particular points; the land is uncleared, and the soil very marshy; so that it is impossible for an army to penetrate into the interior, except by the rivers and creeks. The shores on both sides of the Surinam river below Frederici redoubt, with the exception of one spot on the eastern shore, are equally difficult of access, and the enemy, by means of their forts, ships of war, armed merchantmen, and gun-boats, were completely masters of the navigation between Frederici and Paramaribo, the capital of the colony.
On the 29th, Lieutenant-Colonel Shipley, of the engineers, went on shore at the above mentioned spot, where a plantation had lately been established; and having explored the road through the woods, he reported on his return that a body of men might be conducted from thence to the rear of fort Frederici. In consequence of this information a detachment, consisting of 140 soldiers belonging to the 64th regiment, and 30 others equipped as pioneers, was placed under the command of Brigadier-General Hughes, who landed about 11 P.M. and immediately commenced his march, accompanied by Captain Maxwell, and 30 seamen under his orders.
A great quantity of rain having recently fallen, it was found that the path, at all times difficult, had become almost impassable; but no obstacle could damp the enterprising spirit of our brave countrymen, who overcame every obstacle, and after a laborious march of five hours, arrived near the place of their destination. The alarm was then given, and the enemy opened a heavy fire of grape-shot upon them whilst forming into columns, previous to their quitting the wood, and of musketry as they advanced to the battery, which was stormed and carried with the greatest intrepidity. Brigadier-General Hughes and Captain Maxwell then moved on to Fort Leyden, a place of equal strength; and by a repetition of the same impetuous attack, soon obliged the enemy to call for quarter. The number of prisoners taken on this occasion was 121; the remainder of the garrisons effected their escape across the Commewyne to Fort New Amsterdam.
By this brilliant affair a position was secured, from whence a heavy fire could be directed against fort New Amsterdam; and a communication with the Commewyne river being opened, the means of forming a junction with Brigadier-General
