Extract from Beatson's Naval and Military Memoirs of Great Britain, vol.iv.p.518-529.
Upon the first alarm of the enemy being on the coast, General Prevost exerted himself to the utmost, to increase and strengthen the fortifications of the town of Savannah; and was most ably seconded in his operations, by Captain James Moncrieffe of the engineers, and Captain Henry of the navy. Orders were sent to the Hon. Lieutenant-Colonel Maitland, who was posted with a considerable detachment of troops at Beaufort, and to Captain Christian, of his Majesty's ship Vigilant, to repair as soon as possible to Savannah, with the troops, ships, and galleys, then at Port Royal island. Unfortunately, the express with these orders was intercepted by some of the rebel patrols; and, previous to the arrival of a second messenger, the enemy had time to seize on the principal communications between the two places. This rendered the junction of that detachment with the garrison, upon which alone any hope of defending Savannah could be reasonably founded, a matter extremely precarious, difficult, and dangerous. Happily, however, the abilities of Colonel Maitland, and the zeal of the troops under his command, powerfully aided by the professional skill of Lieutenant Goldesborough, of the navy, who was thoroughly acquainted with the various creeks, inlets, and cuts, with which the interior navigation of this country abounds, overcame every obstacle in their way. The battery at Tybee was destroyed; the leadingmarks for the bar were cut down; and the little naval force there was held in readiness to run up the river Savannah, as soon as the French fleet were seen making for the mouth of it.
On the 9th, the whole of the French fleet anchored off the bar: and on the 10th, four frigates weighed and came to Tybee anchorage. M. d'Estaing had got from Charlestown, a large supply of small craft, into which he put his troops; and they proceeded into Ossabaw inlet, and made good the debarkation of their forces at Bowley, 13 miles from Savannah, under cover of four galleys. The French frigates prepared, at the same time, to advance up the river.
Captain Henry and the naval department were employed, from the 10th to the 13th, in conveying to Savannah part of the guns and ammunition of the Rose and Fowey, in vessels which General Prevost had sent down for that purpose. On the 13th, both frigates being much lightened, sailed over the Mud-flat to Five Fathom Hole, from which the remainder of their guns and ammunition were conveyed up to the town, which is only three miles distant. The Comet galley, Keppel brig, and some armed vessels, were so placed as to cover the passage of Colonel Maitland, with the forces under his command, from Port Royal, through Wallscut. On the 14th and 15th, the seamen completed the important business of landing the cannon and ammunition from the ships and small vessels: and they were appointed to the different batteries, under the command of Captains Henry, Brown, and Fisher, of the navy. Some masters of transports, and the master of a privateer, with their men,[99]made voluntary offers of their service; as did Mr. Manley; merchant of Jamaica. Their offers were accepted; and they had their posts assigned them. The marines were incorporated with the grenadiers of the 60th regiment.
On the 16th, the Compte d'Estaing sent a haughty letter to General Prevost, summoning him to surrender the place to his Most Christian Majesty: informing him, at the same time, that among the troops which he had the honour to command, was the detachment which had stormed the Hospital Hill at the Grenades. He begged leave to recal this to his memory; and assured him, that he gave him this notice from motives of humanity, in order to spare the shedding of human blood. General Prevost, on receiving this message, called a meeting of the Governor, Lieutenant-Governor, and Field-Officers in the garrison, who authorised him to say, that he declined surrendering on a general summons, without specific terms; but that, if such were proposed as he could with honour accept, he would then give his answer. This drew a reply from M. d'Estaing, in which he affirmed, that it was customary, not for besiegers, but for those who were besieged, to propose terms of capitulation; stated, that he had no objections to allow the General every indulgence consistent with his duty; and informed him that, as it was his intention next day to form a junction with the army of the United States of America, if his answer was not immediately ready, he must in future treat with General Lincoln and him. General Prevost, in return, demanded a cessation of hostilities for 24 hours; as a time absolutely necessary for deliberation, and for the discussion of various interests. Towards the evening of the 16th, the Compte d'Estaing returned an answer, in which he consented to this demand. The two armies joined on the 17th, and formed separate but contiguous encampments.
It was during this parley, that the detachment under Lieutenant-Colonel Maitland, consisting of upwards of 1,000 men, arrived from Beaufort. The enemy well knew, how important it would be to their interests to prevent this junction; and for that purpose, had attempted an enterprise, which proved unsuccessful, by their pilots refusing to undertake to place the French frigates in the necessary stations, for enablingthem to cut off Colonel Maitland's communication with Savannah. Of this circumstance the Colonel availed himself: and after undergoing immense fatigues, joined General Prevost in the evening of the 16th, with 500 men; and the remainder of his detachment arrived about noon the next day. As he found the enemy in possession of the ship-channel, the Colonel had been obliged to come round Dawfaskie, and land on the marshes; and after dragging his boats (empty) through a cut, got into the Savannah river above the French frigates, and from that came down to the town. A Council of War was held, in which it was determined to defend the place to the last extremity: and notice of this resolution was sent to the besieging Generals. To this M. d'Estaing returned an answer. Hostilities immediately recommenced: and the British tars could not refrain from giving three huzzas from their batteries. Both sides now exerted themselves with the utmost assiduity. When the town was first summoned, there were not above eight or ten guns mounted; but so indefatigable were the exertions of Captain Moncrieffe, the senior engineer in the place, in putting it in a proper state of defence, that, by adding the guns landed from the ships to those which were in store, he had, in the course of a few days, nearly 90 pieces of cannon ready to oppose to the enemy, as soon as their batteries should open. He had likewise erected many redoubts, batteries, and other works, to retard their progress. In all these operations, the soldiers and sailors, with the utmost cheerfulness, worked day and night in the face of hostile troops flushed with conquest: the enemy were greatly astonished at the activity of the garrison.
