ARTICLES OF CAPITULATION OF FORT BOURBON.
On the 21st of March, 1794, by order of their Excellencies Sir Charles Grey, K. B. General and Commander in Chief of his Britannic Majesty's forces in the West Indies, &c. &c. &c. and Vice Admiral Sir John Jervis, K. B. commanding his Majesty's fleet, &c. &c. Commodore C. Thompson, Colonel R. Symes, and Captain J. Conyngham, met at Dillon's house to receive proposals of capitulation for Fort Bourbon, from Colonel d'Aucourt, Captain Dupriret, and Gaschet Dumaine, jun. nominated Commissioners for that purpose by General Rochambeau.
The following Articles were proposed, discussed, and modified, at a second conference held at Fort Royal on the 22d of March, 1794.
Article I. The garrison, composed of the troops of the line, artillery, gunners of the marine, and national guard, shall march out with colours flying, thirty rounds a man, and two field pieces with twelve rounds.—Answer. The colony of Martinique, already reduced by the arms of his Britannic Majesty, and the forts and towns of St. Pierre and Fort Royal taken with sword in hand, General Rochambeau can only capitulate for Fort Bourbon, and what it contains.—Granted. But they are to lay down their arms at a place appointed, and not to serve against his Britannic Majesty, or his allies, during the present war.
II. Three months pay to be allowed to the troops of the line.—Answer. No pay will be given. All their effects will be allowed them; and they will be provided with whatever may be necessary for their voyage to France.
III. The thirty-seventh regiment, formerly Marshal Turenne's, shall keep their colours and arms.—Answer. Refused, being contrary to all customs of war. The officers may keep their swords.
IV. They shall be furnished with ships to carry them to France.—Answer. Granted.
V. The emigrants, who have returned to Martinique, shall not be present where the garrison lay down their arms or embark.—Answer. Granted.
VI. Such persons of the national guard, who can give proofs of their property, shall be permitted to remain in the island, giving that property as security for their conduct.—Answer. Those of the national guard in Fort Bourbon who have affairs to settle, and whose sojourn may not be deemed dangerous to the colony, may remain according to the declaration of the General, dated January 1, 1794.
Such as wish to go to France shall be allowed, leaving their agents here.—Answer. Granted.
VII. Persons not included in the above article, who are compelled to return to France, shall be allowed a certain time to settle their affairs.—Answer. A proper time shall be allowed: fifteen days at least.
VIII. Persons belonging to the garrison of Fort Convention, possessing no landed property, but who exercised some profession or trade previous to the present capitulation, shall be allowed to continue their trade or calling; nor sent to France, provided their future conduct should not make such a measure necessary.—Answer. They are regarded in the same predicament with those in Article VI.
IX. The legal regulations of the constituted authorities shall be confirmed.—Answer. Refused.
X. The code of civil judicature in force through the island shall be continued for the space of two years.—Answer. Granted, till his Britannic Majesty's pleasure be known.
XI. The property of owners and captains of ships shall be secured to them on board and on shore.—Answer. Granted, as to their property in Fort Bourbon.
XII. The inhabitants of St. Pierre, embarked on English ships, shall be set at liberty, and their property, under seal, secured to them.—Answer. This article cannot come within the present capitulation. The claimants may apply to the commanders of the fleet and army.
XIII. The ordonateur and officers of administration shall have permission and time to regulate their accounts, and to take with them the papers relative to that end.—Answer. Granted.
XIV. There shall be an entire and absolute oblivion of the past, and an end to all animosities.—Answer. Granted, according to the proclamations.
XV. The rights of free citizens inrolled in the national guard shall be preserved.—Answer. Refused.
XVI. The liberty of individuals composing the companies of l'Enclume, d'Octavius, de la Croire, and de Pontouur, shall be confirmed.—Answer. Refused. The slaves must be restored to their owners.
XVII. A period shall be fixed for the taking possession of the fort, and the necessary time allowed for the garrison to take out their effects.—Answer. The two gates of Fort Bourbon to be delivered up to the troops of his Britannic Majesty immediately after the exchange of the present articles. The garrison will march out at the great gate, and be conducted to the place appointed for each corps, by the commissioners who have managed the present capitulation, and will lay down their arms at the place of their embarkation. Three days will be allowed for the evacuation of the fort, and the commissaries of artillery and stores will remain in the forts to take inventories of all the magazines.
XVIII. The greatest attention shall be paid to the sick and wounded; and they shall be furnished with ships to carry them to France as they recover.—Answer. Granted; but at the expence of the French government, and to be attended by their own surgeons; if not sufficient for the purpose, surgeons shall be furnished.
XIX. General Rochambeau, immediately upon the surrender of the fort, shall be at liberty to take his measures for his return to France. A frigate to be furnished him, his aides de camp, secretaries, and suite.—Answer. A commodious vessel shall be allowed to General Rochambeau, with the necessary passports for his safe return to France.
XX. The effects, trunks, chests, private papers, and all that General Rochambeau shall declare to belong to himself and suite, shall be put under the protection of an English guard, when the troops of that nation shall have taken possession of Fort Convention, and shall be embarked with him.—Answer. Granted.
XXI. The civil ordonateur, or intendant of the colony, shall have liberty also, with the officers of administration, comptroller and treasurer, with those employed in the public offices at St. Pierre and Fort Royal, to return to France.—Answer. Granted.
XXII. The same demands made by General Rochambeau in Art. XX. shall be granted to the intendant and those under him.—Answer. Granted.
XXIII. All papers of accounts in the forts or town shall be carefully collected by the principals of each department to which they belong, and embarked in the same ship with the ordonateur.—Answer. All papers, not essential to be left in the colony, shall be given, and free access to take authentic copies of such as it may be thought necessary to retain.
XXIV. Captains and officers of merchant ships, who have not settled their affairs, shall be allowed time to do so. The former the space of four months, the latter of two months, under the protection of the commander of his Britannic Majesty's forces, that they may recover their debts; after which they will procure the readiest passage to whatever place may be expedient for their affairs, with passports from the English commanders.—Answer. Granted.
Additional Article. Fort Bourbon to be delivered up to his Britannic Majesty in its present state, with no deterioration of its batteries, mines, magazines of artillery or provisions, and every thing it contains which is not the private property of the garrison.
Fort Royal, March 22, 1794.
| Signed. | ||
| D'Aucourt. Gaschet, Fils. Dupriret. | C. Thompson. Rich. Symes. John Conyngham. | |
| Approved by me, | Approved by us, | |
| Dte. Rochambeau Commander in Chief of the French West India Islands. | Charles Grey. John Jervis. | |
On the 21st of March Captain Faulknor was promoted from the Zebra sloop to the command of the Bienvenue French frigate of 40 guns, taken in the Carénage of Fort Royal, and which was now named the Undaunted by the Admiral, to express the greatness of that action, which finished the capture of the whole island. At the same time Lieutenant Bowen was promoted to the command of the Zebra sloop, for his gallant conduct on the 17th instant, as well as at various other times.
The gun-boats, which by the French were called "Les Petit Diables," were of infinite service, and gained the officers commanding them immortal credit, by the steady and well-directed fire they kept up constantly, both night and day, on Fort Louis; and though continually exposed to an heavy fire both of grape and round shot, their loss was small, not more than four killed and wounded, during the siege. The several ships of the line contributed their aid, by sending row-boats armed to attend them in case of accident.
CHAPTER VIII.
GENERAL PRESCOTT IS LEFT GOVERNOR OF MARTINIQUE … THE COMMANDERS IN CHIEF SAIL FOR ST. LUCIA … GENERAL DUNDAS LANDS NEAR PIGEON ISLAND … THE FLEET ANCHORS AT MARIGOT DE ROSSEAUX … PRINCE EDWARD LANDS WITH THE GRENADIERS, AND MARCHES TOWARDS MORNE FORTUNE … COLONEL COOTE LANDS WITH THE LIGHT INFANTRY … THE FLEET ANCHORS IN BARRINGTON'S BAY … COLONEL COOTE STORMS A REDOUBT ON THE MORNE … GENERAL RICARD SURRENDERS THE ISLAND … COLONEL SIR CHARLES GORDON LEFT GOVERNOR OF ST. LUCIA … THE COMMANDERS IN CHIEF SAIL TO MARTINIQUE.
His Excellency the Commander in Chief, having left Lieutenant General Prescott to command at Martinique, with the fifteenth, thirty-ninth, fifty-eighth, sixty-fourth, and seventieth regiments to garrison that island, on the 30th of March he embarked the following troops on board his Majesty's ships in the bay of Fort Royal, viz. the brigade of grenadiers, commanded by his Royal Highness Prince Edward; the brigade of light infantry, under command of Major General Dundas; and the sixth, ninth, and forty-third regiments, commanded by Colonel Sir Charles Gordon; with engineers under Colonel Dornford, and a detachment of Royal artillery, with some light ordnance, under Lieutenant Colonel Paterson.—On the 31st the Admiral made the signal for the fleet to sail by eleven A. M. and by half past nine the next morning was off the north part of the island of St. Lucia, where he lay to for the rest of the fleet that had fallen to leeward. Every thing having been previously arranged between the General and Admiral, they effected three different landings on the island with little resistance, and no loss. By half past one P. M. Major General Dundas's division, consisting of the third battalion of light infantry, under Lieutenant Colonel Close, and conducted by Captains Kelly and Lord Garlies of the navy, made good their landing at Ance du Cap, not far from Le Gros Islet[31]; and the second light infantry, under Lieutenant Colonel Blundell, conducted by Commodore Thompson, at Ance du Chocque, who were ordered to join the first column, taking the enemy's batteries in reverse, and to occupy a position for the purpose of investing the works of Morne Fortuné on the side of the Carénage; all which, notwithstanding a sharp fire kept up by the enemy from several small batteries, was executed by General Dundas with his usual spirit and abilities. As the Boyne and the rest of the fleet passed along the coast they received the fire of many small forts and batteries, without returning it; and though considerably within the range of their shot, which passed over and through their sails and rigging, not a man was hurt in any of them. At four P. M. the fleet anchored in twenty fathom water, within a cable's length of the shore, at Marigot de Rofeaux; at which place his Royal Highness Prince Edward with the grenadiers landed about six o'clock in the evening, under the immediate direction of the Admiral, and began their march soon after. At night they halted on the heights opposite to Morne Fortuné, from which they were separated by the Grand Cul de Sac, or Barrington's Bay. Soon after sun-set, Lieutenant Colonel Coote, with the first battalion of light infantry, landed from the Boyne at Ance de la Tocque, proceeded to and took the four-gun battery of Ciceron, investing Morne Fortuné on that side; at the same time covering Cul de Sac, or Barrington's Bay, for the entrance of our fleet, which anchored there the next morning, being the 2d of April. This morning early the Prince dispatched two companies of grenadiers, with Lieutenant Smyth of the 7th regiment, his brigade major, to attack two batteries on the coast, which they found evacuated, with the tri-coloured flag still flying; this they brought off with them, and spiked the guns. Sir Charles Grey, visiting the Prince's quarters, found his men were halted in a very swampy and unhealthy place, and ordered them to change their ground, and move on to a house at the bottom of Morne Fortuné, which they performed that night without any loss, though part of their road (near a mile in length) was exposed to the fire of the fort on the Morne, as also of a little two-gun battery on a point of land under the fort, which, as they passed the ravine at the head of the Grand Cul de Sac, played upon them with round shot and grape: however, the distance was too great for any mischief to happen from the latter. In their march they had to pass a swampy thicket of plantain trees, which concealed them from the view of the enemy, who nevertheless kept up a constant fire of random shot; and though the distance was now very trifling, and the cannonade extremely heavy for a long time, not a man was killed, and a few only slightly hurt by the splinters of stones and rock which flew in great plenty round them.—Early in the morning of the 3d of April, Lieutenant Colonel Coote, with four light companies, stormed a redoubt and two batteries close to the enemy's principal work on the Morne, and killed two officers and thirty men, made one prisoner (a surgeon), and liberated one British seaman from captivity: he then spiked six pieces of cannon, and fell back to Morne Ferré, where he established his quarters[32]. The Commander in Chief now determined to carry the works on Morne Fortuné by assault, and accordingly a plan was formed for a general attack to be made on it the next morning by the troops which now invested it, aided by a party of seamen under command of Lord Garlies: but General Ricard, perceiving the determined behaviour of our troops, prevented the plan being put in execution, by agreeing to terms of capitulation, which had been offered by Sir Charles Grey, who had sent in Major Maitland with a flag of truce to summon the garrison to surrender. The gates of the fort were put into our possession the same evening by nine o'clock. On the 4th the enemy marched out of the fort, with the honours of war, to the glacis, where they piled their arms, and were embarked on board of transports, which conveyed them to France, under conditions that they should not serve against his Britannic Majesty during the war[33]. When his Royal Highness Prince Edward marched into the fort of Morne Fortuné, and hoisted the British colours, he changed its name to Fort Charlotte, in honour of his august parent.—Major Maitland had been dispatched to Pigeon Island with a summons, which, by order of General Ricard, was delivered up to his Majesty's troops on the same terms as the Morne. The Commander in Chief left the sixth and ninth regiments, with detachments of artillery and engineers, as a garrison for this island, under the command of Colonel Sir Charles Gordon, who was appointed governor till his Majesty's pleasure was known.
