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 INTRODUCTION. 275 their usual impetuosity, had driven the de- chap.vh. tachment, against which he was sent, to their 1704. boats. The party on Wando Neck had been feasting on the plunder they had taken, and before break of day they were surprised by captain Cantry, while around their fires in a state of perfect security. He fired on them in this situation, and they were all killed or taken prisoners. Encouraged by this success, it was deter- mined to attack these invaders by sea. In execution of this resolution Rhet, with six small vessels, proceeded down the river to the place where their vessels rode at anchor. Perceiving this flotilla standing towards them, the French, in great haste, weighed anchor, and sailed over the Bar. For some days they were believed to have given up the enterprise; martial law was ordered to cease, and the in- habitants were rejoicing in their entire delive- rance, when advice was received that a ship of force was seen in Sewee bay, and that she had landed a number of armed men at that place. On examining the prisoners, the go- vernor was informed that the enemy had ex- pected a ship of war with a re- enforcement of two hundred men, and monsieur Arbuset their general. Taking his measures with the prompt- ness of an experienced officer, he ordered cap- tain Fenwick to pass the river, and march against the detachment which had landed; n n 2