Page:Royal Naval Biography Marshall sp3.djvu/17

  “The 11th was employed in refitting the schooner, and embarking provisions and water. The Solebay and Derwent were ordered to anchor opposite the post of Babagué, and bombard it, which was executed with much effect. During the night, in shifting her berth, the Solebay unfortunately got aground, but in a position which enabled her still to annoy the enemy. On the morning of the 12th the troops were embarked, and the flotilla proceeded up the river, till just without gun-shot of the enemy’s line of defence, and when every thing was in readiness for a night attack, we received information that it was the intention of the French commandant to capitulate.

“Willing, to spare an unnecessary effusion of human blood, the attack was postponed. On the morning of the 13th we discovered that the boom was broken, that the enemy had abandoned the battery and vessels, leaving their colours flying, and shortly afterwards a letter was received from Messrs. Degrigny and Durecu, in the name of the commandant of Senegal, offering to capitulate. Mr. Heddle, surgeon to the forces, who had acted as my aide-de-camp during the campaign, was sent forward to treat with these gentlemen, and soon returned with the articles of capitulation, which we ratified. I immediately took possession of the battery of Isle aux Anglois, and in the course of the evening, of the battery of Guêtendar facing the town. Next morning the garrison laid down their arms and were embarked. We then found that the force which had been employed against us amounted to 160 regular soldiers, and 240 militia and volunteers. * * * * * * *.

“In accomplishing this service, the officers and soldiers of the army were anxious to equal their brothers of the navy, who on all occasions distinguished themselves. I feel much satisfaction in having enjoyed the