure, to our
+advanced posts; where, having thanked the fellow for his
+fidelity, he rewarded it more effectually by setting him at
+liberty.
+
+Having brought his report to head-quarters, a council of war was
+instantly summoned to deliberate upon what was best to be done.
+Without the help of the fleet, it was evident that, adopt what
+plan of attack we could, our loss must be such as to
+counterbalance even success itself; whilst success, under
+existing circumstances, was, to say the least of it, doubtful.
+And even if we should succeed, what would be gained by it?  We
+could not remove anything from Baltimore, for want of proper
+conveyances.  Had the ships been able to reach the town, then,
+indeed, the quantity of booty might have repaid the survivors for
+their toil, and consoled them for the loss of comrades; but as
+the case now stood, we should only fight to give us an
+opportunity of reacting /re-enacting?/ the scenes of Washington.
+To distress an enemy is, no doubt, desirable, but, in the present
+instance, that distress, even if brought upon the Americans,
+would cost us dear; whereas, if we failed, it was hardly possible
+to avoid destruction.
+
+MARCH.
+
+Such was the reasoning which influenced the council of war to
+decide that all idea of storming the enemy's lines should be
+given up.  To draw them from their works would require
+manoeuvring, and manoeuvring requires time; but delays were all
+in their favour, and could not possibly advantage us.  Every hour
+brought in reinforcements to their army, whereas ours had no
+source from which even to recruit its losses; and it was,
+therefore, deemed prudent, since we could not fight at once,
+to lose no time in returning to the shipping.
+
+About three hours after midnight the troops were accordingly
+formed upon the road, and began their retreat, leaving the
+piquets to deceive the enemy, and to follow, as a rear-guard.
+The rain, which had continued with little interruption since the
+night before, now ceased, and the moon shone out bright and
+clear.  We marched along, therefore, not in the same spirits as
+if we had been advancing, but feeling no debasement at having
+thus relinquished an enterprise so much beyond our strength.
+
+When the day broke, our piquets, which had withdrawn about an
+hour before, rejoined us, and we went on in a body.  Marching
+over the field where the battle of the 12th had been fought, we
+beheld the dead scattered about, and still unburied; but so far
+different from those which we had seen at Bladensburg, that they
+were not stripped, every man lying as he had fallen.  One object,
+however, struck me as curious.  I saw several men hanging
+lifeless among the branches of trees, and learnt that they had
+been riflemen, who chose, during the battle, to fix themselves in
+these elevated situations, for the combined purposes of securing
+a good aim and avoiding danger.  Whatever might be their success
+in the first of these designs, in the last they failed; for our
+men soon discovered them, and, considering the thing as unfair,
+refused to give them quarter, and shot them on their perches.
+
+Here we paused for about an hour, that the soldiers might collect
+their blankets and refresh themselves; when we again moved
+forward, passing the wood where the gallant Ross was killed.  It
+was noon, and as yet all had gone on smoothly with out any check
+or alarm.  So little indeed was pursuit dreamt of, that the
+column began to straggle, and to march without much regard to
+order; when suddenly the bugle sounded from the rear, and
+immediately after some musket shots were heard.  In an instant
+the men were in their places, and the regiments wheeled into
+line, facing towards the enemy.  The artillery turned round and
+advanced to the front; indeed I have never seen a manoeuvre more
+coolly or more steadily performed on a parade in England than
+this rally.  The alarm, however, turned out to be groundless,
+being occasioned only by the sudden appearance of a squadron of
+horse, which had been sent out by the American General to track
+our steps.  These endeavoured to charge the rear-guard, and
+succeeded in making two prisoners; but a single Shrapnel checked
+their farther advance, and sent them back at full speed to boast
+of the brave exploit which they had performed.
+
+Seeing that no attack was seriously intended, the army broke once
+more into the line of march, and proceeded to a favourable piece
+of ground, near the uncompleted position which I have already
+described, where we passed the night under little tents made with
+blankets and ramrods.  No alarm occurring, nor any cause of delay
+appearing, at daybreak we again got under arms, and pushed on
+towards the shipping, which in two hours were distinguishable.
+
+RE-EMBARKATION.
+
+The infantry now halted upon a narrow neck of land, while the
+artillery was lifted into boats, and conveyed on board the fleet.
+As soon as this was done, brigade after brigade fell back to the
+water's edge and embarked, till finally all, except the light
+troops, were got off.  These being left to cover the embarkation,
+were extended across the entire space which but a little before
+contained the whole army; but as no attempt was made to molest
+them, they had only the honour of being the last to quit the
+shore.
+
+Were I to enter into a review of the military proceedings in this
+expedition, I should be condemned to repeat, almost word for
+word, the remarks which I ventured to make upon the operations
+previous to the capture of Washington.  On the present occasion,
+however, neither hesitation nor precipitancy was displayed by the
+British General.  He threw his valuable life away, indeed, by
+exposing his person unnecessarily in a trifling skirmish; but who
+will blame a soldier for excess of courage, or a leader for
+excess of alertness?  Like other able men, he was unwilling to
+trust to the report of his subalterns, when it was in his power
+to ascertain what he sought to know by personal observation; and,
+like other brave men, he would not be deterred from prosecuting
+his design by the apprehension of danger.  In the plan of the
+expedition here, he displayed both skill and resolution.
+Instead of wasting time by an attempt to ascend the river, he
+chose to land where he was least likely to meet with immediate
+opposition; and such was the celerity of his motions, that, had
+he lived, the chances are that we should have fought two battles
+in one day.  But of what a man might have done, I have nothing to
+say; let me rather do justice to his successor and his advisers.
+Of these latter, there is one whom it would be improper not to
+mention by name--I mean Lieutenant Evans, Deputy-Assistant
+Quartermaster-General.  The whole arrangement of our troops in
+order of battle was committed to him; and the judicious method in
+which they were drawn up, proved that he was not unworthy of the
+trust.  With respect to the determination of the council of war,
+I choose to be silent.  Certain it is, that the number of our
+forces would hardly authorise any desperate attempt; yet had the
+attempt been made, I have very little doubt that it would have
+been made successfully.
+
+On the part of the Americans, again, the same blunders were
+committed which marked their proceedings during the incursion to
+Washington, with this exception, that more science was displayed
+now than formerly in the distribution of their forces along their
+principal position.  At Bladensburg, indeed, there existed no
+works, and the troops were badly arranged in an open country:
+here there were not only fortifications, but fortifications
+constructed in a scientific manner, and troops drawn up in such
+order, as that, even without their works, many cross fires would
+have protected their front.  But they neglected numerous
+favourable opportunities of harassing both our advance and
+retreat.  They felled trees, but left no guards to keep them from
+being removed, and took no advantage of the delays which their
+removal created.  They risked a battle with a part of their army,
+when there was no necessity for it; in a word, they committed all
+those errors which men generally commit who are not soldiers, and
+yet love war.
+
+
+CHAPTER XV
+
+
+THE PATUXENT.
+
+HAVING once more received the troops on board, the fleet remained
+quietly at anchor till the 17th, when, at an early hour, we set
+sail and stood towards the Patuxent.  In this voyage we passed
+close to Sent Island, and again threw the inhabitants of Anapolis
+into alarm by approaching almost within gun-shot of their town;
+but at neither place were hostilities attempted, and on the 19th
+we arrived, without any adventure, at our former anchorage in the
+river.  Here we brought up, and parties were sent on shore to dig
+wells in the sand, to which the boats resorted in great numbers
+for water.  Cattle and sheep were likewise purchased from the
+natives; some of the flour which had been captured was converted
+into biscuit; and every preparation seemed to be making for a
+long voyage.
+
+To facilitate these operations, the fleet now separated, part
+remaining here, and part proceeding under Admiral Malcolm to the
+Potomac; whilst Sir Alexander Cochrane, in the Tonnant, with
+several frigates and gun-brigs, quitted us altogether, and set
+sail, as it was given out, for Halifax.  But our situation was by
+no means agreeable.  The climate of this part of America is, at
+certain seasons, far from healthy; and the prevalence of
+dysentery through the armament proved that the unhealthy season
+had already commenced.  Neither did there appear to be any
+prospect of further employment.  No one talked of a future
+enterprise, nor was the slightest rumour circulated as to the
+next point of attack.  The death of General Ross seemed to have
+disorganized the whole plan of proceedings, and the fleet and
+army rested idle, like a watch without its main spring.
+
+Whilst things were in this state, whilst the banks of the rivers
+continued in our possession, and the interior was left unmolested
+to the Americans, a rash confidence sprang up in the minds of
+all, insomuch that parties of pleasure would frequently land
+without arms, and spend many hours onshore.  On one of these
+occasions, several officers from the 85th regiment agreed to pass
+a day together at a farm-house, about a quarter of a mile from
+the stream; and taking with them ten soldiers, unarmed, to row
+the boat, a few sailors, and a young midshipman, not more than
+twelve years of age, they proceeded to put their determination
+into practice.  Leaving the men, under the command of their
+youthful pilot, to take care of the boat, the officers went on to
+the house; but they had not remained there above an hour, when
+they were alarmed by a shout, which sounded as if it came from
+the river.  Looking, out, they beheld their party surrounded by
+seventy or eighty mounted riflemen; the boat dragged upon the
+beach, and set on fire.  Giving themselves up for lost, they
+continued for an instant in a sort of stupor; but the master of
+the house, to whom some kindness had been shown by our people,
+proved himself grateful, and, letting them out by a back door,
+directed them to bide themselves in the wood, whilst he should
+endeavour to turn their pursuers on a wrong scent.  As they had
+nothing to trust to except the honour of this American, it cannot
+be supposed that they felt much at ease; but, seeing no better
+course before them, they resigned themselves to his guidance, and
+plunging into the thicket, concealed themselves as well as they
+could among the underwood.  In the mean time the American
+soldiers, having secured all that were left behind, except the
+young midshipman, who fled into the wood in spite of their fire,
+divided into two bodies, one of which approached the house,
+whilst the other endeavoured to overtake the brave boy.  It so
+chanced that the party in pursuit passed close to the officers in
+concealment, but by the greatest good fortune failed to observe
+them.  They succeeded, however, in catching a glimpse of the
+midshipman, just as he had gained the water's edge, and was
+pushing off a light canoe which he had loosened from the stump of
+a tree.  The barbarians immediately gave chase, firing at the
+brave lad, and calling out to surrender; but the gallant youth
+paid no attention either to their voices or their bullets.
+Launching his little bark, he put to sea with a single paddle,
+and, regardless of the showers of balls which fell about him,
+returned alone and unhurt to the ship.  Whilst one party was thus
+employed, the other hastened to the house in full expectation of
+capturing the British officers.  But their host kept his word
+with great fidelity, and, having directed his countrymen towards
+another farm-house at some distance from his own, and in an
+opposite quarter from the spot where his guests lay, he waited
+till they were out of sight, and then joined his new friends in
+their lurking-place.  Bringing with him such provisions as he
+could muster, he advised them to keep quiet till dark, when,
+their pursuers having departed, he conducted them to the river,
+supplied them with a large canoe, and sent them off in perfect
+safety to the fleet.
+
+On reaching their ship, they found the 85th regiment under arms,
+and preparing to land, for the purpose of either releasing their
+comrades from captivity, or inflicting exemplary punishment upon
+the farmer by whose treachery it was supposed that they had
+suffered.  But when the particulars of his behaviour were
+related, the latter alternative was at once abandoned; and it was
+determined to force a dismissal of the captives, by advancing up
+the country, and laying waste every thing with fire and sword.
+The whole of the light brigade was accordingly carried on shore,
+and halted on the beach, whilst a messenger was sent forward to
+demand back the prisoners.  Such, however, was the effect of his
+threatening, that the demand was at once complied with, and they
+returned on board without having committed any ravages, or
+marched above two miles from the boats.
+
+THE POTOMAC
+
+Besides this trifling debarkation, another little excursion was
+made by the second and third brigades, the light troops being
+left most unaccountably on board of ship, Colonel Brook, having
+heard that an encampment was formed a few miles from the left
+bank of the Potomac, determined, if possible, to come up with and
+engage the force there stationed.  With this view, two brigades
+were landed on the night of the 4th of October, and pushed
+forward at a brisk pace; but the enemy, being on the alert, had
+timely notice of the movement, and retired; by which means our
+people returned on the 5th, without effecting anything.
+
+THE CHESAPEAKE.
+
+By this time the whole fleet was once more collected together;
+and crowded the Potomac with their keels.  The Diadem being an
+old slip and a bad sailer, it was determined to remove from her
+the troops which she had formerly carried, to fill her with
+American prisoners, and to send her to England.  The Menelaus was
+likewise dispatched with such officers and soldiers as required
+the benefit of their native air to complete the cure of their
+wounds; and the rest, getting under weigh on the 6th, stood
+directly towards the mouth of the Chesapeake.  When we reached
+the James River, we anchored, and were joined by an American
+schooner bearing a flag of truce.  She brought with her Colonel
+Thornton, Lieut. Colonel Wood, with the rest of the officers and
+men who had been left behind at Bladensburg, and, being under the
+guidance of Commodore Barney, that gentleman was enabled to
+discharge his trust even to the very letter.
+
+It may readily be supposed that the meeting between friends thus
+restored to each other was very agreeable.  But there was another
+source of comfort which this arrival communicated, of greater
+importance than the pleasure bestowed upon individuals.  In
+Colonel Thornton we felt that we had recovered a dashing and
+enterprising officer; one as well calculated to lead a corps of
+light troops, and to guide the advance of an army, as any in the
+service.  On the whole, therefore, the American schooner was as
+welcome as if she had been a first-rate man-of-war filled with
+reinforcements from England.
+
+The wounded being now sent off, and Colonel Wood among the
+number, the remainder of the fleet again set sail, and reached
+the mouth of the bay without interruption.  Here they were met by
+a frigate and two brigs, which spoke to the Admiral, and
+apparently communicated some important intelligence; for we
+immediately put about and stood once more up the Chesapeake.  The
+wind, however, blew with great violence, and directly against us.
+After beating about, therefore, for some time, without making any
+progress, we turned our heads towards the ocean, and flying
+between the Capes with amazing velocity, stood out to sea,
+directing our course towards the S.S.E., and proceeding at the
+rate of seven miles an hour under bare poles.  The sea ran
+tremendously high, and the sky was dark and dreary; insomuch that
+by a landsman the gale might safely be accounted a storm.  Under
+these circumstances, the ship rolling as if she would dip her
+topmasts in the water, and the waves breaking in at the back
+windows of the cabin, nothing remained to be done but to go to
+bed.  Thither most of us accordingly repaired, and holding
+ourselves in our berths by clinging to the posts, we amused
+ourselves by watching the motions of stools, books, trunks, and
+other articles, as they floated majestically from one side of the
+cabin to the other.  But the effects of the gale were not in
+every respect ludicrous.  Two small schooners, which had been
+captured at Alexandria and converted into tenders, foundered and
+went down, without an opportunity being afforded of saving an
+individual of their crews.
+
+AT SEA.
+
+At length the wind began to moderate, and on the 18th there was a
+dead calm.  In point of comfort, however, I cannot say that much
+change was experienced; for though the gale had ceased, the swell
+still continued; and the motion produced by a heavy sea after a
+storm is even more disagreeable than that occasioned by the storm
+itself.  But on this day the minds of all were set at ease as to
+the place whither we were going, a telegraph signal being made to
+steer for Jamaica.  It was likewise understood that we should be
+there joined by strong reinforcements, and proceed upon a secret
+expedition against some place on the southern borders of the
+United States.
+
+The calm which had succeeded the storm did not last long, for on
+the 19th a fair breeze sprang up, and sent us at a moderate and
+agreeable rate upon our course.  The heat, however, was most
+oppressive; even awnings being unable to afford sufficient
+shelter.  We were fast approaching the tropic of Cancer, and
+every day experienced a greater degree of sultriness; till at
+length, on the 25th, we crossed that imaginary boundary.  Here we
+were visited, according to custom, by Neptune and his wife; and
+as the ceremony of shaving may be unknown to some of my readers,
+I shall beg leave to relate the particulars of that operation.
+
+A clever active seaman, dressed up grotesquely in party-coloured
+rags, adorned with a long beard made of the stuff which sailors
+call spun-yarn, and armed with a tri-pronged harpoon, personates
+the God of the Ocean.  Another seaman, arrayed in like manner,
+except that, instead of a beard, he wears a hideous mask,
+performs the part of the lady.  These are attended by a troop of
+sea-gods and nymphs, similarly equipped; and advancing from the
+bow of the vessel, as if just stepped on board, they come forward
+to the mainmast, and summon before them all such persons as have
+never sworn the oaths or previously visited their capital.  At
+the foot of the mast is placed a large tub full of sea-water, and
+covered by a piece of canvas, which is held tight by four of
+their attendants.  Upon this unsteady throne is the luckless
+wight, whom they design to initiate, compelled to sit; and being
+asked several questions, which he cannot answer, and taking
+several oaths, very much resembling those said to be administered
+at Highgate, Neptune proceeds to confer upon him the honour of
+filiation, by rather an extraordinary process.  Two of the
+sea-nymphs, generally tall stout fellows, pinion his arms to his
+sides; and another, bringing a bucket filled with grease and
+slops from the kitchen, sets it down at his godship's feet,
+putting a small painting-brush into his hand.  Neptune now dips
+his brush into the filth, and proceeds to spread a lather over
+the face of the novice, taking care to ask questions during the
+whole process; and if the adopted be simple enough to reply, the
+brush is instantly thrust into his mouth.  As soon as a
+sufficient quantity of grease is laid upon the face, Neptune
+seizes a piece of rusty iron, generally the broken hoop of some
+water-cask, with which he scrapes off all that has been applied.
+If the novice take all this patiently, his face is washed, and he
+is permitted to descend from his throne in peace; but if he lose
+his temper, which most men are apt to do, a bucket of sea-water
+is poured upon his head.  If this be sufficient to cool his
+wrath, he suffers no more; but if it only increase his
+indignation, bucket after bucket is emptied over him, and at
+last, the holders of the sail-cloth suddenly retiring, he is
+plunged overhead into the tub.  To crown all, the unfortunate
+wretch who has endured these miseries is fined by his tormentor
+in a gallon of ruin; a fine which the force of custom compels him
+to pay.  It must be confessed that this is a barbarous amusement,
+much resembling that of the boys in the fable of the boys and the
+frogs.  Though very agreeable to those who act and to the lookers
+on, it is not so to him that suffers.
+
+In this manner many persons were treated, till at length Neptune,
+growing weary from the number of novices, was content to admit
+the rest to the privileges of initiation, on condition that the
+fines should be punctually paid; an agreement into which most of
+us very thankfully entered.
+
+THE WEST INDIES.
+
+Next morning, the first object which met our eyes was the land of
+Caycos island.  We were so close to the shore, when daylight
+discovered it, that had the wind been at all adverse we must
+unquestionably have struck; but being assisted by a fair and
+gentle breeze, the ships put about immediately, and escaped the
+danger.  Standing out to sea, the fleet now doubled the
+promontory, and steering round by the other side, sailed on
+without losing sight of the land till late in the evening.
+
+On the following day, a signal was made from the Admiral's ship,
+that the Golden Fleece transport, under convoy of the Volcano
+bomb, should proceed to Port Royal, whilst the rest of the fleet
+held their course towards Negril Bay.  These two vessels
+accordingly set all sail, and pushed forward by themselves; the
+others keeping on at a more moderate rate, that none might stray
+from the convoy: for the West India seas at this time swarmed
+with American privateers, and it was of great consequence to keep
+the store-ships and heavy transports in the middle of the
+squadron.
+
+It so chanced that I took my passage in one of the two ships
+which proceeded forward by themselves.  The wind was fair, and we
+made great progress, insomuch that before dark the high land of
+St. Domingo on one side, and the mountains of Cuba on the other,
+were discernible.  In spite of the heat, therefore, our voyage
+soon became truly delightful.  Secure of getting on under the
+influence of the trade winds, we had nothing to distract our
+thoughts, or keep us from feasting our eyes upon the glorious
+shores of these two islands; whilst in addition to the sight of
+land, which of itself was cheering, we were amused with
+water-spouts, apparently playing about us in every direction.
+One of these, however, began to form within a little distance of
+the ship, and as they are dangerous as well as interesting, a
+cannon was got ready to break it before it should reach us.  But
+it did not complete its formation, though I cannot tell why; for,
+after one spout had risen into the air some height, and another
+bent down from the clouds to meet it, they were suddenly carried
+away in different directions, and fell into the sea with the
+noise of a cataract.
+
+Among other sources of amusement, our attention was drawn, on the
+29th, to a shark, which made its appearance at the stern of the
+vessel.  A strong hook was immediately prepared, and baited with
+a piece of salt pork, which being thrown over, was instantly
+gulped by the voracious monster.  But as soon as he felt the pain
+occasioned by the book in his jaws, he plunged towards the bottom
+of the sea with such violence, as to render the very tafferel
+hot, by the rapidity of the cord gliding over it.  Having
+permitted him to go a certain length, he was again hauled up to
+the surface, where he remained without offering further
+resistance, till a boat was lowered, and a strong noose thrown
+over his head.  Being thus made fast to the gunwale of the boat,
+he was brought round to the gangway, when the end of the noose
+being cast over the main-yard, he was lifted out of the sea and
+swung upon the ship's deck.  Hitherto he had suffered quietly
+enough, in apparent stupefaction from the pain of his jaw; but he
+began now to convince us that neither life nor strength had
+deserted him; lashing his tail with such violence as speedily to
+clear the quarter-deck, and biting in the most furious manner at
+everything within his reach.  One of the sailors, however, who
+seemed to understand these matters more than his comrades, took
+an axe, and watching his opportunity, at one, blow chopped off
+his tail.  He was now perfectly harmless, unless, indeed, one had
+chosen to thrust one's hand into his mouth; and the same sailor
+accordingly proceeded to lay him open, and to take out his
+entrails.  And now it was that the tenacity of life, peculiar to
+these animals, displayed itself.  After his heart and bowels were
+taken out; the shark still continued to exhibit proofs of
+animation, by biting with as much force as ever at a bag of
+carpenter's tools that happened to lie within his reach.
+
+Being cut up, he was distributed in portions among the soldiers
+and the ship's crew.  The tail part only was reserved as the
+chief delicacy for our cabin, which, though dry and hard, with
+little flavour or taste, was on the present occasion considered
+as agreeable food, because it was fresh.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVI.
+
+
+BUT what I principally relished, in this part of our voyage, was
+the exquisite beauty of its night-scenery.  To an inhabitant of
+Great Britain, the splendour of a night-scene in these climates
+is altogether unknown.  Shining broad and full in a sky perfectly
+cloudless, the moon sends forth a clear and mellow lustre, little
+inferior, in point of brilliancy, to the full twilight in
+England.  By this means you never lose sight of land, either by
+night or day, as long as your course lies between Cuba and St.
+Domingo; whilst the delicious coolness, which follows the setting
+of the sun, tempts you, in spite of all the whispers of prudence,
+to expose yourself to dews and damps, rather than forego the
+pleasures of which they are the bane.  Besides, you have
+constantly the satisfaction of observing yourself move steadily
+on at the most agreeable of all rates, about five or six miles an
+hour; a satisfaction far from trifling in a sea-life.  Then the
+ocean is so smooth, that scarcely a ripple is seen to break the
+moon-beams as they fall; whilst the quiet dash of little waves
+against the ship's side, and the rushing noise occasioned by the
+moving of her bow through the water, produce altogether an effect
+which may, without affectation, be termed absolutely refreshing.
+It was my common practice to sit for hours after night-fall upon
+the tafferel, and strain my eyes in the attempt to distinguish
+objects on shore or strange sails in the distance.
+
+It happened that, on the 30th, I was tempted to indulge in this
+idle but bewitching employment, even beyond my usual hour for
+retiring, and did not quit the deck till towards two o'clock in
+the morning of the 31st.  I had just entered my cabin, and was
+beginning to undress, when a cry from above, of an enemy in
+chase, drew me instantly to the quarter-deck.  On looking astern,
+I perceived a vessel making directly after us, and was soon
+convinced of the justice of the alarm, by a shot which whistled
+over our heads.  All hands were now called to quarters, the small
+sails were taken in, and having spoken to our companion, and made
+an agreement as to position, both ships cleared for action.  But
+the stranger, seeing his signal obeyed with so much alacrity,
+likewise slackened sail, and, continuing to keep us in view,
+followed our wake without approaching nearer.  In this state
+things continued till daybreak, we still holding our course, and
+he hanging back; but as soon as it was light, he set more sail
+and ran to windward, moving just out of gun-shot, in a parallel
+direction with us.  It was now necessary to fall upon some plan
+of deceiving him, otherwise there was little probability that he
+would attack.  In the bomb, indeed, the height of the bulwark
+served to conceal some of the men; but in the transport no such
+screen existed.  The troops were, therefore, ordered below, and
+only the sailors, a few blacks, and the officers, kept the deck.
+The same expedient was likewise adopted, in part, by Captain
+Price, of the Volcano; and in order to give to his ship a still
+greater resemblance than it already had to a merchantman, he
+displayed an old faded scarlet ensign, and drew up his fore and
+mainsail in what sailors term a lubberly manner.
