fitment of the rigging, as it was shot away, and his spirited activity in resetting the studding sails, as their haliards were cut. Much praise is due to Lieutenant James Campbell of the royal marines, for the determined example he shewed to his party. I am infinitely satisfied with the valorous and steady conduct of the warrant and petty officers, seamen, and marines, of the Belvidera. Herewith I enclose the small list of killed and wounded, which in some measure is to be attributed to the endeavour of the enemy to dismantle us. John Hill the armourer, and William Gould of the fore-castle, were very good men[1]. I feel obliged to account for not waiting on you personally, having received a contusion above my knee, by one of the carronades breaking loose in firing, but which will very soon be well. The bearer of this, Lieutenant John Sykes, is an excellent officer, and will give you every information. I hope my conduct will meet your approbation. I have the honor to be, &c, &c. &c.
(Signed)“R. Byron[2]”
“To Herbert Sawyer, Esq.
Vice-Admiral of the Blue,
&c. &c. &c.”
The conduct of Captain Byron on this occasion was highly applauded both by government and the public. Had it not
- ↑ It is related of John Hill, that after having both arms amputated he wanted to go on deck to have another shot at the enemy. He died the day after the action, two of his ribs having been fractured and driven into his lungs.
The Belvidera had only the above men killed, and 22 wounded, including among the latter her Captain and second Lieutenant. The President, according to the American official account, had 2 Midshipmen and 1 marine killed; Commodore Rodgers, 1 Lieutenant, 1 marine officer, 3 Midshipmen, and 12 seamen wounded; 1 of whom mortally, and several severely.
- ↑ The long bolts and breechings of the Belvidera’s carronades gave way repeatedly during the action. Captain Byron was in the act of pointing and firing one of them when the bolt drew, and the carriage slide turning suddenly round, the corner of it came in contact with his groin. The wound inflicted was very severe, although he treated it so lightly in his public letter. Such instances of modesty, although by no means rare, are always praiseworthy. It is something singular that Commodore Rodgers should also have been wounded in the thigh.
