Page:Royal Naval Biography Marshall v4p2.djvu/215

  his report to Sir A. Campbell, the lieutenant-colonel expresses himself as follows:–

At the same period, Lieutenant-Colonel Godwin addressed the following private letter to Lieutenant Keele:–

“Martaban, Nov. 1st, 1824.

“My dear Sir,– the events of yesterday, in which you bore so conspicuous a part, call upon me thus early to offer you my warmest acknowledgments of your gallantry and judicious conduct, which tended so much to place this town in our possession, and I shall be most happy to state to Sir Archibald Campbell how much he owes to your bravery and talents on this occasion. Believe me, my dear Sir, ever most faithfully yours,

(Signed)“, Lieut.-Col. 41st Regt.

Sir Archibald Campbell describes the capture of Martaban as “an achievement no less honorable than beneficial to the British arms, reflecting the highest credit on every individual composing the force employed.” On the 26th Nov., Mr. Secretary Swinton wrote to Sir Archibald as follows:–

“The Governor-General in Council commands me to express his fullest concurrence in the tribute of applause which you have bestowed on Lieutenant-Colonel Godwin, and the officers and men under his command, and on Lieutenant Keele and the seamen of the royal navy, composing the expedition fitted out against Martaban.

“The ability and judgment with which Lieutenant-Colonel Godwin planned the attack, and the gallantry with which the place was carried by the small force of 220 men, against the numerous and well-armed troops of the enemy, reflects the highest credit on the professional character of the officers in command, and the cool and resolute intrepidity of the handful of men by whom so important and brilliant an exploit has been achieved.

“His Lordship in Council accordingly desires, that you will be pleased to express to Lieutenant-Colonel Godwin the very high sense which Government entertain of his conduct on this occasion. You will also be pleased to convey to Lieutenants Keele and Bazely, of H.M. sloops