DEFENCE OF FORT M’HENRY.
The success of the attack on Washington encouraged the British general, Ross, to undertake an expedition against another city. Baltimore was the object of attack. The approach to that city by water was defended by Fort M’Henry, garrisoned by one thousand men, under Major Armistead; and by other temporary works. On the 11th of September, Admiral Cochrane appeared at the mouth of the Patapsco, with a squadron of fifty sail, and a strong body of British troops was landed at North Point, about fourteen miles below Baltimore. At sunrise, on the 13th, the bombardment of the fort commenced. The bomb vessels of the enemy were stationed about two miles from the fort, and were consequently beyond the reach of its guns. Though compelled to remain inactive, the troops in the fort were steadfast to their posts. The bursting of a shell within the southwest bastion creating some confusion, the ships of the enemy attempted to profit by it, but they were soon compelled to retreat to their former stations, where they continued a tremendous bombardment until the morning of the 14th. During the night, some barges and rocket vessels succeeded in passing the fort, but they were driven back with severe loss, by the fire from the smaller works.