+
+As yet the stranger had shown no colours, but, from her build and
+rigging, there was little doubt as to her country.  She was a
+beautiful schooner, presenting seven ports on a side, and
+apparently crowded with men, circumstances which immediately led
+us to believe that she was an American privateer.  The Volcano,
+on the other hand, was a clumsy strong-built ship, carrying
+twelve guns; and the Golden Fleece mounted eight; so that, in
+point of artillery, the advantage was rather on our side; but the
+American's sailing was so much superior to that of either of us,
+that this advantage was more than counterbalanced.
+
+Having dodged us till eight o'clock, and reconnoitred with great
+exactness, the stranger began to steer gradually nearer and
+nearer, till at length it was judged that she had arrived within
+range.  A gun was accordingly fired from the Volcano, and another
+from the transport, the balls from both of which passed over her
+and fell into the sea.  Finding herself thus assaulted, she
+instantly threw off her disguise, and hung out an American
+ensign; when, putting her helm up, she poured a broadside, with a
+volley of musketry, into the transport; and ran alongside of the
+bomb, which sailed to windward.
+
+As soon as her flag was displayed, and her intention of attacking
+discerned, all hands were ordered up, and she received two
+well-directed broadsides from the Volcano, as well as a warm
+salute from the Golden Fleece.  But such was the celerity of her
+motion, that she was alongside of the bomb in less time than can
+be imagined; and actually dashing her bow against the other,
+attempted to carry her by boarding.  Captain Price, however, was
+ready to receive them.  The boarders were at their posts in an
+instant, and the enemy discovering, when it was too late, the
+mistake into which he had fallen, left about twenty of his men
+upon the Volcano's bowsprit, all of whom were thrown into the
+sea; and filling his sails, sheered off with the same speed with
+which he had borne down.  In attempting to escape, he unavoidably
+fell somewhat to leeward, and exposed the whole of his deck to
+the fire of the transport.  A tremendous discharge of musketry
+saluted him as he passed; and it was almost laughable to witness
+the haste with which his crew hurried below, leaving none upon
+deck except such as were absolutely wanted to work his vessel.
+
+The Volcano had by this time filled, and gave chase, firing with
+great precision at the privateer's yards and rigging, in the hope
+of disabling him.  But as fortune would have it, none of his
+important ropes or yards were cut; and we had the mortification
+to see him, in a few minutes, beyond our reach.
+
+In this affair, a marine officer and two men were killed on board
+the bomb; and some of the tackling was shot away.  The transport
+suffered nothing in killed or wounded, having been in a great
+degree protected from the enemy's fire by her commodore; and only
+one rope, not, I believe, an important one, was destroyed.
+
+The battle having ended, and the chase being given up as
+fruitless, we continued our course without any other adventure;
+and before dark were able to distinguish the blue mountains of
+Jamaica.  St. Domingo and Cuba had both disappeared, and this
+was now the only land visible; but it was not till the 1st of
+November that we could obtain a distinct view of it.  Then,
+indeed, we found ourselves within a few miles of the shore, and
+seldom has landscape appeared more attractive to the eyes of a
+voyager, than the romantic shores of Jamaica now appeared to ours.
+
+Jamaica is in general a bold and mountainous island, but on this
+side it is peculiarly so.  It appeared to me that even the
+Pyrenees, magnificent as they are, were not to be compared, in
+point of altitude, to the hills now before me; and early in the
+morning, while yet the mists hung upon their summits and
+concealed them, no prospect can be imagined more sublime than
+that which they presented.  It was, in truth, a glorious scene;
+and as the wind blew light and uncertain, we were permitted, from
+the slowness of the ship's progress, to enjoy it to the full.
+Towards evening, indeed, the breeze died entirely away, which
+compelled us to anchor about eight miles from the harbour of Port
+Royal.
+
+PORT ROYAL.
+
+In spite of the little rest which I had procured during the two
+preceding nights, having sat up till an early hour this morning,
+to watch several strange sails that hovered about us, I could not
+bring myself to quit the deck till after midnight, so beautiful,
+in all respects, were the objects around me.  The moon shone with
+her accustomed brilliancy, and exhibited every crag and tree upon
+the land, changed and confounded in shape, but still plainly;
+whilst the perfume, borne off upon the breeze, was odoriferous in
+the highest degree.  The sound of the waves, likewise, breaking
+upon the rocks, and the occasional cry of seamen, as they
+adjusted ropes and sails, together with the sight of several
+vessels which took advantage of the night-wind and stood to sea,
+with canvas glittering in the moonbeams, produced so delightful a
+combination, as completely riveted me to my seat; nor was it
+without much reluctance that I at length yielded to the drowsy
+god, and descended to my cabin.
+
+Next morning, the ship got under weigh at an early hour, but,
+owing to the unsteadiness of the breeze, it was ten o'clock
+before we made any satisfactory progress.  As we approached the
+bay which forms the harbour of Port Royal, a novel and pleasing
+sight presented itself.  The hills dying gradually away, gave
+place to gentle slopes and green knolls, till, towards the
+entrance, the coast became perfectly level.  Pushing forward, we
+soon found ourselves in a narrow channel between two projecting
+headlands, beautifully ornamented with cocoa-nut trees, and so
+near to each other, that I could with ease have thrown a biscuit
+from the ship's deck upon either.  At the extremity of these
+necks, just where the bay begins its sweep, stand two well-built
+forts, bristling with cannon; and at the opposite side may be
+seen a third, ready to sink whatever hostile fleet should be
+fortunate enough to force an entrance.  But these were not the
+most striking parts of the scene.  The water in this strait is
+remarkably clear, and exhibits with great distinctness the tops
+and chimneys of houses at the bottom.  It will be recollected,
+that many years ago, an earthquake not only demolished great part
+of the town of Port Royal, but likewise covered it with the sea;
+by which means, the site of the harbour was completely changed,
+and that which was formerly dry land, and a town, became part of
+the entrance of the bay.
+
+Having doubled the promontories, a rich and extensive prospect
+meets the eye.  You find yourself, as it were, in a large inland
+lake, the banks of which are covered with plantations of sugar
+cane, groves of cocoa-nut and plantain trees, and other woods
+peculiar to these regions, beautifully interspersed with seats
+and villages.  On your right is the town of Port Royal, lying
+almost on a level with the water, and strongly protected by
+fortifications, whilst in various other directions are castles
+and batteries, adding an appearance of security to that of
+plenty.  The banks, though not lofty, slope gently upwards,
+with occasional falls or glens, and the background is composed
+in general of the rugged tops of distant mountains.
+
+Having waited till the ship dropped anchor, I put myself into a a
+sort of barge rowed by four negroes, and proceeded to Kingston.
+Though not the capital of the island, Kingston is the largest
+town in Jamaica.  It stands upon the brink of a frith, about nine
+miles above Port Royal, and thence enjoys all the advantages of
+the chief mart in this trading country.  Like most other
+mercantile seaports, it is built without much regard to
+regularity.  The streets, though wide, are in general the reverse
+of elegant, being composed almost entirely of wooden houses, and
+by no means remarkable for cleanliness.  Of public buildings it
+possesses none worthy of notice.  Its inns are, however,
+excellent; and though certainly not moderate in their charges,
+they are at least more so than those of Bermuda.  In a word, it
+is exactly such a town as one would expect to find holding the
+principal commercial rank in a colony where men's minds seldom
+aspire beyond the occupations of trade.
+
+Of the intense heat in this place, none but those who have
+experienced it can form a notion.  It is impossible to walk out
+with any comfort, except before the sun has risen, or after he
+has set; and even within doors, with the aid of thorough draughts
+and all the other expedients usually adopted on such occasions,
+it is with the utmost difficulty that you can contrive to keep
+your blood in a moderate degree of temperature.  In the town
+itself, therefore, few of the higher classes reside, the
+closeness produced by a proximity of houses being in this climate
+peculiarly insupportable.  These inhabit for the most part little
+villas, called Pens, about three or four miles in the country,
+the
+master of each family generally, retaining a suite of apartments,
+or, perhaps an entire mansion, in some open street for his own
+use, when business obliges, him, to exchange the comfort of fresh
+air for the suffocating atmosphere of Kingston.  Towards the
+outskirts, indeed, in one direction, a few gentile families
+inhabit one or two handsome houses, surrounded by extensive
+gardens and shrubberies; but these are not numerous, and they are
+so far removed from the heart of the town, as to be in great
+measure beyond the influence of its smoke and other nuisances.
+
+During our sojourn in this place we received the most hospitable
+attention from several persons of the first distinction.  Balls
+and other entertainments were given, at which all the beauty and
+fashion in this part of the island attended; and for some days I
+had little leisure or inclination for any other pursuit than the
+enjoyment of civilized pleasure, a pursuit which, from long
+disuse, possessed more than ordinary zest.  But at length having
+seen as much of Kingston and its vicinity as, I desired to see, I
+determined to take advantage of the opportunity which fortune had
+placed within my reach, and to make an excursion into the heart
+of the Blue Mountains.  To this I was additionally induced by an
+invitation from an old friend to visit him at Annotto bay; and
+as, along with his letter, he sent a horse for my own conveyance,
+and a mule for the conveyance of my baggage, no difficulty
+respecting a mode of being transported stood in the way to
+obstruct my design.
+
+Having made up my mind to this journey, I waited, till sunset on
+the 9th, when, starting in the cool of the evening, I reached a
+little tavern called the Plum Tree, about half an hour after dark.
+My ride carried me through an open and fertile country covered
+with sugar-canes, coffee, and such other plants as are cultivated
+in the low grounds of Jamaica.  It was a short one, not more than
+twelve miles in extent, but I was forced to halt where I did,
+because I had gained the foot of the mountains; and if I had
+passed the Plum Tree, well known as a sort of half-way house on
+such tours, I might have travelled all night without finding any
+place of accommodation.
+
+As darkness set in, one of the, beautiful peculiarities of a
+tropical climate, which I had not previously witnessed, came
+under my observation. The air was filled with fire-flies, which,
+emitting a phosphoric light something similar to the light of
+the glow-worm, only more red and brilliant, danced around me like
+sparks from a smith's anvil when he is beating a bar of red-hot
+iron.  These creatures flutter about with a humming noise, and
+frequently settle in large swarms upon branches of trees, giving
+them the semblance of so many pieces of timber taken newly out of
+a fire.  When viewed by daylight they are in no way remarkable for
+their elegance, resembling in the shape of the body a long beetle
+which may be seen in the fields after sunset, without wings or
+scales.  In colour they are a dingy brown, and, like the
+glow-worm, carry their light in the tail.
+
+As I had not before chanced to see anything of the kind, and
+forgot at the moment that such an insect as the fire-fly existed,
+I was for a few minutes at a loss to what cause to attribute the
+phenomenon, and was at last indebted to my negro guide for
+refreshing my memory on the subject.  The effect, however, cannot
+be conceived without being witnessed.  A cluster of two or three
+glow-worms shine so brilliantly, that they will furnish subject
+for the commendatory eloquence of any one fortunate enough to
+perceive them together; but their brilliancy is to a farthing
+candle to the sun, when compared with that of the fire-fly.  Not
+two, or three, but thousands of these creatures dance around,
+filling the air with a wavering and uncertain glimmer, of the
+extreme beauty of which no words can convey an adequate
+conception.
+
+THE BLUE MOUNTAINS.
+
+Having passed the night at this tavern, a small cottage kept by a
+free negro and his wife, I rose two hours before dawn, and
+prosecuted my journey.  From the moment I quitted the Plate Tree
+I began gradually to ascend, till at daybreak I found myself in
+the midst of the most glorious scenery that the imagination of
+man can conceive.  Everything around was new and romantic.  The
+hills, towering into the very sky, were covered from top to
+bottom with the richest herbage and the most luxuriant wood.
+Rarely could a barren crag be discerned, and when it did appear
+it was only a sharp point, or a bald projection pushing itself
+forward from the midst of the thickest foliage. But what to me
+formed the most bewitching part of the prospect was the elegance
+of the trees and their perfect dissimilitude to any which had
+previously beheld.  The cocoa-nut and plantain were mingled with
+the wild pine and lime-tree; while the cashew and wild coffee,
+with numberless other shrubs, loaded at once with fruit and
+blossom, formed the underwood to these graceful forests.
+
+As yet I had been favoured with a wide and good road, but now it
+began gradually to narrow, till at last it ended in a path little
+more distinct than the sheep-tracks over the hills in Scotland.
+Winding along the sides of the mountains, it brought me
+frequently to spots where the wood parting, as if artificially,
+displayed deep ravines, to look down which, without becoming
+dizzy, required no little strength of head; whilst above, the
+same hill continued to stretch itself to a height far beyond any
+I had before gazed upon.  Presently after it conducted me gently
+down into valleys completely shut out from the rest of the world;
+and as I descended I could hear the roar of water, though
+neither, the stream nor the bottom of the glen could be
+perceived.  On one of these occasions, after passing through a
+thick grove, I beheld a river of some width dashing along the
+glen, and chafing so as to produce the noise of a mighty
+waterfall.  Towards the brink of this river my guide conducted me;
+when, plunging in, we made our way with some difficulty to the
+opposite bank, and again began to ascend.
+
+For several hours, the same scenery surrounded me, only varied by
+the occasional appearance of clusters of negro huts.  Than these,
+it is impossible to imagine any species of huts or dwellings more
+beautifully picturesque.  They are constructed of strong limbs of
+trees, thatched over with straw, and usually ending in a cone;
+having no windows, but only two, or sometimes four doors, for the
+purpose of admitting a free current of air.  The spots chosen for
+their erection, are generally small platforms or terraces in the
+sides of the hills.  A little path, similar to that along which I
+travelled, winds down from their doors to the bottom of the
+valley, and conducts to the edge of the river, from whence the
+inhabitants are supplied with water.  Other tracks likewise
+branch off in different directions, some towards the summit, and
+others along the sides of the mountains; leading, probably, to
+the fields or spots where the inhabitants labour. These huts have
+no chimney, but only a large hole in the roof, to give free
+passage to the smoke; and I could perceive, by its rise at
+present, that fires were now burning.
+
+It would be labour lost, were I to attempt any more minute
+description of this delightful journey.  Every step I took
+presented something new, and something more grand and sublime
+than I had just quitted; whilst the continual fording of the
+swollen river (for I crossed the same stream no fewer than
+eight-and-twenty times) gave an additional interest to the scene,
+arising from the sense of danger.  The rainy season having just
+ended, this stream, the Wag-water, a most appropriate name, had
+not as yet returned to its natural size; but at the fords, which
+in general would not cover a horse's knees, the depth was such as
+to moisten the saddle-girths.  So great a quantity of water, in a
+furious mountain-torrent, pouring on with all the violence
+produced by a steep descent, occasioned no slight pressure upon
+my steed; nor was it without considerable floundering on his
+part, and some anxiety on mine, that once or twice we succeeded
+in making good our passage.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVII.
+
+
+NOON was approaching when my sooty fellow-traveller directed my
+attention to a neat cottage, romantically situated on the top of
+a low mound, which stood alone in the middle of stupendous
+mountains.  It commanded one of the most exquisite prospects that
+fancy can represent.  A sort of glen surrounded it on every side,
+richly and beautifully wooded; behind, rose some of the most
+lofty of the Blue Mountains; on the right there was an opening,
+which admitted a fine view of Annotto Bay; whilst in the other
+direction, the hills sloping gradually upwards, presented an
+inclined plane, covered with fields of sugar-cane, and ending,
+at a considerable distance, in one abrupt and broken ridge.
+
+The cottage in question was the residence of my friend, and the
+resting-place whither my steps were turned; nor did I experience
+any regret at finding myself so near my journey's end.  The heat
+had for some time been almost intolerable, and having eaten
+nothing since the night before, nature began to cry out for
+repose and repletion; and, in truth, the welcome which I
+experienced, was of a nature to take away all desire of wandering
+farther.  We had not met for several years--not, indeed, since I
+was a child--and in the interval, some melancholy changes had
+occurred in the family of my host; but he received me with the
+cordial hospitality which a warm heart produces, and forgot his
+private sorrows for a time, that he might not throw a damp upon
+my enjoyments.
+
+The remainder of this day I spent, as a powerful sensation of
+fatigue warned me to spend it, within doors; but on the following
+morning I set out at an early hour, for the purpose of gratifying
+my curiosity on a number of points which had frequently exercised
+it.  In this excursion, and indeed in all the excursions which I
+undertook during my residence at his Pen, my friend accompanied
+me; and an excellent and most intelligent guide he proved to be.
+We made the tour of several estates, saw the process of making
+sugar, visited the sugar and coffee plantations, and inspected
+several hospitals, with one of which each estate is supplied, for
+the accommodation and cure of sick negroes.  In the course of
+these rambles, I made it my business to inquire into the
+condition and treatment of the slave population; inspecting their
+huts, and even examining their provisions; and I frankly confess
+that, though I began my researches under the influence of as many
+prejudices as, on such a subject, are wont to be entertained by
+Englishmen in general, the result of the whole was to convince me
+that I had done glaring injustice to the character of the Jamaica
+planters, as well as fostered notions of the wretchedness of the
+negroes, utterly and iniquitously erroneous.  It is no business
+of mine, and, if it were, this is no proper place to take part in
+what has of late been termed the West-Indian controversy; but, as
+an eye-witness, I may venture to speak out on one point, by
+affirming, that a countless proportion of the stories with which
+the British public is amused, touching the barbarous treatment of
+slaves by owners and overseers, are, if not absolute fables, at
+all events gross exaggerations.  I am aware that my residence in
+the island was too brief, and my acquaintance with it too
+limited, to entitle my opinions to the weight which a more
+protracted sojourn might have obtained for them; but it is but
+justice to state, that whilst I was there, I enjoyed
+opportunities of seeing the negro at all times, and under all
+circumstances, such as few casual visitors can boast of.  My host
+was not a planter, but a medical practitioner; and one prejudiced
+rather against the slave system than in favour of it: there was
+therefore no disposition on his part to cast dust into my eyes,
+or to present to them only the bright side of the picture.  Under
+his guidance, I beheld the negro at work in the fields, in the
+bosom of his family, in the sick ward, and at market; and I never
+saw him other than a contented and light-hearted being.  No doubt
+there are instances of cruelty on the part of overseers in
+Jamaica, exactly as there are instances of tyranny on the part of
+parish officers and county magistrates in England; but had these
+been as numerous, or as flagrant, as they are represented to be,
+I cannot doubt but that something of the kind must have passed
+under my eyes, even within the space of one week.  No such event,
+however, took place; and, as far as I could learn, no such event
+was to be expected.
+
+Far be it from me to stand forward as the advocate of personal
+bondage in the abstract--it is a grievous evil; and wherever men
+are so far civilized as to render its abolition desirable, it is
+an evil which ought to be abolished.  But it is an evil of long
+standing, authorized in the Bible, and therefore, we may presume,
+not without its counterbalancing benefits.  He, therefore, who
+would seek, at all hazards and under all circumstances, to
+dissolve the tie which binds a master to his slave, and a slave
+to his master--whilst he would be doing that which the Apostles
+never did, and which Christians are nowhere commanded to
+do--would run no slight hazard of causing a quantity of mischief
+to both parties, for which the benefits bestowed upon either
+would not compensate.  With respect to our own colonies, in
+particular, it is manifest that the whole matter resolves itself
+into one consideration.  If the negroes be in such a state, as
+that the boon of universal freedom would be productive to them of
+universal benefit, by all means let it be bestowed at once, even
+though it be attended by so much national expense, as the fair
+demands of the proprietors for compensation shall impose upon us.
+If they be not thus situated, let every practicable method be
+adopted to advance them on the scale of civilization; but till
+they be advanced far beyond their present station, let no false
+hopes be excited that the moment of their liberation is at
+hand.  Many measures for their improvement have been adopted since
+the year 1814, and many more are in daily process of adoption;
+but it is greatly to be apprehended that much of the benefit
+which these measures promised to bring about, has been obstructed
+by the indiscreet zeal of those who profess, and probably feel,
+the liveliest interest in their welfare.
+
+Besides adding to my stock of knowledge as to the cultivation of
+the sugar-cane, the making of sugar, rum, &c. &c.; I had an
+opportunity of seeing something of the Maroons, or free Negroes,
+who inhabit the mountains.  These people dwell apart from the
+European settlers, holding very little intercourse with them,
+though a single European generally resides in each of their
+villages, as a sort of chief or magistrate.  They struck me to be
+a lazy, indolent, and harmless race of human beings; and they
+formed, in all their habits, a striking contrast with their
+enslaved brethren.  Whilst the latter devote their spare hours to
+the culture of their own little spots, to cudgel-playing,
+dancing, or other gambols, the former appear to spend their whole
+time in a state between sleeping and waking, at the doors of
+their huts, or under the shelter of trees.  Some of the Maroon
+females, I observed, were really handsome, their features being
+high, and their persons elegantly formed; but in general they
+differed nothing from the other negroes, from whom, indeed, they
+are principally descended.
+
+I heard that the men carry on a petty trade in feathers, but that
+their principal occupation, at least that from which they derive
+the largest emolument, consists in apprehending, and leading back
+to their masters, run-away slaves.  For their services in this
+department, they were wont to receive a pension from the
+Government; and they are still, I believe, supplied with muskets
+and ammunition at the expense of the colonial authorities.  But
+enough of these details.
+
+My sojourn in St. Mary's having extended considerably beyond the
+limits which prudence would have imposed upon it, I set out on
+the morning of the 13th, on my return towards Kingston.  The
+country through which I travelled differed in many respects from
+that which I had crossed in my way hither: it was in general less
+wild, and less mountainous; but it possessed features of striking
+beauty, rich corn-fields being interspersed amidst graceful
+forests, and here and there a wild hill-side rising as a contrast
+to both.  The most remarkable variety, and not perhaps the least
+agreeable, was, however, to be found in the absence of the
+Wag-water; my guide having led me in a direction by which its
+tortuous course was avoided.
+
+As it was late before I started, my ride soon became toilsome on
+account of the heat, and I was fain to stop short for the night
+at a place called Stoney Hill, about twelve miles from Kingston.
+Here I was hospitably entertained by the officers of the 102nd
+regiment; and, rising at an early hour on the following morning,
+I contrived to complete my journey before breakfast. And it was
+well that no further time had been expended in my progress.  The
+ships, I found, were preparing to put to sea; the stock was all
+embarked, and the crews on board; nothing therefore remained for
+me but to follow the general example, and to establish myself
+with as little delay as possible in my cabin.
+
+PORT ROYAL-NEGRIL BAY.
+
+In spite of these preparations, the 15th and 16th of November
+both passed away without any movement being made.  It was,
+however, my custom not to neglect any opportunities which chanced
+to come in my way of viewing strange places, and obtaining an
+acquaintance with strange people; neither on the present occasion
+did I fail to make the most of the interval, by landing and
+wandering over the town of Port Royal.  But to describe minutely
+a place so little deserving of description, would hardly repay me
+for the labour of writing, or the reader for the toil of perusing
+what I write.  It is sufficient to observe, that except to him who
+takes delight in beholding a well-constructed military work,
+there is nothing in the busy, bustling town of Port Royal which
+will at all compensate for the heat and fatigue which he must
+undergo who, like myself, traverses its streets and lanes at
+noon-day.
+
+The long looked-for signal to weigh was hung out at last; and at
+an early hour on the 17th we put to sea.  Our point of
+destination was Negril Bay, the appointed place of rendezvous for
+the whole armament; and we reached it without the occurrence of
+mishap or adventure on the evening of the 19th.  We found here a
+large fleet already assembled; but the horses were all landed,
+many officers were dwelling in tents on the shore, and everything
+gave indication that some further delay might be expected.  To say
+the truth, I experienced no degree of satisfaction at this
+prospect; for the point of the island opposite to which we now
+lay was neither remarkable for its natural beauty nor very
+thickly inhabited; and had the contrary been the case, I had seen
+as much of Jamaica and its people as I was at all desirous to
+see.  Besides, it was impossible not to feel that whatever the
+object of our expedition might be, it was not likely to be
+furthered by this tardy mode of entering upon it; and rumours
+already began to spread abroad, of discoveries incautiously and
+untimely made.  It was, therefore, with no slight degree of
+pleasure that, on the morning of the 24th, the topmasts of a
+numerous squadron were seen over the eastern promontory, in full
+sail towards us; and it was with still greater delight that in a
+short time we were able to discern the flags of Sir Alexander
+Cochrane and Admiral Malcolm floating in the breeze.  By and bye
+the Tonnant and Royal Oak showed their hulls in the offing; and a
+short while afterwards, these ships, followed by a large fleet of
+troopers and transports, majestically entered the bay.  As may
+be imagined, our curiosity was strongly excited to learn what
+reinforcements they contained, and what intelligence they
+brought; insomuch, that they had scarcely dropped anchor when
+they were boarded from almost every one of the ships which they
+came to join.
+
+NEGRIL BAY.
+
+It appeared that this powerful reinforcement consisted of the
+following corps:--the 93rd regiment, a fine battalion of
+Highlanders, mustering nine hundred bayonets; six companies of
+the 95th rifle corps; two West India regiments, each eight
+hundred strong; two squadrons of the 14th Dragoons dismounted;
+detachments of artillery, rockets, sappers, and engineers;
+recruits for the different corps already in this part of the
+world; and though last, not least, Major-General Keane to take
+upon himself the command of the whole.  The intelligence brought
+was likewise interesting, for it informed us of the point whither
+we were to proceed; and it was soon known throughout the fleet,
+that the conquest of New Orleans was the object in view.
