also discovered by the log, that it was customary to secure the vessels by the head, to unhang their rudders, and keep all sails on shore till loaded, and perfectly ready for sea. I had come to the determination of attacking the place with a division of boats from the squadron you did me the honor to place under my orders (as the ships could not approach it without experienced pilots), as soon as I should be able to gain the necessary information relative to the strength of the place, which this log completely put me in possession of. On Friday, I endeavoured to find the place, but could not discover it. On Saturday, I worked close up behind the shoals, and at noon saw three vessels at anchor, which pointed out its situation; but the distance was too great to ascertain more than a brig with top-gallant yards across and sails bent. The evening proved particularly fine, with little wind, and smooth water; and though I had not at this time any ship with me, or within sight of signals, I could not let pass so fair an opportunity for making the attack; and at 8-45 p.m., I sent the Freija’s four best boats, with thirty marines and fifty seamen, under the command of Mr. David Hope, my second lieutenant (the first being at sick-quarters), assisted by the senior officer of marines, the gunner, a master’s-mate, and two midshipmen, with orders to destroy the batteries, to bring out the brig and every vessel fit for sea, and to burn all others. I have great pleasure to inform you, that the above orders were most masterly and very effectually executed, notwithstanding the enemy was perfectly prepared, and in no way taken by surprise. The boats had to pull into the bay under a very heavy fire from the two batteries and the brig, with musketry from every part of the beach, as you will see by the report made to me by Lieutenant Hope, a copy of which I have the honor to enclose. It is with infinite satisfaction I now add, that not a man on our side was killed; only two were severely wounded, one I believe dangerously, the other I think will do well. The loss of the enemy I have not been able to ascertain; but I have reason to suppose the commandant fell in the conflict, as two officers were found dead, one of whom wore two epaulets. I have the honor to be, &c.
(Signed)“John Hayes.”
“To the Hon. Sir Alexander Cochrane, K.B.,
&c. &c. &c.”
(Enclosure)
“H.M.S. Freija, Jan. 22d, 1810.