The island of St. Lucia had its name from the day, dedicated to the virgin martyr St. Lucia, on which it was discovered. It is about six leagues south of Martinique, and twenty-one north-west from Barbadoes: it is fifteen miles long, and eleven broad; is very hilly, and covered in a great many places with thick woods, of whose timber the planters of Martinique and the neighbouring islands build their houses and mills. The fustic and cocoa tree is found here also in great abundance. This island has frequently changed its masters, being alternately possessed by the French and English: it has many good bays and harbours, and is well watered by several fine clear rivers. Two of the mountains are said to have been volcanos. Morne Fortuné is a high hill which overhangs Basse Terre, the principal town of the island. On the summit of the Morne is a fortification, as yet unfinished; by nature it is very strong, but art has done little for it; for, when the outworks fall, the fort is incapable of withstanding a siege. We found but little ammunition or military stores, and one small uncovered tank was the only reservoir for water. Here is also a Pigeon Island, which is called by the French Gros Islet, and is so strongly fortified both by nature and art, that if it was well supplied with provisions and stores, would be capable of braving a very formidable attack. The bay of the Grand Cul de Sac is a fine harbour for ships of any size to ride in, during the hurricane months.
Lieutenant D'Arcy Preston, being promoted from a lieutenancy in the Boyne to the command of the Rattlesnake sloop of war, sailed for England this day, carrying Captain Mason, one of the aid de camps of the Commander in Chief, and Captain Parker of the Blanche, with an account of the further success of his Majesty's arms in the reduction of the island of St. Lucia[34], happily effected without the loss of a single man, though there had been a good deal of cannonading from the enemy's batteries and works. The flank battalions being reimbarked on board of their respective ships, and Sir Charles Grey with his suite being as usual with the Admiral on board the Boyne, the whole fleet weighed and made sail from this island by eight in the morning of the 5th of April, and by nine at night they anchored in Fort Royal harbour, Martinique. Thus, in the short period of something more than two months, by the efforts of this army and navy, inconsiderable indeed in numbers, but united in an ardent desire to prove themselves faithful to their country, and strenuous to defend and promote her welfare, and increase her consequence, was the British standard a second time hoisted on the walls of a republican fortress, and another island added to the British dominions.
To provide for the future order and good government of their conquests was now the task of Sir Charles Grey and his friend and colleague, Sir John Jervis; and as, in the attainment of them, their hearts and counsels were in unison, so in this most arduous business were their united exertions employed to establish a system of government for the conquered islands, which might be equally serviceable to their country, as conciliatory to the minds of the newly acquired subjects of it; but at a moment like this, when they were pushing on from one field of conflict and glory to another, it was impossible to render any system of government perfect; they therefore thought that the best mode would be to leave them a government which appeared to have been most desired by the majority of the people, and which agreed better with our own forms than the wild confusion of democratic and revolutionary power. Accordingly, they for the present left them in the exercise of their accustomed laws, such as they had been at the happiest period of their own government, and which appeared best calculated to forward a system of confidence among their own order, and to prepare them for that form of government (we from experience know the blessings of, and) which unquestionably, on the same experience, would become earnestly desired by all ranks of people. To further also the desirable object of conciliating the minds of the conquered by an act of moderation and indulgence, the conduct of all civil affairs[35] was principally entrusted to those whose influence in the colony pointed them out as proper to be confided in; and whilst every tendency to licentiousness would be checked by the vigorous direction of General Prescott under his military government, the former courts, for the administration of justice agreeable to the laws and customs before the revolution, were allowed to go on, that the affections and gratitude of his majesty's new subjects might in the surest manner be attached and secured. However an arrangement of officers, guided by the constitution of the other British colonies, was not neglected, and accordingly several nominations were made and transmitted home for approval. St. Lucia was left in the same state, as to its government, as Martinique.
CHAPTER IX.
EXPEDITION AGAINST GUADALOUPE … THE ISLES DE SAINTS ATTACKED AND TAKEN … THE BOYNE AND VETERAN ANCHOR OFF GROZIER … THE TROOPS LAND UNDER COVER OF THE WINCHELSEA FRIGATE … CAPTAIN LORD GARLIES WOUNDED … FORT FLEUR D'EPEE TAKEN BY STORM … FORT LOUIS AND THE TOWN OF POINT A PITRE TAKEN … CASUALTIES … GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE ISLAND.
On Tuesday the 8th of April, the fleet[36], having the Commander in Chief on board, with the remainder of the forces which were not left to garrison the two islands of Martinique and St. Lucia, weighed anchor by seven o'clock A. M. and sailed from the bay of Fort Royal on an expedition against Guadaloupe (the troops having been previously shifted from the men of war to the transports). The Admiral detached Captain Rogers in the Quebec frigate, Captain Faulknor in the Blanche, Captain Incledon in the Ceres, and Captain Scott in the Rose, to attack a cluster of small islands called the Saints, lying between Dominique and Guadaloupe, which they executed with much spirit and gallantry: having landed a party of their seamen and marines, they carried them without any loss on their part, on the morning of the 10th instant; and when the fleet arrived the same morning off the islands, they had the satisfaction of perceiving the union flag hoisted on their two commanding batteries. These islands are valued principally on account of a small harbour, where a few ships of war may ride in safety during the hurricane months; and also that they overlook a good deal of the coast of Basse Terre.—About noon on the 10th of April the Boyne and Veteran anchored in the bay of Point à Pitre, off the village of Grozier, and some more of the fleet in the course of the afternoon; but a fresh wind and lee current prevented most of the transports from getting in till the day after. Without waiting however for the arrival of all the troops, the General determined to land those that were with him, immediately; and accordingly the first and second battalions of grenadiers, one company of the forty-third regiment, fifty marines, and four hundred seamen detached by the Admiral, under the command of Captain George Grey of the Boyne, made good their landing by one o'clock in the morning of the 11th, under a severe fire from Fort Fleur d'Epée, and a three-gun battery at Grozier. As it was impossible for them to land without the latter being silenced, Lord Garlies in the Winchelsea was ordered on that service, which he performed in a masterly manner, laying his ship within half-musket shot of the battery, as near indeed as the depth of water would allow him to approach; and after a smart fire for some time on both sides, he drove them from their guns, and the troops then effected their landing without any loss. In this business, though every shot from the battery hit some part of the Winchelsea, cutting the masts and rigging, Lord Garlies was the only man wounded, receiving a bad contusion in his face. Some more of the troops having arrived on the 11th, the General, perceiving the enemy to be in considerable force at the strong post of Fort Fleur d'Epée, determined to attack them without loss of time, and accordingly arranged his plans in the following order: the first division, under command of his Royal Highness Prince Edward, consisting of the first and second battalions of grenadiers and one hundred of the naval battalion, was to attack the post on Morne Mascot, an height within musket-shot of the fort; the second division, commanded by Major General Dundas, consisting of the first and second battalions of light infantry, and one hundred of the naval battalion, to attack the fort of Fleur d'Epée in the rear, and to cut off its communication with Fort Louis and Point à Pitre; and the third division, commanded by Colonel Symes, consisting of the third battalion of grenadiers and the third battalion of light infantry, and the remainder of the naval battalions, to proceed by the road on the sea-side to co-operate with Major General Dundas. The soldiers were particularly directed not to fire, but trust solely to the bayonet; and the seamen, who were commanded by Captain Nugent and Captain Faulknor, to use their pikes and swords; all which was most scrupulously obeyed; the several divisions having marched earlier, according to the distance they had to go, that they might commence the attack at the same instant. The signal for the attack, which was a gun from the Boyne, was given by the Admiral at five o'clock in the morning of the 12th. The troops moved forward with the most determined intrepidity. As they advanced to the first picquet the alarm was given; the out-posts were driven in, or put to death; and in an instant the sides of the hill on which the fort was situated were covered by our people, who scrambled up, under a most tremendous discharge of grape shot and musketry: some sailors jumped into the embrasures, driving the enemy before: the soldiers, who had reached the gates, at length succeeded in forcing them open, and a scene of dreadful conflict took place: the enemy still continuing to make a stout resistance, were put to the sword in great numbers; at length, as many as could escape through the gates and embrasures, or by leaping over the walls, fled with the utmost precipitation towards the town of Point à Pitre. Our victorious troops soon followed, driving them across the Carénage to Basse Terre, whither they and several of the inhabitants made their escape in boats, before the Ceres and two gun-boats could get into the Carénage to cut off their retreat, though this service was performed by Captain Incledon with the greatest alertness. With Fleur d'Epée fell Hog Island, and Fort Louis, an old fortification commanding the entrance into the harbour of Point à Pitre, which town also was taken possession of at the same time by Sir Charles Grey. Our loss in this action was considerable, in proportion to the smallness of our numbers, being fifty-four killed and wounded; the enemy lost in all two hundred and fifty. Fort Fleur d'Epée is strongly situated on the summit of a hill, two sides of which are towards the sea, from whence it has a very formidable appearance; but being commanded by Morne Mascot, when that falls into the power of an enemy it is of little consequence. On the brow of the hill, a little below the fort, is an half-moon battery, which commands a great distance along the coast. Among the many accidents worth notice, I beg leave to mention the following, which I hope will be a striking instance (among many of the same kind which have happened this war) that it behoves all our people serving on shore, whether military or naval, to be distinguished by red dresses. The French, as well as several other continental troops, are dressed in blue; of course, in the confusion of an assault, especially if it happens before day-break, a seaman's blue jacket may, and I am convinced often has, been the cause of his death by the hands of his own countrymen. A seaman of the Boyne, belonging to the first company, expressing a wish that he might have an opportunity of lowering the French flag, and hoisting our own; and being a remarkably fine fellow, was pitched upon to carry the union flag on this attack for that purpose, in case the fort should be taken; and accordingly it was wrapped in many folds round him, and he was to defend it as well as he could. When he approached the fort, the first object that attracted his notice was the flag-staff, and, regardless of every danger, he rushed forward, pike in hand; and having once got into the fort, away he ran to the desired spot, and had already struck the tri-coloured flag, and was endeavouring to disengage himself from his wrapper, in order to hoist that in its stead, when some soldiers coming suddenly round the corner of a building, and taking him for one of the enemy, in an instant attacked him, and he fell severely wounded before they discovered their mistake. I am happy however to add, that the poor fellow, by the care and skill of Mr. Weir, the surgeon-general[37] of the navy, recovered sufficiently to shew, before the end of the campaign, that his courage was undiminished by the accident.—Captain Faulknor, who had so eminently distinguished himself at the capture of Fort Louis in Martinique, had a narrow escape in this business: having led his men on to the assault with his usual gallantry, he was encountered by a French officer, whom he instantly struck at with his sword, which falling on the epaulette on his shoulder, did not penetrate: the Frenchman closed with him, and being the strongest man, threw him to the ground; and, wresting the sword from his hand, was in the act of plunging it into his body, when fortunately a seaman belonging to the Boyne, seeing the danger his gallant leader was in, with his pike pinned his adversary to the earth.—As at this time I was the only chaplain on the expedition (Mr. Ruxton, chaplain of the fifty-sixth regiment, having died soon after his landing in Martinique), and several of our men having fallen in this gallant attack, I went on shore up to Fort Fleur d'Epée to pay the last honours to our unfortunate countrymen, eighteen of whom were killed on the spot. The scene I beheld surpassed my powers of description. It was early in the morning, soon after the action was over. At the foot of the hill lay several of our seamen badly wounded, waiting to be carried on board their respective ships: a little further, under the tall trees that grew within a few yards of the sea, several naval officers reposing after the fatigues of the morning, and their men not far from them. As we went up the hill we met some of the wounded prisoners brought in by our people; and at the gates of the fort was an heap of the slain, who had all died by the sword or bayonet. Within the fort the destruction appeared more dreadful, being more confined; a multitude of miserable wretches expiring of their wounds, and many of our own people in the same situation: in the midst of this was his Excellency writing his dispatches on a table, on which, fatigued with the action, an artilleryman was sleeping, whom the General would by no means have disturbed; one proof among thousands that the truest heroism may be, and often is, united to the greatest humanity.—It would be invidious to mention particularly, who distinguished themselves in this business, where all seemed emulous of glory; but as the greatest responsibility is attached to the higher ranks, it will be but justice to say, that Prince Edward, General Dundas, Colonels Symes, Cradock, and Coote, with the other officers of rank, as also Captains Nugent and Faulknor, the officers commanding the naval battalions, received the thanks of the Commander in Chief in public orders, for their excellent conduct and resolution, displayed through the whole of the action.