From the accounts given to M. d'Estaing, of the situation of things at Savannah, he considered his success against it as certain. He had made repeated declarations to the Americans, that, as the season of the year was so far advanced, he could not remain more than ten or fifteen days on shore, lest his fleet should be injured on such a dangerous coast. The reinforcement which the garrison had received, reducedthe besiegers to the alternative of either storming or besieging the town of Savannah. The latter plan was adopted, and they took their measures accordingly.
As it was apprehended, that the enemy's ships might come too near the town, and annoy the rear of the British lines, Captain Moncrieffe had some fire-rafts prepared, and in readiness to act against them, if they should make the attempt. It was also judged expedient, in order effectually to prevent it, to sink a number of vessels to stop up the passage. As his Majesty's ship the Rose was in so very bad a condition, that, by the report of shipwrights lately employed to survey her, she could not swim above two months; as her guns, ammunition, and stores, had been landed; and as her weight would keep her across the channel, when lighter vessels might shift, owing to the rapidity of the current, and to the hardness of its sandy bottom, in which they could have little hold, Captain Henry selected her as a vessel proper to be sunk. The Savannah armed ship, and four transports, were also scuttled and sunk, and by these the channel was blocked up. Above the town several smaller vessels were sunk, and a boom was laid across the river, to prevent the enemy from sending down fire-rafts among the shipping, or landing troops in the British rear. Previous to the vessels being sunk, the Fowey, Keppel brig, Comet galley, and Germain provincial armed ship, were got up to the town: and the latter having guns, was placed off Yamairaw, to flank the lines. While the enemy's batteries were getting ready to play against the town, three French frigates advanced up the river to Mud-flat. One of them, having twelve-pounders, and two rebel galleys, carrying each two eighteen-pounders in their prows, anchored in Five Fathom Hole; from which one of the frigates sailed into the back river, with a design to cannonade the rear of the British lines. She fired a great number of shot; which, being at their utmost range, did no execution. The galleys advancing nearer, did some damage to the houses;but a few shot now and then from the river battery, made them keep a respectable distance.
Two sallies, one of them on the 24th; commanded by Major Graham, of the 16th regiment; and another on the 27th, commanded by Major M'Arthur, of the 71st regiment; were admirably well conducted, did the enemy considerable mischief, and killed and wounded a great many of their best troops, while the loss on our side was very inconsiderable; In the first sally, Major Graham artfully drew the enemy into a snare, by which the French and the rebels fired on each other, and had near 50 men killed before the mistake was discovered.
The batteries played on every place where the enemy were perceived to be at work; and more than once obliged them to discontinue their labour. It was the 3rd of October, before they opened any of their batteries: and then, about midnight they began to bombard from nine mortars of eight and ten inches, and continued the bombardment about two hours. At day-light, their fire commenced again from the nine mortars, and also from 37 pieces of cannon from the land side, and 16 from their shipping: and in this they persisted with little variation during several days. The execution done by this heavy fire, was much less than could have been imagined. It consisted in killing a few helpless women and children, and some few negroes and horses in the town, and on the common. On the 6th, the enemy threw some carcasses into the town, which burnt one wooden house: and about 11 o'clock, the General sent a letter, by a flag of truce, to M. d'Estaing, requesting permission to send the women and children out of the place, on board of ships and down the river, under the protection of a French ship of war, until the siege should be ended. After three hours, and a deal of intermediate cannon shot and shells, an insulting answer was returned by Messrs. Lincoln and d'Estaing, in which they refused to comply with this reasonable and humane demand.
The garrison, undismayed by this brutal conduct on the part of their opponents, kept up a smart fire against them; and during the night were extremely busy in adding to their works, and in repairing such of them as had sustained damage. Thus things went on until the morning of the 9th; when, a little before day-break, after a heavy, and as usual, incessant cannonade and bombardment, the enemy attacked General Prevost's lines.
The attack being upon the left of his centre, in front of the French; and very soon after, upon his left and right. It was yet dark, and the darkness was increased by a very thick fog, which made it impossible to determine with precision, where the real attack was to be made, or how many assaults were intended. No reinforcements therefore were sent; but every thing was kept in readiness for that purpose, and the troops waited with the greatest coolness in their different posts, for the approach of the enemy. Those in the lines were prepared to charge them, wherever they should attempt to penetrate: and the General had the greatest hopes, that the fire of the field artillery, which was placed to support the advanced redoubts, would enable him, while the enemy were entangled among these, to throw them into some confusion; and, perhaps, with a good prospect of success, to order his corps de reserve to sally forth and charge them. The ground toward both his flanks, owing to its natural defects, which the utmost efforts of Captain Moncrieffe had been unable effectually to remove, was but too favourable for an enemy. On the right was a swampy hollow, by which they could approach under cover to within fifty yards of his principal works, and in some places still nearer; and there, he supposed, that the rebels would make their assault. On the left, the approach was neither so well covered, nor of so great an extent as that on the right; but as it was sufficiently large to admit troops to act, as the ground was firm and clear, and as it was near their encampment, he expected that the French regulars would make their attack there: but inthis he was mistaken. A real attack did take place there: but the principal attack, composed of the flower of the French and rebel armies, and led by the Compte d'Estaing in person, assisted by all the principal officers of both, was made upon his right. Under cover of the hollow, they advanced in three columns; but, owing to the darkness, took a wider circuit than they needed or intended to have done, and went deeper into the bog. These circumstances prevented them from beginning the attack so soon as they had concerted; and besides occasioning a loss of critical time, produced considerable disorder in their ranks. The attack, however, was very spirited, and for some time obstinately maintained; particularly at a redoubt on the Ebenezer road, which was a scene of hot action, great loss, and consummate bravery. Two stand of colours were actually planted, and several of the assailants killed upon the parapet; but they met so determined a resistance, that they could not, with all their efforts, force an entrance. It was now, that the skill and design of the defences raised by Captain Moncrieffe, were fully displayed; for, while the conflict was still dubious and bloody, the field-pieces, from three batteries which were manned by the sailors, took them in every direction, and made such havock in their ranks, that they were thrown into confusion, and compelled to make a pause. At this critical moment, Major Glacier, of the 60th regiment, with the grenadiers of that corps and the marines, advanced rapidly from the lines; in the most impetuous manner, charged the enemy with their fixed bayonets; and plunging among them, into the ditches and works, drove them, in an instant, from the ditches of the redoubt, and