+
+But before I pursue my narrative further, having arrived, as it
+were, at a second commencement, it may be well if I state in full
+the number of men of which the army now consisted. In the first
+place, then, there were the 4th, 44th, and 85th regiments,
+originally dispatched from Bordeaux, and the 21st, which joined
+the expedition at Bermuda.  These battalions, being considerably
+reduced by past service, could not at present muster conjunctly
+above two thousand two hundred men; and being likewise deprived
+of the Marine battalion, which had fought beside them in the
+Chesapeake, they retained no followers except the artillery,
+sappers, &c. which had accompanied them from the first.  The whole
+amount of this corps may, therefore, be estimated at two thousand
+five hundred men.
+
+Without computing the individual strength of each detachment
+now arrived, I will venture to fix the aggregate at two thousand
+five hundred; and thus the whole, taken collectively, will amount
+to five thousand combatants.  That it might somewhat exceed or
+fall under this computation, I do not deny; but neither the
+excess nor deficiency could be considerable; and therefore my
+statement may be received as correct, with very little allowance.
+
+This, it must be confessed, was a formidable force, and such as,
+had all its parts been trustworthy, might have done much.  But on
+the black corps little reliance could be placed, especially if
+the climate should prove colder than was anticipated;
+consequently, there were not more than three thousand four
+hundred men upon whom a General could fully depend.
+
+Together with these forces were brought out abundant stores of
+ammunition, some clothing for the troops, and tents to be used
+when an opportunity should offer.  There were also numerous
+additions to the commissariat and medical departments; in short,
+the materiel of the army was increased in proportion to its
+increase in number.
+
+To find himself in the chief command of the army, exceeded the
+expectation, and perhaps the desire, of General Keane.  Being a
+young and dashing officer, he had been selected as most fit to
+serve under General Ross; and having sailed from England before
+the death of that gallant chief was known, he reached Madeira
+before his elevation was communicated to him.  Young as he was,
+however, his arrival produced much satisfaction throughout the
+armament; for though no one entertained a doubt as to the
+personal courage of Colonel Brook, it was felt that a leader of
+more experience was wanted on the present expedition.
+
+As soon as the newly-arrived squadron had anchored, the Bay was
+covered with boats, which conveyed parties of officers from ship
+to ship, hastening to salute their comrades, and to inquire into
+the state of things at home.  Greetings and hearty embraces were
+interchanged between friends thus again brought together; and a
+few passing ejaculations of sorrow bestowed upon those who could
+not now take part in the meeting.  Many questions were put,
+relative to persons and places in England; in a word, the day
+was spent in that species of employment, which can be completely
+known only to those who have been similarly situated.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XVIII.
+
+AT SEA.
+
+BUT the period granted for such indulgence was not of long
+duration, for on the following morning the Tonnant, Ramilies, and
+two brigs stood to sea; and on the 26th the rest of the fleet got
+under weigh and followed the Admiral. It is impossible to
+conceive a finer sea-view than this general stir presented.  Our
+fleet amounted now to upwards of fifty sail, many of them vessels
+of war, which shaking loose their topsails, and lifting their
+anchors at the same moment, gave to Negril Bay an appearance of
+bustle such as it has seldom been able to present. In half an
+hour all the canvas was set, and the ships moved slowly and
+proudly from their anchorage, till, having cleared the headlands,
+and caught the fair breeze which blew without, they bounded over
+the water with the speed of eagles, and long before dark the
+coast of Jamaica had disappeared.
+
+There is something in rapidity of motion, whether it be along a
+high road or across the deep, extremely elevating; nor was its
+effect unperceived on the present occasion.  It is true that
+there were other causes for the high spirits which now pervaded
+the armament, but I question if any proved more efficient in
+their production than the astonishing rate of our sailing.
+Whether the business we were about to undertake would prove
+bloody or the reverse entered not into the calculations of a
+single individual in the fleet.  The sole subject of remark was
+the speed with which we got over the ground, and the probability
+that existed of our soon reaching the point of debarkation.  The
+change of climate, likewise, was not without its effect in
+producing pleasurable sensations. The farther we got from
+Jamaica, the more cool and agreeable became the atmosphere; from
+which circumstance we were led to hope that, in spite of its
+southern latitude, New Orleans would not be found so oppressively
+hot as we had been taught to expect.
+
+The breeze continuing without interruption, on the 29th we came
+in sight of the island of Grand Cayman.  It is a small speck in
+the middle of the sea, lying so near the level of the water as to
+be unobservable at any considerable distance.  Though we passed
+along with prodigious velocity, a canoe nevertheless ventured off
+from the shore, and making its way through waves which looked as
+if they would swallow it up, succeeded in reaching our vessel.
+It contained a white man and two negroes, who brought off a
+quantity of fine turtle, which they gave us in exchange for salt
+pork; and so great was the value put upon salt provisions, that
+the bartered a pound and a half of the one for a pound of the
+other.  To us the exchange was very acceptable, and thus both
+parties remained satisfied with their bargain.
+
+Having lain-to till our turtle-merchants left us, we again filled
+and stood our course.  The land of Cayman was soon invisible; nor
+was any other perceived till the 2nd of December, when the
+western shores of Cuba presented themselves.  Towards them we now
+directed the ship's head, and reaching in within a few miles of
+the beach, coasted along till we had doubled the promontory,
+which forms one of the jaws of the Mexican Gulf.  Whilst keeping
+thus close to the shore, our sail was more interesting than
+usual, for though this side of Cuba be low, it is nevertheless
+picturesque, from the abundance of wood with which it is
+ornamented.  There are likewise several points where huge rocks
+rise perpendicularly out of the water, presenting the appearance
+of old baronial castles, with their battlements and lofty
+turrets; and it will easily be believed that none of these
+escaped our observation.  The few books which we had brought to
+sea were all read, many of them twice and three times through;
+and there now remained nothing to amuse except what the variety
+of the voyage could produce.
+
+But the shores of Cuba were quickly passed, and the old prospect
+of sea and sky again met the gaze.  There was, however, one
+circumstance from which we experienced a considerable diminution
+of comfort.  As soon as we entered the gulf, a short disagreeable
+swell was perceptible; differing in some respects from that in
+the Bay of Biscay, but to my mind infinitely more unpleasant.  So
+great was the motion, indeed, that all walking was prevented; but
+as we felt ourselves drawing every hour nearer and nearer to the
+conclusion of our miseries, this additional one was borne without
+much repining.  Besides, we found some amusement in watching, from
+the cabin windows, the quantity and variety of weed with which
+the surface of the gulf is covered.  The current being here
+extremely rapid, the weed sails continually in the same
+direction; that is to say, it goes round by the opposite side of
+Cuba towards the banks of Newfoundland, and is carried sometimes
+as far as Bermuda, and even to the Western Isles.
+
+It is not, however, my intention to continue the detail of this
+voyage longer than may be interesting; I shall therefore merely
+state that, the wind and weather having undergone some
+variations, it was the 10th of December before the shores of
+America could be discerned.  On that day we found ourselves
+opposite to the Chandeleur Islands, and near the entrance of Lake
+Borgne.  There the fleet anchored, that the troops might be
+removed from the heavy ships into such as drew least water; and
+from this and other preparations it appeared that to ascend this
+lake was the plan determined upon.
+
+NEW ORLEANS.
+
+But before I pursue my narrative further, it will be well if I
+endeavour to give some account of the situation of New Orleans,
+and of the nature of the country against which our operations
+were directed.
+
+New Orleans is a town of some note, containing from twenty to
+thirty thousand inhabitants.  It stands upon the eastern bank of
+the Mississippi, in 30 degrees north latitude, and about 110
+miles from the Gulf of Mexico.  Though in itself unfortified, it
+is difficult to conceive a place capable of presenting greater
+obstacles to an invader; and at the same time more conveniently
+situated with respect to trade.  Built upon a narrow neck of
+land, which is confined on one side by the river, and on the
+other by impassable morasses, its means of defence require little
+explanation; and as these morasses extend to the distance of only
+a few miles, and are succeeded by Lake Pontchartrain, which again
+communicates through Lake Borgne* with the sea, its peculiar
+commercial advantages must be equally apparent.  It is by means
+of the former of these lakes, indeed, that intercourse is
+maintained between the city and the northern parts of West
+Florida, of which it is the capital; a narrow creek, called in
+the language of the country a bayo or bayouke, navigable for
+vessels drawing less than six feet water, running up through the
+marsh, and ending within two miles of the town.  The name of this
+creek is the Bayouke of St. John, and its entrance is defended
+by works of considerable strength.
+
+_______________________
+* These are, properly speaking, one and the same lake.  From the
+entrance, however, as far as Ship Island, is called by the
+inhabitants Lake Borgne, whilst all above that point goes under
+the name of Lake Pontchartrain. They are both extremely shallow,
+varying from 12 to 6 feet in depth.
+-----------------------
+
+But to exhibit its advantages in a more distinct point of view,
+it will be necessary to say a few words respecting that mighty
+river upon which it stands.  The Mississippi (a corruption of the
+word Mechasippi, signifying, in the language of the natives, "the
+father of rivers ") is allowed to be inferior, in point of size
+and general navigability, to few streams in the world.  According
+to the Sioux Indians it takes its rise from a large swamp, and is
+increased by many rivers emptying themselves into its course as
+far as the Fall of St. Anthony, which, by their account, is
+upwards of 700 leagues from its source.  But this fall, which is
+formed by a rock thrown across the channel, of about twelve feet
+perpendicular height, is known to be 800 leagues from the sea;
+and therefore the whole course of the Mississippi, from its
+spring to its mouth, may be computed at little short of 5000
+miles.
+
+Below the fall of St. Anthony, again, the Mississippi is joined
+by a number of rivers, considerable in point of size, and leading
+out of almost every part of the continent of America.  These are
+the St. Pierre, which comes from the west; St. Croix, from the
+eat; the Moingona, which is said to run 150 leagues from the
+west, and forms a junction about 250 below the fall; and the
+Illinois, which rises near the lake Michigan, 200 leagues east of
+the Mississippi.
+
+But by far the most important of these auxiliary streams is the
+Missouri, the source of which is as little known as that of the
+Father of Rivers himself.  It has been followed by traders
+upwards of 400 leagues, who traffic with the tribes which dwell
+upon its banks, and obtain an immense return for European goods.
+The mouth of this river is five leagues below that of the
+Illinois, and is supposed to be 800 from its source, which,
+judging from the flow of its waters, lies in a north-west
+direction from the Mississippi.  It is remarkable enough that the
+waters of this river are black and muddy, and prevail over those
+of the Mississippi, which running with a clear and gentle stream
+till it meets with this addition, becomes from that time both
+dark and rapid.
+
+The next river of note is the Ohio, which taking its rise near
+Lake Erie, runs from the north-east to the south-west, and joins
+the Mississippi about 70 leagues below the Missouri.  Besides
+this there are the St. Francis, an inconsiderable stream, and
+the Arkansas, which is said to originate in the same latitude
+with Santa Fe in New Mexico, and which, holding its course nearly
+300 leagues, falls in about 200 above New Orleans.  Sixty leagues
+below the Arkansas, comes the Yazous from the northeast; and
+about 58 nearer to the city is the Rouge, so called from the
+colour of its waters, which are of a reddish dye, and tinge those
+of the Mississippi at the time of the floods.  Its source is in
+New Mexico, and after running about 200 leagues it is joined by
+the Noir 30 miles above the place where it empties itself into
+the Mississippi.
+
+Of all these rivers there is none which will not answer the
+purposes of commerce, at least to a very considerable extent; and
+as they join the Mississippi above New Orleans, it is evident
+that this city may be considered as the general mart of the
+whole.  Whatever nation, therefore, chances to possess this
+place, possesses in reality the command of a greater extent of
+country than is included within the boundary-line of the whole
+United States since from every direction are goods, the produce
+of East, West, North, and South America, sent down by the
+Mississippi to the Gulf.  But were New Orleans properly supplied
+with fortifications, it is evident that no vessels could pass
+without the leave of its governor; and therefore is it that I
+consider that city as of greater importance to the American
+government than any other within the compass of their
+territories.
+
+Having said so much on its commercial advantages, let me now
+point out more distinctly than I have yet done the causes which
+contribute to its safety from all hostile attempts.  The first of
+these is the shallowness of the river at its mouth, and the
+extreme rapidity of the current.  After flowing on in one
+prodigious sheet of water, varying in depth from one hundred to
+thirty fathoms, the Mississippi, previous to its joining the
+Mexican Gulf, divides into four or five mouths, the most
+considerable of which is encumbered by a sandbank continually
+liable to shift.  Over this bank no vessel drawing above
+seventeen feet water can pass; when once across, however, there
+is no longer a difficulty in being floated; but to anchor is
+hazardous, on account of the huge logs which are constantly
+carried down the stream.  Should one of these strike the bow of
+the ship, it would probably dash her to pieces; whilst,
+independent of this, there is always danger of drifting or losing
+anchors, owing to the number of sunken logs which the under-current
+bears along within a few feet of the bottom.  All vessels
+ascending the river are accordingly obliged, if the wind be foul,
+to make fast to the trees upon the banks; because without a
+breeze at once fair and powerful, it is impossible to stem the
+torrent.
+
+But besides this natural obstacle to invasion, the mouth of the
+river is defended by a fort, which from its situation may be
+pronounced impregnable.  It is built upon an artificial causeway,
+and is surrounded on all sides by swamps totally impervious,
+which extend on both sides of the river to a place called the
+Detour des Anglais, within twenty miles of the city.  Here two
+other forts are erected, one on each bank.  Like that at the
+river's mouth, these are surrounded by a marsh, a single narrow
+path conducting from the commencement of firm ground to the gates
+of each.  If, therefore, an enemy should contrive to pass both
+the bar and the first fort, he must here be stopped, because all
+landing is prevented by the nature of the soil; and however fair
+his breeze may have hitherto been, it will not now assist his
+further progress.  At this point the Mississippi winds almost in
+a circle, insomuch that vessels which arrive are necessitated to
+make fast till a change of wind occur.
+
+From the Detour des Anglais towards New Orleans the face of the
+country undergoes an alteration.  The swamp does not indeed end,
+but it narrows off to the right, leaving a space of firm ground,
+varying, from three to one mile in, width, between it and the
+river.  At the back of this swamp, again, which may be about six
+or eight miles across, come up the waters of Lake Pontchartrain,
+and thus a neck of arable land is formed, stretching for some way
+above the city.  The whole of these morasses are covered as far
+as the Detour with tall reeds; a little wood now succeeds,
+skirting the open country, but the wood measures no more than one
+mile in depth, when it again gives place to reeds.  Such is the
+aspect of that side of the river upon which the city is built;
+with respect to the other I can speak with less confidence,
+having seen it but cursorily.  It appears, however, to resemble
+this in almost every particular, except that it is more wooded
+and less confined with marsh.  Both sides are flat, containing no
+broken ground, nor any other cover, for military movements; for
+on the open shore there are no trees, except a few in the gardens
+of those houses which skirt the rivers; the whole being laid out
+in large fields of sugar-cane; separated from one another by
+rails and ditches.
+
+From the preceding brief account of the country, the advantages
+possessed by a defending army must; be apparent.  To approach by
+the river is out of the question, and therefore an enemy can land
+only from the lake.  But this can be done nowhere, except where
+creeks or bayos offer convenience for that purpose, because the
+banks of the lake are universally swampy; and can hardly supply
+footing for infantry, far less for the transportation of
+artillery.  Of these, however, there are not above one or two
+which could be so used.  The Bayo of St. John is one; but it is
+too well defended, and too carefully guarded for any attempts;
+and the Bayo of Catiline is another, about ten miles below the
+city.  That this last might be found useful in an attack, was
+proved by the landing affected by our army at that point; but
+what is the consequence?  The invaders arrive upon a piece of
+ground, where the most consummate generalship will be of little
+If the defenders can but retard their progress--which, by
+crowding the Mississippi with armed vessels, may very easily be
+done, the labour of a few days will cover the narrow neck with
+entrenchments; whilst the opposite bank remaining in their hands,
+can at all times gall their enemy with a close and deadly
+cannonade.  Of wood, as I have already said, or broken ground
+which might conceal an advance, there exists not a particle.
+Every movement of the assailants must, therefore, be made under
+their eyes; and as one flank of their army will be defended by a
+morass, and the other by the river, they may bid defiance to all
+attempts at turning.
+
+Such are the advantages of New Orleans; and now it is only fair
+that I should state its disadvantages: these are owing solely the
+climate.  From the swamps with which it is surrounded, there
+arise, during the summer months, exhalations extremely fatal to
+the health of its inhabitants.  For some months of the year,
+indeed, so deadly are the effects of the atmosphere, that the
+garrison is withdrawn, and most of the families retire from their
+houses to more genial spots, leaving the town as much deserted as
+if it had been visited by a pestilence.  Yet, in spite of these
+cautions, agues and intermittent fevers abound here at all times.
+Nor is it wonderful that the case should be so; for independent
+of the vile air which the vicinity of so many putrid swamps
+occasions, this country is more liable than perhaps any other to
+sudden and severe changes of temperature.  A night of keen frost
+sufficiently powerful to produce ice a quarter of an inch in
+thickness, frequently follows a day of intense heat; whilst heavy
+rains and bright sunshine often succeed each other several times
+in the course of a few hours.  But these changes, as may
+supposed, occur only during the winter; the summer being one
+continued series of intolerable heat and deadly fog.
+
+LAKE BORGNE.
+
+Of all these circumstances the conductors of the present
+expedition were not ignorant.  To reduce the forts which command
+the navigation of the river was regarded as a task too difficult
+to be attempted; and for any ships to pass without their
+reduction seemed impossible.  Trusting, therefore, that the
+object of the enterprise was unknown to the Americans, Sir
+Alexander Cochrane and General Keane determined to effect a
+landing somewhere on the banks of the lake; and pushing directly
+on, to take possession of the town, before any effectual
+preparation could be made for its defence.  With this view the
+troops were removed from the larger into the lighter vessels, and
+these, under convoy of such gun-brigs as the shallowness of the
+water would float, began on the 13th to enter Lake Borgne.  But we
+had not proceeded far, when it was apparent that the Americans
+were well acquainted with our intentions, and ready to receive
+us.  Five large cutters, armed with six heavy guns each, were
+seen at anchor in the distances: and as all endeavours to land,
+till these were captured, would have been useless, the transports
+and largest of the gun-brigs cast anchor, whilst the smaller
+craft gave chase to the enemy.
+
+But these cutters were built purposely to act upon the lake.
+They accordingly set sail as soon as the English cruisers arrived
+within a certain distance, and running on, were quickly out of
+sight, leaving the pursuers fast aground.  To permit them to
+remain in the hands of the enemy, however, would be fatal,
+because, as long as they commanded the navigation of the lake, no
+boats could venture to cross.  It was therefore determined at all
+hazards, and at any expense, to take them; and since our lightest
+craft could not float where they sailed, a flotilla of launches
+and ships' barges was got ready for the purpose.
+
+This flotilla consisted of fifty open boats; most of them armed
+with a carronade in the bow, and well manned with volunteers from
+the different ships of war.  The command was given to Captain
+Lockier, a brave and skilful officer, who immediately pushed off;
+and about noon came in sight of the enemy, moored fore and aft,
+with broadsides pointing towards him.  Having pulled a
+considerable distance, he resolved to refresh his men before he
+hurried them into action; and, accordingly, letting fall
+grapplings just beyond the reach of the enemy's guns, the crews
+of the different boats coolly ate their dinner.
+
+As soon as that meal was finished, and an hour spent in resting,
+the boats again got ready to advance.  But, unfortunately, a
+light breeze which had hitherto favoured them, now ceased to
+blow, and they were in consequence compelled to make way only
+with the oar.  The tide also ran strong against them, at once
+increasing their labour and retarding their progress; but all
+these difficulties appeared trifling to British sailors; and,
+giving a hearty cheer, they moved steadily onward in one extended
+line.
+
+It was not long before the enemy's guns opened upon them, and a
+tremendous shower of balls saluted their approach.  Some boats
+were sunk, others disabled, and many men were killed and wounded;
+but the rest pulling with all their might, and occasionally
+returning the discharges from their carronades, succeeded, after
+an hour's labour, in closing with the Americans.  The marines now
+began a deadly fire of musketry; whilst the seamen, sword in
+hand, sprang up the vessels' sides in spite of all opposition;
+and sabring every man that stood in their way, hauled down the
+American ensign, and hoisted the British flag in its place.
+
+One cutter alone, which bore the commodore's broad pendant, was
+not so easily subdued.  Having noted its pre-eminence, Captain
+Lockier directed his own boat against it; and happening to have
+placed himself in one of the lightest and fastest sailing barges
+in the flotilla, he found himself alongside of his enemy before
+any of the others were near enough to render him the smallest
+support.  But nothing dismayed by odds so fearful, the gallant
+crew of this small bark, following their leader, instantly leaped
+on board the American.  A desperate conflict ensued, in which
+Captain Lockier received several severe wounds; but after
+fighting from the bow to the stern, the enemy were at length
+overpowered; and other barges coming up to the assistance of
+their commander, the commodore's flag shared the same fate with
+the others.
+
+PINE ISLAND.
+
+Having destroyed all opposition in this quarter, the fleet again
+weighed anchor, and stood up the lake.  But we had not been many
+hours under sail, when ship after ship ran aground: such as still
+floated were, therefore, crowded with the troops from those which
+could go no farther, till finally the lightest vessel stuck fast;
+and the boats were of necessity hoisted out, to carry us a
+distance of upwards of thirty miles.  To be confined for so long
+a time as the prosecution of this voyage would require, in one
+posture, was of itself no very agreeable prospect; but the
+confinement was but a trifling misery when compared with that
+which arose from the change in the weather.  Instead of a
+constant bracing frost, heavy rains, such as an inhabitant of
+England cannot dream of, and against which no cloak could furnish
+protection, began.  In the midst of these were the troops embarked
+in their new and straitened transports, and each division, after
+an exposure of ten hours, landed upon a small desert spot of
+earth, called Pine Island, where it was determined to collect the
+whole army, previous to its crossing over to the main.
+
+Than this spot it is scarcely possible to imagine any place more
+completely wretched.  It was a swamp, containing a small space of
+firm ground at one end, and almost wholly unadorned with trees of
+any sort or description.  There were, indeed, a few stinted [sic]
+firs upon the very edge of the water, but these were so
+diminutive in size as hardly to deserve a higher classification
+than among the meanest of shrubs.  The interior was the resort of
+wild ducks and other water-fowl; and the pools and creeks with
+which it was intercepted abounded in dormant alligators.
+
+Upon this miserable desert the army was assembled, without tents
+or huts, or any covering to shelter them from the inclemency of
+the weather; and in truth we may fairly affirm that our hardships
+had here their commencement.  After having been exposed all day
+to a cold and pelting rain, we landed upon a barren island,
+incapable of furnishing even fuel enough to supply our fires.  To
+add to our miseries, as night closed, the rain generally ceased,
+and severe frosts set in, which, congealing our wet clothes upon
+our bodies, left little animal warmth to keep the limbs in a
+state of activity; and the consequence was, that many of the
+wretched negroes, to whom frost and cold were altogether new,
+fell fast asleep, and perished before morning.
+
+For provisions, again, we were entirely dependent upon the fleet.
+There were here no living creatures which would suffer themselves
+to be caught; even the water-fowl being so timorous that it was
+impossible to approach them within musket-shot.  Salt meat and
+ship biscuit were, therefore, our food, moistened by a small
+allowance of rum; fare which, though no doubt very wholesome, was
+not such as to reconcile us to the cold and wet under which we
+suffered.
+
+On the part of the navy, again, all these hardships were
+experienced in a four-fold degree.  Night and day were boats
+pulling from the fleet to the island, and from the island to the
+fleet; for it was the 21st before all the troops were got on
+shore; and as there was little time to inquire into men's turns
+of labour, many seamen were four or five days continually at the
+oar.  Thus they had not only to bear up against variety of
+temperature, but against hunger, fatigue, and want of sleep in
+addition; three as fearful burdens as can be laid upon the human
+frame.  Yet in spite of all this, not a murmur nor a whisper of
+complaint could be heard throughout the whole expedition.  No man
+appeared to regard the present, whilst every one looked forward
+to the future.  From the General, down to the youngest drum-boy,
+a confident anticipation of success seemed to pervade all ranks;
+and in the hope of an ample reward in store for them, the toils
+and grievances of the moment were forgotten.  Nor was this
+anticipation the mere offspring of an overweening confidence in
+themselves.  Several Americans had already deserted, who
+entertained us with accounts of the alarm experienced at New
+Orleans.  They assured us that there were not at present 5000
+soldiers in the State; that the principal inhabitants had long
+ago left the place; that such as remained were ready to join us
+as soon as we should appear among them; and that, therefore, we
+might lay our account with a speedy and bloodless conquest.  The
+same persons likewise dilated upon the wealth and importance of
+the town, upon the large quantities of Government stores there
+collected, and the rich booty which would reward its capture;
+subjects well calculated to tickle the fancy of invaders, and to
+make them unmindful of immediate afflictions, in the expectation
+of so great a recompense to come.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XIX.