Point à Pitre is the capital of that part of Guadaloupe called Grand Terre, which is separated from the other part, called Bass Terre, by a narrow arm of the sea, in form of a river; it is called the river Sallée. The town is neat and well built, but in an unhealthy situation, being on the borders of a large extent of swampy land; it has a good harbour called the Carénage, the entrance to which is guarded on one side by an half-moon battery lately erected on Islet a Couchon, or Hog Island, and on the other by the ancient castle of Fort Louis; it is also defended on the land side by a hill called Morne Government, on which is a strong battery. The country on this part of Guadaloupe is remarkably flat, forming a strong contrast to Basse Terre, which gradually rises from the sea-shore till it forms a chain of hills extending from one end of that part of the island to the other.
CHAPTER X.
THE GENERAL EMBARKS HIS ARMY, AND LANDS ON BASSE TERRE AT PETIT BOURG … OCCURRENCES ON THE MARCH TOWARDS PALMISTE … THE ADMIRAL ANCHORS IN ANCE DE BAILLIF … GENERAL DUNDAS LANDS, AND FORMS A COMMUNICATION WITH SIR CHARLES GREY … THE PALMISTE TAKEN BY ASSAULT … GENERAL COLLOT DELIVERS UP FORT SAINT CHARLES AND THE ISLAND OF GUADALOUPE AND ITS DEPENDENCIES TO THE COMMANDERS IN CHIEF.
On the 13th, the forty-third regiment being landed to garrison Fort Prince of Wales (late Fleur d'Epée), the town of Point à Pitre, and the other ports on Grand Terre, the General and the rest of his army reimbarked on board of their respective ships; and in the evening the Sea Flower brig, Captain Pierrepoint, sailed for England with dispatches. At twelve o'clock the next day, the Quebec and the other frigates, with the transports, sailed over to the other side of the bay; and in the afternoon the troops, consisting of the grenadiers and light infantry, commanded by his Royal Highness Prince Edward, landed at a village called Petit Bourg, where many of the principal people of the island were assembled, who received the Commander in Chief and the Prince with the greatest demonstrations of joy. A party of sailors also, under the command of Captain Rogers of the Quebec, landed at the same time. That night the General returned to the Boyne; the next morning he landed at St. Mary's, where he found Colonel Coote, with the first battalion of light infantry, who had marched in before day-break from Petit Bourg. The troops now marched forward, principally along shore, without any remarkable occurrence, and halted for the night at a small village between Cabes Terre and Petit Bourg. On the 16th the troops, still advancing along shore, reached Trou Chien, a very strong post, which the enemy had abandoned; and before dark the army halted on the high ground over Les Trois Riverres, from whence they saw the enemy's two redoubts and their strong posts on the heights of Palmiste. The General intended to have attacked the enemy that night; but the troops were too much fatigued from the long and difficult march they had just finished. Here, at a beautiful plantation belonging to Monsieur Bellisle, the Prince and several of his officers were sumptuously entertained at supper by that gentleman, who repeated his hospitality the next day. All this time the Admiral stood off and on near the shore, to be ready to pour in assistance in case there should be any necessity for it: but on the army retiring up the country towards Palmiste on the 17th instant, he came round towards the town of Basse Terre. Fort St. Charles fired a few shot and shells at the Boyne without effect. At half past one P. M. we were becalmed off the town, and had a beautiful view of the country round it, which, rising gradually inland, presents a varied amphitheatre of plantations, woods, hills, and vallies, interspersed with elegant and well-built houses, ornamented by many fine plantations of palms, cocoa-nut, and other tall and majestic trees. By five P. M. we anchored in Ance de Baillif, about a mile from the town of Basse Terre, which was hid from our view by an high point of land forming the bay. On the 17th Major General Dundas, with the third battalion of grenadiers, and second and third battalions of light infantry, landed at Vieux Habitant, some miles north-west of Basse Terre, meeting with little opposition and no loss, taking possession of Morne Magdalene, and destroying two batteries, then detaching Lieutenant Colonel Blundell with the second battalion of light infantry, he in the night forced several difficult posts of the enemy. On the 17th General Sir Charles Grey made a disposition for the attack of a redoubt called d'Arbaud, and a battery named d'Anet, both near Grand Ance; the troops pushed forward, and halted within a league of the village of Trois Riviere. By day-break on the 18th Lieutenant Colonel Coote, with the first battalion of light infantry, attacked and stormed the battery; every man in it was either killed, wounded, or made prisoner, and not one of our own was hurt. At the same time the grenadiers were ordered to advance against the redoubt, which was commanded by this battery, and which they found had been deserted by the enemy early in the night, who burnt and destroyed every thing in and near it. On the night of the 17th instant, the enemy in the town of Basse Terre (being divided in their opinions, and party running very high among them) set fire to the town, the whole of the west end of which was consumed, containing much valuable property, and many fine houses. The motives for this mischief we never could learn, as they were at that time in full possession of the town; and as it was entirely commanded by Fort St. Charles, there could be no danger of its falling into our hands until the fort was taken. At one o'clock in the morning of the 20th, the Commander in Chief, at the head of his troops, advanced to the attack of the principal dependance of the enemy, which was a chain of batteries on the heights of Palmiste, extending above a league. The grenadiers were commanded by Prince Edward, and the light infantry by Lieutenant Colonel Coote. At five in the morning the attack commenced by the light infantry advancing to the assault of the highest and most formidable battery, which, though well defended by nature and art, was soon obliged to yield to the superior activity and bravery of our troops, who with their bayonets forced the works, putting thirty of them to death. It is remarkable, that in this affair the three first sentries at the advanced batteries, on firing their muskets on the alarm, shot two advanced men of the light infantry and their guide. The instant our men had made themselves masters of this post, perceiving that it commanded all the others, they with infinite spirit and address turned the guns against them, under cover of which our troops marched up and took them all in succession, without much further opposition, although, by every appearance, they had determined to make a vigorous resistance, having felled trees and laid them across the road, and at the entrance of their batteries, and the guns being mostly loaded with grape-shot, or bags of musket balls, it seemed as if they expected to have come to close quarters. General Dundas had now formed a communication with Sir Charles Grey by Morne Howell, and the Palmiste (the key of the town and Fort St. Charles) being thus in our possession, the governor, Monsieur Collot, sent a flag of truce to Sir Charles Grey, offering to deliver up Guadaloupe and its dependencies on the same terms as had been granted to General Rochambeau at Martinique, and Ricard at St. Lucia: the garrison to march out with the honours of war, and lay down their arms, and to be sent to France, on condition that they should not serve against the British forces and their allies during the war; General Collot and his suite to be allowed a certain time to settle their affairs, and to be conveyed to North America in a frigate. Accordingly, the light infantry being left in the batteries on the Palmiste, the remainder of the troops marched down and took possession of the gates of both town and fort that night. The next day the Boyne weighed anchor, and was towed by boats round from the bay of Baillif to the road of Basse Terre, where she anchored within a cable's length of the shore. At night a design of the garrison, to rise upon our people and murder them, was happily made known to General Dundas, who instantly rode down to the fort, and took the necessary precautions to prevent the completion of this infamous plot. At eight o'clock in the morning of Tuesday the 22d of April the French garrison of Fort St. Charles marched out, consisting of fifty-five regulars of the regiment of Guadaloupe, and the fourteenth regiment of France, and eight hundred and eighteen national guards and others; Prince Edward, with the grenadiers and light infantry, taking possession immediately, struck the republican and hoisted the British colours, changing the name of it to Fort Matilda. From the returns found among General Collot's papers it appeared that the number of men capable of bearing arms in the island of Guadaloupe was at that time five thousand eight hundred and seventy-seven; and the number of fire-arms actually delivered out to them was four thousand and forty-four[38]. On the 26th Prince Edward with his suite embarked on board the Blanche frigate, commanded by Captain Faulknor, and sailed for North America; his regiment, the seventh or royal fuzileers, being stationed at Quebec. The spirit and enterprise of his Royal Highness on this expedition, with his strict attention to discipline, merits the highest applause, and deservedly gained him the respect and esteem of all who served with him. Before the troubles (occasioned by the revolution) commenced in these islands, the town of Basse Terre was a place of very considerable traffic, and much resorted to by merchants and others: it is regularly built, well watered, and beautifully situated on the sea-shore, and well defended by several batteries and forts, particularly to the eastward by Fort St. Charles (now called Fort Matilda), which is a regular fortification of great strength and extent; but being commanded by surrounding high lands, particularly Houelmont, a steep hill, on which is a battery that overlooks, not only the fort and town, but the bay, and much of the country near it, it is incapable of maintaining a long defence against a powerful attack by land, but is impregnable by any that can be made against it from the sea only. In the centre of the main street is a spacious walk shaded by handsome well grown trees, which forms an agreeable relief from the heat which in this climate is so very oppressive. Above the town is a large and commodious hospital, which at this period we found of infinite use. The island of Guadaloupe was discovered by Columbus, who named it after some mountains in Spain to which it bore resemblance, but by the native Caraibs it is called Karukera: it is situated thirty leagues N. W. from Martinique, and is reckoned the largest and most valuable island the French held in these parts; and, from its vicinity to Antigua and Dominica, as well as to several of our smaller islands, is of great consequence to us. The island is divided into two parts by a narrow channel called La Riviere Sallée, or the Salt River: the eastern part is called Grand Terre, and is comparatively flat; it is nineteen leagues long and nine broad: the western part is properly called Guadaloupe, but is now known by the name of Basse Terre, and is again subdivided (by a ridge of mountains extending from one end to the other) into Capes Terre and Basse Terre: this part of the island is thirteen leagues and a half in length, and about seven at the broadest part. The islands immediately dependent on Guadaloupe are Marigalante, Deseada, and the Saints. Marigalante is of a round form, about forty miles to the S. E. of Guadaloupe; it is about five leagues long and four broad, and was discovered by Columbus in 1493, who gave it the name of his own ship. Deseada, or Desirada (that is, the Desirable Island), was the first of these islands discovered by Columbus in his second voyage in 1493; it is about fifteen miles N. E. of Guadaloupe, and is not very fertile. The Saints are a cluster of islands on the S. E. side of Guadaloupe, of which the westernmost is called Terre de Bas, or the Low Island; the easternmost the High Island: there is a good harbour here for a few ships. These islands received the name of Sanctos from the Spaniards, who first discovered them on All Saints day. There is some good land in the valleys, but the hills are covered with rocks.—Thus, in the short period of three months, concluded a campaign, in which three valuable islands and their dependencies were added to his majesty's dominions. To the unanimity which subsisted between the Commanders in Chief, together with their allowed high professional knowledge, and seconded by the spirited conduct of all the inferior ranks, must this unlooked-for success be attributed, as the force employed to effect it was certainly far short of what it ought to have been for so great an enterprise. The originally small army was now obliged to be divided, to garrison and secure our newly-acquired possessions; the fatigue became the more burthensome, and the troops that had gone through the campaign with unexampled bravery and patience, at length began to feel the effects of a climate, that even in peaceable times is often found too trying for European constitutions; and which was at this period rendered tenfold more severe by that dreadful malady the yellow fever, which, though it had subsided when we first came to the West Indies, was now, as it were, awakened by the arrival of fresh victims, and acquired more strength from the small resistance that could be made against it by constitutions already broken by fatigue under hardships and difficulties unparalleled.—As there were no expectations of any reinforcements of consequence being sent till November, the General determined to return to England, after he had made a proper arrangement to render the conquests permanent, and secure them against any attempt that might be made by those perturbed spirits that, notwithstanding his utmost vigilance, might remain in the colonies; and which he in a short time effected to his satisfaction, so far as it related to any attempt that could be made by the enemy in these parts: but it is not to be imagined that, with the small number of men he originally brought out, now reduced by a variety of causes to half their number, and daily decreasing in an alarming degree, any resistance could be made against a strong reinforcement, if the French nation should be able to send out one, from Europe[39]. Previous to his return, however, he was determined to leave the islands in the best possible state of defence; and for that purpose he, with the Admiral, visited all the islands in this quarter, inspecting the strong posts and fortifications, while the Admiral paid attention to the naval department in each; and in the beginning of June, after having taken formal leave of the army in general orders, he sailed for Europe.