from a battery a little to the right of it. Following up the blow, they forced them to fly, in great confusion, over the abatis, and into the swamp. On this occasion, Captain Wickham, of the 2d battalion of the 60th grenadiers, greatly distinguished himself. When the grenadiers advanced, three companies of the second battalion of the 71st regiment were ordered to sustain them: and although they were postedat no considerable distance, and marched forward with the usual ardour of that corps, such was the rapidity with which the grenadiers had made their attack, and so precipitate was the enemy's retreat, that they could not come in for a share of the victory. One of the enemy's columns a little more to their left, in every attempt which it made to come out of the hollow, was repulsed by the brisk and well directed fire of a redoubt, where the militia were posted, aided by Hamilton's small corps of North Carolinians, who were on the right, and moved there with a field-piece to bear obliquely against it, while one of the seamen's batteries took it directly in flank. It was now day-light: but the fog was not sufficiently cleared off, to enable General Prevost to judge with any degree of certainty of the strength, disposition, or further intentions of the enemy on the right. On the left, and in the centre, the fog, with the addition of the smoke, was still impenetrably close: and a smart firing being still kept up there, the General thought it would be improper to draw from it a number of troops sufficient to make a respectable sortie. By these means, an opportunity was lost of taking complete advantage of the confusion of the enemy, by charging them in their retreat; but they did not get off without being severely cannonaded by the batteries and field-pieces, as long as they were in sight, or judged to be within reach. They were every where repulsed: and those on the left were only heard, being concealed from view by the thickness of the fog.
Lieutenant-Colonel de Porbeck, of Weissenbeck's Hessian regiment, was field-officer of the right wing: and being in the redoubt when the attack began, had an opportunity, which he well improved, of signalizing himself in a most gallant manner. It would not be doing justice to the different corps who defended the redoubt, if we neglected to mention them. They were part of the South Carolina Royalists; and the light dragoons dismounted, and commanded (by special order)by Captain Tawae, a good and gallant officer, who nobly fell with his sword in the body of the third man he had killed with his own hand. The loss on the part of the British in this battle, consisted of one captain, and fifteen rank and file killed; one captain, three subalterns, and thirty-five rank and file wounded. The loss sustained by the enemy, as acknowledged by the French, was about a thousand or twelve hundred men killed and wounded; of these, they lost forty-four officers and seven hundred men: and the deserters, of whom there were a great many, all declared, that the loss on the part of the rebels was not less than four hundred men. Among the wounded was M. d'Estaing, (in two places) M. de Fontange, Major-General; and several others of distinction. Count Polaski, (who has been mentioned in the course of these Memoirs), a Colonel of cavalry in the rebel service, in making a desperate push at the British lines, was mortally wounded.
About ten o'clock, the enemy requested a truce, and leave to bury their dead, and carry off their wounded men. This was granted for those who lay at a distance from the lines, or out of sight of them: but those within or near the abatis were interred by the British. Their numbers were on the right, two hundred and three; on the left, twenty-eight. One hundred and sixteen prisoners, most of them mortally wounded, were delivered to the enemy. To this loss, considerable of itself, must be added, the numbers buried by them, the numbers who perished in the swamp, and many who were carried off by them when they retreated.
From this time to the 18th, nothing very material happened. Several flags of truce were sent during that period by the enemy, and a great deal of civility passed mutually between the French and British. Many apologies were made for their refusal to allow the women and children to be sent out of town: and the blame of this base conduct was laid, by a French Colonel, Compte O'Duin, entirely on the scoundrelLincoln, and the Americans.[100]The offer was then made with great earnestness, that the ladies and children should be received by the Chevalier du Romain, on board of the Chimere; but the answer given to it was blunt and soldierly, that what had once been refused, and that in terms of insult, was not in any circumstances deemed worth acceptance. All the French officers seemed quite ashamed of this affair. As it was with them only, that the British had any intercourse after the repulse on the 9th, the sentiments of the Americans could not be so well known. But, as the letter was signed by d'Estaing, as well as by Lincoln, their imputing this harsh, cruel, and unprecedented refusal, entirely to the brutality of the American General, may serve to shew their consciousness, that it was altogether indefensible; but is by no means sufficient to exculpate the French Commander, from his share of the blame and disgrace, inseparable from it. An author,[101]who is extremely partial to the American cause, endeavours to defend this measure from motives of policy: "The combined army (says he) was so confident of success, that it was suspected, that the request of sending away the women and children, proceeded from a desire of secreting the plunder lately taken from the South Carolinians, and artfully covered under the specious veil of humanity. That the Commanders were suspicious, considering the stratagem Prevost had practised after being summoned, is not strange. It was also presumed, that a refusal would expedite a surrender." There does not seem to have been much cordiality between the French and Americans in this enterprise. M. d'Estaing would have been well pleased to have done the business without them, by summoning the place to surrender to his Most Christian Majesty. This, the latter took much amiss, as they considered themselves as principals, and the Frenchonly as auxiliaries: and for this piece of presumption, some concessions were made. When the time assigned by M. d'Estaing for this expedition had elapsed, and still more was required by the engineers, if it was expected that the garrison should be compelled to surrender by regular approaches, he became extremely impatient to bring matters to a quick decision, and urged giving the assault to the place. This measure, says Mr. Gordon, was forced on M. d'Estaing by his naval officers, who had remonstrated against his continuing to risk so valuable a fleet in its present unrepaired condition, on such a dangerous coast in the hurricane season; and at so great a distance from the shore, that it might be surprised. These remonstrances were enforced, by the probability of their being attacked by the British fleet completely repaired, with their full complement of men, soldiers, and artillery on board, when the ships of his Most Christian Majesty were weakened, by the absence of a considerable part of their crews, artillery, and officers, employed at the siege of Savannah. These reasons had great weight with M. d'Estaing: and he prevailed on General Lincoln to storm the place without farther loss of time. The Americans seemed to think, that by a little more patience and perseverance, the town must have submitted; as in a few days, the lines of the besiegers would have been carried quite close to the works of the besieged. Their allies, however, judged themselves to be in so critical a situation, that they acquiesced in M. d'Estaing's proposal; for, if the French had retired to their ships, the siege must have been raised, so that there remained only one alternative for them to adopt. The repulse which they had received, was not followed by mutual accusations of want of courage or conduct in either party; but the French, in all their conversations, spoke of the Americans with the greatest contempt.
