pleased the Almighty Disposer of Events to bless the efforts of my gallant companions, and my personal, very humble one, with vietory. My friend Captain Tucker[1], an officer worthy of their Lordships’ best attention, was severely wounded at the commencement of the action, but remained on deck until it terminated, ’ using every exertion against the baffling winds and occasional calms which followed the heavy firing, to close near the enemy: he informs me, that his officers and crew, of whose loyalty, zeal, and discipline, I entertain the highest opinion, conducted themselves to his satisfaction. * * * * * * The conduct of my officers and crew, without an individual exception that has come to my knowledge, before, during, and after the battle, was such as become good and loyal subjects, zealous for the honor of their much loved, though distant, King and Country.
“The defence of the Essex, taking into consideration our superiority of force, the very discouraging circumstance of her having lost her main-topmast, and being twice on fire, did honor to her brave defenders, and most fully evinced the courage of Captain (David) Porter, and those under his command. Her colours were net struck until the loss in killed and wounded was so awfully great, and her shattered condition so seriously bad, as to render further resistance unavailing.
“I was much hurt on hearing that her men had been encouraged, when the result of the action was evidently decided, some to take to their boats, and others to swim on shore; many were drowned in the attempt; 16 were saved by the exertions of my people; and others, I believe between 30 and 40 effected their landing. I informed Captain Porter, that I considered the latter, in point of honor, as my prisoners; he said the encouragement was given when the ship was in danger from fire, and I have not pressed the point. The Essex is completely stored and provisioned for at least six months, and although much injured in her upper works, masts, and rigging, is not in such a state as to give the slightest cause of alarm, respecting her being able to perform a voyage to Europe with perfect safety. Our main and mizen-masts, and main-yard, are rather seriously wounded; these, with a few shot-holes between wind and water, which we can get at without lightening; and a loss of canvas and cordage, which we can partly replace from our well-stored prize, are the extent of the injuries his Majesty’s ship has sustained. * * * * * * I have the honor to be, &c.
“To J. W. Croker, Esq.”
The loss sustained by the British ships on this occasion was only 5 killed and 10 wounded, including among the former Mr. William Ingram, first Lieutenant of the Phoebe, a brave and excellent officer. That of the American frigate was very severe, 23 men having been found dead on her decks, and 42 wounded among the prisoners (161 in number):
