would have prevented all communication with the ships, rendered it expedient to reimbark the whole without delay: by very great exertions this was effected in the best order during the night, and early the following morning, in very severe weather, without any molestation from the enemy.
“On returning from the shore to the America at sunset, I found a deputation from the mayor and inhabitants of the town, who had been permitted by the commandant to come off with a flag of truce, to petition us to cease our fire from the houses, he having threatened to dislodge us by setting fire to the suburbs. As arrangements were already made for embarking, I consented to a cessation of firing on both sides till eight the next morning; a favourable circumstance for us, the troops on their march to the boats being exposed to a fire from the ramparts.
“I have very great satisfaction in reporting to you the zeal and good conduct of all the officers, seamen, and marines, employed on the abovementioned service.
“To Lieutenant-Colonel Catanelli every praise is due, for his able and indefatigable exertions; and I feel thankful for his cordial co-operation. The conduct of the troops of the Italian Levy, both for bravery and discipline in the field, and the cheerfulness with which they endured the constant exposure in boats in the most severe weather, excited our admiration. I am much indebted to Captain Grant, for his able advice and assistance; to the Honorable Captain Dundas, who undertook the direction of the marines and seamen; and to Captain Hamilton, who volunteered his services on shore, my thanks are particularly due, for the gallant manner in which they conducted them; and I feel much indebted to the Honorable Captain Duncan, for the ready and useful assistance he afforded me on every occasion. Captain Mounsey, when the fending was effected, had moved with the Furieuse and Termagant, to watch the motions of three brigs of war lying in the outer mole, but which afterwards moved into the inner one, the crews having landed to assist in the defence of the place.
“Captain Dunn was indefatigable in his exertions at the landing place; and I feel tailed upon to notice the good conduct of the officers and crews of the boats, through a continued and most fatiguing service.
“I beg that I may be permitted to mention the assistance I received from Lieutenant Bazelgette, senior of this ship, a most deserving officer; and to notice the conduct of Mr. Bromley, the Surgeon, who volunteered his services on shore with the troops.
“I herewith enclose a list of the killed and wounded, and am happy to say our loss is much smaller than might have been expected. I have no account of that of the Italian Levy, but I believe it is not considerable. There have been no correct returns of prisoners; but Captain Dundas informs me, that above three hundred have been taken in the two affairs. I have the honor to be, &c.
“Vice-Admiral Sir Edward Pellew, Bart.”