It was not perceived until the 18th, that the enemy had raised the siege; but, the fog clearing up in the morning of that day, it was found that they had moved off. For somedays previous to this, they had been busy in drawing off their cannon and mortars, and in embarking their sick and wounded, of whom they had a great number. General Prevost immediately detached parties in pursuit of them; but they had got to such distance before it was discovered they had retreated, that they could not overtake them: the enemy in their march having broken down all the bridges. The French embarked in Augustine creek, and the rebels crossed the river Savannah, at Zubley's ferry, and got into South Carolina. The enemy's fleet quitted the coast on the 26th October, and their frigates and galleys on the 2d of November, as soon as an exchange of prisoners had taken place. The balance of prisoners was in the enemy's favour: for while they were off this coast, on the 11th of September, his Majesty's ship, Ariel, of 24 guns, was taken by the French frigate, the Amazon, of 36 guns; and besides taking the Experiment, they took also the Myrtle, navy victualler; and Champion, storeship. The last of these was a prize of considerable importance to them, for their fleet was very badly manned, their crews sickly, their ships in bad condition, short of anchors and cables, and no running rigging to reeve, but this ship afforded them a supply. She had been sent from New York, with naval stores for the ships and vessels, under the command of Captain Henry.
Address from the Council and House of Representatives of St. Vincents to Lieut.-Col. Prevost, p. 7.
"Sir,
The Committee of His Majesty's Council, and of the Representatives of the Inhabitants of St. Vincents, deeply impressed with the many and eminent services you have rendered this colony, beg leave to offer their most grateful thanksto you, not only on their own account, but on that of the community at large. It might be irksome to you to minutely particularize these services: the Committee, however, cannot forbear mentioning your voluntary and unsolicited return to the defence of the Colony, and to participate in a most laborious and perilous war, against an inglorious enemy. Such zeal, Sir, strongly characterizes the soldier. The happy consequences to the public cause, although unfortunate to yourself, of your late gallant attack on the enemy's advanced post, demand the warmest acknowledgments, and the universal wish that you may speedily recover from your wounds, and that our gracious Sovereign may discern, and properly reward such distinguished merit.
"10th March, 1796."
Letter from the Duke of Portland to Brigadier-General Prevost, p. 7.
"Whitehall, 29th April, 1801.
"Sir,
"Thesatisfactory manner in which you have conducted the Administration of Public Affairs in St. Lucie, and the representations made to the King in your behalf by the Members of the Court of Appeal, have induced His Majesty to appoint you Lieutenant-Governor of that Island. I transmit to you inclosed His Majesty's Commission; and I have only to add, that I am persuaded that your conduct in the administration of your Government will continue to justify the very flattering and favorable intentions of the Court of Appeal, to contribute to the support of the respectability of your civil station.
"I am, Sir,"Your most obedient humble servant,(Signed) "Portland."
Address to Brigadier-General Prevost from the Inhabitants of St. Lucie, p. 7.
Les Habitans de l'Isle de St. Lucie, à Son Excellence Monsieur le Brigadier-Général George Prevost, Lieut.-Gouverneur de cette Isle, &c.
Les Habitans de l'Isle de St. Lucie, à Son Excellence Monsieur le Brigadier-Général George Prevost, Lieut.-Gouverneur de cette Isle, &c.
Monsieur le Gouverneur,
Lorsquele paix, objet de tous ties vœux, fait rentrer l'Isle de Sainte Lucie sous la domination Française, c'est un hommage bien légitime que de vous rendre au nom de tous les Colons un témoignage public de l'amour, du respect, et de la reconnoissance que votre gouvernement doux et paternel, et votre sage administration, ont fait naître dans tous les cœurs. Les avantages sans nombre dont vous avez fait jouir la Colonie, depuis que vous en avez pris le Commandement, l'attachent hautement. En effet, M. le Gouverneur, l'amour constant que vous avez manifesté pour le bien public; les soins infinies que tous avez pris pour rendre et faire rendre la justice dans un tems où toutes les loix étaient en oubli; le zèle infatigable avec lequel vous tous êtes occupé des discussions des intêrets des Colons; votre gouvernement paternel, qui, en vous conciliant tous les esprits, à detruit les divisions qui pouvaient exciter, a fait regner l'union et la concorde parmi les habitans, et a fait renaître la confiance, et la prospérité. Enfin, votre gouvernement tutelair, qui a fait chérir l'authorité de sa Majesté dans la votre, sont autant de bienfaits dont vous avez fait jouir les habitans de la Colonie, et dont ils conserveront éternellement le souvenir.