+
+
+IT is well known that, at the period to which my narrative
+refers, an alliance, offensive and defensive, subsisted between
+the Government of Great Britain and the heads of as many Indian
+nations or tribes as felt the aggressions of the settlers upon
+their ancient territories, and were disposed to resent them.  On
+this side of the continent our principal allies were the Chaktaws
+and Cherokees, two nations whom war and famine had reduced from a
+state of comparative majesty to the lowest ebb of feebleness and
+distress.  Driven from hunting-ground to hunting-ground, and
+pursued like wild beasts wherever seen, they were now confined to
+a narrow tract of country, lying chiefly along the coasts of the
+gulf and the borders of the lakes which adjoin to it.  For some
+time previous to the arrival of the expedition, the warriors of
+these tribes put themselves under the command of Colonel
+Nickolls, of the Royal Marines, and continued to harass the
+Americans by frequent incursions into the cultivated districts.
+It so happened, however, that, being persuaded to attempt the
+reduction of a fort situated upon Mobile Point, and being, as
+might be expected, repulsed with some loss, their confidence in
+their leader, and their dependence upon British aid, had begun of
+late to suffer a serious diminution.  Though not very profitable
+as friends, their local position and desultory mode of warfare
+would have rendered them at this period exceedingly annoying to
+us as enemies; it was accordingly determined to dispatch an
+embassy to their settlements, for the purpose of restoring them
+to good humour, or at least discovering their intentions.
+
+Whilst the troops were assembling upon Pine Island, a cutter,
+having proper officers on board, and carrying presents of
+clothing, arms, and rum, was dispatched upon this business.  It
+reached its place of destination in safety, and the ambassadors
+found very little difficulty in bringing back the fickle Indians
+to their wonted reliance upon British support.  Several of the
+chiefs and warriors, indeed, requested and obtained permission to
+visit our Admiral and General, and to follow the fortunes of our
+troops; and a very grotesque and singular appearance they
+presented as they stood upon the quarter-deck of the Tonnant.
+But the costume, habits, and customs of these savages have been
+too frequently and too accurately described elsewhere, to render
+any account of them on the present occasion desirable.  It is
+sufficient to observe, that whilst they gazed upon everything
+around them with a look expressive of no astonishment whatever,
+they were themselves objects of eager curiosity to us; and that
+they bore our close inspection and somewhat uncourteous
+deportment with the most perfect philosophy.  But to my tale.
+
+The enemy's cutters having fallen into our hands, at an early
+hour on the morning of the 16th the disembarkation of the troops
+began.  So deficient, however, was the fleet in boats and other
+small craft fit to navigate the lakes, that it was late on the
+evening of the 21st before the last division took up its ground
+upon Pine Island, and even then the inconveniences of our descent
+were but beginning.  The troops had yet to be arranged in corps
+and brigades; to each of these its proportion of Commissaries,
+Purveyors, and Medical attendants, &c., &c., required to be
+allotted; and some attempt at establishing depots of provisions
+and military stores behoved to be made.  In adjusting these
+matters the whole of the 22nd was occupied, on which day the
+General likewise reviewed the whole of the army.  This being
+ended, the force was next distributed into divisions, or corps;
+and the following is the order it assumed.
+
+Instead of a light brigade, the General resolved to set apart
+three battalions as an advanced guard.  The regiments nominated
+to that service were the 4th, the 85th Light Infantry, and the
+95th. Rifles; and he selected Colonel Thornton of the 85th, as an
+officer of talent and enterprise, to command them.  Attached to
+this corps were a party of rocket-men, with two light three-pounders--
+a species of gun convenient enough, where celerity of movement is
+alone regarded, but of very little real utility in the field.
+The rest of the troops were arranged, as before, into two
+brigades.  The first, composed of the 21st, 44th, and one
+black regiment, was intrusted to Colonel Brook; and the second,
+containing the 93rd and the other black corps, to Colonel
+Hamilton, of the 7th West India regiment.  To each of these, a
+certain proportion of artillery and rockets was allotted: whilst
+the dragoons, who had brought their harness and other
+appointments on shore, remained as a sort of bodyguard to the
+General, till they should provide themselves with horses.
+
+The adjustment of these matters having occupied a considerable
+part of the 22nd, it was determined that all things should remain
+as they were till next morning.  Boats, in the mean time, began
+to assemble from all quarters, supplies of ammunition were
+packed, so as to prevent the possibility of damage from moisture, and
+stores of various descriptions were got ready.  But it appeared
+that, even now, many serious inconveniences must be endured, and
+obstacles surmounted, before the troops could reach the scene of
+action. In the first place, from Pine Island to that part of the
+main towards which prudence directed us to steer, was a distance
+of no less than 80 miles.  This, of itself, was an obstacle, or
+at least an inconvenience, of no slight nature; for should the
+weather prove boisterous, open boats, heavily laden with
+soldiers, would stand little chance of escaping destruction in
+the course of so long a voyage.  In the next place, and what was
+of infinitely greater importance, it was found that there were
+not, throughout the whole fleet, a sufficient number of boats to
+transport above one third of the army at a time.  But to land in
+divisions would expose our forces to be attacked in detail, by
+which means one party might be cut to pieces before the others
+could arrive to its support.  The undertaking was, therefore, on
+the whole, extremely dangerous, and such as would have been
+probably abandoned by more timid leaders.  Ours, however, were
+not so to be alarmed.  They had entered upon a hazardous
+business, in whatever way it should be prosecuted; and since they
+could not work miracles, they resolved to lose no time in
+bringing their army into the field in the best manner which
+circumstances would permit.
+
+THE LAKE.
+
+With this view, the advance, consisting of 1600 men and two
+pieces of cannon, was next morning embarked.  I have already
+stated that there is a small creek, called the Bayo de Catiline,
+which runs up from Lake Pontchartrain through the middle of an
+extensive morass, about ten miles below New Orleans.  Towards
+this creek were the boats directed, and here it was resolved to
+effect a landing.  When we set sail, the sky was dark and
+lowering, and before long a heavy rain began to fall.  Continuing
+without intermission during the whole of the day, towards night,
+it, as usual, ceased, and was succeeded by a sharp frost; which,
+taking effect upon men thoroughly exposed, and already cramped by
+remaining so long in one posture, rendered our limbs completely
+powerless.  Nor was there any means of dispelling the benumbing
+sensation, or effectually resisting the cold.  Fires of charcoal,
+indeed, being lighted in the sterns of the boats, were permitted
+to burn as long as daylight lasted; but as soon as it grew dark,
+they were of necessity extinguished, lest the flame should be
+seen by row-boats from the shore, and an alarm be thus
+communicated. Our situation was, therefore, the reverse of
+agreeable; since even sleep was denied us, from the apprehension
+of fatal consequences.
+
+THE LAKE--LANDING.
+
+Having remained in this uncomfortable state till midnight, the
+boats cast anchor and hoisted awnings.  There was a small piquet
+of the enemy stationed at the entrance of the creek by which it
+was intended to effect our landing.  This it was absolutely
+necessary to surprise; and whilst the rest lay at anchor, two or
+three fast-sailing barges were pushed on to execute the service.
+Nor did they experience much difficulty in accomplishing their
+object.  Nothing, as it appeared, was less dreamt of by the
+Americans than an attack from this quarter, consequently no
+persons could be less on their guard than the party here
+stationed.  The officer who conducted the force sent against
+them, found not so much as a single sentinel posted! but having
+landed his men at two places, above and below the but which they
+inhabited, extended his ranks so as to surround it, and closing
+gradually in, took them all fast asleep, without noise or
+resistance.
+
+When such time had been allowed as was deemed sufficient for the
+accomplishment of this undertaking, the flotilla again weighed
+anchor, and without waiting for intelligence of success, pursued
+their voyage.  Hitherto we had been hurried along at a rapid rate
+by a fair breeze, which enabled us to carry canvas; but this now
+left us, and we made way only by rowing.  Our progress was
+therefore considerably retarded, and the risk of discovery
+heightened by the noise which that labour necessarily occasions;
+but in spite of these obstacles, we reached the entrance of the
+creek by dawn; and about nine o'clock, were safely on shore.
+
+The place where we landed was as wild as it is possible to
+imagine.  Gaze where we might, nothing could be seen except one
+huge marsh covered with tall reeds; not a house nor a vestige of
+human industry could be discovered; and even of trees there were
+but a few growing upon the banks of the creek.  Yet it was such a
+spot as, above all others, favoured our operations.  No eye could
+watch us, or report our arrival to the American General.  By
+remaining quietly among the reeds, we might effectually conceal
+ourselves from notice; because, from appearance of all around, it
+was easy to perceive that the place which we occupied had been
+seldom, if ever before, marked with a human footstep.
+Concealment, however, was the thing of all others which we
+required; for be it remembered that there were now only sixteen
+hundred men on the mainland.  The rest were still at Pine Island,
+where they must remain till the boats which had transported us
+should return for their conveyance, consequently many hours must
+elapse before this small corps could be either reinforced or
+supported.  If, therefore, we had sought for a point where a
+descent might be made in secrecy and safety, we could not have
+found one better calculated for that purpose than the present;
+because it afforded every means of concealment to one part of our
+force, until the others should be able to come up.
+
+MARCH.
+
+For these reasons, it was confidently expected that no movement
+would be made previous to the arrival of the other brigades; but,
+in our expectations of quiet, we were deceived.  The deserters
+who had come in, and accompanied us as guides, assured the
+General that he had only to show himself, when the whole district
+would submit. They repeated, that there were not five thousand
+men in arms throughout the State: that of these, not more than
+twelve hundred were regular soldiers, and that the whole force
+was at present several miles on the opposite side of the town,
+expecting an attack on that quarter, and apprehending no danger
+on this.  These arguments, together with the nature of the ground
+on which we stood, so ill calculated for a proper distribution of
+troops in case of attack, and so well calculated to hide the
+movements of an army acquainted with all the passes and tracks
+which, for aught we knew, intersected the morass, induced our
+leader to push forward at once into the open country.  As soon,
+therefore, as the advance was formed, and the boats had departed,
+we began our march, following an indistinct path along the edge
+of the ditch or canal.  But it was not without many checks that
+we were able to proceed. Other ditches, similar to that whose
+course we pursued, frequently stopped us by running in a cross
+direction, and falling into it at right angles.  These were too
+wide to be leaped, and too deep to be forded; consequently, on
+all such occasions, the troops were obliged to halt, till bridges
+were hastily constructed of such materials as could be procured,
+and thrown across.
+
+Having advanced in this manner for several hours, we at length
+found ourselves approaching a more cultivated region.  The marsh
+became gradually less and less continued, being intersected by
+wider spots of firm ground; the reeds gave place, by degrees, to
+wood, and the wood to inclosed fields.  Upon these, however,
+nothing grew, harvest having long ago ended. They accordingly
+presented but a melancholy appearance, being covered with the
+stubble of sugar-cane, which resembled the reeds which we had
+just quitted, in everything except altitude.  Nor as yet was any
+house or cottage to be seen.  Though we knew, therefore, that
+human habitations could not be far off, it was impossible to
+guess where they lay, or how numerous they might prove; and as
+we could not tell whether our guides might not be deceiving us,
+and whether ambuscades might not be laid for our destruction as
+soon as we should arrive where troops could conveniently act, our
+march was insensibly conducted with increased caution and
+regularity.
+
+But in a little while some groves of orange-trees presented
+selves; on passing which two or three farm-houses
+appeared. Towards these, our advanced companies immediately
+hastened, with the hope of surprising the inhabitants, and
+preventing any from being raised.  Hurrying on at double-quick
+time, they surrounded the buildings, succeeded in securing the
+inmates, capturing several horses; but becoming rather careless
+in watching their prisoners, one man contrived to effect his
+escape. Now, then, all hope of eluding observation might be laid
+aside. The rumour of our landing would, we knew, spread faster
+than we could march; and it only remained to make that rumour as
+terrible as possible.
+
+With this view, the column was commanded to widen its files, and
+to present as formidable an appearance as could be assumed.
+Changing our order, in obedience to these directions, we marched,
+not in sections of eight or ten abreast, but in pairs, and thus
+contrived to cover with our small division as large a tract or
+ground as if we had mustered thrice our present numbers.  Our
+steps were likewise quickened, that we might gain, if possible,
+some advantageous position, where we might be able to cope with
+any force that might attack us; and thus hastening on, we soon
+arrived at the main road which leads directly to New
+Orleans.  Turning to the right, we then advanced in the direction
+of that town for about a mile; when, having reached a spot where
+it was considered that we might encamp in comparative safety, our
+little column halted; the men piled their arms, and a regular
+bivouac was formed.
+
+HALT.
+
+The country where we had now established ourselves, answered, in
+every respect, the description which I have already given of the
+neck of land on which New Orleans is built.  It was a narrow
+plain of about a mile in width, bounded on one side by the
+Mississippi, and on the other by the marsh from which we had just
+emerged. Towards the open ground this marsh was covered with
+dwarf wood, having the semblance of a forest rather than of a
+swamp; but on trying the bottom, it was found that both
+characters were united, and that it was impossible for a man to
+make his way among the trees, so boggy was the soil upon which
+they grew.  In no other quarter, however, was there a single
+hedge-row, or plantation of any kind; excepting a few apple and
+other fruit trees in the gardens of such houses as were scattered
+over the plain, the whole being laid out in large fields for the
+growth of sugar-cane, a plant which seems as abundant in this
+part of the world as in Jamaica.
+
+Looking up towards the town, which we at this time faced, the
+marsh is upon your right, and the river upon your left.  Close to
+the latter runs the main road, following the course of the stream
+all the way to New Orleans.  Between the road and the water is
+thrown up a lofty and strong embankment, resembling the dykes in
+Holland, and meant to serve a similar purpose; by means of which
+the Mississippi is prevented from overflowing its banks, and the
+entire flat is preserved from inundation.  But the attention of a
+stranger is irresistibly drawn away from every other object, to
+contemplate the magnificence of this noble river.  Pouring along
+at the prodigious rate of four miles an hour, an immense body of
+water is spread out before you; measuring a full mile across, and
+nearly a hundred fathoms in depth.  What this mighty stream must
+be near its mouth, I can hardly imagine, for we were here upwards
+of a hundred miles from the ocean.
+
+Such was the general aspect of the country which we had
+entered;--our own position, again, was this.  The three regiments
+turning off from the road into one extensive green field, formed
+three close columns within pistol-shot of the river.  Upon our
+right, but so much in advance as to be of no service to us, was a
+large house, surrounded by about twenty wooden huts, probably
+intended for the accommodation of slaves.  Towards this house
+there was a slight rise in the ground, and between it and the
+camp was a small pond of no great depth.  As far to the rear as
+the first was to the front, stood another house, inferior in
+point of appearance, and skirted by no outbuildings: this was
+also upon the right; and here General Keane, who accompanied us,
+fixed his head-quarters; but neither the one nor the other could
+be employed as a covering redoubt, the flank of the division
+extending, as it were, between them.  A little way in advance,
+again, where the outposts were stationed, ran a dry ditch and a
+row of lofty palings; affording some cover to the front of our
+line, should it be formed diagonally with the main road.  The
+left likewise was well secured by the river; but the right and
+the rear were wholly unprotected.  Though in occupying this
+field, therefore, we might have looked very well had the country
+kind us been friendly, it must be confessed that our situation
+hardly deserved the title of a military position.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XX.
+
+
+NOON had just passed, when the word was given to halt, by which
+means every facility was afforded of posting the piquet's leisure
+and attention.  Nor was this deemed enough to secure
+tranquillity: parties were sent out in all directions to
+reconnoitre, who returned with an account that no enemy nor any
+trace of an enemy could be discerned.  The troops were
+accordingly suffered to light fires, and to make themselves
+comfortable, only their accoutrements were not taken off, and the
+were piled in such form as to be within reach at a moment's
+notice.
+
+As soon as these agreeable orders were issued, the soldiers to
+obey them both in letter and in spirit.  Tearing up a number of
+strong palings, large fires were lighted in a moment; water was
+brought from the river, and provisions were cooked.  But their
+bare rations did not content them.  Spreading themselves over the
+country as far as a regard to safety would permit, they entered
+every house, and brought away quantities of hams, fowls, and
+wines of various descriptions; which being divided among them,
+all fared well, and none received too large a quantity.  In this
+division of good things, they were not unmindful of their
+officers; for upon active warfare the officers are considered by
+the privates as comrades, to whom respect and obedience are due,
+rather than as masters.
+
+It was now about three o'clock in the afternoon, and all had as
+yet remained quiet.  The troops having finished their meal, lay
+stretched beside their fires, or refreshed themselves by bathing,
+for to-day the heat was such as to render this latter employment
+extremely agreeable, when suddenly a bugle from the advanced
+posts sounded the alarm, which was echoed back from all in the
+army.  Starting up, we stood to our arms, and prepared for
+battle, the alarm being now succeeded by some firing; but we were
+scarcely in order, when intelligence arrived from the front that
+there was no danger, only a few horse having made their
+appearance, who were checked and put to flight at the first
+discharge.  Upon this information, our wonted confidence
+returned, and we again betook ourselves to our former
+occupations, remarking that, as the Americans had never yet dared
+to attack, there was no great probability of their doing so on
+the present occasion.
+
+In this manner the day passed without any further alarm; and
+darkness having set in, the fires were made to blaze with
+increased splendour, our evening meal was eaten, and we prepared
+to sleep.  But about half-past seven o'clock, the attention of
+several individuals was drawn to a large vessel, which seemed to
+be stealing up the river till she came opposite to our camp; when
+her anchor was dropped, and her sails leisurely furled.  At first
+we were doubtful whether she might not be one of our own cruisers
+which had passed the fort unobserved, and had arrived to render
+her assistance in our future operations.  To satisfy this doubt,
+she was repeatedly hailed; but returning no answer, an alarm
+immediately spread through the bivouac, and all thought of sleep
+was laid aside.  Several musket-shots were now fired at her with
+the design of exacting a reply, of which no notice was taken;
+till at length, having fastened all her sails, and swung her
+broadside towards us, we could distinctly hear some one cry out
+in a commanding voice, "Give them this for the honour of
+America."  The words were instantly followed by the flashes of her
+guns, and a deadly shower of grape swept down numbers in the
+camp.
+
+Against this destructive fire we had nothing whatever to oppose.
+The artillery which we had landed was too light to bring into
+competition with an adversary so powerful; and as she had
+anchored within a short distance of the opposite bank, no
+musketry could reach her with any precision or effect.  A few
+rockets were discharged, which made a beautiful appearance in the
+air; but the rocket is at the best an uncertain weapon, and these
+deviated too far from their object to produce even terror amongst
+those against whom they were directed.  Under these
+circumstances, as nothing could be done offensively, our sole
+object was to shelter the men as much as possible from the iron
+hail.  With this view, they were commanded to leave the fires,
+and to hasten under the dyke. Thither all accordingly repaired,
+without much regard to order and regularity, and laying ourselves
+along wherever we could find room, we listened in painful silence
+to the pattering of grape-shot among our huts, and to the shrieks
+and groans of those who lay wounded beside them.
+
+ATTACK.
+
+The night was now as dark as pitch, the moon being but young, and
+totally obscured with clouds.  Our fires deserted by us, and beat
+about by the enemy's shot, began to burn red and dull, and,
+except when the flashes of those guns which played upon us cast a
+momentary glare, not an object could be distinguished at the
+distance of a yard.  In this state we lay for nearly an hour,
+unable to move from our ground, or offer any opposition to those
+who kept us there; when a straggling fire of musketry called our
+attention towards the piquets, and warned us to prepare for a
+closer and more desperate struggle. As yet, however, it was
+uncertain from what cause this dropping fire arose.  It might
+proceed from the sentinels, who, alarmed by the cannonade from
+the river, mistook every tree for an American; and till the real
+state of the case should be ascertained, it would be improper to
+expose the troops by moving any of them from the shelter which
+the bank afforded.  But these doubts were not permitted to
+continue long in existence.  The dropping fire having paused for
+a few moments, was succeeded by a fearful yell; and the heavens
+were illuminated on all sides by a semi-circular blaze of
+musketry. It was now manifest that we were surrounded, and that
+by a very superior force; and that no alternative remained,
+except to surrender at discretion, or to beat back the
+assailants.
+
+The first of these plans was never for an instant thought of; the
+second was immediately put into force.  Rushing from under the
+bank, the 85th and 95th flew to support the piquets, whilst the
+4th, stealing to the rear of the encampment, formed close column,
+and remained as a reserve.  And now began a battle of which no
+language were competent to convey any distinct idea; because it
+was one to which the annals of modern warfare furnish no
+parallel.  All order, all discipline were lost.  Each officer, as
+he succeeded in collecting twenty or thirty men about him,
+plunged into the midst of the enemy's ranks, where it was fought
+hand to hand, bayonet to bayonet, and sabre to sabre.
+
+I am well aware that he who speaks of his own deeds in the field
+of battle lies fairly open to the charge of seeking to make a
+hero of himself in the eyes of the public; and feeling this, it
+is not without reluctance that I proceed to recount the part
+which I myself took in the affair of this night.  But, in truth,
+I must either play the egotist awhile, or leave the reader
+without any details at all; inasmuch as the darkness and general
+confusion effectually prevented me from observing how others,
+except my own immediate party, were employed.
+
+Offering this as my apology for a line of conduct which I should
+otherwise blush to pursue, and premising that I did nothing, in
+my own person, which was not done by my comrades at least as
+effectually, I go on to relate as many of the particulars of this
+sanguinary conflict as came under the notice of my own senses.
+
+My friend Grey and myself had been supplied by our soldiers with
+a couple of fowls taken from a neighbouring hen-roost, and a few
+bottles of excellent claret, borrowed from the cellar of one of
+the houses near.  We had built ourselves a sort of hut, by piling
+together, in a conical form, a number of large stakes and broad
+rails torn up from one of the fences; and a bright wooden fire
+was blazing at the door of it. In the wantonness of triumph, too,
+we had lighted some six or eight wax-candles; a vast quantity of
+which had been found in the store-rooms of the chateaux hard by;
+and having done ample justice to our luxurious supper, we were
+sitting in great splendour and in high spirits at the entrance of
+our hut, when the alarm of the approaching schooner was
+communicated to us.  With the sagacity of a veteran, Grey
+instantly guessed how matters stood: he was the first to hail
+the suspicious stranger; and on receiving no answer to his
+challenge, he was the first to fire a musket in the direction of
+her anchorage.  But he had scarcely done so when she opened her
+broadside, causing the instantaneous abandonment of fires,
+viands, and mirth throughout the bivouac.
+
+As we contrived to get our men tolerably well around us, Grey and
+myself were among the first who rushed forth to support the
+piquets and check the advance of the enemy upon the right.
+Passing as rapidly as might be through the ground of encampment
+amidst a shower of grape-shot from the vessel, we soon arrived at
+the pond; which being forded, we found ourselves in front of the
+farm-house of which I have already spoken as composing the
+head-quarters of General Keane.  Here we were met by a few
+stragglers from the outposts, who reported that the advanced
+companies were all driven in, and that a numerous division of
+Americans was approaching.  Having attached these fugitives to
+our little corps, we pushed on, and in a few seconds reached the
+lower extremity of a sloping stubble-field, at the other end of
+which we could discern a long line of men, but whether they were
+friends or foes the darkness would not permit ups to determine.
+We called aloud for the purpose of satisfying our doubts; but the
+signal being disregarded, we advanced.  A heavy fire of musketry
+instantly opened upon us; but so fearful was Grey of doing injury
+to our own troops, that he would not permit it to be returned.
+We accordingly pressed on, our men dropping by ones and twos on
+every side of us, till having arrived within twenty or thirty
+yards of the object of our curiosity, it became to me evident
+enough that we were in front of the enemy.  Grey's humane caution
+still prevailed; he was not convinced, till he, should be
+convinced it was but natural that he should alter his plans.
+There chanced to be near the spot where we were standing a huge
+dung-heap, or rather a long solid stack of stubble, behind which
+we directed the men to take shelter whilst one of us should creep
+forward alone, for the purpose of more completely ascertaining a
+fact of which all except my brave and noble-minded comrade were
+satisfied.  The event proved that my sight had not deceived me: I
+approached within sabre's length of the line; and having
+ascertained beyond the possibility of doubt that the line was
+composed of American soldiers, I returned to my friend and again
+urged him to charge.  But there was an infatuation upon him that
+night for which I have ever been unable to account: he insisted
+that I must be mistaken; he spoke of the improbability which
+existed that any part of the enemy's army should have succeeded
+in taking up a position in rear of the station of one of our
+outposts, and he could not be persuaded that the troops now
+before him were not the 95th Rifle corps.  At last it was agreed
+between us that we should separate; that Grey with one half of
+the party should remain where he was, whilst I with the other
+half should make a short detour to the right, and come down upon
+the flank of the line from whose fire we had suffered so
+severely.  The plan was carried into immediate execution.  Taking
+with me about a dozen or fourteen men, I quitted Grey, and we
+never met again.
+
+How or when he fell I know not; but, judging from the spot and
+attitude in which I afterwards found his body, I conceive that my
+back could have been barely turned upon him when the fatal ball
+pierced his brain.  He was as brave a soldier and as good a man
+as the British army can boast of; beloved by his brother officers
+and adored by his men.  To me he was as a brother; nor have I
+ceased even now to feel, as often as the 23rd of December
+returns, that on that night a tie was broken than which the
+progress of human life will hardly furnish one more tender or
+more strong.  But to my tale.
+
+Leaving Grey--careless as he ever was in battle of his own
+person, and anxious as far as might be to secure the safety of
+his followers--I led my little party in the direction agreed
+upon, and fortunately falling in with about an equal number of
+English riflemen, I caused them to take post beside my own men,
+and turned up to the front.  Springing over the paling, we found
+ourselves almost at once upon the left flank of the enemy; and we
+lost not a moment in attacking it.  But one volley was poured in,
+and then bayonets, musket-butts, sabres, and even fists, came
+instantly into play. In the whole course of my military career
+remember no scene at all resembling this.  We fought with the
+savage ferocity of bull-dogs; and many a blade which till
+to-night had not drunk blood became in a few minutes crimsoned
+enough.