CHAPTER XI.
THE CHARGES OF EXTORTED CONTRIBUTIONS AND OPPRESSIONS, ALLEDGED AGAINST THE COMMANDERS IN CHIEF BY CERTAIN INTERESTED INDIVIDUALS, REFUTED … THE REAL CAUSES OF THE LOSS OF GUADALOUPE.
After having given an account of the glorious success which had crowned the exertions of our gallant commanders and their forces, I now enter upon a less pleasant task, the loss of Guadaloupe, since followed by the capture of some other islands: but I do it the more willingly, because in the simple facts it will be my duty to detail, the real cause of those misfortunes will appear, and a clear refutation ensue of those gross calumnies, originally propagated by avarice, fraud, and falsehood, and repeated by ignorance and malice, which have endeavoured to fix a stigma on two commanders, whose integrity of heart and openness of conduct are as demonstrable, as their bravery is acknowledged.
The accusation of plunder, confiscation, and extorted contribution, is founded on a tale, of which half only has been told, and that half with intentional inaccuracy.
It has always been understood that property found in any place taken by storm or assault became the legal prize or booty of the captors; consequently the Commanders in Chief found no hesitation or difficulty in considering the produce, merchandise, &c. afloat and on shore at St. Pierre and Fort Royal (both which were literally so taken) as justly liable to forfeit and confiscation. The estates of the emigrant royalists had been sequestered, and the produce of them sold by the agents of the republic; consequently all manufactured or collected produce on them became in like manner, by his majesty's gracious bounty, the right of the captors.
If what is found in places or vessels taken by assault be not considered as legal prize, what is? Is no booty, no prize money, to be the reward of successful heroism, after the dreadful fatigues, diseases, and dangers of war? Where then will be the spur to noble actions? Where the spirit that impels the soldier and the sailor to brave the horrors of arms and elements, of raging sickness, of excruciating death?
All the produce and merchandise found in the town of Fort Royal and on board the vessels in the Carénage, and the same in the town and bay of St. Pierre and in Trinité in the island of Martinique, and at Basse Terre and Point à Pitre in Guadaloupe, were disposed of by public auction for the benefit of the captors: but those on the estates, manufactured and packed ready to be brought down to the ports for embarkation, were not sold at this time, because persons came forward on the part of the inhabitants themselves, and proposed a contribution, in lieu of that part of the property, as falling more easy on them, and consequently being preferable to confiscation; though they did not at that time pretend to dispute the legality of the forfeiture. The Commanders in Chief acceded to this their own proposal, through a pure wish of accommodation. The exorbitant and unprecedented contribution, therefore, levied on an unwilling people, turns out to be an offered compromise for an undisputed prize, received by a merciful and tender conqueror out of kindness to the conquered.
How well bestowed this kindness was, how deserved the confidence placed in the honour of these people, will appear by the sequel! They received back the forfeitures, and then endeavoured to get rid of paying the compromise (themselves had offered) by infamous misrepresentations of the conduct of those Commanders, of whose generosity they made use, to defame, and then to rob them! For no sooner had they shipped off the property, and got it safe away from the power of the Commanders, than they began to demur at paying the stipulated sum, particularly at St. Lucia, which island had agreed to pay one hundred and fifty thousand pounds.
Situated as I was, and having an opportunity of drawing my conclusions on the spot, I venture, with a very strong confidence of its truth, to relate the following as the secret history of this business. An agent for the prizes at St. Lucia, joining one of the agents who had already been employed in the sale of the vendible property at Martinique (possibly piqued by some diminution of confidence which the Commanders in Chief from good reason had betrayed towards them), no sooner met the inhabitants of St. Lucia, whom he had convened on the subject of raising the stipulated compromise for the plunder, than he offered, with an unparalleled duplicity, while confessing himself sent on the part of the captors, to suggest a mode by which the payment of this debt of honour might be evaded. "Send," said he, "an immediate deputation to the English government, anticipate the story of the Commanders, and a prohibition will instantly issue." The deputation was sent without loss of time: they relied on securing a large body of English merchants, particularly those in the West Indies, on their side; and their reliance was well placed, for they relied on that which they could easily prove to be their interest. The truth is, that many of these West India traders[40] had carried on an illicit traffic to the French islands before they were captured; and in consequence of it had at the time of the capture immense sums still due to them. Apprehending, therefore, that the payment of this contribution might retard, or even endanger, the discharge of their own debts, they joined heartily in every scheme for defeating this just and prior claim. They encouraged the French in their opposition; they misrepresented the facts to England; they attempted to blast the laurels of the Commanders; and became clamorous against the cruelty of plunder, and illegality and impolicy of confiscation, that they might enjoy the rewards of their own treason. While this plot was secretly carrying on, and a heavy storm brooding over their heads, the General and Admiral were proceeding in their expedition against Guadaloupe, little suspicious, till the dispatches from England discovered the success with which the artful stories of this party had been attended.
Thus was the unparalleled good order and discipline with which the army and navy had abstained from plundering the towns of St. Pierre, Fort Royal, and Trinité, &c. rewarded! This was the recompence of the ruinous and expensive service in which the officers had engaged; of the unexampled sufferings and dangers which they and their brave men had undergone. Is not contribution in lieu of booty, the custom of war? Was it not the case with Prince Ferdinand in a former war, through every town and village of Germany[41]? Did not the Marquis de Bouillé levy a heavy contribution on the island of St. Christopher's, when taken by the French in 1782? Where then could contribution ever be proper if not here? Here was no capitulation; but, though the islands fell by storm, the Commanders, acting on the purest principles, to save the persons and property of the inhabitants from the plunder[42] of an enraged soldiery, agreed to accept as a recompence due to the forbearance and good conduct of that body, a composition the most easy to the conquered; and yet their fame has been vilified, and the hard-earned pittance of booty snatched away! for none of the contributions were ever paid, except a part at St. Lucia, which was afterwards refunded. Surely this is small encouragement for such a desperate service! If such be the future prospects of our army and navy, their spirits will droop, and half that ardour that generates success subside!
I shall now mention the real cause of the loss of Guadaloupe, which, with that of some other islands that have since fallen, has been maliciously attributed to the oppression and peculations of Sir Charles Grey and Sir John Jervis; for this purpose I must refer back to the time when the expedition was first planned by our government, and the command given to those officers. As the capture of the French possessions in the West Indies was rightly judged to be of the greatest consequence both in a political and mercantile view, a very formidable armament was prepared, and Martinique was pitched on as the first object for attack; and, since the capture of that island had been attempted the year preceding, and failed, it was of course expected to be put on its guard, and rendered thereby more difficult. But at this period (unfortunately for this expedition) another object diverted the attention of government, and eight regiments[43], with a great part of the artillery, which were embarked and ready to sail, were taken from that force, which combined would in all probability have secured to us our conquests in the West Indies, and enabled us to extend them to St. Domingo, and all the other French islands in that quarter. Government was well aware, and acknowledged, that this diminution of force must so cripple the expedition, that it would render the prospect of any success doubtful; and no idea was entertained that the conquest of Martinique would even have been attempted, Fort Bourbon alone seeming too formidable for an attack by such an inconsiderable body: however, when Sir Charles Grey and Sir John Jervis arrived at Barbadoes, and had arranged every thing for an active campaign, they determined to begin with the strongest island, being confident that, when that was gained, the smaller places would soon fall; whereas, by attacking the lesser islands first, they must necessarily diminish their small armament, and render the capture of so well defended and strong a place as Martinique, with the formidable fortress of Fort Bourbon, totally impossible. The event justified their determination. But when this great object was gained, and St. Lucia and Guadaloupe taken, the army (originally too small) was divided into three parts to garrison the conquered places; and by that dreadful scourge, the yellow fever, which now began its ravages, together with the loss sustained in the several actions of the campaign, not one of the islands, nor indeed a single post on each, could be called properly defended, in case the French should send out an armament to the West Indies. If, as soon as the news of the capture of the first island had reached England, a strong reinforcement could have been sent out, and repeated on the conquest of each succeeding place, the small body of the enemy (who made their attack on Guadaloupe, and stole in at a moment when the gallant governor, General Dundas, was breathing his last, and when every post was reduced to extremity by sickness) would with ease have been repelled, or perhaps their whole party taken.—In the succeeding part of this work it will be my business to detail the events that gradually led to the evacuation of this island, and gave the enemy such advantage as enabled them since to extend their conquests to some other inferior places.
CHAPTER XII.
GENERAL DUNDAS DIES OF THE YELLOW FEVER … HIS CHARACTER … A FRENCH SQUADRON ARRIVES IN THE WEST INDIES, AND TAKES POSSESSION OF GRAND TERRE … THE COMMANDERS IN CHIEF, ON RECEIVING AN ACCOUNT THEREOF, RETURN TO GUADALOUPE … SIR CHARLES GREY LANDS ON GRAND TERRE, AND TAKES THE HEIGHTS OF MASCOT … SEVERAL ACTIONS TAKE PLACE … A TRUCE TO BURY THE DEAD … AN UNSUCCESSFUL ATTACK ON POINT A PITRE.
On the evening of the 3d of June, Major General Thomas Dundas, the governor of Guadaloupe, became the victim of that dreadful fever, which once more began to desolate these islands. He was ill only three days. By his death the army in the West Indies suffered an irreparable loss, and the service in general one of its brightest ornaments. Amiable both in public and private life, brave and generous, possessed of that true courage which never exceeds the bounds of humanity, he justly gained the love of the army, and fell lamented by all that knew him[44]. At this inauspicious moment an armament arrived from France, under the direction of two commissioners from the national assembly. It consisted of two frigates, one corvette, two forty-fours armed en flute, and two other ships, with about one thousand five hundred land forces on board of them[45]. They instantly made good their landing on Grand Terre; and, after two unsuccessful efforts, at last succeeded in their attack on Fort Fleur d'Epée, which they carried by storm[46].—As soon as this news reached Colonel Blundell, he instantly dispatched a schooner to St. Christopher's, with an account of it to the Commanders in Chief, which fortunately found them there, the Boyne being off Old Road taking in water for her voyage to England. Sir Charles Grey was busy in inspecting the works on Brimstone Hill. The Commanders in Chief instantly determined to return to Guadaloupe, and accordingly pushed, under a press of sail, for Basse Terre, where they arrived in the afternoon of the 7th of June, and were joined by the Resource, Captain Ross, and the Winchelsea, Captain Lord Garlies; on board of which ships General Grey and his suite embarked to be landed at Basse Terre, in order to visit the ports in that quarter, and to give the necessary instructions for future operations. The Admiral ordered the Nautilus, Captain Bayntun, to proceed to Martinique, with orders from Sir Charles Grey for a reinforcement from thence, and himself proceeded in the Boyne to the Bay of Point à Pitre. On his passage he met Commodore Thompson with his squadron from Martinique, coming round the point of Vieux Port. On their joining, he ordered the Solebay and Avenger into Basse Terre Road, to carry the General's further orders into execution, touching reinforcements from the different islands.