Mais il en était un plus grand que le zèle et l'amour du bien public, qui vous animaient, reservoit à la Colonie; c'est votre sollicitude paternelle qui a emploié et obtenue, pour nous, de sa Majesté, qu'elle nous rendit nos loix, non tribunaux,nos magistrats, c'est-à-dire, le témoignage le plus convainçant qu'elle préferait au droit de nous traiter comme un peuple conquis, la douceur de nous adopter pour ses enfans, et de nous rendre les objets de sa tendresse. Nous en sommes tellement convaincus, M. le Gouverneur, que nos infortunes ont été adoucis, et que nous en avons ressentis les plus grands effets. Le bonheur, la tranquillité et la prospérité dont les habitans de la Colonie out jouis jusqu'à present, ils les tiennent de la bonté du Roi, et de votre administration paternelle, M. le Gouverneur; et si notre reconnoissance ne trouve pas d'expressions assez forte pour vous peindre aussi vivement que nous le sentons, notre admiration pour vos talens, notre vénération pour vos vertus, et notre amour profonde pour votre personne,—daignez permettre que la Colonie vous présente, comme un foible témoignage, une épée, sur la lame de laquelle seront gravé ces mots:—La Colonie de St. Lucie reconnoissante.
Jouissez, M. le Gouverneur, du bien que vous avez fait à la Colonie; et les vœux des Colons pour votre gloire et votre bonheur vous suivront à votre patrie.
Letters from Sir Thomas Trigge, Commander of the Forces in the West Indies, p. 7.
"Sir,
"I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 14th inst., and feel very great regret, that your state of health is such as to render your returning to England necessary, by that means depriving His Majesty and myself of your services in this country. You may rely I shall not fail to express my sentiments on this subject when I write home, as in rendering this tribute of justice to your character, I shall discharge the most pleasing and gratifyingpart of my duty. I beg you will be pleased to signify to the council, that in consequence of your absence, I have appointed Brigadier-General G. H. Vansittart, to succeed to the civil and military command of the Island of St. Lucie, per interim, in order that he may be recognised accordingly, and take upon him the functions and authorities of that situation.
"I have now, Sir, to take my leave, and to offer my best wishes for your welfare and happiness; entertaining the firmest hope and assurance, that you will meet on your arrival in England those marks of approbation, which in every instance you have so highly and eminently merited.
"With sentiments of the purest esteem and regard, I have the honor to be, Sir,
"Your most obedient and faithful humble servant,
(Signed)Thos. Trigge,Lieut.-General."
Sir Thomas Trigge to Colonel Brownrigg.
"Sir,
"The return of Brigadier-General Prevost to England, calls on me to express to His Royal Highness, the Commander-in-Chief, the opinion with which his conduct has impressed me, both in his civil and military capacities during his command in the island of St. Lucie, as, did I fail to point out those officers who are deserving of His Royal Highness's countenance and support, I should be as wanting in justice to the individual, as deficient in point of duty to the Commander-in-Chief.
"I cannot but view with infinite regret Brigadier-General Prevost's departure from this country, as he has invariably conducted his command in the most satisfactory manner. The zeal and unremitting exertion which he has on every occasion shewn, and the exact attention which he has paid to the several duties of his situation, point him out as a distinguished and excellent officer, and whom it is my duty to recommend inthe strongest terms to His Majesty, and to the Commander-in-Chief.
"I have the honor to be, Sir, &c. &c.(Signed)"Thos. Trigge,Lieut.-General."
Account of the Capture of St. Lucie and Tobago, from the Annual Register for 1803, p. 8.
"On the 22nd June, the island of St. Lucie was taken by General Grinfield and Commodore Head. The French Commander, General Naguês, refused to capitulate, and the expectation of approaching rains rendered it necessary to get possession of the Morne Fortunée with as little delay as possible. It was therefore determined to attack it by storm; the defence was gallant; yet, by the determined bravery of the British soldiers and seamen, the works were carried in about half an hour, not without some loss, chiefly, among the officers. This conquest was of considerable importance as a naval station. The island as a colony is valuable, but the climate is unhealthy.
"The British commanders lost no time in pursuing their victorious career; and on the 25th, they sailed for Tobago, which they reached on the 30th. It was defended by General Berthier, an officer of note in the French service; but being apprised of the number of the British, and of the gallantry they had displayed at St. Lucie, he did not think it prudent to risk an engagement. A capitulation was agreed to on the same day, upon the most liberal terms, the garrison marching out with the honours of war, and to be sent back to their native country."—Annual Registerfor 1803, p. 283.
Extract of a Letter from Major-Gen. Grinfield relative to the expedition against St. Lucie and Tobago, p. 8.
"It is with real satisfaction I send you the enclosed extract from Colonel Clinton's letter to me."
Extract of a Letter from Colonel Clinton to Lieutenant-General Grinfield, dated
"Horse Guards, 3rd Sept. 1803.
"This despatch, addressed to the Commander-in-Chief, bears testimony, in the handsomest terms, to the meritorious services of Brigadier-General Prevost; and to the zealous promptitude with which he left his government of Dominica, to fulfil your wishes. In reply, I am directed to acquaint you, that His Royal Highness is perfectly sensible of the zeal, which induced Brigadier-General Prevost to volunteer his service on the late occasion, under your command; a circumstance which redounds much to his credit; and which, on a proper opportunity, His Royal Highness will not fail to mention to His Majesty."
Extract of a Letter from Lord Hobart to Brigadier-General Prevost.
"I cannot omit to congratulate you upon the complete success of the expeditions against St. Lucie and Tobago, in which you were so actively and honourably engaged; and I have the satisfaction of acquainting you, that His Majesty has been graciously pleased to notice, with particular approbation, your conduct upon those services."
Letter to Brigadier-General Prevost from General Naguês, p. 9.