+
+Such a contest could not in the nature of things be of very long
+continuance.  The enemy, astonished at the vigour of our assault,
+soon began to waver, and their wavering was speedily converted
+into flight.  Nor did we give them a moment's time to recover
+from their panic.  With loud shouts we continued to press upon
+them; and amidst the most horrible din and desperate carnage
+drove them over the field and through the little village of huts,
+of which notice has already been taken as surrounding the mansion
+on our advanced right.  Here we found a number of our own people
+prisoners, and under a guard of Americans.  But the guard fled as
+we approached, and our countrymen catching up such weapons as
+came first to hand, joined in the pursuit.
+
+In this spot I halted my party, increased by the late additions
+to the number of forty; among whom were two gallant young
+officers of the 95th.  We had not yet been joined, as I expected
+be joined, by Grey; and feeling that we were at least far enough
+in advance of our own line, we determined to attempt nothing
+further except to keep possession of the village should it
+attacked.  But whilst placing the men in convenient situations,
+another dark line was pointed out to us considerably to the left
+our position.  That we might ascertain at once of what troops was
+composed, I left my brother officers to complete the arrangements
+which we had begun, and walking down the field, demanded in a
+loud voice to be informed who they were that kept post in so
+retired a situation.  A voice from the throng made answer that
+they were Americans, and begged of me not fire upon my friends.
+Willing to deceive them still further, I asked to what corps they
+belonged; the speaker replied that they were the second battalion
+of the first regiment, and inquired what had become of the first
+battalion.  I told him that it was upon my right, and assuming a
+tone of authority, commanded him not to move from his present
+situation till I should join him with a party of which I was at
+the head.
+
+The conversation ended here, and I returned to the village; when,
+communicating the result of my inquiries to my comrades, we
+formed our brave little band into line and determined to attack.
+The men were cautioned to preserve a strict silence, and not to
+fire a shot till orders were given; they observed these
+injunctions, and with fixed bayonets and cautious tread advanced
+along the field.  As we drew near, I called aloud for the
+commanding officer of the second regiment to step forward, upon
+which an elderly man, armed with a heavy dragoon sabre, stepped
+out of the ranks.  When he discovered by our dress that we were
+English, this redoubtable warrior lost all self-command; he
+resigned his sword to me without a murmur, and consented at once
+to believe that his battalion was surrounded, and that to offer
+any resistance would but occasion a needless loss of blood.  Nor
+was he singular in these respects: his followers, placing
+implicit reliance in our assurances that they were hemmed in on
+every side by a very superior force, had actually begun to lay
+down their arms, and would have surrendered, in all probability,
+at discretion, but for the superior gallantry of one man.  An
+American officer, whose sword I demanded, instead of giving it up
+as his commander had done, made a cut at my head, which with some
+difficulty I managed to ward off; and a few soldiers near him,
+catching ardour from his example, discharged their pieces among
+our troops.  The sound of firing was no sooner heard than it
+became general, and as all hope of success by stratagem might now
+be laid aside, we were of necessity compelled to try the effect
+of violence.  Again we rushed into the middle of the throng, and
+again was the contest that of man to man, in close and desperate
+strife; till a panic arising among the Americans, they dispersed
+in all directions and left us masters of the field.
+
+In giving a detail so minute of my own adventures this night, I
+beg to repeat what has been stated already, that I have no wish
+whatever to persuade my readers that I was one whit more cool or
+more daring than my companions.  Like them I was driven to
+depend, from first to last, upon my own energies; and I believe
+the energies of few men fail them when they are satisfied that on
+them alone they must depend.  Nor was the case different with my
+comrades.  Attacked unexpectedly, and in the dark, surrounded,
+too, by a numerous enemy, and one who spoke the same language with
+ourselves, it is not to be wondered at if the order and routine of
+civilised warfare were everywhere set at nought.  Each man who
+felt disposed to command was obeyed by those who stood near
+him, without any question being asked as to his authority; and
+more feats of individual gallantry were performed in this
+single night than many regular campaigns might furnish an
+opportunity to perform.
+
+The night was far spent, and the sound of firing had begun to wax
+faint, when, checking the ardour of our brave followers, we
+collected them once more together and fell back into the village.
+Here likewise considerable numbers from other detachments
+assembled, and here we learned that the Americans were repulsed
+on every side.  The combat had been long and obstinately
+contested: it began at eight o'clock in the evening and continued
+till three in the morning--but the victory was ours.  True, it
+was the reverse of a bloodless one, not fewer than two hundred
+fifty of our best men having fallen in the struggle: but even
+at the expense of such a loss, we could not but account ourselves
+fortunate in escaping from the snare in which we had confessedly
+taken.
+
+To me, however, the announcement of the victory brought no
+rejoicing, for it was accompanied with the intelligence that my
+friend was among the killed.  I well recollect the circumstances
+under which these sad news reached me.  I was standing with a
+sword in each hand--my own and that of the officer who had
+surrendered to me, and, as the reader may imagine, in no bad
+humour with myself or with the brave fellows about me, when a
+brother officer stepping forward abruptly told the tale.  It came
+me upon me like a thunderbolt; and casting aside my trophy,
+thought only of the loss which I had sustained.  Regardless of
+every other matter I ran to the rear, and found Grey lying behind
+the dung-heap, motionless and cold.  A little pool of blood which
+had coagulated under his head, pointed out the spot where the
+ball had entered, and the position of his limbs gave proof that
+he must have died without a struggle. I cannot pretend to
+describe what were then my sensations, but of whatever nature
+they might be, little time was given for their indulgence; the
+bugle sounding the alarm, I was compelled to leave him as he lay,
+and to join my corps. Though the alarm proved to be a false one,
+it had the good effect of bringing all the troops together, by
+which means a regular line was now, for the first time since the
+commencement of the action, formed.  In this order, having
+defiled considerably to the left, so as to command the highway,
+we stood in front of our bivouac till dawn began to appear; when,
+to avoid the fire of the schooner, we once more moved to the
+river's bank and lay down.  Here, during the whole of the
+succeeding day, the troops were kept shivering in the cold frosty
+air, without fires, without provisions, and exhausted with
+fatigue; nor was it till the return of night that any attempt to
+extricate them from their comfortless situation could be made.
+
+FIELD OF BATTLE.
+
+Whilst others were thus reposing, I stole away with two or three
+men for the purpose of performing the last sad act of affection
+which it was possible for me to perform to my friend Grey.  As we
+had completely changed our ground, it was not possible for me at
+once to discover the spot where he lay; indeed I traversed a
+large portion of the field before I hit upon it.  Whilst thus
+wandering over the arena of last night's contest, the most
+shocking and most disgusting spectacles everywhere met my eyes.
+I have frequently beheld a greater number of dead bodies within
+as narrow a compass, though these, to speak the truth, were
+numerous enough, but wounds more disfiguring or more horrible I
+certainly never witnessed.  A man shot through the head or heart
+lies as if he were in a deep slumber; insomuch that when you gaze
+upon him you experience little else than pity.  But of these,
+many had met their deaths from bayonet wounds, sabre cuts, or
+heavy blows from the butt ends of muskets; and the consequence
+was, that not only were the wounds themselves exceedingly
+frightful, but the very countenances of the dead exhibited the
+most savage and ghastly expressions.  Friends and foes lay
+together in small groups of four or six, nor was it difficult to
+tell almost the very hand by which some of them had fallen.  Nay,
+such had been the deadly closeness of the strife, that in one or
+two places an English and American soldier might be seen with the
+bayonet of each fastened in the other's body.
+
+Having searched for some time in vain, I at length discovered
+friend lying where during the action we had separated, and where,
+when the action came to a close, I had at first found him, shot
+through the temples by a rifle bullet so remarkably small as
+scarcely to leave any trace of its progress.  I am well aware
+that this is no fit place to introduce the working of my own
+personal feelings, but he was my friend, and such a friend as few
+men are happy enough to possess.  We had known and loved each
+other for years; our regard had been cemented by a long
+participation in the same hardships and dangers, and it cannot;
+therefore surprise, if even now I pay that tribute to his worth
+and our friendship which, however unavailing it may be, they both
+deserve.
+
+When in the act of looking for him I had flattered myself that I
+should be able to bear his loss with something like philosophy,
+but when I beheld him pale and bloody, I found all my resolution
+evaporate.  I threw myself on the ground beside him and wept,
+like a child.  But this was no time for the indulgence of useless
+sorrow.  Like the royal bard, I knew that I should to him, but he
+could not return to me, and I knew not whether an hour would pass
+before my summons might arrive.  Lifting him therefore upon a
+cart, I had him carried down to head-quarter house, now converted
+into an hospital, and having dug for him a grave at the bottom of
+the garden, I laid him there as a soldier should be laid,
+arrayed, not in a shroud, but in his uniform.  Even the privates
+whom I brought with me to assist at his funeral mingled their
+tears with mine, nor are many so fortunate as to return to the
+parent dust more deeply or more sincerely lamented.
+
+FIELD OF BATTLE--HOSPITAL.
+
+Retiring from the performance of this melancholy duty, I strolled
+into the hospital and visited the wounded.  It is here that war
+loses its grandeur and show, and presents only a real picture of
+its effects.  Every room in the house was crowded with wretches
+mangled, and apparently in the most excruciating agonies.
+Prayers, groans, and, I grieve to add, the most horrid
+exclamations, smote upon the ear wherever I turned. Some lay at
+length upon straw, with eyes half closed and limbs motionless;
+some endeavoured to start up, shrieking with pain, while the
+wandering eye and incoherent speech of others indicated the loss
+of reason, and usually foretold the approach of death.  But
+there was one among the rest whose appearance was too horrible
+ever to be forgotten.  He had been shot through the windpipe,
+and the breath making its way between the skin and the flesh had
+dilated him to a size absolutely terrific.  His head and face were
+particularly shocking.  Every feature was enlarged beyond what can
+well be imagined; whilst his eyes were so completely hidden by
+the cheeks and forehead as to destroy all resemblance to a human
+countenance.
+
+Passing through the apartments where the private soldiers lay,
+I next came to those occupied by officers.  Of these there
+were five or six in one small room, to whom little better
+accommodation could be provided than to their inferiors.  It was
+a sight peculiarly distressing, because all of them chanced to be
+personal acquaintances of my own.  One had been shot in the head,
+and lay gasping and insensible; another had received a musket-
+ball in the belly, which had pierced through and lodged in the
+backbone.  The former appeared to suffer but little, giving no
+signs of life, except what a heavy breathing produced; the latter
+was in the most dreadful agony, screaming out, and gnawing the
+covering under which he lay.  There were many besides these, some
+severely and others slightly hurt; but as I have already dwelt at
+sufficient length upon a painful subject, I shall only observe,
+that to all was afforded every assistance which circumstances
+would allow, and that the exertions of their medical attendants
+were such as deserved and obtained the grateful thanks of even
+the most afflicted among the sufferers themselves.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXI.
+
+ADVANCE.
+
+IN the mean time the rest of the troops were landing as fast as
+possible, and hastening to join their comrades.  Though the
+advance had set out from Pine Island by themselves, they did not
+occupy all the boats in the fleet.  Part of the second brigade,
+therefore, had embarked about twelve hours after their departure;
+and rowing leisurely on, were considerably more than half way
+across the lakes when the action began.  In the stillness of
+night, however, it is astonishing at what distance a noise is
+heard.  Though they must have been at least twenty miles from
+the Bayo when the schooner first opened her fire, the sound
+reaching them roused the rowers from their indolence, who, pulling
+with all their might, hurried on, whilst the most profound silence
+reigned among the troops, and, gaining the creek in little more an
+three hours, sent fresh reinforcements to share in the danger and
+glory of the night.
+
+Nor was a moment lost by the sailors in returning to the island.
+Intelligence of the combat spread like wildfire; the boats were
+loaded even beyond what was strictly safe, and thus, by exerting
+themselves in a degree almost unparalleled, our gallant seamen
+succeeded in bringing the whole army into position before dark on
+the 24th.  The second and third brigades, therefore, now took up
+their ground upon the spot where the late battle had been fought,
+and, resting their right upon the woody morass, extended so far
+towards the river, as that the advance by by wheeling up might
+continue the line across the entire plain.
+
+But instead of taking part in this formation, the advance was
+still fettered to the bank, from which it was additionally
+prevented from moving by the arrival of another large ship,
+which, cast anchor about a mile above the schooner.  Thus were
+three battalions kept stationary by the guns of these two
+formidable floating batteries, and it was clear that no attempt
+to extricate them could be made without great loss, unless under
+cover of night.  During the whole of the 24th, therefore, they
+remained in this uncomfortable situation; but as soon as darkness
+had well set in, a change of position was effected.  Withdrawing
+the troops, company by company, from behind the bank, General
+Keane stationed them in the village of huts, by which means the
+high road was abandoned to the protection of a piquet, and the
+left of the army covered by a large chateau.
+
+Being now placed beyond risk of serious annoyance from the
+shipping whole army remained quiet for the night.  How long we
+were to continue in this state nobody appeared to know; not
+whisper was circulated as to the time of advancing, nor a surmise
+ventured respecting the next step likely to be taken.  In our to
+whose rumours we had before listened with avidity, no confidence
+was reposed.  It was quite evident, either that they had
+purposely deceived us, or that their information was gathered
+from a most imperfect source; and hence, though they were not
+exactly placed in confinement, they were strictly watched, and
+treated more like spies than deserters.  Instead of an easy
+conquest, we had already met with a vigorous opposition; instead
+of finding the inhabitants ready and eager to join us, we found
+the houses deserted, the cattle and horses driven away, and every
+appearance of hostility.  To march by the only road was rendered
+impracticable; so completely was it commanded by the shipping.
+In a word, all things had turned out diametrically opposite to
+what had been anticipated; and it appeared that, instead of a
+trifling affair more likely to fill our pockets than to add to
+our renown, we had embarked in an undertaking which presented
+difficulties not to be surmounted without patience and
+determination.
+
+Having effected this change of position, and covered the front of
+his army with a strong chain of outposts, General Keane, as I
+have said, remained quiet during the remainder of the night, and
+on the morrow was relieved from further care and responsibility
+by the unexpected arrival of Sir Edward Pakenham and General
+Gibbs.  As soon as the death of Ross was known in London, the
+former of these officers was dispatched to take upon himself the
+command of the army.  Sailing immediately with the latter as his
+second in command, he had been favoured during the whole voyage
+by a fresh and fair wind, and now arrived in time to see his
+troops brought into a predicament from which all his abilities
+could scarcely expect to extricate them.  Nor were the troops
+themselves ignorant of the unfavourable circumstances in which
+they stood.  Hoping everything, therefore, from a change, they
+greeted their new leader with a hearty cheer; whilst the
+confidence which past events had tended in some degree to dispel,
+returned once more to the bosoms of all.  It was Christmas-day,
+and a number of officers, clubbing their little stock of
+provisions, resolved to dine together in memory of former times.
+But at so melancholy a Christmas dinner I do not recollect at any
+time to have been present.  We dined in a barn; of plates,
+knives, and forks, there was a dismal scarcity; nor could our
+fare boast of much either in intrinsic good quality or in the way
+of cooking.  These, however, were mere matters of merriment; it
+was the want of many well-known and beloved faces that gave us
+pain; nor were any other subjects discussed besides the amiable
+qualities of those who no longer formed part of our mess, and
+never would again form part of it.  A few guesses as to the
+probable success of future attempts alone relieved this topic,
+and now and then a shot from the schooner drew our attention to
+ourselves; for though too far removed from the river to be in
+much danger, we were still within cannon-shot of our enemy.  Nor
+was she inactive in her attempts to molest.  Elevating her guns
+to a great degree, she contrived occasionally to strike the wall
+of the building within which we sat; but the force of the ball
+was too far spent to penetrate, and could therefore produce no
+serious alarm.
+
+Whilst we were thus sitting at table a loud shriek was heard
+after one of these explosions, and on running out we found that a
+shot had taken effect in the body of an unfortunate soldier.  I
+mention this incident because I never beheld in any human being
+so great a tenacity of life.  Though fairly cut in two at the
+lower part of the belly, the poor wretch lived for nearly an
+hour, gasping for breath and giving signs even of pain.
+
+But to return to my narrative.  As soon as he reached the camp
+Sir Edward proceeded to examine with a soldier's eye every point
+and place within view.  Of the American army nothing, whatever
+could be perceived except a corps of observation, composed of
+five or six hundred mounted riflemen, which hovered along our
+front and watched our motions.  The town itself was completely
+hid; nor was it possible to see beyond the distance of a very few
+miles either in front or rear, so flat and unbroken was the face
+of the country.  Under these circumstances little insight into
+the state of affairs could be obtained by reconnoitring.  The
+only, thing, indeed, which he could learn from it was, that while
+the vessels kept their present station upon river no advance
+could be made; and as he felt that every moment's delay was
+injurious to us and favourable to the enemy, he resolved to remove
+these incumbrances and to push forward as soon as possible.
+
+With this view nine field-pieces, two howitzers, and one mortar
+were brought down to the brink of the stream as soon as it dark.
+Working parties were likewise ordered out, by whom was thrown up
+opposite to the schooner; and having got all things in readiness,
+at dawn on the 26th a heavy cannonade was opened upon her with
+red-hot shot.  It was not long before we could perceive her crew
+hastening into their boats, whilst the smoke which began to rise
+from her decks proved that the balls had taken effect.  She was,
+in fact, on fire, and being abandoned without resistance, in
+little more than an hour she blew up.  In itself the sight was a
+fine one, but to us it was peculiarly gratifying, for we could
+not but experience something like satiated revenge at the
+destruction of a vessel from which we had suffered so much
+damage.  A loud shout accordingly followed the explosion, and the
+guns were immediately turned against the ship.  But the fate of
+her companion had warned her not to remain till she herself
+should be attacked.  Setting every inch of canvas, and hoisting
+out her boats, she began, to stem the stream at the very instant
+the schooner took fire, and being impelled forward both by towing
+and sailing, she succeeded in getting beyond the range of shot
+before the guns could be brought to bear.  One shell, however,
+was thrown with admirable precision, which falling upon her deck
+caused considerable execution; but excepting this, she escaped
+without injury, and did not anchor again till she had got too far
+for pursuit.
+
+Having thus removed all apparent obstacles to his future
+progress, the General made dispositions for a speedy advance.
+Dividing the army into two columns, he appointed General Gibbs to
+the command of one, and General Keane to the command of the
+other.  The left column, led on by the latter officer, consisted
+of the 95th, the 85th, the 93rd, and one black corps; the right,
+of the 4th, 21st, 44th, and the other black corps.  The
+artillery, of which we had now ten pieces in the field, though
+at present attached to the left column, was designed to act as
+circumstances and the nature of the ground would permit; whilst
+the dragoons, few of whom had as yet provided themselves with
+horses, were appointed to guard the hospitals, and to secure the
+wounded from any sudden surprise or molestation from the rear.
+
+But the day was too far spent in making these arrangements, and
+in clearing the way for future operations, to permit any movement
+before the morrow.  The whole of the 26th was therefore spent in
+bringing up stores, ammunition, and a few heavy guns from the
+ships, which being placed in battery upon the banks of the river,
+secured us against the return of our floating adversary.  All
+this was done quietly enough, nor was there any cause of alarm
+till after sunset; but from that time till towards dawn, we were
+kept in a constant state of anxiety and agitation.  Sending down
+small bodies of riflemen, the American General harassed our
+piquets, killed and wounded a few of the sentinels, and prevented
+the main body from obtaining any sound refreshing sleep.
+Scarcely had the troops lain down when they were roused by a
+sharp firing at the outposts, which lasted only till they were in
+order, and then ceased; but as soon as they had dispersed and had
+once more addressed themselves to repose, the same cause of alarm
+returned, and they were again called to their ranks.  Thus was
+the entire night spent in watching, or at best in broken and
+disturbed slumbers, than which nothing is more trying, both to
+the health and spirits of an army.
+
+With the piquets, again, it fared even worse.  For the outposts
+of an army to sleep is at all times considered as a thing
+impossible; but in modern and civilized warfare they are
+nevertheless looked upon as in some degree sacred.  Thus, whilst
+two European armies remain inactively facing each other, the
+outposts of neither are molested, unless a direct attack upon the
+main body be intended; nay, so far is this tacit good
+understanding carried, that I have myself seen French and English
+sentinels not more than twenty yards apart.  But the Americans
+entertained no such chivalric notions.  An enemy was to them an
+enemy, whether alone or in the midst of five thousand companions;
+and they therefore counted the death of every individual as so
+much taken from the strength of the whole.  In point of fact they
+no doubt reasoned correctly, but to us at least it appeared an
+ungenerous return to barbarity.  Whenever they could approach
+unperceived within proper distance of our watch-fires, six or
+eight riflemen would fire amongst the party that sat around them,
+while one or two, stealing as close to each sentinel as a regard
+to their own safety would permit, acted the part of assassins
+rather than that of soldiers, and attempted to murder him in cold
+blood.  For the officers, likewise, when going their rounds, they
+constantly lay in wait, and thus, by a continued dropping fire,
+they not only wounded some of those against whom their aim was
+directed, but occasioned considerable anxiety and uneasiness
+throughout the whole line.
+
+It was on this night, and under these circumstances, that I was
+indebted to the vigilance of my faithful dog for my life.  Amid
+all the bustle of landing, and throughout the tumult of the
+nocturnal battle, she never strayed from me; at least if she did
+lose me for a time, she failed not to trace me out again as soon
+as order was restored, for I found her by my side when the dawn
+of the 24th came in, and I never lost sight of her afterwards.
+It was my fortune on the night of the 26th to be put in charge of
+an outpost on the left front of the army; on such occasions I
+seldom experienced the slightest inclination to sleep; and on the
+present, I made it a point to visit my sentinels at least once in
+every, half-hour.  Going my rounds for this purpose, it was
+necessary that I should pass a little copse of low underwood,
+just outside the line of our videttes; and I did pass it again
+and again, without meeting with any adventure.  But about an hour
+after midnight, my dog, which, as usual, trotted a few paces
+before me, suddenly stopped short at the edge of the thicket, and
+began to bark violently, and in great apparent anger.  I knew the
+animal well enough to be aware that some cause must exist for
+such conduct; and I too stopped short, till I should ascertain
+whether danger were near.  It was well for me that I had been
+thus warned; for at the instant of my halting, about half a dozen
+muskets were discharged from the copse, the muzzles of which, had
+I taken five steps forward, must have touched my body.  The balls
+whizzed harmlessly past my head; and, on my returning the fire
+with the pistol which I carried in my hand, the ambuscade broke
+up, and the party composing it took to their heels.  I was
+Quixote enough to dash sword in hand into the thicket after them:
+but no one waited for me; so I continued my perambulations in
+peace.
+
+MARCH.
+
+Having continued this detestable system of warfare till towards
+morning, the enemy retired and left us at rest.  But as soon as
+day began to break, our piquets were called in, and the troops
+formed in order of attack.  The right column, under General
+Gibbs, took post near the skirts of the morass, throwing out
+skirmishers half way across the plain, whilst the left column
+drew up upon the road covered by the rifle corps, which in
+extended order met the skirmishers from the other.  With this last
+division went the artillery, already well supplied with
+horses; and, at the signal given the whole moved forward.
+
+It was a clear frosty morning, the mists had dispersed, and the
+sun shone brightly upon our arms when we began our march.  The
+enemy's corps of observation fell back as we advanced, without
+offering in any way to impede our progress, and it was impossible
+to guess, ignorant as we were of the position of his main body,
+at what moment opposition might be expected.  Nor, in truth, was
+it matter of much anxiety.  Our spirits, in spite of the troubles
+of the night, were good, and our expectations of success were
+high, consequently many rude jests were bandied about, and many
+careless words spoken: for soldiers are, of all classes of men,
+the freest from care, and on that account, perhaps, the most
+happy.  By being continually exposed to it, danger, with them,
+ceases to be frightful; of death they have no more terror than the
+beasts that perish; and even hardships, such as cold, wet,
+hunger, and broken rest, lose at least part of their
+disagreeableness, by the frequency of their recurrence.
+
+Moving on in this merry mood, we advanced about four or five
+miles without the smallest check or hindrance; when, at length,
+we found ourselves in view of the enemy's army, posted in a very
+advantageous manner.  About forty yards in their front was a
+canal, which extended from the morass to within a short distance
+of the high road.  Along their line were thrown up breastworks,
+not indeed completed, but even now formidable.  Upon the road at
+several other points were erected powerful batteries; whilst the
+ship, with a large flotilla of gun-boats, flanked the whole
+position from the river.
+
+ATTACK.