At noon of the 8th of June, the Boyne and the rest of the fleet anchored off Grozier, and saw the union jack displayed on Fort Fleur d'Epée as a decoy to British vessels, which we found had been successful in several instances; from hence, too, we had a view of the French fleet lying in the harbour of Point à Pitre. The Admiral, without delay, arranged every thing in his department to prevent a surprise from any future reinforcements of the enemy which might arrive. At day-break of the 9th, the enemy in Fort Fleur d'Epée, on hoisting their colours, opened an heavy fire of round and grape-shot on the Boyne, as did the two-gun battery at Grozier on the rest of the fleet, but happily without any material damage to them. This morning the London transport, having troops on board, got on shore on the Basse Terre side of the bay. Lieutenant Thompson of the Boyne, was sent with the launch to take the men out of her; in doing which he was exposed to a severe fire from a battery on Islet a Couchon, or Hog Island; but he succeeded in removing them without any loss. In the evening Sir Charles Grey and his suite came on board the Boyne,[47] from whence he could for the present with greater ease arrange his troops, and communicate with them at their different posts. This day also Lord Viscount Garlies in the Winchelsea frigate attacked the two-gun battery at Grozier, where he had distinguished himself in the last campaign, and once more drove the enemy from their guns: but very few troops having yet arrived, no attempt could be made to land there, as before. The Boyne having been much annoyed by the fire of Fort Fleur d'Epée and Grozier battery, was now warped a cable's length further from the shore. On the 11th, in the morning, several boats full of men, attended by a gun-boat, were discovered making towards our post at Petit Bourg, from the harbour of Point à Pitre: their intention seemed to be to attack a transport and sloop of ours. The Winchelsea frigate was ordered towards them, and receiving the fire of the battery on Hog island, and another near Fort Louis, she obliged them to return into the harbour. The enemy had crossed the river Sallée to Basse Terre, and had taken post at Berville, a fine plantation belonging to a gentleman of that name. They instantly set fire to the house, and destroyed all the mills, sugar-works, and store-houses, belonging to it, to a very large amount; they then encamped at the post of St. Jean, or Gabbare, a point of land opposite to the harbour of Point à Pitre. General Grey thought this a favourable moment to attack them, which was accordingly done at eleven o'clock at night on the 13th, under the command of Brigadier General Dundas, who with the 1st light infantry led by Brevet Major Ross, with the 39th regiment under Major Magan, and a detachment of artillery and two field-pieces, attacked the enemy with such determined bravery, that after a severe conflict they fled in the utmost disorder, precipitating themselves into the sea in order to swim across the harbour to Point à Pitre; but few succeeded in the desperate attempt, many being drowned, and more shot by our light infantry, who followed close at their heels: they left one hundred and seventy-nine dead on the field; our loss was trifling, seven men killed and twelve wounded. The enemy's camp, colours, baggage, and ammunition, with one piece of cannon, fell into our hands.[48] The light infantry and the 39th regiment remained at Berville, having for their advanced post Savonge, and St. Jean on the banks of the river Sallée. On this point of land, which runs into the harbour of Point à Pitre, Captain Pratt, commanding a detachment of artillery, was ordered to erect a battery of two twenty-four pounders and two howitzers, which he effected with such dispatch, that by the next morning it was completed, and opened with a most tremendous fire on the republican frigate La Pique, lying within gunshot of the shore, to the no small surprise and astonishment of the commodore, who was then on board. The frigate retaliated, and a brisk fire was kept up for some time, when she thought it advisable to weigh anchor, and take shelter under the guns of her own batteries, after having lost between forty and fifty of her crew in killed and wounded, and being much damaged in her hull and rigging. On the 14th the Roebuck, Captain Christie, arrived with troops (draughted from several regiments), and two gun-boats also came very seasonably; one of which, under command of Lieutenant Wolley of the Boyne, attacked the battery at Grozier, and again made the enemy retire from their guns.[49]
On Thursday the 19th of June, General Grey once more made good his landing on Grand Terre, about six miles to windward of Grozier, under cover of the Vanguard, Veteran, Vengeance, Solebay, and Winchelsea, and immediately moved on to Grozier, from whence he drove the enemy, who retreated towards Fort Fleur d'Epée, burning the houses and sugar-works that lay in their road.[50] About this time Lieutenant Macnamara, of the marines, was sent to Deseada to secure that island against any attempt of the enemy. On his landing he was attacked by a party of the inhabitants, who had formerly surrendered the island to us, aided by some brigands and a mixed rabble. In a short time, however, he drove them to the mountains, having killed twelve, and hung up six, as an example to deter others from similar acts of rebellion. On the 20th the enemy sunk one of our gun-boats by the fire of their battery on Hog Island, but none were killed in her. On the 21st they set fire to, and burnt a fine house on the heights of Mascot, near Fleur d'Epée, leaving the foundation walls only standing. Our troops now encamped at Grozier were employed in erecting batteries against Fort Fleur d'Epée, as the enemy were in too great force for our reduced numbers to attempt an assault on their principal work. On the 22d the Honourable Captain Stewart, commanding the 9th grenadiers, and a party of seamen under Lieutenant Wolley,[51] marched from Grozier to attack St. Ann's Fort, a strong post about twelve or fourteen miles to windward. After a most fatiguing march, during which some heavy showers of rain rendered the roads hardly passable, they reached the foot of the hill on which the fort was situated; up which our people scrambled so leisurely, and such a profound silence reigned among them, that they approached within fifteen or twenty paces of the centinel before he perceived them, though he was apparently alert on his post. Our French guide was now so terrified that he fired his pistol at the centinel, which gave the alarm; instantly our troops turned forward, and with three cheers began to storm the works. The enemy were completely surprised, and not more than two of them escaped. During this the French emigrants who had accompanied our people, had marched into the town, where they began the most brutal excesses; but the humane exertions of our officers soon put a stop to their mischievous proceedings. In this attack near four hundred of the enemy were killed, and one prisoner taken: on our part one only was wounded. Several sloops and schooners were found in the bay, all in ballast and their sails unbent, except one of them, in which Lieutenant Thomson was sent with an account of their success to the Commanders in Chief. It being impossible to keep possession of this post, from the small number of our troops, and intelligence being brought that a large detachment of the enemy were on their march to cut off the retreat of this party, it was determined to return to the camp without loss of time, all the ammunition having been previously destroyed, and the guns of the fort dismounted.—The day proving unusually hot, and the roads being deep and slippery from the incessant rains that had fallen during the preceding night, the troops were not able to reach the camp without halting; in consequence of which they took post at a planter's house on an eminence, where they were received with great hospitality. By three in the afternoon the men who had dropped down by the way from fatigue, were brought in (except two who reached the camp next morning), and the party proceeded to their different stations without further accidents.[52]
On Tuesday the 24th of June, General Grey opened his batteries, which he had erected near Grozier, against Fleur d'Epée; at the same time Brigadier General Dundas kept up a smart fire on Point à Pitre, where the enemy seemed to be making preparations against the hurricane months, now approaching, by stripping the ships in the harbour of their sails and rigging. On the 26th, early in the morning, the enemy, to the number of three hundred, made a sortie from Fleur d'Epée, on our advanced post, consisting of one hundred men, but were soon obliged to retreat; we lost one man killed and eight wounded: at the same time our batteries and gun-boats cannonaded the fort; in the latter two seamen were wounded. On the 27th, the batteries at Grozier having opened as usual on Fleur d'Epée, a detachment of our troops under Brigadier General Fisher marched forward to attack a piquet of the enemy posted on Morne Mascot, from whence they drove them after a sharp contest, and established themselves, as our advanced post, within musket shot of the fort.[53] During the preceding night the light infantry at camp Berville were sent by Brigadier General Dundas, under command of Major Ross of the 25th regiment, to Petit Bourg, where they embarked, and joined the army at Grozier. This movement, by which the main body was much strengthened, was effected unperceived by the enemy, and the 39th and 43d regiments only left at Berville.
Several skirmishes now daily took place, and many fell on both sides; though, from want of steadiness at the last, the enemy were always greater losers than ourselves. On the morning of the 29th of June, a large body of the enemy, to the number of one thousand, marched out of Fort Fleur d'Epée, and seemed to meditate an attack on a detachment of light infantry under Colonel Gomm, posted to the right of the grenadiers who were on Morne Mascot, under Brigadier General Fisher. By this false movement, they hoped that a detachment of the grenadiers would be sent to reinforce the light infantry, and thereby weaken the force on Morne Mascot, which was their real object of attack. In a short time, however, they were perceived mounting the side of Mascot heights, with colours flying and singing the national songs, covered by a heavy fire of round and grape-shot from Fleur d'Epée, which prevented our grenadiers from shewing themselves till the enemy were close to them; on which General Fisher made them prostrate themselves on the ground, and wait the approach of the enemy in that posture. The instant the republicans came within a few yards of them they started up, and an obstinate engagement commenced, which terminated at length by the grenadiers advancing to the charge; on which the enemy fled, and were pursued down the hill with great slaughter. Our loss amounted to thirty killed and wounded: among the former was Lieutenant Toosey of the 65th regiment; of the latter, Captain De Rivigne of the artillery, received a ball in the side of his neck. Brigadier General Fisher was hit three times by grape-shot, which caused contusions only, and his horse was killed under him. In the evening the enemy sent in a flag of truce, requesting permission to bury their dead and carry off their wounded, which was granted them;[54] yet they left a number of both, on the side of the hill, to the great annoyance of our piquet, which during the following night was disturbed by the groans of the dying and wounded. The day following the enemy again made an attempt, in equal force, against our post on Mascot, and was again repulsed with great loss. The rainy season being already set in, and the hurricane months now approaching, determined the Commander in Chief to make an effort to finish the campaign at once. From his success in the two last engagements, and the excellent manner in which he had planned the attack, it would no doubt have succeeded, had his orders been punctually obeyed. The plan he had laid down was, for a large body of troops under General Symes, to march during the night, and make themselves masters of Morne Government, and the other commanding heights round the town of Point à Pitre, whilst himself, at the head of the rest of his army, was in readiness on the heights of Mascot to storm Fort Fleur d'Epée, on receiving a signal from General Symes; but, from some unfortunate misapprehension, the whole of General Grey's well-concerted plan was rendered abortive, and the almost total destruction of our exhausted forces ensued: but it is my business to detail the events of this unfortunate affair as accurately as the confused accounts I have received will permit. Brigadier General Symes, having under his command the first battalion of grenadiers, commanded by Brigadier General Fisher, and the first and second light infantry, led by Colonel Gomm, with a detachment of seamen from the Boyne[55] and Veteran, commanded by Captain Robertson of the Veteran, marched from the heights of Mascot at about nine o'clock at night, on the 1st of July. They first descended into a deep ravine thick planted with coffee bushes, through which there was no road, the seamen bringing up the rear. The night was uncommonly dark, which rendered their march both dangerous and fatiguing. After proceeding about a mile they halted on a road, and were joined by two small field-pieces, which were put under the charge of Lieutenants Thomson and Maitland, to be dragged by their seamen. During the halt some people, who were heard to speak French, were seen near the rear; Lieutenant Wolley endeavoured to secure them, but they escaped through the bushes, and no further notice was taken of this. The army moved forward about two miles further, on a road leading through deep ravines, and made a second halt for about an hour; the march was then re-commenced, but no orders ever passed during the time: they now proceeded for some miles without meeting with any obstruction, when an order came for the seamen in the rear to advance to the attack, which they did by running as fast as they could for upwards of a mile. The parties they passed were not in the best order, owing to the quickness of the march, until they came to the grenadiers, who were drawn up as a corps de reserve. About this time the bugle horn sounded to advance, and soon after a heavy firing of round and grape-shot from Morne Government, and also from several other batteries of the enemy, commenced, as also from some twelve-pounders landed from the shipping in the harbour, which were placed in tiers, and entirely enfiladed the road along which the troops were advancing. After passing the grenadiers, the seamen were halted for a few minutes to form, they being perfectly out of order from running; but scarce thirty of them were got together, when Lieutenant Wolley was ordered to advance with them, and Captain Robertson remained to form and bring up the rest. The cannonading from the enemy's guns was the most severe the oldest soldier ever witnessed, especially from the guns which were on the road; two or three tiers of which were planted behind each other, from which the enemy were driven by the bayonets of our gallant fellows, who no sooner had taken one battery, but another opened on them from behind. The whole now became a scene of confusion impossible to describe. Instead of any of the heights being attempted, the greater part of the troops and the seamen were got into the town, where they were mowed down by the grape-shot, which played upon them in every direction,[56] as well as musketry from the windows of the houses. Where-ever our men perceived this, they broke open the doors, putting all they found in them to death; and those who could not stand the bayonet were shot as they leaped from the windows. General Symes was by this time badly wounded,[57] and his horse killed under him. Colonel Gomm (who led the light infantry), with several other officers, was killed, and a great many more desperately wounded;[58] and Captain Robertson, who commanded the seamen, was blown up. At length General Fisher (the second in command, who, as well as every other officer on this service, was ignorant of General Symes's plans) sounded a retreat, and the miserable remains of this gallant party marched off, the enemy harassing them in their retreat, though kept at bay by the gallant exertions of the Honourable Captain Stewart with a party of grenadiers, assisted by Lieutenant Wolley and the seamen of the Boyne, who covered the retreat; till at length the latter fell by a musket-ball through his leg, and was brought off by his men. When the remains of this unfortunate detachment got back to Mascot,[59] General Grey found it in vain to attempt any thing against Fleur d'Epée, being obliged to detach the second battalion of grenadiers to cover the retreat, and his troops being all so much reduced and exhausted, yet from the effect of the batteries he had erected to cover his attack of Fleur d'Epée, which opened on that fort in the evening, there could have been no doubt of success had not the above-related misfortune taken place.[60] It being totally impossible to attempt any thing further at this season, the General that night began to reimbark his cannon and mortars, and in two days had got off the whole of his troops without loss; he then strengthened the posts on Basse Terre, and having made the best arrangements possible to maintain them, and to enable him to renew his attacks on Point à Pitre and Fleur d'Epée after the hurricane months, in case any reinforcements should arrive (without which it would be totally impossible), he embarked on board the Boyne, leaving Brigadier General Colin Graham to command on Basse Terre, and then repaired to St. Pierre in the island of Martinique, where he established his head-quarters. The Boyne proceeded to Fort Royal Bay, where she was laid up for the hurricane months in a snug harbour, called Trois Islet Bay, and the sick and wounded were landed for the benefit of fresh air, and every attention paid to them that could alleviate their sufferings.