"Depuis la prise du Morne Fortuné, je ne cease d'éprouver de la part du Général en Chef des égards que j'aie dû attribuer à un caractère de loyauté qui se remarque des que l'on se trouve en rapport avec le Général Grinfield.
"Mais je n'ignore pas, Général, qu'animé des mêmes principes, je dois à vos dispositions particulières une partie des precédés généreux dont je me suis vu comblé. Avant de vous témoigner toute ma reconnoissance, laissez moi, je vous prie, m'arrêter sur un fait qui vous est personnel, je veux parler de l'humaine prévoyance que vous avez eue de placer, à votre arrivée au Morne, une Sauve Garde à l'hôpital militaire pour la sureté de nos malades. Citer un pareil trait c'est assez dire pour le Guerrier qu'il honore et distingue. Je viens maintenant, Général, aux sentimens que vous m'avez inspiré, et je vous prie de croire que je n'y mets point de reserve. Veuillez donc bien m'agréer l'hommage, et recevoir mes très humbles salutations.
(Signéd) "Naguês."[102]"Caséuge,le 6 Messidor, an 11."
Account of the Attack upon Dominica by a French Squadron, p. 9.
"It may easily be supposed that much alarm prevailed at home, when it was known that two such formidable fleets[103]of the enemy were actually at sea, and which were aggravated by reports of strong detachments of the Brest fleet having also escaped, with a view to some grand combined exertion of the enemy. Where the blow was to fall, occupied the public mind. Malta, Brazil, the British West Indies—a general junction of the whole of the combined force of the enemy, in order to cover a descent upon Ireland. In short, every possible point of annoyance or attack was warmly agitated in the public mind. At length intelligence was received on the 6th May, from the British Commander-in-Chief of the forces in the windward and leeward islands, that Dominica had been attacked on the 22nd February preceding, by a French armament of one three-decker, and four other line of battle ships, three frigates, two brigs of war, and a schooner, with about 4,000 landmen on board. Brigadier-General Prevost, the Governor of the island, immediately made the best dispositions for its defence, and opposed, with the small force under his command, the landing of the French inch by inch. At length the whole of the enemy's force, consisting of 4,000 men, under the cover of the tremendous fire of the Majestueux, of 120 guns, four 74's, and the frigates, having landed, and having made such a disposition as threatened to cut off the retreat of the Governor, and his few remaining troops from the town and fort of Prince Ruperts, and thereby reduce the whole island; General Prevost, with theutmost promptitude and presence of mind, directed the regular force, under Captain O'Connell, to make a forced march across the island, and join him at Prince Ruperts; to which place he himself repaired attended only by his staff, and arrived in 24 hours: the troops also arriving there with their wounded, after four days continued march, through the most difficult country existing. The Governor immediately took the necessary precautions to place the fort in the best state, and his appearance was so formidable, that the French Commander-in-Chief, after having in vain summoned him to surrender, thought proper, after levying a contribution upon the inhabitants of Roseau, which town had been set on fire, in the moment of attack, and had suffered severely by the conflagration, on the 27th, to reimbark his whole force; and after hovering a day or two in the bay, and about the port of Prince Ruperts, made easy sail towards Guadaloupe. Throughout the whole of this transaction, the highest praise is due to the Governor, and the British troops under his command. At one period 200 of the latter were opposed to more than 2,000 of the enemy, and under the command of the gallant Major Nunn, who unfortunately received a mortal wound in the action, and subsequently under Captain O'Connell, succeeded in withstanding them for more than two hours, and then effected their retreat, after having made much slaughter of the invaders. Nor should the militia of the island be without their due share of praise, for their exemplary bravery and steadiness. Upon the whole it may be stated, with perfect propriety, in the words of General Myers, that in this affair, had not the town of Roseau been accidentally destroyed by fire, we should have little to regret, and much in which to exult."—Annual Registerfor 1805, p. 220.
Public Despatches and Letters relative to the Attack of the French upon Dominica, in 1805, p. 9.
From Lieut.-Gen. Sir William Myers to Earl Camden.
"Barbadoes, March 9th.
"My Lord,
"I have the honour to enclose to your Lordship, a copy of a despatch from Brigadier-General Prevost, dated Dominica, 1st March. The details contained therein, are so highly reputable to the Brigadier-General, and the small portion of troops employed against so numerous an enemy, that I have great satisfaction in recommending that their gallant exertions may be laid before his Majesty: the zeal and talents manifested by the Brigadier-General, upon this occasion, it is my duty to present to his royal consideration, and, at the same time, I beg to be permitted to express the high sense I entertain of the distinguished bravery of His Majesty's troops, and the militia of the colony, employed upon that service. The vigorous resistance which the enemy have experienced, and the loss which they have sustained in this attack, must evince to them, that however inferior our numbers were on this occasion, British troops are not to be hostilely approached with impunity; and had not the town of Roseau been accidentally destroyed by fire, we should have little to regret, and much to exult in. Your Lordship will perceive by the returns, that our loss in men, compared to that of the enemy, is but trifling; but I have sincerely to lament that of Major Nunn, of the 1st West India regiment, whose wound is reported to be of a dangerous kind; he is an excellent man, and a meritorious officer.
"I am, &c.(Signed) "W. Myers."
"Head-quarters, Prince Ruperts,Dominica, March 1st.
