were carried by the bayonet, and took prisoners, with their arms and ammunition, the captain commanding the islands of Zupano and Mezzo, 2 Serjeants, 3 corporals, and 33 privates, belonging to the 4th light infantry regiment (the lieutenant and 15 privates escaping), which completely put the whole of the island in our possession, and I am happy to say without loss, and only a few slight bayonet wounds. The determined conduct of the seamen and marines, headed by Lieutenants Holmes and Hancock, made all their resistance ineffectual. On examining the harbour, there were no vessels found there bound to Ragusa; and I have every reason to think, no vessel, however small, has escaped from Stagno since I have been on this station, the boats of the Saracen being kept constantly on the lookout, at different stations, during the night. I am informed, that the lieutenant and his party made their escape in a boat, and went towards Ragusa. The island I have left in the quiet possession of the inhabitants, who appear much attached to the English. I have the honor to be, &c.
(Signed)“J. Harper.”
Zupano was one of three islands which the enemy had garrisoned for the protection of vessels conveying supplies from Stagno to Ragusa, and thence to Boco di Cattaro. Constantly expecting an attack, the soldiers composing the garrison were always under arms, by night, in the market-place, which was surrounded by a breast-work. When Captain Harper arrived in the square of the town, his men were completely drenched with rain; many of them had lost their shoes in the mud, and all their ammunition was unserviceable. The alarm had then been given, and the enemy were prepared to receive him. To retreat or hesitate would have been certain destruction. He instantly charged, and, after a doubtful struggle of 10 minutes, carried every thing before him.
The island was well cultivated, and produced great quantities of oil and wine. Captain Harper immediately hoisted British colours, disbanded and re-organized the national guard, dismissed the mayor from his office, and requested the Count Natali, a much respected nobleman, to assume that of civil governor, – arrangements which completely put down the French party, and gave universal satisfaction to the loyal inhabitants.
One of the other fortified islands was Mezzo, situated between Zupano and Ragusa, garrisoned by an officer and 59 regular troops, including artillery-men, and defended by a strong castle and the pinnacle of an almost inaccessible hill.