CHAPTER XIII.
THE COMMANDERS IN CHIEF SAIL TO MARTINIQUE … PROCEEDINGS THERE, AND AT GUADALOUPE … CAMP BERVILLE TAKEN … OCCURRENCES THEREUPON … GENERAL PRESCOTT ENTERS FORT MATILDA, WHICH IS INVESTED BY THE FRENCH … SIR JOHN VAUGHAN AND ADMIRAL CALDWELL ARRIVE IN THE WEST INDIES … SIR CHARLES GREY AND SIR JOHN JERVIS RESIGN THEIR COMMAND, AND RETURN TO EUROPE.
Sir Charles Grey, after giving the necessary orders for erecting batteries to protect and secure the camp on Basse Terre, sailed with the Admiral to Martinique, and established his head-quarters at St. Pierre;[61] having previously distributed the troops (which were not left under General Graham on Basse Terre) throughout the islands, where the Brigands began to be very troublesome; and even at Martinique, where the Commander in Chief resided, they had the audacity to shew themselves, encouraged by the sickness which raged in all quarters, and daily weakened our posts. At Grande Rivere and Calabass they appeared in some force; on which the Commander in Chief detached Captain Hare, at the head of a detachment of the Prince of Wales's light[62] dragoons, with Lieutenant Colonel De Soter and the island rangers, who attacked and routed them, taking three of their leaders prisoners, and dispersing the rest. At Guadaloupe no time was lost by Brigadier General Graham in preparing both for attack and defence; he erected gun and mortar batteries upon the banks of the river Sallée, in the different situations where it was most likely the enemy might attempt to cross it from Grande Terre; namely, at the gabarre or ferry, which heretofore was the point of communication between the two parts of the island; at Morne Savon and at St. Jean, both commanding the town of Point à Pitre and Morne Government. By these precautions the Commander in Chief hoped to prevent the enemy from crossing into Basse Terre till he could get a reinforcement from England, which he had expected for some time, and had now dispatched Brigadier General Francis Dundas to explain to government the absolute necessity there was for a supply of troops in the conquered islands. The head-quarters of the army in Guadaloupe were at Camp Berville, a very commanding ground, flanked by the sea on one side, and on the other by an impassable swamp and wood; about a league in front was the river Sallée, on the opposite banks of which stood the town of Point à Pitre; and at the rear, about a mile from the camp, was a narrow pass, by which alone it could be approached. The batteries under the direction of Captain De Rivigne, destroyed a great part of the town, so that the inhabitants were obliged to evacuate it, and encamp on the adjacent hills. The baneful effects of the climate, together with the neighbouring swamps, began now to be severely felt by our army, the officers and men died daily in numbers, and by the middle of August the list of sick and convalescents composed by far the majority in the camp. Two frigates and two sloops of war were ordered by the Admiral to cruize off the harbour of Point à Pitre, to prevent supplies being carried to the enemy; notwithstanding which many American and other vessels from the neighbouring disaffected islands, contrived to elude their vigilance. Victor Hughes, the commissioner from the French convention, and now commander in chief of their troops in this island (the commanders of the army and navy that came out with him being dead), was indefatigable in gaining over the blacks and mulattoes to his interest; and, in consequence of his late success, they flocked in great numbers to his standard. As they came in he formed them into different corps, and had them instructed in the use of arms. The remains of the second battalion of grenadiers[63] were ordered about the latter end of August to Guadaloupe, to relieve the flank companies of the 15th and 64th regiments: they embarked at Fort Royal on board the Dictator, and landed at Petit Bourg, from whence they marched directly to the camp. During the month of September the troops in the different camps were, from sickness, inadequate to furnish guards for the different batteries. Several companies could not produce a single man fit for duty; the 43d could not afford a corporal and three men at night, for the protection of their own camp, much less give their complement for the batteries. The greater part of the town of Petit Bourg was converted into hospitals for our sick, besides great numbers ill in the camps; the officers were equal sufferers with the men, so much so, that field officers were obliged to mount captain's guard. The different islands were drained of their troops, in order to keep up some appearance in front of the enemy; and the royalists had taken the duty of the Gabarre for some time past, where they conducted themselves with much spirit in several attacks made upon them by the enemy from the opposite side of the river. The grenadiers that arrived last, were now reduced, in less than three weeks, to twenty men; and from the situation of the several camps on the verge of the swamps, a ground they were obliged to occupy, was truly deplorable. About this time General Prescott arrived at the town of Basse Terre, where he took the command, and no appearance of any reinforcement from England as yet cheered our drooping spirits. On Saturday, the 26th of September, the enemy from Point à Pitre and Fort Louis embarked a large body of troops in small vessels, and passing our ships of war unperceived, under cover of the dark night, effected two different landings on Basse Terre; the one at Goyave, to the eastward of Petit Bourg, and the other at Lamantin, near Bay Mahault. As soon as it was known that this landing was effected, most of our sick were carried from Petit Bourg on board the ships that lay near that place, and when the news was received at head-quarters, General Graham ordered all the troops from the different camps to join at Berville, as the strongest situation. Every exertion was made to fortify this post in the best manner possible: across the narrow pass by which alone it could be approached by land, a strong breast-work was thrown up, with embrasures for six field-pieces; on the flanks, and immediately in the rear of this, another was thrown up; and in front of both, on the brow of the hill, a strong abbatis was formed. The enemy that landed at Bay Mahault soon possessed themselves of that place; they then marched on to the Gabarre, where they had nearly surrounded the royalists before they were able to make their retreat to the camp. The possession of the Gabarre afforded them an easy conveyance for guns, ammunition, cattle, &c. from Grande Terre, and they now made their appearance in sight of our camp. The enemy, who had landed on the opposite part of the island, as soon as day broke upon them, began their march to Petit Bourg. Lieutenant Colonel Drummond of the 43d regiment, with some convalescents from the hospital, and a party of royalists, advanced to meet them; but perceiving their great superiority of numbers, found it advisable to retreat through Petit Bourg, and took post at a battery upon the shore called Point Bacchus, between that village and Camp Berville. The enemy, on taking possession of Petit Bourg, exercised the most unheard of cruelties on the unfortunate sick in the hospitals, putting all they found to death; some of them were fortunate enough to be taken off by the boats belonging to the men of war lying there. Too much praise cannot be given to Captain Boyer[64] of the Assurance, for his humane exertions on this occasion. From the hospitals to the wharf was a continued scene of misery and horror, being strewed with the bodies of the sick, who were barbarously put to death as they were crawling to the shore, in hopes of being taken off by our boats. The next movement of the enemy was to Point Bacchus, where Colonel Drummond and his party, being surrounded, were made prisoners. The enemy keeping possession of this post, entirely cut off all communication between the camp and our shipping. They then proceeded to possess themselves of the surrounding heights, and formed a junction with the other party which landed at Bay Mahault; by which Camp Berville was completely surrounded on the land side. The utmost strength of Berville camp was now about two hundred and fifty regular troops, and three hundred royalists; but none of these could be called effective, being reduced to extremity by sickness and fatigue. The enemy instantly began to form batteries, one of which, on an eminence, in some measure commanded our camp. On the 29th of September, in the morning, the enemy in a large body attacked our advanced work; our field-pieces and musketry opened a heavy fire upon them, and an engagement ensued, which continued with equal fury for three hours; when, after having been charged the third time by our troops, the enemy retreated, leaving on the field in killed and wounded seven hundred men, our loss amounting to about twenty. In the forenoon of this day, the enemy had sent a number of gun-boats from Point à Pitre, some of which anchored off the shore at Berville, and others under Point Bacchus, with a view to stop the communication between our camp and shipping, and force the latter out of the harbour of Petit Bourg. Each of their schemes succeeded, so that now the camp (ill supplied with provisions and stores, which were left chiefly at Petit Bourg) saw no possibility of getting a further supply. This morning Major Irvine was killed by a twenty-four pounder from the enemy's gun-boat, as he was sitting in the cabin of the Assurance; in which he and a number of others had embarked. As soon as the news of these disasters reached the Commanders in Chief, the Boyne was got out of Trois Islet Bay, without loss of time; and, although the hurricane season was not entirely past, the Admiral embarked, and sailed on Tuesday, the 30th of September, from Martinique, and anchored off Grozier, in the bay of Point à Pitre, by 10 A.M. On Thursday, the 2d of October, the two-gun battery there, opened upon us with red-hot shot, and continued to fire for a considerable time, but without effect. This night the Admiral endeavoured to open a communication with Camp Berville, but was prevented by the vigilance of the enemy, who now occupied every avenue to it. On the morning of the 30th, the enemy renewed their attacks on General Graham's camp at Berville, and again on the 4th of October, still bringing (hydra like) greater numbers to the charge; their success, however, was the same as on the first attack, having lost during the three attacks, on a moderate computation, two thousand men. In the second attack General Graham was wounded by a musket-ball in the leg, and several of his officers fell.[65] After the third action the enemy sent in a flag of truce, offering terms of capitulation, which General Graham in a spirited manner refused; the officers, however, waited on the General, and stated, that the troops, reduced by sickness and fatigue, were no longer able to undergo the duty, which now pressed heavy on them, and were so harassed as to be incapable of withstanding another attack, which the enemy promised to make on them the following morning. General Graham therefore, reconsidering the matter, consented to send a flag to the enemy, and, after some time, the terms of capitulation were agreed to; but, alas! the unfortunate royalists were not included, though the General endeavoured all he could to make terms for them: he succeeded however thus far, to have permission to send a covered boat to the Boyne, in which he embarked twenty-five officers of the royalists; their unfortunate brethren, to the number of three hundred, who had defended their posts to the last, with the most determined resolution, were doomed to suffer death by the hands of their republican countrymen in cold blood, in a manner hitherto, I believe, unheard of, at least unrecorded in the annals of the most savage and abandoned people.[66] Humanity must shudder at the idea; the republicans erected a guillotine, with which they struck off the heads of fifty of them. Thinking, however, this mode of proceeding too tedious, they invented a more summary plan; they tied the remainder of these unhappy men fast together, and placed them on the brink of the trenches which they had so gallantly defended; they then drew up some of their undisciplined recruits in front, who firing an irregular volley at their miserable victims, killed some, wounded others, and some, in all probability, were untouched; the weight however of the former dragged the rest into the ditch, where the living, the wounded, and the dead, shared the same grave, the soil being instantly thrown upon them. The English troops were to be allowed to march out with the honours of war, and to be embarked on board French ships, which were to sail for England within twenty-one days after the surrender,[67] on condition that they would not serve against the French during the war. A great quantity of arms and ammunition fell into the hands of the enemy at this camp, and at Petit Bourg. Immediately after the surrender of Berville, Victor Hughes moved towards the town of Basse Terre, now our last stake on this island, laying waste the plantations, and burning the beautiful seats of the royalists as he passed along. Sir John Jervis, who had made every attempt to succour General Graham's camp at Berville, and had been an unwilling spectator from the fleet, of the surrender of that camp to the enemy, now made sail for Basse Terre, to render every assistance in his power to General Prescott;[68] and on the 9th of October, anchored within half a cable's length of the town. General Prescott instantly came on board to consult with the Admiral on the best mode of procedure in this critical state of affairs; and it was determined that the whole force which the General could collect, should go into the fort, and the Admiral, in the Boyne, would render every assistance in his power to the garrison; a promise he performed in a manner that drew the warmest thanks and approbation of General Prescott and his officers. At this time the French royalists had entirely abandoned us, and the militia, who had demanded arms, positively refused to enter the fort, and soon after deserted to the enemy: a party in the town seemed also ready to rise upon our people; but by the vigilance and activity of General Prescott they were overawed, and he continued to ride into the town unattended as usual. The fort was in a miserable state, nothing having been done to it since the peace of 1783; and Clairfontaine,[69] a royalist, who