"Sir,
"About an hour before the dawn of day, on the 22nd ult. an alarm was fired at Scotshead, and soon after a cluster of ships was discovered off Roseau. As our light increased, I made out five large ships, three frigates, two brigs, and small craft, under British colours, a ship of three decks, carrying a flag at the mizen. The frigates ranged too close to Fort Young; I ordered them to be fired on, and soon after 19 large barges, full of troops, appeared coming from under the lee of the other ships, attended and protected by an armed schooner full of men, and seven other boats, carrying carronades. The English flag was lowered, and that of France hoisted. A landing was immediately attempted on my left flank, between the town of Roseau and the post of Cachecrow. The light infantry of the 1st West India regiment, were the first on the march to support Captain Serrant's company of militia, which, throughout the day, behaved with great gallantry. It was immediately supported by the grenadiers of the 46th regiment. The first boats were beat off, but the schooner and one of the brigs coming close in shore, to cover the landing, compelled our troops to occupy a better position, a defile leading to the town. At this moment I brought up the grenadiers of the St. George's regiment of militia, and soon after the remainder of the 46th, and gave over to Major Nunn these brave troops, with orders not to yield the enemy one inch of ground. Two field-pieces were brought into action for their support, under the command of Serjeant Creed, of the 46th regiment, manned by additional gunners and sailors. These guns, and a 24-pounder from Melville's battery, shook the French advancing column, by the execution they did. I sent two companies of the St. George's militia, under the command of Lieut.-Col. Constable, and a company of the 46th, to prevent the enemy from getting into the rear of the positionoccupied by Major Nunn. On my return, we found the Majestueux, of 120 guns, lying opposite to Fort Young, pouring into the town and batteries her broadsides, followed by the other 74's and frigates, doing the same. Some artillery, several captains of merchantmen, with their sailors, and the artillery-militia, manned five 24-pounders, and three 18's at the fort, and five 24's at Melville's battery, and returned an uninterrupted fire. From the first post red-hot shot were thrown. At about ten o'clock, a. m. Major Nunn, most unfortunately for His Majesty's service, whilst faithfully executing the orders I had given, was wounded, I fear mortally. This did not discourage the brave fellows. Captain O'Connell, of the 1st West India regiment, received the command and a wound almost at the same time; however, the last circumstance could not induce him to give up the honour of the first, and he continued in the field, animating his men, and resisting the repeated charges of the enemy, until about one o'clock, when he obliged the French to retire from their advanced position with great slaughter.
"It is impossible for me to do justice to the merit of that officer. You will, I doubt not, favourably report his conduct to His Majesty, and, at the same time, that of Captain James, who commanded the 46th, and Captain Archibald Campbell, who commanded the grenadiers of the 46th. Foiled and beat off on the left, the right flank was attempted, and a considerable force was landed near Morne Daniel. The regulars not exceeding 200, employed on the left in opposing the advance of their columns, consisting of 2,000 men, could afford me no reinforcement; I had only the right wing of the St. George's regiment of militia to oppose them, of about 100 men. They attacked with spirit, but, unfortunately, the frigates stood in so close to the shore, to protect their disembarkation, that after receiving a destructive fire, they fled back and occupied the heights of Woodbridge Estate. Then it was that a column of the enemy marched up Morne Daniel, and stormed the redoubt, defended by a small detachment, which, after anobstinate resistance, they carried. On my left Captain O'Connell was gaining ground, notwithstanding a fresh supply of troops, and several field-pieces, which had been brought on shore by the enemy. I now observed a large column climbing the mountain to get in his rear. The town, which had been for some time in flames, was only protected by a light howitzer, and a six-pounder to the right, supported by part of the light company of St. George's regiment. The enemy's large ships in Woodbridge-bay out of the reach of my guns, my right flank gained, and my retreat to Prince Ruperts almost cut off, I determined on one attempt to keep the sovereignty of the island, which the excellent troops I had, warranted. I ordered the militia to remain at their posts, except such as were inclined to encounter more hardships and severe service; and Captain O'Connell, with the 46th under the command of Captain James, and the light company of the 1st West India regiment, were directed to make a forced march to Prince Ruperts. I then allowed the President to enter into terms for the town of Roseau; and demanded from the French general, that private property should be respected, and that no wanton or disgraceful pillage should be allowed. This done, only attended by Brigade-Major Prevost, and Deputy-Quarter-Master-General Hopley, of the militia forces, I crossed the island, and in 24 hours, with the aid of the inhabitants, and the exertions of the Caribs, I got to this garrison on the 23rd. After four days continued march, through the most difficult country, I might almost say, existing, Captain O'Connell joined me at Prince Ruperts, wounded himself, and bringing in his wounded, with a few of the royal artillery, and the precious remains of the 46th regiment, and the 1st West India light company. I had no sooner got into the fort, than I ordered cattle to be drove in, and took measures for getting a store of water from the river in the bay. I found my signals to Lieutenant-Colonel Broughton, from Roseau, made soon after the enemy had landed, had been received; and that in consequence, he hadmade the most judicious arrangements his garrison would allow of, for the defence of this important post. On the 25th, I received the letter of summons I have now the honour to transmit, from General of Division La Grange, and without delay, sent the reply you will find accompanying it. On the 27th the enemy's cruizers hovered about the head; however, the Centaur's tender (Vigilante) came in, and was saved by our guns. I landed Mr. Henderson, her commander, and his crew, to assist in the defence we were prepared to make. As far as can be collected, the enemy had about 4,000 men on board, and the whole of their force was compelled to disembark before they gained an inch of ground. I trust this despatch by Capt O'Connell, to whom I beg to refer you; his services entitle him to consideration. I am much indebted to the zeal and discernment of Foot-Adjutant Geraly, who was very accessary to the execution of my orders. I cannot pass unnoticed the very soldier-like conduct of Lieut. Wallis, of the 46th regiment, to whom I had entrusted the post of Cachearn or Scotshead; perceiving our retreat, he spiked his guns, destroyed his ammunition, and immediately commenced his march to join me at Prince Ruperts, with his detachment; nor that of Lieutenant Shaw of the same regiment, who acted as an officer of artillery, and behaved with uncommon coolness and judgment, whilst on the battery, and great presence of mind in securing the retreat of the additional gunners belonging to the 46th regiment.