+
+When I say that we came in sight of the enemy, I do not mean that
+he was gradually exposed to us in such a manner as to leave time
+for cool examination and reflection.  On the right, indeed, he
+was seen for some time, but on the left a few houses built at a
+turning in the road entirely concealed him; nor was it till they
+gained that turning, and beheld the muzzles of his guns pointed
+towards them, that those who moved in this direction were aware
+of their proximity to danger.  But that danger was indeed near
+they were quickly taught; for scarcely had the head of the column
+passed the houses when a deadly fire was opened from both the
+battery and the shipping.  That the Americans are excellent
+marksmen, as well with artillery as with rifles, we have had
+frequent cause to acknowledge; but, perhaps, on no occasion did
+they assert their claim to the title of good artillery-men more
+effectually than on the present.  Scarce a ball passed over or
+fell short of its mark, but all striking full into the midst of
+our ranks, occasioned terrible havoc.  The shrieks of the
+wounded, therefore, the crash of firelocks, and the fall of such
+as were killed; caused at first some little confusion; and what
+added to the panic was, that from the houses beside which we
+stood bright flames suddenly burst out.  The Americans, expecting
+this attack, had filled them with combustibles for the purpose;
+and directing against them one or two guns, loaded with red-hot
+shot, in an instant set them on fire.  The scene was altogether
+very sublime.  A tremendous cannonade mowed down our ranks, and
+deafened us with its roar; whilst two large chateaux and their
+outbuildings almost scorched us with the flames, and blinded us
+with the smoke which they emitted.
+
+The infantry, however, was not long suffered to remain thus
+exposed; but being ordered to quit the path and to form line in
+the fields, the artillery was brought up, and opposed to that of
+the enemy.  But the contest was in every respect unequal, since
+their artillery far exceeded ours, both in numerical strength and
+weight of metal.  The consequence was, that in half an hour two
+of our field-pieces and one field-mortar were dismounted: many of
+the gunners were killed; and the rest, after an ineffectual
+attempt to silence the fire of the shipping, were obliged to
+retire.
+
+In the mean time the infantry having formed line, advanced under
+a heavy discharge of round and grape shot, till they were checked
+by the appearance of the canal.  Of its depth they were of course
+ignorant, and to attempt its passage without having ascertained
+whether it could be forded might have been productive of fatal
+consequences.  A halt was accordingly ordered, and the men were
+commanded to shelter themselves as well as they could from the
+enemy's fire.  For this purpose they were hurried into a wet
+ditch, of sufficient depth to cover the knees, where, leaning
+forward, they concealed themselves behind some high rushes which
+grew upon its brink, and thus escaped many bullets which fell
+around them in all directions.
+
+RETREAT.
+
+Thus fared it with the left of the army, whilst the right, though
+less exposed to the cannonade, was not more successful in its
+object.  The same impediment which checked one column forced the
+other likewise to pause; and after having driven in an advanced
+body of the enemy, and endeavoured, without effect, to penetrate
+through the marsh, it also was commanded to halt.  In a word, all
+thought of attacking was for this day abandoned; and it now only
+remained to withdraw the troops from their present perilous
+situation, with as little loss as possible.
+
+The first thing to be done was to remove the dismounted guns.
+Upon this enterprise a party of seamen were employed, who,
+running forward to the spot where they lay, lifted them, in spite
+of the whole of the enemy's fire, and bore them off in triumph.
+As soon as this was effected, regiment after regiment stole away;
+not in a body, but one by one, under the same discharge which
+saluted their approach.  But a retreat thus conducted necessarily
+occupied much time.  Noon had therefore long passed before the
+last corps was brought off; and when we again began to muster
+twilight was approaching.  We did not, however, retire to our
+former position; but having fallen back only about two miles from
+the canal, where it was supposed that we should be beyond reach
+of annoyance from the American artillery, we there established
+ourselves for the night, having suffered less during the day than,
+from our exposed situation and the enemy's heavy fire, might have
+been expected.
+
+The ground which we now occupied resembled, in almost every
+particular, that which we had quitted.  We again extended across
+the plain, from the marsh to the river; no wood or cover of any
+description concealing our line, or obstructing the view of either
+army; while both in front and rear was an open space, laid out in
+fields and intersected by narrow ditches.  Our outposts, however
+were pushed forward to some houses within a few hundred yards of
+the enemy's works, sending out advanced sentinels even farther;
+and the head-quarters of the army were established near the spot
+where the action of the 23rd had been fought.
+
+PREPARATIONS.
+
+In this state we remained during the 28th, the 29th, and 30th,
+without any efforts being made to fortify our own position, or to
+annoy that of the enemy.  Some attempts were, I believe, set on
+foot to penetrate into the wood on the right of our line, and to
+discover a path through the morass, by which the enemy's left
+might be turned.  But all of these proved fruitless, and a few
+valuable lives having been sacrificed, the idea was finally laid
+aside.  In the meanwhile the American General directed the whole
+of his attention to the strengthening of his post.  Day and night
+we could observe numerous parties at work upon his lines, whilst
+from the increased number of tents, which almost every hour might
+be discerned, it was evident that strong reinforcements were
+continually pouring into his camp.  Nor did he leave us totally
+unmolested.  By giving to his guns a great degree of elevation,
+he contrived at last to reach our bivouac; and thus were we
+constantly under a cannonade which, though it did little
+execution, proved nevertheless extremely annoying.  Besides this,
+he now began to erect batteries on the opposite bank of the
+river; from which a flanking fire could be thrown across the
+entire front of his position.  In short, he adopted every
+precaution which prudence could suggest, and for the reception of
+which the nature of his ground was so admirably adapted.
+
+Under these circumstances it was evident that the longer an
+attack was delayed the less likely was it to succeed; that
+something must be done immediately every one perceived, but how
+to proceed was the difficulty.  If we attempted to storm the
+American lines, we should expose ourselves to almost certain
+destruction from their artillery; to turn them was impossible;
+and to draw their troops by any manoeuvring from behind their
+entrenchments was a thing altogether out of the question.  There
+seemed therefore to be but one practicable mode of assault; which
+was, to treat these field-works as one would treat a regular
+fortification; by erecting breaching batteries against them, and
+silencing, if it were possible, at least some of their guns.  To
+this plan, therefore, our leader had recourse; and, in
+consequence, the whole of these three days were employed in
+landing heavy cannon, bringing up ammunition, and making such
+preparations as might have sufficed for a siege.
+
+At length, having completed his arrangements, and provided such
+means as were considered sufficient to ensure success, General
+Pakenham determined to commence operations without delay.  One
+half of the army was accordingly ordered out on the night of the
+31st, and marched to the front, passing the piquets, and halting
+about three hundred yards from the enemy's line.  Here it was
+resolved to throw up a chain of works; and here the greater part
+of this detachment, laying down their firelocks, applied
+themselves vigorously to their tasks, whilst the rest stood
+armed and prepared for their defence.
+
+The night was dark, and our people maintained a profound silence;
+by which means, not an idea of what was going on existed in the
+American camp.  As we laboured, too, with all diligence, six
+batteries were completed long before dawn, in which were mounted
+thirty pieces of heavy cannon; when, falling back a little way,
+we united ourselves to the remainder of the infantry, and lay
+down behind some rushes, in readiness to act, as soon as we
+should be wanted.
+
+In the erection of these batteries, a circumstance occurred
+worthy of notice, on account of its singularity.  I have already
+stated that the whole of this district was covered with the
+stubble of sugar-cane; and I might have added, that every
+storehouse and barn, attached to the different mansions scattered
+over it, was filled with barrels of sugar.  In throwing up these
+works, the sugar was used instead of earth.  Rolling the
+hogsheads towards the front, they were placed upright in the
+parapets of batteries; and it was computed that sugar to the
+value of many thousand pounds sterling was thus disposed of.
+
+
+CHAPTER XXII.
+
+PREPARATIONS--ATTACK.
+
+THE infantry having retired, and the gunners taken their station,
+dawn was anxiously expected.  But the morning of the 1st of January
+chanced to be peculiarly gloomy.  A thick haze obscured for a
+long time the rays of the sun, nor could objects be discerned
+with any accuracy till a late hour.
+
+But at length the mist gave way, and the American camp was fully
+exposed to view.  Being at this time only three hundred yards
+distant, we could perceive all that was going forward with great
+exactness.  The different regiments were upon parade; and being
+dressed in holiday suits, presented really a fine appearance.
+Mounted officers were riding backwards and forwards through the,
+ranks, bands were playing, and colours floating in the air; in a
+word, all seemed jollity and gala; when suddenly our batteries
+opened, and the face of affairs was instantly changed.  The ranks
+were broken; the different corps dispersing, fled in all
+directions, whilst the utmost terror and disorder appeared to
+prevail.  Instead of nicely-dressed lines, nothing but confused
+crowds could now be observed; nor was it without much difficulty
+that order was finally restored.  Oh, that we had charged at that
+instant!
+
+RETREAT--PAUSE.
+
+Whilst this consternation prevailed among the infantry, their
+artillery remained silent; but as soon as the former rallied,
+they also recovered confidence, and answered our salute with
+great rapidity and precision.  A heavy cannonade quickly commenced
+on both sides, and continued during the whole of the day; till,
+towards evening, our ammunition began to fail, and our fire in
+consequence to slacken.  The fire of the Americans, on the other
+hand, was redoubled: landing a number of guns from the flotilla,
+they increased their artillery to a prodigious amount; and
+directing at the same time the whole force of their cannon on the
+opposite bank against the flank of our batteries, they soon
+convinced us that all endeavours to surpass them in this mode of
+fighting would be useless.  Once more, therefore, were we obliged
+to retire, leaving our heavy guns to their fate; but as no
+attempt was made by the Americans to secure them, working parties
+were again sent out after dark, and such as had not been
+destroyed were removed.
+
+Of the fatigue undergone during these operations by the whole
+army, from the General down to the meanest sentinel, it would be
+difficult to form an adequate conception.  For two whole nights
+and days not a man had closed an eye, except such as were cool
+enough to sleep amidst showers of cannon-ball; and during the day
+scarcely a moment had been allowed in which we were able so much
+as to break our fast.  We retired, therefore, not only baffled
+and disappointed, but in some degree disheartened and
+discontented.  All our plans had as yet proved abortive; even
+this, upon which so much reliance had been placed, was found to
+be of no avail; and it must be confessed that something like
+murmuring began to be heard through the camp.  And, in truth, if
+ever an army might be permitted to murmur, it was this.  In
+landing they had borne great hardships, not only without
+repining, but with cheerfulness; their hopes had been excited by
+false reports, as to the practicability of the attempt in which
+they were embarked; and now they found themselves entangled
+amidst difficulties from which there appeared to be no escape,
+except by victory.  In their attempts upon the enemy's line,
+however, they had been twice foiled; in artillery they perceived
+themselves to be so greatly overmatched, that their own could
+hardly assist them; their provisions, being derived wholly from
+the fleet, were both scanty and coarse; and their rest was
+continually broken.  For not only did the canon and mortars from
+the main of the enemy's position play unremittingly upon them
+both by day and night, but they were likewise exposed to a deadly
+fire from the opposite bank of the river, where no less than
+eighteen pieces of artillery were now mounted, and swept the
+entire line of our encampment.  Besides all this, to undertake
+the duty of a piquet was as dangerous as to go into action.
+Parties of American sharpshooters harassed and disturbed those
+appointed to that service from the time they took possession of
+their post till they were relieved; whilst to light fires at
+night was impossible, because they served but as certain marks
+for the enemy's gunners.  I repeat, therefore, that a little
+murmuring could not be wondered at.  Be it observed, however,
+that these were not the murmurs of men anxious to escape from a
+disagreeable situation by any means.  On the contrary, they
+resembled rather the growling of a chained dog, when he sees his
+adversary and cannot reach him; for in all their complaints, no
+man ever hinted at a retreat, whilst all were eager to bring
+matters to the issue of a battle, at any sacrifice of loves.
+
+Nor was our gallant leader less anxious to fight than his
+followers.  To fight upon something like equal terms was,
+however, his wish; and for this purpose a new scheme was
+invented, worthy, for its boldness, of the school in which Sir
+Edward had studied his profession.  It was determined to divide
+the army, to send part across the river, who should seize the
+enemy's guns, and turn them on themselves; whilst the remainder
+should at time make a general assault along the whole
+entrenchment.  But before this plan could be put into execution,
+it would be necessary to cut a canal across the entire neck of
+land from the Bayo de Catiline to the river, of sufficient width
+and depth to admit of boats being brought up from the lake.  Upon
+this arduous undertaking were the troops immediately employed.
+Being divided into four companies, they laboured by turns, day
+and night; one party relieving another after a stated number of
+hours, in such order as that the work should never be entirely
+deserted.  The fatigue undergone during the prosecution of this
+attempt no words can sufficiently describe; yet it was pursued
+without repining, and at length, by unremitting exertions, they
+succeeded in effecting their purpose by the 6th of January.
+
+Whilst these things were going on, and men's minds were anxiously
+turned towards approaching events, fresh spirit was given to the
+army by the unexpected arrival of Major-General Lambert, with
+the 7th and 43rd; two fine battalions, mustering each 800
+effective men.  By this reinforcement, together with the addition
+of a body of sailors and marines from the fleet, our numbers
+amounted now to little short of 6000 men; a force which, in
+almost any other quarter of America, would have been
+irresistible.  Of the numbers of the enemy, again, various
+reports were in circulation; some stating them at 20,000, others
+at 30,000; but I believe that I come nearer the truth when I
+suppose their whole force to have comprised 12,000 men of all
+arms.  It is, at least, certain that they exceeded us in numbers
+as much as they did in resources; and that scarcely an hour
+passed which did not bring in new levies to their camp.
+
+The canal, as I have stated, being finished on the 6th, it was
+resolved to lose no time in making use of it.  Boats were
+accordingly ordered up for the transportation of 1400 men; and
+Colonel Thornton, with the 85th regiment, the marines, and a
+party of sailors, was appointed to cross the river.  But a number
+of untoward accidents occurred, to spoil a plan of operations as
+accurately laid down as any in the course of the war.  The soil
+through which the canal was dug being soft, part of the bank gave
+way, and, choking up the channel, prevented the heaviest of the
+boats from getting forward.  These again blocked up the passage,
+so that none of those which were behind could proceed; and thus,
+instead of a flotilla for the accommodation of 1400 men, only a
+number of boats sufficient to contain 350 was enabled to reach
+their destination.  Even these did not arrive at the time
+appointed.  According to the preconcerted plan, Colonel
+Thornton's detachment was to cross the river immediately after
+dark.  They were to push forward, so as to carry all the
+batteries, and point the guns before daylight; when, on the
+throwing up of a rocket, they were to commence firing upon the
+enemy's line, which at the same moment was to be attacked by the
+main off our army.
+
+In this manner was one part of the force to act, whilst the rest
+thus appointed:--Dividing his troops into three columns, Sir
+Edward directed that General Keane, at the head of the 95th, the
+light companies of the 21st, 4th, and 44th, together with the two
+black corps, should make a demonstration, or sham attack, upon
+the right; that General Gibbs, with the 4th, 21st, 44th, and
+93rd, should force the enemy's left, whilst General Lambert, with
+the 7th and 43rd, remained in reserve, ready to act as
+circumstances might require.  But in storming an entrenched
+position, something more than bare courage is required.  Scaling
+ladders and fascines had, therefore, been prepared, with which to
+fill up the ditch and mount the wall; and since to carry these a
+service of danger, requiring a corps well worthy of dependence,
+the 44th was for that purpose selected, as a regiment of
+sufficient numerical strength, and already accustomed to American
+warfare.  Thus were all things arranged on the night the 7th, for
+the 8th was fixed upon as the day decisive of the fate of New Orleans.
+
+ATTACK.
+
+Whilst the rest of the army lay down to sleep till they should be
+roused up to fight, Colonel Thornton, with the 85th, and a corps
+of marines and seamen, amounting in all to 1400 men, moved down
+to the brink of the river.  As yet, however, no boats had
+arrived; hour after hour elapsed before they came; and when they
+did come, the misfortunes which I have stated above were
+discovered, for out of all that had been ordered up, only a few
+made their appearance.  Still it was absolutely necessary that
+this part of the plan should be carried into execution.
+Dismissing, therefore, the rest of his followers, the Colonel
+put himself at the head of his own regiment, about fifty seamen,
+and as many marines, and with this small force, consisting of no
+[on] 340 men, pushed off.  But, unfortunately, the loss of time
+nothing could repair.  Instead of reaching the opposite bank at
+latest by midnight, dawn was beginning to appear before the boats
+quitted the canal.  It was in vain that they rowed on in perfect
+silence, and with oars muffled, gaining the point of debarkation
+without being perceived.  It was in vain that they made good
+their landing and formed upon the beach, without opposition or
+alarm; day had already broke, and the signal-rocket was seen in
+the air, while they were yet four miles from the batteries, which
+ought hours ago to have been taken.
+
+In the mean time, the main body armed and moved forward some way
+in front of the piquets.  There they stood waiting for daylight,
+and listening with the greatest anxiety for the firing which
+ought now to be heard on the opposite bank.  But their attention
+was exerted in vain, and day dawned upon them long before they
+desired its appearance.  Nor was Sir Edward Pakenham disappointed
+in this part of his plan alone.  Instead of perceiving everything
+in readiness for the assault, he saw his troops in battle array,
+but not a ladder or fascine upon the field.  The 44th, which was
+appointed to carry them, had either misunderstood or neglected
+their orders; and now headed the column of attack, without any
+means being provided for crossing the enemy's ditch or scaling
+his rampart.
+
+The indignation of our brave leader on this occasion may be
+imagined, but cannot be described.  Galloping towards Colonel
+Mullens, who led the 44th, he commanded him instantly to return
+with his regiment for the ladders, but the opportunity of
+planting them was lost, and though they were brought up, it was
+only to be scattered over the field by the frightened bearers.
+For our troops were by this time visible to the enemy.  A
+dreadful fire was accordingly opened upon them, and they were
+mowed down by hundreds, while they stood waiting for orders.
+
+Seeing that all his well-laid plans were frustrated, Pakenham
+gave the word to advance, and the other regiments, leaving the
+44th with the ladders and fascines behind them, rushed on to the
+assault.  On the left, a detachment under Colonel Rennie, of the
+21st regiment, stormed a three-gun battery, and took it.  Here
+they remained for some time in expectation of support; but none
+arriving, and a strong column of the enemy forming for its
+recovery, they determined to anticipate the attack, and pushed
+on.  The battery which they had taken was in advance of the body
+of the works, being cut off from it by a ditch, across which only
+a single plank was thrown.  Along this plank did these brave men
+attempt to pass; but being opposed by overpowering numbers, they
+were repulsed; and the Americans, in turn, forcing their way into
+the battery, at length succeeded in recapturing it with immense
+slaughter.  On the right, again, the 21st and 4th, supported by
+the 93rd, though thrown into some confusion by the enemy's fire,
+pushed on with desperate gallantry to the ditch; but to scale the
+parapet without ladders was a work of no slight difficulty.  Some
+few, indeed, by mounting one upon another's shoulders, succeeded
+in entering the works, but these were speedily overpowered, most
+of them killed, and the rest taken; whilst as many as stood
+without were exposed to a sweeping fire, which cut them down by
+whole companies.  It was in vain that the most obstinate courage
+was displayed.  They fell by the hands of men whom they
+absolutely did not see; for the Americans, without so much as
+lifting their faces above the rampart, swung their firelocks by
+one arm over the wall, and discharged them directly upon their
+heads.  The whole of the guns likewise, from the opposite bank,
+kept up a well-directed wand deadly cannonade upon their flank;
+and thus were they destroyed without an opportunity being given
+of displaying their valour, or obtaining so much as revenge.
+
+Sir Edward saw how things were going, and did all that a general
+could do to rally his broken troops.  Riding towards the 44th,
+which had returned to the ground, but in great disorder, he
+called out for Colonel Mullens to advance; but that officer
+disappeared, and was not to be found.  He therefore prepared to
+lead them on himself, and had put himself at their head for that
+purpose, when he received a slight wound in the knee from a
+musket-ball, which killed his horse.  Mounting another, he again
+headed the 44th, when a second ball took effect more fatally, and
+he dropped lifeless into the arms of his aide-de-camp.
+
+Nor were Generals Gibbs and Keane inactive.  Riding through the
+ranks, they strove by all means to encourage the assailants and
+recall the fugitives; till at length both were wounded, and borne
+off the field.  All was now confusion and dismay.  Without
+leaders, ignorant of what was to be done, the troops first halted
+and then began to retire; till finally the retreat was changed
+into a flight, and they quitted the ground in the utmost
+disorder.  But the retreat was covered in gallant style by the
+reserve.  Making a forward motion, the 7th and 43rd presented the
+appearance of a renewed attack; by which the enemy were so much
+awed, that they did not venture beyond their lines in pursuit of
+the fugitives.
+
+Whilst affairs were thus disastrously conducted in this quarter,
+the party under Colonel Thornton had gained the landing-place.
+On stepping ashore, the first thing they beheld was a rocket
+thrown up as a signal that the battle was begun.  This unwelcome
+sight added wings to their speed.  Forming in one little column,
+and pushing forward a single company as an advanced guard, they
+hastened on, and in half an hour reached a canal, along the
+opposite bank of which a detachment of Americans was drawn up.
+To dislodge them was the work of a moment a boat, with a
+carronade in her bow, got upon their flank, gave them a single
+discharge of grape, whilst the advanced guard extended its ranks,
+and approached at double-quick time.  But they scarcely waited
+till the latter were within range, when, firing a volley, they
+fled in confusion.  This, however, was only an outpost: the main
+body was some way in rear, and amounted to no fewer than 1500
+men.
+
+It was not long, however, before they likewise presented
+themselves.  Like their countrymen on the other side, they were
+strongly entrenched, a thick parapet with a ditch covering their
+front; whilst a battery upon their left swept the whole
+position, and two field-pieces commanded the road.  Of artillery
+the assailants possessed not a single piece, nor any means beyond
+what nature supplied of scaling the rampart.  Yet nothing daunted
+by the obstacles before them, or by the immense odds to which
+they were opposed, dispositions for an immediate attack were
+made.  The 85th, extending its files, stretched across the entire
+line of the enemy; the sailors in column prepared to storm the
+battery, whilst the marines remained some little way in rear of
+the centre as a reserve.
+
+These arrangements being completed, the bugle sounded, and our
+troops advanced.  The sailors raising a shout, rushed forward,
+but were met by so heavy a discharge of grape and canister that
+for an instant they paused.  Recovering themselves, however, they
+again pushed on; and the 85th dashing forward to their aid, they
+received a heavy fire of musketry, and endeavoured to charge.  A
+smart firing was now for a few minutes kept up on both sides,
+but our people had no time to waste in distant fighting, and
+accordingly hurried on to storm the works, upon which a panic
+seized the Americans, they lost their order, and fled, leaving us
+in possession of their tents and of eighteen pieces of cannon.
+
+In this affair our loss amounted to only three men killed and
+about forty wounded, among the latter of whom was Colonel
+Thornton.  Nor could the loss on the part of the enemy greatly
+exceed our own.  Had they stood firm, indeed, it is hardly
+conceivable that so small a force could have wrested an
+entrenched position from numbers so superior; at least it could
+not have been done without much bloodshed.  But they were
+completely surprised.  An attack on this side was a circumstance
+of which they had not dreamed; and when men are assaulted in a
+point which they deem beyond the reach of danger, it is well
+known that they defend themselves with less vigour than where
+such an event was anticipated.
+
+When in the act of storming these lines the word was passed
+through our ranks that all had gone well on the opposite bank.
+This naturally added to the vigour of the assault; but we had
+not followed our flying enemy above two miles when we were
+commanded to halt.  The real state of the case had now reached
+us, and the same messenger who brought the melancholy news brought
+likewise an order to return.
+
+The place where we halted was in rear of a canal, across which
+was thrown a wooden bridge, furnishing apparently the only means
+of passing.  At the opposite end of this bridge stood a
+collection of wooden cottages and one chateau of some size.  Here
+a company was stationed to serve the double purpose of a piquet
+and a rear-guard; whilst the main body, having rested for half an
+hour, began their march towards the point where they had landed.
+
+RE-EMBARKATION--THE CAMP.
+
+As soon as the column had got sufficiently on their way the
+piquet likewise prepared to follow.  But in doing so it was
+evident that some risk must be run.  The enemy having rallied,
+began again to show a front; that is to say, parties of sixty or
+a hundred men approached to reconnoitre.  These, however, must be
+deceived, otherwise a pursuit might be commenced, and the
+re-embarkation of the whole corps hindered or prevented.  It so
+happened that the piquet in question was this day under my
+command; as soon, therefore, as I received information that the
+main body had commenced its retreat, I formed my men, and made a
+show of advancing.  The Americans perceiving this, fled; when,
+wheeling about, we set fire to the chateau, and under cover of
+the smoke destroyed the bridge and retreated.  Making all haste
+towards the rear, we overtook our comrades just as they had
+begun to embark; when the little corps being once more united,
+entered their boats, and reached the opposite bank without
+molestation.
+
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIII.
+
+THE CAMP.
+
+As soon as the whole army was re-united, and the broken regiments
+had recovered their order, a flag of truce was dispatched with
+proposals for the burial of the dead.  To accomplish this end a
+truce of two days was agreed upon, and parties were immediately
+sent out to collect and bury their fallen comrades.  Prompted by
+curiosity, I mounted my horse and rode to the front; but of all
+the sights I ever witnessed, that which met me there was beyond
+comparison the most shocking and the most humiliating.  Within
+the narrow compass of a few hundred yards were gathered together
+nearly a thousand bodies, all of them arrayed in British
+uniforms.  Not a single American was among them; all were
+English; and they were thrown by dozens into shallow holes,
+scarcely deep enough to furnish them with a slight covering of
+earth.  Nor was this all.  An American officer stood by smoking a
+cigar, and apparently counting the slain with a look of savage
+exultation, and repeating over and over to each individual that
+approached him, that their loss amounted only, to eight men
+killed and fourteen wounded.