had been appointed administrateur general, wanting either influence or ability to procure negroes for the purpose, the fort was no way better than when it fell into our hands, except being cleaner, and supplied with provisions. On the 12th of October, a schooner bearing a flag of truce, arrived from Victor Hughes; in it came Captain Eiston, of the 35th regiment,[70] for a supply of money and baggage for our captured countrymen, with which he returned in two days to Point à Pitre. General Prescott had taken the precaution to order all the batteries along the coast, as well as those on the passes of the Palmiste, to be destroyed, their guns spiked, and magazines blown up; but, owing to the shortness of the time allowed for it, and the weakness of the force employed, the enemy soon got them repaired to use against us. Captain Bowen, in the Terpsichore, was dispatched to Trois Riviere, to destroy a battery there,[71] where he saw and fired on the enemy, who were marching in great force towards the heights of Palmiste. On which he returned, and informed the Admiral of this, by whom the intelligence was instantly forwarded to General Prescott, who had sent Captain Thomas of the 28th regiment (his aid-de-camp) to request some seamen to reinforce his garrison, which were most readily granted by the Admiral. While Captain Thomas was on board the Boyne, the enemy, to his great astonishment, were seen on the heights of Palmiste. As there were a few royalists about the General, some of whose slaves were with the enemy, of course he ought to have received earlier information of their approach; but this shews how all intelligence was withheld from us. For ten days after the General had withdrawn the whole of his force into the fort, he occasionally sent parties into the town, as the Boyne still kept the enemy quiet there; but in a short time they got some guns up to an eminence, named by us the White-house Battery, that obliged the Admiral to weigh anchor: but he still continued to hover about the coast, occasionally sending reinforcements and provisions, and keeping up a constant intercourse with General Prescott in the fort. In the course of this business the Boyne was frequently engaged with the different batteries, and was exposed to great danger from the mortars, which the enemy began to play upon us with much judgment. On the 20th of October, the battery on Houelmont opened on the Terpsichore, but without effect. Our garrison in the fort threw some shells which drove them from thence; they, however, soon returned again to their guns. The next day they again attacked the frigate, and hit her; which obliged Captain Bowen to get near the land, out of the direction of their guns. On the 23d, the White-house Battery, having several heavy guns mounted, began a smart fire on the Boyne, which was returned from her lower deckers; afterwards we engaged a battery, into which the enemy had just come, at the N. W. end of the town, from whence we drove them; but being obliged to haul off shore occasionally, they at length completed their purpose, but not so as to be able to hinder us from approaching the land to keep up an intercourse with the garrison. On this service (as on every other) Captain Bowen eminently distinguished himself, having anchored the Terpsichore, within a short distance of the fort, in a bay under Houelmont. On the 25th the Quebec, Captain Rogers, Beaulieu, Captain Riou, and Zebra, Captain Vaughan, arrived from a cruise. The enemy now increased their forces daily in this part of the island, pressing into their service all the negroes who were on the different estates; and if from timidity or any other cause they demurred, they were instantly shot: from the ship we saw them firing on some negroes of their own, who, from fear, were endeavouring to get off. On the night of the 26th, Lieutenant James, with a party of seamen, marched out of the fort to the military hospital, which he set on fire, being a place that the enemy would soon have made a considerable post against us. On the 29th, the Boyne, as usual sailing towards the fort, was becalmed by the high land of Houelmont, and being within a short distance, was cannonaded from that battery for several hours. From the height of its situation none of our guns could be brought to bear against it; however, after considerable danger, the ship got out of the bay without any damage. On the 5th of November, the enemy opened ten batteries against the fort at the same instant, and a party of them, with a field-piece, under cover of the night, had taken post on the brow of the hill under which the Terpsichore and Experiment were anchored. As soon as the seamen were arranged at day-break, to wash the decks as usual, they were surprised by a heavy shower of musketry from over their heads. The Experiment endeavoured to get away, but being totally becalmed, it was some time before she could accomplish it. (Captain Miller had gone on board the Vanguard, and Captain Skynner was then in the Boyne, receiving his commission.[72]) Captain Bowen, with a presence of mind that never forsook him, ordered up all the muskets that could be procured, and, encouraging his men with great spirit and some effect, returned the fire of the enemy, who now brought their field-piece to bear on the ship; he was therefore obliged to weigh anchor, and get out of the bay as well as he could, his great guns being totally useless from the elevated situation of the enemy: two or three only of our people were wounded, though the deck was studded with musket-balls. The fort[73] was now closely invested by land; by the sea a communication was continued the whole siege, Captain Bowen, in the Terpsichore, never relaxing for a moment in his exertions to serve and assist the garrison. The water in the tank being bad (the enemy having cut off the aqueduct that supplied it), General Prescott ordered an armed party every morning and evening to the river Galion, to protect those sent thither for water. This was continued during the whole siege; cohorns and grape-shot being fired into the ravines and woods beyond the river, and other precautions taken, these parties met with little molestation. All the buildings in the fort being destroyed by the fire of the enemy, the garrison was obliged to take shelter in the Bomb-proof, a close and unwholesome confinement in this climate. On the 6th of November, Victor Hughes sent an insolent summons to General Prescott, to surrender the fort in two hours, which if not complied with, no further terms would be offered, and the whole garrison would be put to the sword. To this the General made a short answer, "that he would defend it as a soldier to the last extremity." The instant the hour was expired that the General allowed the French officer to return to Victor Hughes, he opened a heavy fire from all his batteries against the republicans, and continued it through the day without any return from them. Some stores and provisions were about this period sent to the garrison from Dominica, and the merchants of St. Pierre also made a welcome present of refreshments; the enemy at the same time began to supply their advanced batteries with necessaries by sea in small boats, that, keeping close in shore, evaded our cruisers, and landed at the town of Basse Terre. On the 12th of November, the Boyne was exposed for some time to a heavy fire from several batteries; one shell burst immediately over her, but without doing any mischief. At nine A. M. on the 14th of November, the Beaulieu, being then off Vieu Fort, made a signal to the Admiral, of an enemy of superior force being in sight. Immediately all hands were ordered to quarters, and every preparation made to give them a warm reception; at length three line-of-battle ships hove in sight, which, to our great joy, proved to be a reinforcement from England; the Majestic, Captain Westcott, with Vice Admiral Caldwell's flag on board; the Theseus, Captain Calder; and Bellona, Captain Wilson: by them we were informed that Sir John Vaughan had arrived at St. Pierre, and Sir Charles Grey had given up the command to him. Sir John Jervis, worn down by long and severe exertions, the fatigues of which were augmented by his anxiety for the welfare of the service, that not all his exertions could promote without the arrival of a strong reinforcement, together with the unhealthiness of the climate, found himself no longer able to continue on this station, and therefore, to the great grief of General Prescott, was obliged to give up his command to Admiral Caldwell, and embarking his seamen (under Lieutenant James) from Fort Matilda, sailed for St. Pierre; when, every thing being arranged and settled between the several commanders, Sir Charles Grey and his suite embarked once more with Sir John Jervis on board the Boyne; on the 27th of November they sailed for England, and after a tedious voyage (being for near a month tossed about in the Channel by contrary winds) arrived at Spithead the 21st of January 1795.
As we left General Prescott in a perilous situation, it may be proper to give an account of the conclusion of the siege, though it comes not within the original plan of my work, which professed only to relate the events that took place under the immediate command of Sir Charles Grey and Sir John Jervis. This I am enabled to do from the communication of a brave and intelligent friend who was there during the whole siege. On the 29th of November, Captain Cockburne, aid-de-camp of General Sir John Vaughan, was sent by his Excellency to Fort Matilda, with the unwelcome news that no more men could be sent thither. On the 5th of December, General Prescott dispatched Captain Thomas, his aid-de-camp, to the Commander in Chief, with an account of the fort being almost in ruins; this officer returned thither on the 7th, and found that the bastion towards the river Galion was totally silenced, and so completely commanded by the enemy's musketry, that not a man could approach it; the adjoining curtain was much in the same state; the bastion towards the town was giving way, and expected to tumble into the ditch every moment. General Prescott no longer thought of defence, but to secure his small garrison, now highly necessary for the defence of the other islands, the unparalleled mortality having left them almost without troops. The pestilential fever had been, in proportion, more fatal to the officers than the men; in the garrison, for instance, there was no officer of intermediate rank between the General and his aid-de-camp Captain Thomas, who was second in command. On the 9th of December, this officer was dispatched to Admiral Thompson, and after the plan of embarkation was settled, he returned to the fort, and the evacuation commenced at nine o'clock on the 10th of December, and was conducted with so much skill, that not a man was lost. In the morning two of the garrison deserted to the enemy; but the General had concealed his intentions so well, that not the least intelligence of it seems to have been given by them. There was no interruption to the retreat except a few musket-shots on the beach, from one of which that active officer Captain Bowen was badly wounded in the face. The enemy, unconscious of this movement, cannonaded and bombarded the fort as usual, until two o'clock the next morning, though the embarkation had been completed by eleven the preceding night. The whole force that marched out of Fort Matilda, was between four and five hundred: some of them were sent to the Isle de Saintes and Antigua, and the remainder to Martinique. Thus concluded a siege of eight weeks and two days, during the whole of which General Prescott evinced the most perfect coolness and true soldierly resolution, neither appalled by the tremendous and well-directed fire constantly, both night and day, kept up against the fort, nor by the insolent and threatening summonses of Victor Hughes.[74] In the handsomest manner he bore testimony to the zeal and activity of Sir John Jervis, who relaxed not in his attention to the wants of the garrison, till he was obliged to quit the station; leaving however, in Captain Bowen, a man whose existence seemed to be preserved, amidst the greatest dangers, for the service of his country. Admiral Thompson had his share of praise too for the manner in which he had conducted the embarkation. During the siege seventeen were killed, and seventy-nine were wounded. General Prescott immediately repaired to Saint Pierre, at Martinique, where he received the well-earned thanks and congratulations of all ranks, for his spirited and gallant defence of Fort Matilda. Victor Hughes,[75] on taking possession of the fort, ordered the monument that had been erected over General Dundas, to be destroyed, and his remains thrown into the river Galion; a conduct as mean and brutal, as it was undeserved. I cannot conclude without mentioning the death of that gallant officer, Captain Faulknor, commanding the Blanche frigate of thirty-two guns, who, on the 5th of January, fell in with the republican frigate, La Pique of thirty-eight guns, off the harbour of Point à Pitre; the action was maintained with the greatest fury and obstinacy for five hours, during which Captain Faulknor fell by a musket-ball as he was a second time lashing the bowsprit of La Pique to the capstern of his own ship. The loss of this brave man must be deplored by every friend to the service; his courage and determined bravery had been often tried, and always with success, as in the course of this work I have frequently had occasion to mention. On his death the command devolved on the first lieutenant, Mr. Watkins, who continued the action in a manner that did him immortal honour. The French ship having lost her main and mizen sails, the Blanche took her in tow, still continuing the engagement, when the stern ports not being large enough, they blew the upper transom beam away, and fired into her bows for three hours. The marines under Lieutenant Richardson, kept so well directed a fire, that not a man could appear on her forecastle until she struck; sixty-seven of her crew were dead on the decks; many had been thrown overboard; one hundred and ten wounded were landed at the Saintes; and one hundred and seventy-four were taken to Martinique. The Blanche had ten killed, including the Captain, and twenty-four wounded. Captain Faulknor's exertions in forwarding the service on every occasion, both during, and since the campaign, were unremitting. Indeed the English cause in the West Indies, at this instant, could hardly have received a deeper wound than it did by the death of this brave and zealous man.