"On the 27th, after levying a contribution on Roseau, the enemy reimbarked, and hovered that day and the next about this port. This morning the French fleet is seen off the south end of Guadaloupe, under easy sail. Our loss you will perceive by the returns I have the honor to transmit, was inconsiderable, when compared with that acknowledged by the enemy, which included several officers of rank, and about 300 others.
"Geo. Prevost."
"P.S. As I find I cannot spare Captain O'Connell fromthe duty of this garrison, I must refer you to the Master of a Montreal vessel, who has engaged to deliver this despatch."
"Au Quartier-Général au Roseau,le 5th Ventose, An 13.
"Le Général de Division Lagrange, Grand Officier de la Légion de l'Honneur, &c. &c.
"Monsieur le Général,
"Avant de commencer les operations militaires contre le fort où tous paraissez tous être rétiré, je viens remplir une préalable autorisé et pratiqué, entre les nations civilisées.
"Vous connoissez aussi bien, M. le Général, votre position, et peut-être même, l'inutilité d'une nouvelle éffusion de sang; vous avez dû gémir en voyant le malheureux sort de la ville de Roseau; mon premier soin en y entrant a été de donner des ordres pour arrêter l'incendie: mais par malheur le mal était dejà trop grand. Le besoin en subsistence produit toujours des effete cruels, et le résultat peut en être calculé plus positivement que celui de toute autre chose. Ne fût-ce que cette consideration, elle est plus que suffisante sous la circonstance où vous vous trouvez pour accepter les conditions honorables que je suis disposé à vous accorder, et soustraire ainsi par un arrangement les habitans intéressants de cette colonie à des nouveaux malheurs presque toujours inséparable des événemens de la guerre. Veuillez, M. le Général, me faire connoître bientôt votre réponse; en attendant, recevez l'assurance de la haute consideration que j'ai pour vous.
"J'ai l'honneur de vous saluer,(Signed) "Lagrange."
"Head-Quarters, Prince Ruperts,Feb. 25th, 1805.
"Sir,
"I have had the honour to receive your letter. My duty to my King and country is so superior to everyother consideration, that I have only to thank you for the observations you have been pleased to make on the often inevitable consequences of war. Give me leave, individually, to express the greatest gratitude for your humanity and kind treatment of my wife and children; at the same time to request a continuance thereof, not only to her and them, but towards every other object you may meet with.
"I have the honor to be, &c. &c.(Signed) "G. Prevost."
Copy of a Letter from Lord Camden.
Downing Street, 18th May, 1805.
"Sir,
"Your letter to me of the 1st of March, containing your reports to Lieut.-General Sir William Myers, of the attack made by a French squadron with a considerable body of troops on the Island of Dominica, of the gallantry with which they were opposed, and of their retreat from that Island on the 27th February has been laid before the King. I have it in command from His Majesty to express his entire satisfaction in the judicious and brave exertions which you displayed in this emergency; and you will signify to the officers and men of the Regular and Militia forces under your command, His Majesty's entire approbation of their spirited and meritorious services.
"I have honor to be, &c. &c.(Signed) "Camden."
Letter from His Royal Highness the Duke of York to the Earl of Camden, p. 9.
"Horse Guards, Nov. 26th, 1805.
"My dear Lord,
"I have to acknowledge your lordship's letter of yesterday, recommending Major-General Prevost to my peculiarprotection, from the military spirit and knowledge which he displayed in the late affair with the enemy at Dominica, and I request your lordship will be persuaded of the high sense I entertain of the services and exertions of Major-General Prevost, and that I shall be happy in availing myself of any opportunity to recommend him for a mark of His Majesty's favor.
"I remain, my dear Lord,"Yours sincerely,"Frederick.""To the Earl of Camden, K. G.&c. &c. &c."
Letter from the Speaker of the House of Assembly of Dominica to General Prevost, p. 10.
"Dominica, 17th May, 1805.
"Sir,
"I have the honor of transmitting to your Excellency, by desire of the House of Assembly, a copy of their Resolutions of the 2d instant, expressive of their thanks of your late gallant defence of the colony against a French force so very superior, and appropriating the sum of 1,000 guineas for the purchase of a Sword, and a service of Plate to be presented to you in testimony of their gratitude and approbation.
It affords me a peculiar gratification to be the organ of the House on the present occasion, because I am thus furnished with an opportunity of expressing the high esteem I entertain for your Excellency's character, not only as a brave, judicious, and experienced officer, in which capacity your merit has long stood conspicuous, but as a man of strict probity, and as a Governor whose public measures have uniformly been directed by views of general utility. When I say thatit is with the deepest regret I contemplate the departure of your Excellency from this colony, I speak the language of every respectable member of the community—but you go to reap in the approbation of your Sovereign, and the applauses of your country, the well-earned reward of your unremitting vigilance and indefatigable exertions, and I am persuaded that you carry with you from hence the earnest wishes of all good men for the happiness and prosperity of yourself and your family.
"I have the honor to be,"With the highest respect, &c. &c.(Signed) "J. Lucas,"Speaker."
The Governor's Reply.
"Prince Ruperts, 3d June.
"Sir,
"You have conveyed to me, in terms most flattering, the thanks of the House of Assembly for my endeavours to save this colony from the misery of a foreign and oppressive yoke. As the organ of that body you have expressed its partial sentiments with a friendly zeal, that has made on my mind an impression not to be effaced.
Allow me, Sir, through you, to offer to the House of Assembly my unfeigned thanks for the token I have received of its partial consideration of my services. That unanimity which has been our strength, uninterrupted, may render Dominica, even in the present perilous moment,[104]almost invulnerable. Whilst danger exists, I will never abandon my post; nor shall I ever cease to entertain a grateful recollection of the sentiments the occasion has called forth.
So much of the resolutions of the House as we not personal to myself, I have caused to be given out in General Orders, to the Regular and Militia Forces.
"I have the honor to be, &c.(Signed) "G. Prevost."