+
+I confess that when I beheld the scene I hung down my head, half
+in sorrow and half in anger.  With my officious informant I had
+every inclination to pick a quarrel; but he was on duty, and an
+armistice existed, both of which forbade the measure.  I could
+not, however, stand by and repress my choler, and since to give
+it vent would have subjected me to more serious inconvenience
+than a mere duel, I turned my horse's head and galloped back to
+the camp.
+
+But the change of expression visible there in every countenance
+no language can portray.  Only twenty hours ago, and all was life
+and animation; wherever you went you were enlivened by the sound
+of merriment and raillery; whilst the expected attack was
+mentioned in terms indicative not only of sanguine hope, but, of
+the most perfect confidence as to its result.  Now gloom and
+discontent everywhere prevailed.  Disappointment, grief,
+indignation, and rage, succeeded each other in all bosoms; nay,
+so completely were the troops overwhelmed by a sense of disgrace,
+that for awhile they retained their sorrow without so much as
+hinting at its cause.  Nor was this dejection occasioned wholly
+by the consciousness of laurels tarnished.  The loss of
+comrades was to the full as afflicting as the loss of honour; for
+out of more than 5000 men brought on this side into the field, no
+fewer than 1500 had fallen.  Among these were two generals (for
+Gibbs survived his wound but a few hours), and many officers of
+courage and ability; besides which, hardly an individual
+survived who had not to mourn the loss of some particular
+and well-known companion.
+
+Yet it is most certain that amidst all this variety of
+conflicting passions no feeling bordering upon despair or even
+terror found room.  Even among the private soldiers no fear was
+experienced; for if you attempted to converse with them on the
+subject of the late defeat, they would end with a bitter curse
+upon those to whose misconduct they attributed their losses, and
+refer you to the future, when they hoped for an opportunity of
+revenge.  To the Americans they would allow no credit, laying the
+entire blame of the failure upon certain individuals among
+themselves; and so great was the indignation expressed against
+one corps, that the soldiers of other regiments would hardly
+exchange words with those who chanced to wear that uniform.
+Though deeply afflicted, therefore, we were by no means
+disheartened, and even, yet anticipated, with an eagerness far
+exceeding what was felt before, a renewal of the combat.
+
+PREPARATIONS FOR RETREAT.
+
+But General Lambert, on whom the chief command had devolved, very
+prudently determined not to risk the safety of his army by
+another attempt upon works evidently so much beyond their
+strength.  He considered, and considered justly, that his chances
+of success were in every respect lessened by the late repulse.
+In the first place, an extraordinary degree of confidence was
+given to the enemy; in the next place, the only feasible plan of
+attack having been already tried, they would be more on their
+guard to prevent its being again put in execution; and lastly,
+his own force was greatly diminished in numbers, whilst theirs
+continued every day to increase.  Besides, it would be casting
+all upon the hazard of a die.  If again defeated, nothing could
+save our army from destruction, because unless it retreated in
+force no retreat could be effected.  A retreat, therefore, whilst
+yet the measure appeared practicable, was resolved upon, and
+towards that end were all our future operations directed.
+
+To the accomplishment of this desirable object, however, one
+great obstacle existed: by what road were the troops to travel,
+and in what order were they to regain the fleet?  On landing we
+had taken advantage of the creek or bayo, and thus come up by
+water within two miles of the cultivated country.  But to adopt a
+similar course in returning was impossible.  In spite of our
+losses there were not throughout the armament a sufficient number
+of boats to transport above one-half of the army at a time.  If,
+however, we should separate, the chances were that both parties
+would be destroyed; for those embarked might be intercepted, and
+those left behind would be obliged to cope with the entire
+American force.  Besides, even granting that the Americans might
+be repulsed, it would be impossible to take to our boats in their
+presence, and thus at least one division, if not both, must be
+sacrificed.
+
+To obviate this difficulty prudence required that the road which
+we had formed on landing should be continued to the very margin
+of the lake; whilst appearances seemed to indicate the total
+impracticability of the scheme.  From firm ground to the water's
+edge was here a distance of many miles, through the very centre
+of a morass where human foot had never before trodden.  Yet it was
+desirable at least to make the attempt; for if it failed we
+should only be reduced to our former alternative of gaining a
+battle or surrendering at discretion.
+
+Having determined to adopt this course, General Lambert
+immediately dispatched strong working parties, under the guidance
+of engineer officers, to lengthen the road, keeping as near as
+possible to the margin of the creek.  But the task assigned to
+them was burthened with innumerable difficulties.  For the extent
+of several leagues no firm footing could be discovered on which
+to rest the foundation of a path; nor any trees to assist in
+forming hurdles.  All that could be done, therefore, was to bind
+together large quantities of reeds, and lay them across the
+quagmire; by which means at least the semblance of a road was
+produced, however wanting in firmness and solidity.  But where
+broad ditches came in the way, many of which intersected the
+morass, the workmen were necessarily obliged to apply more
+durable materials.  For these, bridges composed in part of large
+branches brought with immense labour from the woods, were
+constructed; but they were, on the whole, little superior in
+point of strength to the rest of the path, for though the edges
+were supported by timber, the middle was filled up only with
+reeds.
+
+To complete this road, bad as it was, occupied the space of nine
+days, during which time our army remained in position without
+making any attempt to molest the enemy.  The Americans, however,
+were not so inactive.  In the course of two days six guns were
+again mounted upon the bank of the river, from which a continual
+fire was kept up upon our camp.  The same mode of proceeding was
+adopted in front, and thus, night and day, were we harassed by
+danger against which there was no fortifying ourselves.  Of the
+extreme unpleasantness of our situation it is hardly possible to
+convey any adequate conception.  We never closed our eyes in
+peace, for we were sure to be awakened before many minutes
+elapsed, by the splash of a round shot or shell in the mud beside
+us.  Tents we had none, but lay, some in the open air, and some
+in huts made of boards, or any materials that could be procured.
+From the first moment of our landing not a man had undressed
+excepting to bathe; and many had worn the same shirt for weeks
+together, Besides all this, heavy rains now set in, accompanied
+with violent storms of thunder and lightning, which lasting
+during the entire day, usually ceased towards dark, and gave
+place to keen frosts.  Thus were we alternately wet and frozen:
+wet all day, and frozen all night.  With the outposts again there
+was constant skirmishing.  With what view the Americans wished to
+drive them in I cannot tell; but every day were they attacked,
+and compelled to maintain their ground by dint of hard fighting.
+In one word, none but those who happened to belong to this army
+can form a notion of the hardships which it endured and the
+fatigue which it underwent.
+
+Nor were these the only evils which tended to lessen our numbers.
+To our soldiers every inducement was held out by the enemy to
+desert.  Printed papers, offering lands and money as the price of
+desertion, were thrown into the piquets, whilst individuals made
+a practice of approaching our posts, and endeavouring to persuade
+the very sentinels to quit their stations.  Nor could it be
+expected that bribes so tempting would always be refused.  Many
+desertions began daily to take place, and became  before long so
+frequent, that the evil rose to be of a serious nature.
+
+There occurred, however, one instance of magnanimous fidelity on
+the part of a British soldier, which I cannot resist the
+inclination of repeating.  A private of the 95th, whose name I
+should have joyfully mentioned had I not forgotten it, chanced
+one day to stand sentinel, when he was addressed by an American
+officer.  The American offered him a hundred dollars and a
+quantity of land if he would come over; representing, at the same
+time, the superiority of a democratical government, and railing,
+as these persons generally do, against the title of king.  Though
+the Englishman heard what was said distinctly enough, he
+nevertheless pretended to be deaf, and begged his tempter to come
+a little nearer, that, in his own words, "he might tell him all
+about it."  Jonathan, exulting at the prospect of drawing this
+fine fellow from his duty, approached within twenty paces of
+where he stood, when just as he had opened his mouth to renew his
+offer, the sentinel levelled his piece and shot him through the
+arm.  Nor was he contented with inflicting this punishment.
+Walking forward, he seized his wounded enemy, and reproaching him
+with dishonourable dealings, brought him in a prisoner to the
+camp.  But, unhappily, conduct such as this was rare; in the
+course of a week many men quitted their colours, and fled to the
+enemy.
+
+RETREAT.
+
+In the mean time the whole of the wounded, except such as were
+too severely hurt to be removed, were embarked upon the canal,
+and sent off to the fleet.  Next followed the baggage and stores,
+with the civil officers, commissaries, purveyors, &c.; and last
+of all, such of the light artillery as could be withdrawn with
+out trouble or the risk of discovery.  But of the heavy artillery,
+of which about ten pieces were mounted in front of the bivouac,
+and upon the bank of the river, no account was taken.  They were
+ship's guns, of little value, and extremely cumbersome;
+consequently their removal, had it been practicable, would
+scarcely have rewarded the trouble.  It was therefore determined
+to leave them behind; and they were accordingly permitted to
+retain their stations to the last.
+
+These preparations being continued for some days, on the 17th no
+part of our force remained in camp except the infantry.  Having
+therefore delayed only till the abandoned guns were rendered
+unserviceable, on the evening of the 18th it also began its
+retreat.  Trimming the fires, and arranging all things in the same
+order as if no change were to take place, regiment after regiment
+stole away, as soon as darkness concealed their motions; leaving
+the piquets to follow as a rear-guard, but with strict
+injunctions not to retire till daylight began to appear.  As may
+be supposed, the most profound silence was maintained; not a man
+opening his mouth, except to issue necessary orders, and even
+then speaking in a whisper.  Not a cough or any other noise was to
+be heard from the head to the rear of the column; and even the
+steps of the soldiers were planted with care, to prevent the
+slightest stamping or echo.  Nor was this extreme caution in any
+respect unnecessary.  In spite of every endeavour to the contrary,
+a rumour of our intended movement had reached the Americans for
+we found them of late watchful and prying, whereas they had been
+formerly content to look only to themselves.
+
+For some time, that is to say, while our route lay along the high
+road and beside the brink of the river, the march was agreeable
+enough; but as soon as we began to enter upon the path through
+the marsh all comfort was at an end.  Being constructed of
+materials so slight, and resting upon a foundation so infirm, the
+treading of the first corps unavoidably beat it to pieces; those
+which followed were therefore compelled to flounder on in the
+best way they could; and by the time the rear of the column
+gained the morass all trace of a way had entirely disappeared.
+But not only were the reeds torn asunder and sunk by the pressure
+of those who had gone before, but the bog itself, which at first
+might have furnished a few spots of firm footing, was trodden
+into the consistency of mud.  The consequence was, that every
+step sank us to the knees, and frequently higher.  Near the
+ditches, indeed, many spots occurred which we had the utmost
+difficulty in crossing at all; and as the night was dark, there
+being no moon, nor any light except what the stars supplied, it
+was difficult to select our steps, or even to follow those who
+called to us that they were safe on the opposite side.  At one of
+these places I myself beheld an unfortunate wretch gradually sink
+till he totally disappeared.  I saw him flounder in, heard his
+cry for help, and ran forward with the intention of saving him;
+but before I had taken a second step, I myself sank at once as
+high as the breast.  How I contrived to keep myself from
+smothering is more than I can tell, for I felt no solid bottom
+under me, and continued slowly to go deeper and deeper till the
+mud reached my arms.  Instead of endeavouring to help the poor
+soldier, of whom nothing could now be seen except the head and
+hands, I was forced to beg assistance for myself: when a leathern
+canteen strap being thrown to me, I laid hold of it, and was
+dragged out just as my fellow-sufferer became invisible.
+
+Over roads such as these did we continue our journey during the
+whole of the night: and in the morning reached a place called
+Fisherman's huts, upon the margin of the lake.  The name is
+derived from a clump of mud-built cottages, situated in as
+complete a desert as the eye of man was ever pained by beholding.
+They stand close to the water, upon a part of the morass rather
+more firm than the rest.  Not a tree or bush of any description
+grows near them.  As far as the eye could reach a perfect ocean
+of reeds everywhere presented itself, except on that side where a
+view of the lake changed without fertilizing the prospect.  Were
+any set of human beings condemned to spend their lives here, I
+should consider their fate as little superior to that of the
+solitary captive: but during many months of the year these huts
+are wholly unoccupied, being erected, as their name denotes,
+merely to shelter a few fishermen while the fishing season lasts.
+
+Here at length we were ordered to halt; and perhaps I never
+rejoiced more sincerely at any order than at this.  Wearied with
+my exertions, and oppressed with want of sleep, I threw myself on
+the ground without so much as pulling off my muddy garments, and
+in an instant all my cares and troubles were forgotten.  Nor did
+I wake from that deep slumber for many hours, when I rose cold
+and stiff, and creeping beside a miserable fire of reeds,
+addressed myself to the last morsel of salt pork which my wallet
+contained.
+
+HALT.
+
+The whole army had now come up, the piquets having escaped
+without notice, or at least without annoyance.  Forming along the
+brink of the lake, a line of outposts was planted, and the
+soldiers were commanded to make themselves as comfortable as they
+could.  But, in truth, the word comfort is one which cannot in
+any sense be applied to people in such a situation.  Without
+tents or huts of any description (for the few from which the
+place is named were occupied by the General and other heads of
+departments), our bed was the morass, and our sole covering the
+clothes which had not quitted our backs for upwards of a month.
+Our fires, upon the size and goodness of which much of a
+soldier's happiness depends, were composed solely of reeds; a
+species of fuel which, like straw, soon blazes up, and soon
+expires again, almost without communicating any degree of warmth.
+But, above all, our provisions were expended, and from what
+quarter to obtain an immediate supply it defied the most
+inventive genius to discover.  Our sole dependence was upon the
+boats.  Of these a flotilla lay ready to receive us, in which
+were embarked the black corps, with the 44th; but they had
+brought with them only food for their own use.  It was therefore
+necessary that they should reach the fleet and return again
+before they could furnish us with what we so much wanted.  But
+the distance to the nearest of the shipping could not be less
+than eighty miles; and if the weather should become boisterous or
+the winds obstinately adverse we might starve before any supply
+could arrive.
+
+These numerous grievances were, however, without remedy, and we
+bore them with patience; though for two whole days the only
+provisions issued to the troops were some crumbs of biscuit and a
+small allowance of rum.  For my own part I did not fare so badly
+as many others.  Having been always fond of shooting, I took a
+firelock and went in pursuit of wild ducks, which abounded
+throughout the bog.  Wandering along in this quest I reached a
+lake, by the margin of which I concealed myself and waited for my
+prey; nor was it long before I had an opportunity of firing.
+Several large flocks flew over me, and I was fortunate enough to
+kill three birds.  But, alas, those birds, upon which I had
+already feasted in imagination, dropped into the water: my dog,
+more tired than her master, would not fetch them out, and they
+lay about twenty yards off, tantalizing me with the sight of a
+treasure which I could not reach.  Moving off to another point, I
+again took my station where I hoped for better fortune; but the
+same evil chance once more occurred, and the ducks fell into the
+lake.  This was too much for a hungry man to endure; the day was
+piercingly cold, and the edge of the pool was covered with ice;
+but my appetite was urgent, and I resolved at all hazards to
+indulge it.  Pulling off my clothes, therefore, I broke the ice
+and plunged in; and though shivering like an aspen-leaf, I
+returned safely to the camp with a couple of birds.  Next day I
+adopted a similar course with like success, but at the expense
+of what was to me a serious misery.  My stockings of warm wool
+were the only part of my dress which I did not strip off, and
+to-day it unfortunately happened that one was lost.  Having
+secured my ducks, I attempted to land where the bottom was muddy;
+but my leg stuck fast, and in pulling it out off came the
+stocking; to recover it was beyond my power, for the mud closed
+over it directly, and the consequence was that till I regained
+the transport only one of my feet could be warm at a time.  To
+those who can boast of many pairs of fine cotton and woollen
+hose, this misfortune of mine may appear light, but to me, who
+had only two stockings on shore, the loss of one was very
+grievous; and I therefore request that I may not be sneered at
+when I record it as one of the disastrous consequences of this
+ill-fated expedition.
+
+
+CHAPTER XXIV.
+
+THE LAKE.
+
+AS soon as the boats returned, regiment after regiment embarked
+and set sail for the fleet; but the distance being considerable
+and the wind foul, many days elapsed before the whole could be
+got off.  Excepting in one trifling instance, however, no accident
+occurred, and by the end of the month we were all once more on
+board our former ships.  But our return was far from
+triumphant.  We, who only seven weeks ago had set out in the
+surest confidence of glory, and I may add of emolument, were
+brought back dispirited and dejected.  Our ranks were wofully
+thinned, our chiefs slain, our clothing tattered and filthy, and
+even our discipline in some degree injured.  A gloomy silence
+reigned throughout the armament, except when it was broken by the
+voice of lamentation over fallen friends; and the interior of
+each ship presented a scene well calculated to prove the
+short-sightedness of human hope and human prudence.
+
+The accident to which I allude was the capture of a single boat
+by the enemy.  About thirty men of the 14th dragoons having
+crowded into an unarmed barge, were proceeding slowly down the
+lake, when a boat mounting a carronade in its bow suddenly darted
+from a creek and made towards them.  To escape was impossible,
+for their barge was too heavily laden to move at a rate of even
+moderate rapidity; and to fight was equally out of the question,
+because of the superiority which their cannon gave to the Americans.
+The whole party was accordingly compelled to surrender to six men
+and an officer; and having thrown their arms into the lake, their
+boat was taken in tow and they were carried away prisoners.
+
+This, however, was the only misfortune which occurred.  Warned by
+the fate of their comrades, the rest kept together in little
+squadrons, each attended by one or more armed launches; and thus
+rowing steadily on, they gained the shipping without so much as
+another attempt at surprisal being made.
+
+On reaching the fleet, we found that a considerable reinforcement
+of troops had arrived from England.  It consisted of the 40th
+foot, a fine regiment, containing nearly a thousand men, which,
+ignorant of the fatal issue of our attack, had crossed the lakes
+only to be sent back to the ships without so much as stepping on
+shore.  The circumstance, however, produced little satisfaction.
+We felt that the coming of thrice the number could not recover
+what was lost or recall past events; and therefore no rejoicing
+was heard, nor the slightest regard paid to the occurrence.  Nay,
+so great was the despondency which had taken possession of men's
+minds, that not even a rumour respecting the next point of attack
+obtained circulation; whilst a sullen carelessness, a sort of
+indifference as to what might happen, seemed to have succeeded
+all our wonted curiosity and confidence of success in every
+undertaking.
+
+THE LAKE--MOBILE.
+
+In this state we remained wind-bound till the 4th of February,
+when, at length getting under weigh, the fleet ran down as far as
+Cat Island.  This is a spot of sandy soil at the mouth of the
+lake, remarkable for nothing except a solitary Spanish family
+which possesses it.  Completely cut off from the rest of the
+world, an old man, his wife, two daughters, and a son, dwell here
+in apparent happiness and contentment.  Being at least one
+hundred and twenty miles from the main, it is seldom that their
+little kingdom is visited by strangers; and I believe that till
+our arrival the daughters, though grown up to womanhood, had seen
+few faces besides those of their parents and brother.  Their
+cottage, composed simply of a few boughs, thatched and in-woven
+with straw, is beautifully situated within a short distance of
+the water.  Two cows and a few sheep grazed beside it; whilst a
+small tract of ground covered with stubble, and a little garden
+well stocked with fruit-trees and vegetables, at once gave proof
+of their industry, and showed the source from whence they
+supplied themselves with bread.
+
+Having remained here till the 7th, we again took advantage of a
+fair wind and stood to sea.  As soon as we had cleared the lake,
+we directed our course towards the east, steering, as it was
+rumoured, upon Mobile; nor was it long before we came in sight of
+the bay which bears that name.  It is formed by a projecting
+headland called Point Bayo, and a large island called Isle
+Dauphin.  Upon the first is erected a small fort, possessing the
+same title with the promontory which commands the entrance; for
+though the island is, at least five miles from the main, there is
+no water for floating a ship of any burthen except within a few
+hundred yards of the latter.  The island is, like Cat Island,
+uninhabited, except by one family, and unprovided with any works
+of defence.
+
+SIEGE.
+
+As the attack of Mobile was professedly our object, it was clear
+that nothing could be done previous to the reduction of the fort.
+The ships accordingly dropped anchor at the mouth of the bay, and
+immediate preparations were made for the siege.  But the fort was
+too inconsiderable in point of size to require the employment of
+all our forces in its investment.  Whilst one brigade, therefore,
+was allotted to this service, the rest proceeded to establish
+themselves on the island, where, carrying tents and other
+conveniences on shore, the first regular encampment which we had
+seen since our arrival in this hemisphere was formed.
+
+The spot of ground, of which we had now taken possession,
+extended twelve miles in length, and from one to three in width.
+Its soil is in general dry and sandy, well covered with grass,
+and ornamented by continued groves of pine, cedar, oak, and
+laurel.  On one side only is there a swamp, but not of sufficient
+size to contaminate the atmosphere of the whole, which is
+considered so peculiarly healthy, that the place is generally
+used as a depot for the sick in the American army.  At present,
+as I have said, it was tenanted by no more than a single family,
+the master of which was a midshipman in the American navy, and
+banished hither for some misdemeanor; but what was to us of much
+greater importance, it was likewise stocked with cattle
+resembling in appearance the black cattle of the Highlands of
+Scotland, and not behind them in point of wildness.
+
+Whilst the remainder of the army spent their time here, the 4th,
+21st, and 44th, being landed above the fort, were busied in the
+siege.  This small work stands, as I have stated, at the
+extremity of a promontory.  Towards the sea its fortifications
+are respectable enough, but on the land side it is little better
+than a blockhouse.  The ramparts being composed of sand, not more
+than three feet in thickness, are faced with plank barely
+cannon-proof; whilst a sand-hill rising within pistol-shot of the
+ditch, completely commands them.  Within, again, the fort is as
+much wanting in accommodation as it is in strength.  There are no
+bomb-proof barracks, nor any hole or arch under which men might
+find protection from shells; indeed, so deficient is it in common
+lodging-rooms, that a great part of the garrison slept in tents.
+To reduce this place, therefore, occupied but a short time.  The
+troops having assembled on the 8th, drove the enemy within their
+lines on the 9th, and broke ground the same evening.  On the
+10th, four eighteen-pounders with two howitzers were placed in
+battery upon the top of the sand-hill; on the 11th, the fort
+surrendered; and on the 12th, the garrison, consisting of four
+hundred men of the second American regiment, marched out with all
+the honours of war, and laid down their arms upon the glacis.
+
+PEACE.
+
+With the reduction of this trifling work ended all hostilities in
+this quarter of America, for the army had scarcely re-assembled
+when intelligence arrived from England of peace.  The news
+reached us on the 14th, and I shall not deny that it was received
+with general satisfaction.  Though war is the soldier's harvest,
+yet it must be confessed, that when carried on as it had of late
+been conducted, it is a harvest of which men in time become
+weary; and many of us having been absent for several years from
+our native shores, experienced absolute delight at the prospect
+of returning once more to the bosom of our families.  The
+communication was therefore welcomed with unfeigned joy, nor
+could any other topic of conversation gain attention throughout
+the camp, except the anticipated re-embarkation. .
+
+But as the preliminaries only had been signed, and as
+Mr. Maddison's approval was required before we should be at
+liberty to depart, our army still continued stationary upon the
+island.  Of the President's conduct, however, no doubts were
+entertained; all thoughts of future military operations were in
+consequence laid aside; and the sole aim of every individual
+thenceforth was to make himself as comfortable as circumstances
+would permit.  To effect this end various expedients were
+adopted.  Among others a theatre was erected, in which such
+officers as chose to exhibit performed for their own amusement
+and the amusement of their friends.  In shooting and fishing,
+likewise, much of our time was spent; and thus, by adopting the
+usual expedients of idle men, we contrived to pass some days in a
+state of tolerable comfort.
+
+Occupations such as these, however, soon grew insipid, and it was
+with sincere rejoicing that on the 5th of March we were made
+acquainted with Mr. Maddison's agreement to the terms proposed.
+All was now hope and exultation, an immediate departure was
+anticipated, and those were pitied as unfortunate whose lot it
+was supposed, might detain them even a day behind their fellows.
+But as yet no movement took place; our provisions were not
+sufficient to authorize the undertaking so long a voyage as we
+must undertake, did we attempt to run for the nearest British
+settlement; we were therefore compelled to remain where we were,
+till a frigate should return, which had been sent forward to
+solicit supplies from the Governor of Cuba.
+
+During this interval, the same occupations were resorted to; and
+others of a less agreeable nature undertaken.  As summer came on,
+the island sent forth multitudes of snakes from their lurking-
+places, which infested the camp, making their way in some
+instances into our very beds.  This was bad enough, but it was
+not the only nuisance to which we were subject.  The alligators,
+which during the winter months lie in a dormant state, now began
+to awaken, and prowling about the margin of the pool, created no
+little alarm and agitation.  Apparently confounded at our
+invasion of their territories, these monsters at first confined
+themselves to the marshy part of the island, but becoming by
+degrees more familiar, they soon ventured to approach the very
+precincts of the camp.  One of them at length entered a tent; in
+which only a woman and child chanced to be, and having stared
+round as if in amazement, walked out again without offering to
+commit any violence.  But the visit was of too serious a nature
+to be overlooked.  Parties were accordingly formed for their
+destruction, and it was usual on the return of each from an
+excursion, instead of asking how many birds, to demand how many
+snakes and alligators they had shot.  Of the former, indeed,
+great numbers were killed,`and of the latter not a few, the
+largest of which measured about nine feet from the snout to the
+tail.
