Page:Royal Naval Biography Marshall v3p1.djvu/259

 During the afternoon of the 25th, the Iphigenia continued warping against a strong wind and current; but owing to the loss of several anchors, she made very little progress towards l’Isle de la Passe, which post Captain Pym, on giving up the command to Captain Lambert, had “recommended his supporting and protecting.” On the 26th, she was similarly employed, from 4 until 8-30, when she brought up about three-quarters of a mile from the island.

The next day, at 8, while again warping, and still making very small progress. Captain Lambert discovered three French frigates working up to l’Isle de la Passe. An enemy’s brig had been watching his movements ever since the destruction of the Sirius. All the ships in Grande Port were now seen afloat, and la Bellone in an advanced position. The Iphigenia was cleared for action; but on examining into her resource, Captain Lambert had the mortification to find that she possessed no more than twenty-five broadsides of shot for the main-deck, and forty for the quarterdeck (a large proportion of which were grape and canister), and only twelve tons of watery with very little provisions, for the support of nearly 1000 persons, including those on the island.

The enemy’s squadron in the offing was commanded by Commodore Hamelin, who, at 3, summoned Captain Lambert to surrender at discretion. He refused to do so, but offered to give up l’Isle de la Passe in its present state, provided the Iphigenia was allowed to embark every British subject, and to retire unmolested. At sun-set, the gallant frigate ceased warping, and brought up close to the island. In the course of the ensuing night; however, she drifted a considerable distance.

On the 28th, at 7-30, a second flag of truce came from Mons. Hamelin, urging his previous demand, and promising that all the British; both officers and men, should be allowed their parole. At 9, another boat came alongside with a summons from the Governor-General of the Isle of France. To Commodore Hamelin, Captain Lambert replied, offering to surrender his frigate and l’Isle de la Passe,