+
+Another employment, also, deserves to be noted, because it is
+truly characteristic of the boyish jollity of young soldiers.
+Wearied with a state of idleness, the officers of the 7th, 43rd,
+and 14th dragoons made an attack with fir-apples upon those of
+the 85th, 93rd, and 95th.  For the space of some days they pelted
+each other from morning till night, laying ambuscades and
+exhibiting, on a small scale, all the stratagems of war; whilst
+the whole army, not even excepting the Generals themselves, stood
+by and spurred them on.
+
+But to continue a detail of such proceedings would only swell my
+narrative, without amusing my reader; I shall therefore content
+myself with observing, that things remained in this state till
+the 14th of March, when the long-looked for frigate at length
+arrived, and on the 15th, the first division of the army
+embarking, set sail for England.  The wind, however, was foul,
+nor did the ships make any way till the 17th, when a fresh breeze
+springing up, we stood our course, and by ten o'clock on the 21st
+could distinguish the high land of Cuba.  But the violence of the
+gale having driven us considerably to leeward, we were forced to
+bear up, and beat along the coast, on which account it was not
+till the 23rd that we came opposite to the port of Havannah.
+
+HAVANNAH.
+
+Than the approach to this city, and its first appearance from the
+water, it is impossible to conceive anything more grand and
+imposing.  A little bay, extremely narrow at the entrance, forms
+the harbour.  On each side of it stand forts of prodigious
+strength, particularly those on the left, where the ground is
+considerably elevated, whilst the city itself, with its ramparts
+and towers, its numerous steeples, spires, and public
+buildings, gives an assurance of wealth and magnificence
+peculiarly striking.  When we entered, every tower was surmounted
+by a national banner half-mast high, a circumstance which did not
+at least diminish the effect of a first view; and the guns from
+the forts answering our salute, showed us how desperate must be
+the condition of an enemy that should venture within their
+range.  Why the flags should thus indicate a general mourning, we
+were at a loss to guess, till the pilot informed us that this was
+Holy week.  Then, indeed, we remembered that we had returned to a
+Roman Catholic country, and rejoiced at the lucky accident which
+had brought us thither at such a season.
+
+As it was late before we anchored, I was prevented from landing
+that night, but on the morrow I went on shore at an early hour,
+with the intention of seeing as much as my time would allow.  But
+in my proposed visits to the different points worthy of attention
+I was interrupted.  It was Good-Friday, consequently all public
+places were shut, and neither guides nor carriages could be
+procured.  But if I was disappointed in this, my disappointment
+was amply compensated by a view of the religious ceremonies
+peculiar to that day.
+
+Walking into the largest church in the city, I beheld beside the
+altar a figure of our Saviour as large as life nailed to a cross.
+Beside this figure stood a number of monks, one of whom presented
+a rod with a sponge affixed to its mouth, while a second thrust a
+spear into its side, from which came out a liquor having the
+colour of blood and water.  This being carefully caught in a
+golden dish, the figure was taken down from the cross, wrapped
+round with white linen clothes, and laid upon a bier, when an
+imposing procession began in the following order: First marched a
+military band playing slow and solemn music; next came a guard of
+soldiers with heads bent down and arms reversed; then followed
+about two hundred monks belonging to different orders, arrayed in
+their dark robes, with hands and feet bare, and crucifixes
+suspended from their necks.  A short interval now succeeded, and
+another party of monks dressed in white appeared, singing hymns
+in honour of the Virgin.  Next came a splendid couch surmounted
+by a canopy covered with white silk and sparkling with gold and
+jewels, upon which sat a waxen image of the Mother of God,
+clothed in gorgeous apparel.  Following this was another party of
+white-robed monks, chanting a requiem for a departed soul, and
+then a second interval.  At the distance of perhaps twenty yards
+from these came two monks bearing two large silver nails, then
+two others bearing a spear and a rod, and then the body of our
+Saviour stretched at full length upon the bier.  After the bier
+came two monks bearing two other nails, and then another two
+bearing a small cross and a ladder.  Here, again, there was
+another interval, which was succeeded by a third white-robed
+party likewise chanting a requiem.  Next to these came about
+twenty canons arrayed in scarlet; then another couch covered with
+crimson velvet, which supported a figure of Mary Magdalen,
+likewise in a sitting posture; then a second body of canons,
+succeeded by about two hundred monks in black; after these
+another guard of soldiers, and last of all a second military
+band.
+
+In spite of prejudice I could not avoid being deeply struck by
+this solemn procession.  The airs performed by the bands were
+slow and mournful, the voices of the singers were deep and
+musical, the dresses were rich to a degree of splendour, and the
+whole was gone through with much apparent devotion.  No doubt,
+when regarded with the eye of reflection, the whole may seem
+something worse than ludicrous, but it is impossible to witness
+the scene and to reason on its propriety at the same time.  As
+long as the pageant is before your eyes you cannot avoid being
+powerfully impressed by it; nor is it till after it has
+disappeared that you are inclined to ask yourself why you gave
+way to feelings of that nature.  Yet among the natives I thought
+I could observe a considerable degree of levity.  It is true that
+as many as were in the streets or at the windows dropped upon
+their knees while the procession passed, but their careless looks
+and suppressed smiles sufficiently proved that they knelt only
+because they were obliged to kneel.
+
+Commencing at the door of the church where the representation of
+the crucifixion had been exhibited, the funeral party (for it was
+neither more nor less) proceeded through the principal streets in
+the town with a slow and measured pace.  As all except the
+soldiers walked two and two, it covered, I should conceive,
+little less than a mile in extent, and after winding from lane to
+lane and from square to square, directed its steps towards a
+particular convent, where the waxen image was solemnly deposited
+in a vault.  It is said, but with what truth I cannot pretend to
+determine, that a different image is made use of every year, and
+that the vault is now so full of waxen corpses, that it will be
+necessary before long to have some of them destroyed.
+
+Having now got rid of the most sacred part of their burthen, the
+monks, bearing only the two couches, returned in procession by
+the same route and in the same order as they had proceeded, only
+the bands struck up lively airs and the singers chanted hymns of
+rejoicing and hallelujahs.  Instead of walking at a slow pace
+likewise, they stepped out almost in a sort of dance, and
+reaching the door of the great church they there separated, each
+party hastening to its own house to celebrate mass.
+
+Into one or two of the convent chapels I likewise entered, and
+was present during the performance of their very striking
+service.  I found them ornamented in the most magnificent manner,
+the rafters of many being gilded over and all the windows crowded
+with stained glass.  Of pictures, and what struck me as something
+better than mere daubs, there were also great numbers.  In a
+word, it seemed as if I had reached the heart and capital of
+Roman Catholic splendour.  Nothing that I had beheld in the
+mother-country could at all compare with what was now before me,
+and I returned in the evening to my ship, not indeed a convert to
+the principles of that religion, but decidedly astonished and
+confounded at the solemn magnificence of its ceremonies.
+
+
+CHAPTER XXV.
+
+
+AT an early hour next morning I returned to the city, and found
+that the face of affairs had undergone a complete revolution.  No
+more melancholy countenances, no closed shops and vacant streets
+were now to be seen; all was bustle and rejoicing, bells ringing,
+carriages rattling along, flags flying, and guns firing.  The
+solemnity of Good-Friday ends, it appeared, at ten o'clock on
+Saturday morning, and from that time the merriments of Easter
+have their commencement.
+
+The whole of this day I spent in strolling over the different
+walks and points of view from whence the town and surrounding
+country may be seen to most advantage; and I certainly must
+pronounce it to be by far the most magnificent colonial capital
+which I have visited.  The streets are in general wide, clean,
+and airy; the houses, except in the suburbs, are composed
+entirely of stone, and being occasionally intermingled with
+convents, churches, and other public buildings, produce a very
+striking and handsome effect.  Though surrounded by a rampart,
+Havannah has little of the confined and straitened appearance by
+which fortified towns are generally disfigured.  The works being
+of great extent, have left within their circumference abundant
+room for the display of elegance and neatness in its
+construction, an advantage which has not been neglected; whilst
+from their situation they command as glorious a prospect as can
+well be imagined.
+
+When you ascend a bastion which overhangs the harbour, the city,
+with all its towers and spires, lies immediately and distinctly
+beneath your gaze.  Beyond it, again, you perceive a winding of
+the bay, which washes three sides of the promontory where the
+city stands; numerous fields of sugar-cane and Indian corn
+succeed, intersected by groves of orange and other fruit trees,
+which extend for some miles in a sort of inclined plane, and are
+at length bounded by lofty and rugged mountains.  On your left,
+again, is the creek or entrance to the bay, separating you from
+the Moro, a line of castles remarkable for their strength and
+extent.  Behind sweep the waters of the Gulf of Mexico; and on
+the right is another view much resembling that which lies before
+you, only that it is more narrowed; the high ground bearing in
+this direction closer upon the city.  On the whole I do not
+remember to have been more forcibly struck by any scenery than
+that which I beheld from this bastion; so well were town and
+country, castles and convents, land and water, hill and valley
+combined.
+
+Having spent some hours in wandering through the city, I
+endeavoured to make my way into the forts, and to examine the
+state of the works.  But in both of these attempts I was
+interrupted.  Without an order from the Governor, I was informed,
+that none, even of the natives, are permitted to enter the Moro,
+and all applications on the part of foreigners are uniformly
+refused.  There was a degree of jealousy in this, as needless as
+it was illiberal; but indeed the whole conduct of the Spanish
+authorities gave proof of their reluctance to admit their old
+allies, even to the common rites of hospitality.  From the moment
+we entered the harbour the militia of the island were called out,
+many of the guns which commanded our shipping were shotted, and
+artillerymen with lighted fuzes stood constantly beside them.  An
+order was likewise issued, prohibiting more than two persons to
+land at the same time from each vessel, and many other
+precautions were taken, little complimentary to the good faith of
+those to whom Spain must feel that she owes her very existence.
+In spite of these drawbacks, however, I contrived to spend a week
+in this city with much satisfaction.  The opera and theatre
+opening on Easter Sunday, and continuing open during the
+remainder of our stay, furnished sufficient amusement for the
+evenings, whilst in walking or riding about, in examining the
+different churches and chapels, and in chatting with nuns through
+the grate, or monks within their cells, my mornings passed away
+more quickly than I desired.
+
+At length our victualling and watering being complete, on the 9th
+of April we bade adieu to the shores of Cuba, and running along
+with the Gulf-stream, took our course towards Bermuda.  The wind
+favoured us greatly, and on the 17th we again reached these
+islands; where we delayed till the 23rd, when, once more setting
+sail, we steered directly for England.  During the remainder of
+the voyage nothing of importance occurred till the 7th of May,
+when, reaching in towards the shores of Brest, we were astonished
+by beholding the tri-coloured flag floating from the citadel.  Of
+the mighty events which dad taken place in Europe, we were as yet
+in perfect ignorance.  Though surprised, therefore, at the first
+view of that beacon of war, we naturally concluded it to be no
+more than a signal, and passed on without inquiry.  As we
+ascended the channel, however, we were hailed by a schooner,
+which professed to communicate some news concerning Buonaparte;
+but the wind being high, we could not distinctly tell what was
+said; nor was it till the 9th, when we had anchored off Spithead,
+that the reappearance of that wonderful man was made known.
+
+The effect of this intelligence it would be difficult to
+describe.  At first it was received with acclamations, but by and
+bye those who had dreamed of home began to perceive in it the
+destruction of their visions.  Yet we considered that we were
+soldiers, and certainly no regret was experienced when we were
+ordered to re-embark, and sail for the Downs.
+
+REMARKS.
+
+Having thus brought my narrative to a conclusion, I cannot lay
+aside my pen without offering a few remarks upon the events of
+this busy year, and the nature of an American war in general.
+In doing so, I shall begin with the unfortunate attack upon New
+Orleans, and endeavour, in as few words as possible, to assign
+the true causes of its failure.
+
+From the account which I have given of this affair, it will
+appear that, from its very commencement, it was replete with
+error, and gave promise of no better result than actually
+occurred.  I do not here allude to the spot fixed upon for
+landing, because that was as appropriate as could be chosen.
+Neither do I refer to the groundless rumours brought in by
+deserters; for to such all assailants are liable; but the error
+lay in the steps subsequently taken; in the unhappy advance of
+the first division from a place of concealment into the open
+country, without pushing forward to the extent required.  The
+fact is, that having reached the main land in safety, one out of
+two plans might have been selected by General Keane; which, in
+all probability, would have been equally attended with success.
+Either he might have remained in the morass till the whole army
+was assembled, or, if this were deemed too dangerous, he ought to
+have advanced upon the city with the first division alone.  If it
+be objected that a force of 1600 men was incompetent for an
+undertaking so important as the latter, I reply that there could
+be no more hazard in it than in the course actually pursued.  New
+Orleans is not a regular fortification requiring a large army and
+a powerful battering train for its reduction.  In obtaining
+possession of such a place there would have been no difficulty,
+because it has since been ascertained that the American troops
+were, at the time of our landing, some miles above the city; and
+surely it would not have been more difficult to repulse an attack
+within a town than in the open country.  But neither of these
+courses was adopted.  The advance was drawn from concealment, and
+halted just where it became most exposed, as if it had been our
+design to warn the American General of his danger; the
+consequence of which was a well-directed attack upon our bivouac,
+and an immediate commencement of those works which afterwards
+resisted and repelled all our efforts.
+
+The second error evident in this business was the selection of
+the schooner instead of the ship for destruction.  Had the
+latter, which lay farther up the stream been destroyed, the
+former never could have passed our battery, nor been of further
+annoyance to us; whereas, the schooner being burnt, the ship was
+only removed out of the reach of danger, and posted where she
+could be infinitely more advantageous to her friends and
+detrimental to her enemies.  This in itself was a grave error,
+which beyond all doubt contributed, in some degree, to our
+repulse on the 29th of December.
+
+The third error, and one which continued to exert its influence
+throughout the whole campaign, was the delay in bringing on a
+general action.  Why our troops fell back on the 29th I confess
+is to me a mystery.  It was not to be supposed that an officer
+who had shown so much judgment as the American General, Jackson,
+in his first endeavours to check our advance, would lose the
+advantage which the nature of his position afforded.  That he
+would fortify the neck of land, indeed, was exactly what might
+have been expected: and, therefore, every hour during which an
+attack was deferred, contributed so much to his strength and to
+our weakness.  It is true that we should have suffered, and
+perhaps suffered severely; but our chances of suffering were
+certainly not diminished by delay.  We ought, therefore, instead
+of falling back, to have pursued our operations with vigour on
+that day; because the American lines, being then incomplete,
+would have assisted rather than retarded our progress.
+
+It has been said, and perhaps truly, that the movement on the
+29th was never intended for more than a reconnoissance: and
+that the scheme subsequently adopted, of overpowering the enemy's
+fire by a superior artillery brought from the fleet, was a wise
+one.  All this may be true; but as we did not succeed in silencing
+the enemy's batteries, who, on the contrary, put ours to silence,
+either the project was faulty in its design, or some grievous
+error was committed in its execution.  As far as our position was
+affected by it, the results were these:--Three days more were lost
+in making preparations, which ended in nothing; while, by the
+enemy, these same days were judiciously and indefatigably
+employed to improve their deficiency and recruit their force.
+
+At last came the idea of digging a canal from the lakes to the
+river, by means of which a portion of our army might be thrown to
+the other side; a project which is said to have been suggested by
+Sir Alexander Cochrane; but which, wheresoever originating, was
+at once bold and judicious.  The canal was accordingly formed;
+not, however, with sufficient attention to the rules of art in
+like cases, as was shown by the falling in of the banks, and the
+consequent impossibility of bringing up boats to transport the
+whole detachment.  Still there it was, and 350 men, instead of
+1400, made good their landing on the right bank of the river.  It
+is deeply to be regretted that Sir Edward Pakenham did not delay
+his own advance with the main body till this fact had been
+ascertained.  His plan of battle was to carry the enemy's works
+on the right bank, to turn their own guns from that flank against
+themselves, and to alarm them for their communications, ere he
+should attack the main position on the left.  Nor can it be
+doubted, that had the detached corps arrived at the hour first
+named, an easy triumph would have been achieved.  But Pakenham
+was too fiery to restrain his troops, after they had assumed
+their ground on his own side.  Instead, therefore, of causing the
+columns to fall back out of gun-shot, and wait quietly till the
+battle began on the left, he hurried them into action as soon as
+the day dawned; and they became exposed to the whole of that
+volume of fire which it was one main object of his movement
+across the Mississippi to destroy.  Moreover, from all the moral
+effects of a partial defeat the enemy were saved; and I need not
+say how serious such things are to irregular and undisciplined
+bodies.  I do not mean to assert that, in spite of all this, the
+American lines ought not to have been carried.  On the contrary,
+had every officer and man done his duty, the victory would have
+been complete, though purchased, beyond a doubt, at a severe
+cost.  Yet it is absurd to deny that, speaking of the movement as
+an operation of war, the attack on the right ought to have been
+withheld till that on the left had either failed or succeeded.
+So far, therefore, the General is liable to censure; and
+chivalrous and high-minded as he was, it is just that he should
+receive it.  But there were other causes of defeat than this;
+among which, the gross misconduct of one individual deserves to
+be especially noticed.
+
+To Lieutenant-Colonel Mullens, with the 44th regiment, of which
+he was in command, was intrusted the arduous and therefore
+honourable duty of carrying the fascines and ladders.  The orders
+were given in good time over night; and Colonel Mullens received
+them as if they had conveyed a sentence of death.  He stated, in
+the hearing of the private soldiers, that his corps was devoted
+to destruction; and conducted himself, in every respect, like a
+condemned criminal on the night previous to his execution.  When
+the troops got under arms, instead of bringing his battalion to
+the redoubt, where he had been instructed to find the ladders, he
+marched directly past it, and led them into the field without a
+single ladder or fascine.  When the day dawned, and he was sent
+back for these instruments, he headed his corps in its retrograde
+movement, but left it to return as it could to the front; and
+when sought for to guide the attack, he was nowhere to be found.
+That a regiment thus abused and deserted by its commanding
+officer should fall into confusion, cannot occasion any surprise;
+it would have been surprising indeed, had a different result
+ensued.  But the melancholy effect of such confusion was, that
+other regiments were likewise broken; and before order could be
+restored, all the Generals were borne dead or wounded from the
+field.  A large share, therefore, of the blame attachable to this
+failure must rest where fidelity of narration has obliged me to
+place it.
+
+Again, the recall of the victorious detachment from the left to
+the right bank of the Mississippi, and the consequent abandonment
+of that complete command of the river which this partial success
+had obtained, was a military error of the gravest kind.  Great as
+our numerical loss had been in the principal action of the 8th,
+the advantages of position were at the close of the day so
+decidedly with us, that for General Jackson to maintain himself
+any longer in front of New Orleans was physically impossible.
+His own dispatch, indeed, addressed to the Secretary-at-War,
+shows that he felt the truth so forcibly, that he had actually
+issued orders for a retreat, when the removal of the English from
+his menaced flank was reported to him; and his battalions, which
+had begun to get under arms, were directed to resume their
+places.  It is, however, but just to state, that such was the
+miserable condition of our commissariat, that the fleet contained
+not provisions enough to feed the people on half rations during a
+quick passage to Cuba; and General Lambert did not feel that he
+would be justified in risking the total loss of his army, which,
+had the campaign been prolonged another fortnight, must under
+such circumstances have taken place.  That he erred in this
+supposition is certain; but his was probably an error into which
+most men similarly circumstanced would have fallen.
+
+But the primary cause of all our disasters may be traced to a
+source even more distant than any yet mentioned; I mean, to the
+disclosure of our designs to the enemy.  How this occurred I
+shall not take it upon me to declare, though several rumours
+bearing at least the guise of probability have been circulated.
+The attack upon New Orleans was professedly a secret expedition;
+so secret, indeed, that it was not communicated to the inferior
+officers and soldiers in the armament till immediately previous
+to our quitting Jamaica.  To the Americans, however, it appears
+to have been known long before; and hence it was that, instead of
+taking them unawares, we found them fully prepared for our
+reception.  Nor is this all.  It appears difficult to account for
+the degree of negligence which affected the naval heads of the
+present expedition, as far as the providing a competent number of
+boats and small craft to transport the troops is concerned.
+Throughout the whole fleet, barges enough to carry one-half of
+the army could not be found; whereas there ought to have been a
+sufficient quantity to contain not only the entire force, but all
+its stores and ammunition.  To this neglect, indeed, more perhaps
+than to any other circumstances, is the failure of the attempt to
+be attributed; since not a doubt can exist that, if General Keane
+had been enabled to bring the whole of his army to land on the
+morning of the 23rd, he would have reached New Orleans, without
+firing a shot, before nightfall.  But the opportunity is past, it
+cannot be recalled, and therefore to point out errors on the part
+of my countrymen can serve no good end.  That the failure is to
+be lamented no one will deny, since the conquest of New Orleans
+would have proved beyond all comparison the most valuable
+acquisition that could be made to the British dominions
+throughout the whole western hemisphere.  In possession of that
+post we should have kept the entire southern trade of the United
+States in check, and furnished means of commerce to our own
+merchants of incalculable value.
+
+The fact, however, is, that when we look back upon the whole
+series of events produced by the late American war, we shall find
+little that is likely to flatter our vanity or increase our
+self-importance.  Except a few successes in Canada at its very
+commencement, and the brilliant inroad upon Washington, it will
+be found that our arms have been constantly baffled or repulsed
+on shore; whilst at sea, with the exception of the capture of the
+Chesapeake and one or two other affairs towards its conclusion,
+we have been equally unsuccessful.  From what cause does this
+proceed?  Not from any inferiority in courage or discipline,
+because in these particulars British soldiers and sailors will
+yield to none in the world.  There must, then, be some other
+cause for these misfortunes, and the cause is surely one which
+has continually baffled all our plans of American warfare.
+
+We have long been habituated to despise the Americans as an enemy
+unworthy of serious regard.  To this alone it is to be attributed
+that frigates half manned were sent out to cope with ships
+capable of containing them within their hulls; and to this also
+the trifling handfuls of troops dispatched to conduct the war by
+land.  Instead of fifteen hundred, had ten thousand men sailed
+from the Garonne under General Ross, how differently might he
+have acted! There would have been then no necessity for a
+reembarkation after the capture of Washington, and consequently
+no time given for the defence of Baltimore; but, marching across
+the country, he might have done to the one city what he did to
+the other.  And it is thus only that a war with America can be
+successfully carried on.  To penetrate up the country amidst
+pathless forests and boundless deserts, and to aim at permanent
+conquest, is out of the question.  America must be assaulted only
+on her coasts.  Her harbours destroyed, her shipping burned, and
+her seaport towns laid waste, are the only evils which she has
+reason to dread; and were a sufficient force embarked with these
+orders, no American war would be of long continuance.
+
+A melancholy experience has now taught us that such a war must
+not be entered into, unless it be conducted with spirit; and
+there is no conducting it with spirit, except with a sufficient
+numerical force.  To the plan proposed of making desert the whole
+line of coast, it may be objected, that by so doing we should
+distress individuals, and not the Government.  But they who offer
+this objection, forget the nature both of the people whose cause
+they plead, and of the Government under which they live.  In a
+democratical Government, the voice of the people must at all
+times prevail.  The members of the House of Representatives are
+the very persons who, from such proceedings, would suffer most
+severely, and we all know how far private suffering goes to
+influence a man's public opinions.  Besides, the principle upon
+which the advocates for the sacredness of private property
+proceed, is erroneous.  Every one will allow that, in absolute
+monarchies, where war is more properly the pastime of kings than
+the desire of subjects, non-combatants ought to be dealt with as
+humanely as possible.  Not so, how ever, in States governed by
+popular assemblies.  By compelling the constituents to experience
+the real hardships and miseries of warfare, you will compel the
+representatives to a vote of peace; and surely that line of
+conduct is, upon the whole, most humane, which puts the speediest
+period to the cruelties of war.  There are few men who would not
+rather endure a raging fever for three days, than a slow and
+lingering disease for three months.  So it is with a democracy at
+war.  Burn their houses, plunder their property, block up their
+harbours, and destroy their shipping in a few places; and before
+you have time to proceed to the rest, you will be stopped by
+entreaties for peace.  Whereas, if you do no mischief that can be
+avoided, if you only fight their fleets and armies wherever you
+meet them, and suffer the inhabitants to live in undisturbed
+tranquillity, they will continue their hostilities till they have
+worn out the means of one party, and greatly weakened those of
+both.
+
+Should another war break out between Great Britain and America,
+this is the course to be adopted by the former.  Besides which, I
+humbly conceive that a second attempt might be hazarded upon New
+Orleans, because the importance of the conquest would authorise
+almost any sacrifice for its attainment; and once gained, it
+could easily be defended.  The neck of land, upon which it is
+built, extends in the same form above as below the town; and the
+same advantages which it holds out to its present defenders
+would, of course, be afforded to us.  A chain of works thrown
+across from the river to the marsh would render it inaccessible
+from above; whilst by covering the lakes and the Mississippi with
+cruisers, all attacks from below would be sufficiently guarded
+against.
+
+THE END.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Campaigns of the British Army at
+Washington and New Orleans 1814-1815, by G. R. Gleig
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