APPENDIX.
Head Quarters, Barbadoes, Wednesday, Jan. 22, 1794.
Parole, St. Domingo.C. S. Williamson.
The Commander in Chief, having nearly finished all his arrangements to open the campaign with vigour, thinks it necessary, during the few days the troops remain at Barbadoes, to give out the orders proper for the regulation and conduct of the troops; and he anxiously calls upon every commanding officer of brigades, regiments, and corps, to support him in the due and strict observance thereof. The object of the campaign is to complete the conquest of the French West India Islands. Great sufficiency of provisions and a numerous train of artillery are provided. The General is so thoroughly convinced of the zeal and intelligence of the officers and soldiers under his command, that he knows many orders upon the present occasion are unnecessary; yet, to shorten orders in future, it may not be improper to explain to the soldiers the fatal consequences of straggling ever so little away from camp in quest of plunder; it is next to a certainty they will fall ignobly by the hands of the country people: or if they should escape, they may depend upon suffering the severe punishment due to disobeying military orders; as the General will never allow (while he has the honour to command such troops) practices of that nature to gain ground, as that alone, in time, will defeat the bravest army in the world, and render all their efforts useless. The British soldiers cannot be ignorant of the high reputation they have always acquired for obedience, attention, and expertness, in arms; and consequently they must be sensible how much their king and country expect from them: and the General is impressed with every assurance, that the troops will not disappoint them upon this occasion. The General takes the liberty to assure them, that they are able to fight any troops upon earth; and he will be answerable that it would not be a contest of ten minutes between this army and the best troops of France, whether the affair was to be decided by fire or bayonet. This last method is always to be preferred, but much more so when acting against such bad troops as the army we are now to be opposed to, the enemy being made up chiefly of negroes and mulattoes, with a very small proportion of regular troops; to be beat by whom would be so disgraceful, that he cannot entertain the most distant thought of it. The present distracted state of France makes it impossible to support them, therefore it only requires the usual perseverance and gallantry of British soldiers to conquer the first island that an attack is made upon, which will certainly decide the fate of the whole, shorten the campaign, and put an honourable end to the labour and exertion of the troops. The General thinks it a duty incumbent on him, and which he doubts not will be taken well, to point out further what he thinks necessary, either for their own particular good, or that more noble object, the good of their king and country. The General desires the soldiers will consider what hardships must attend their profession; that there is as much true honour in bearing them with manly fortitude, as in forcing the cannon of an enemy; patience under difficulties being one of the first virtues in a military character, and without which no man, however brave, will ever be a soldier. In times like the present some sacrifice of convenience must always be made to necessity; at the same time the soldiers may be assured that every attention will be paid by the Commander in Chief, and every other officer, to have them well supplied with every article that the nature of the service will admit. On the other hand, he hopes the soldiers will be so thoroughly convinced of this, that not one of them will be so lost to honour and virtue, and the service of their country, as not readily and most cheerfully to put up with every inconvenience, and even to the scarcity of provisions, if it should so happen. The General means to carry the business through with as little loss as possible, and with the strictest attention to the preservation of the troops: to this end he expects that every duty required will be carried forward by the troops without the least unsoldier-like behaviour or complaint, and that all orders will be strictly obeyed. The army is sent to carry on honourable war against the French colonies, and by their conduct, in preserving the persons and properties of the peaceable inhabitants, to conciliate the minds of the people to the British government; therefore the General determinately assures the troops, that he will allow of no drunkenness or licentious behaviour, no burning of churches, houses, or edifices of any description, without orders, or plundering in any shape whatever. All persons that with their property remain in their habitations, shall be treated with humanity. No violence to be offered, particularly to women, on any pretence whatever. The strictest subordination and discipline to be preserved throughout the whole army; and the commanding officer of brigades, regiments, and corps, must be responsible accordingly to the Commander in Chief.—The commanding officer will be careful that these orders, and every other that comes out, are distinctly read to their men by an officer, and be clearly understood by both officers and soldiers.—However it may hurt the General's feelings, he is determined to make immediate examples of all those who shall presume to disobey his orders; more particularly that part of them relative to plundering, ill treatment of peaceable inhabitants, or firing of houses, &c. And Captain Vipond, provost marshal, has his orders to execute upon the spot every offender caught in such horrid acts, without trial.—It may be necessary here to acquaint all officers' servants (not soldiers), and followers of the army of every description, that they are subject to military law, and liable in like manner with the troops to the punishment of death, or corporal punishment, according to the nature of the offence. Each regiment and corps will apprize them of this, that ignorance may not be pleaded as an excuse. The success of this army totally depends upon a proper and strict degree of order and discipline being maintained; the General therefore again calls upon officers of every rank to assist him in enforcing it; for the whole are not to suffer by a disorderly few, who, if allowed to go on, would be the destruction of the whole army.
The provost marshal's guard to mount to-morrow morning at six o'clock, consisting of one sergeant, two corporals, twelve privates; and Captain Vipond will direct patroles to go out as he judges necessary, for the purpose of preserving order and regularity.—William Allen, sergeant major, of the forty-eighth regiment, is appointed deputy to the provost marshal; Captain Scott, of the sixth regiment, to act as major to that regiment; and Quarter Master William Haugh to do the duty of adjutant till further orders.—Carpenters are much wanted to expedite the equipment of hospital ships, and other necessary work on board the fleet; returns to be given in by each corps to-morrow of the number of carpenters they have, and such as they can furnish; to be supplied on the application of Captain Armstrong, assistant to the quarter master general, who will receive and take care to return them on board their respective transports. Working parties from the troops afloat are necessary for the same purpose, and will be supplied in rotation, by corps, with a proper proportion of non-commissioned officers, on the application of Captain Armstrong to the officers commanding regiments or battalions. The sixth regiment, and such of the flank companies not yet completed with camp equipage, will receive it on board the Sincerity brig to-morrow morning at six o'clock. The quarter masters of the respective battalions will attend to receive it.—Lieutenant Geyer of the sixty-seventh regiment to do duty with the sixth regiment.—Provost's guard, first battalion grenadiers. One sergeant, nine privates of the ninth regiment on board the army brig to be landed this evening, and to march to St. Ann's, where they are to remain till further orders. The light companies at St. Ann's Castle will fire ball this evening, &c. &c.
Lieut. Colonel Gomm was left to command at Barbadoes.
FURTHER ORDERS BEFORE EMBARKATION.
Orders.Barbadoes, January 24, 1794.
EXTRACT.
The safety of an army depending in a great measure upon the guards and out-posts, they cannot be too vigilant; therefore the Commander in Chief expects, that whatever post or guard an officer is ordered to take, he will first visit his situation and ground around it, and post his centinels so as to render it out of the power of the enemy to surprise him. It is the greatest disgrace that can possibly befall an officer; and so much so in the General's opinion, that any officer, or non-commissioned officer, who shall suffer himself to be surprised, must not expect to be forgiven.—All out-posts to fortify themselves as well as they can, to prevent any insult from parties of the enemy. The troops always to form two deep; and, the roads being so narrow in the island, it will be necessary for them to march by files: if there is room to do otherwise, the commanding officer will be the best judge.—The soldiers will bear in mind the use of the bayonet, which in possession of, they can have no excuse for retreating for want of ammunition, the bayonet being the best and most effectual weapon in the hands of a gallant British soldier; in which mode of attack (the General assures them) no troops upon earth are equal to them. In case of a night attack, ammunition and firing are totally out of the question, and the bayonet is ever to be preferred and made use of. Every reason is in favour of this system; amongst many others the following, viz. It conceals you and your numbers from the enemy; the enemy direct their fire wherever they see or hear fire, consequently fire upon each other, whilst you are concealed, and they fall an easy prey. The General assures the troops of this from his own repeated experience; and the soldiers may rely in confidence upon him, that if it is strictly adhered to, it will seldom, if ever, fail of success.—As it may be necessary at particular times to order the grenadiers, light infantry, and advanced corps, to retire, in order more effectually to secure the defeat of the enemy, the Commander in Chief thinks it necessary to apprize the army of this, to prevent any alarm such an appearance might otherwise occasion amongst the soldiers.—Weak and sickly men are not to embark with their regiments or corps; proper measures will be taken to get those men to their regiments as soon as they are in a state fit for duty. No women to come on shore till particularly ordered, &c.
The undernamed are the officers of Royal Engineers to serve the army on the expedition.
Colonels Elias Durnford, Chief Engineer. John Chillcotts. Robert Douglas. Captains William Johnston. James Gieddes. Lewis Hay. 1st Lieutenants Richard Downe. Douglas Lawson. Richard Fletcher. 2d Lieutenant Elias Walker Durnford. No emigrants allowed to go as servants or otherwise from Barbadoes with the expedition, without particular leave from the Commander in Chief; nor any negroes to be hired by the officers, without the consent of their owners.
Head Quarters, Riviere Sallée, Feb. 6, 1794.
General Orders.
Parole, Martinico.C. S. Morne.
Field Officer for the day, Lieut. Colonel Buckridge.
The army will halt to-day.
The Commander in Chief cannot but express the highest sense he entertains of the exertion of the officers and soldiers in a long fatiguing march yesterday, and the orderly behaviour of the men during the whole march, and which must at all times demand his utmost attention; and he assures them the same conduct will (and speedily) put an end to the campaign.—The Commander in Chief is pleased to order an extra day of fresh provisions and rum to be issued out to the men this day as soon as possible.—The regiments which loaded yesterday on their march will draw their pieces immediately; and no regiment to load in future without orders, except the advanced guard.—A general court martial to be convened immediately for the trial of William Milton, of the English light dragoons, and Samuel Price, of the black dragoons, for robbery; and all such prisoners as shall be brought before them. Capt. Cunningham, and Jacques and Falice, to appear as witnesses.
Lieutenant Colonel Blundell, President. Lieutenant Colonel Johnston. Major Watson. Major Ross. Major Baillie. Third battalion grenadiers 2 Captains. Second light infantry 1 Ditto. Third ditto 1 Ditto. Third brigade 4 Ditto. Names of the members, and dates of their commissions, to be given in immediately to Major Lyon, deputy quarter master general, acting judge advocate. List of the evidence for and against to be given in at the same time. The quarter masters of the different regiments at head quarters to give in to the quarter master general a return of the effective strength immediately.
After Orders.Feb. 7, 1794.
William Milton, private in the detachment of British light dragoons, and Samuel Price, a negro, attached to the dragoons, tried by a general court martial, of which Lieutenant Colonel Bryan Blundell was president, for having entered the house of Jacques, an inhabitant of this place, and robbing him of a sum of money, are both found guilty of the crime laid to their charge; and, by virtue of the power and authority vested in the court by the fourth article of the twenty-third section of the articles of war, the said prisoners, William Milton and Samuel Price, are adjudged to suffer death; which is approved of by the Commander in Chief, and the general court martial is dissolved.
The Commander in Chief feels most sensibly, and laments the necessity of making examples so immediately after landing, notwithstanding the strongest and most pointed orders given by him so recently against every kind of irregularity and improper behaviour in soldiers on service, but particularly against this very crime committed by the prisoners. Determined, however, to have his orders obeyed, to preserve discipline in the army, which is so essential to its success, and to prevent a repetition of crimes so base, disgraceful, and detestable, the prisoners, William Milton and Samuel Price, are ordered to be executed at eight o'clock to-morrow morning. The troops to parade at seven o'clock to-morrow morning, in readiness to attend the execution. The ninth and fifteenth regiments to send four men each in augmentation of the castle guard in the rear of the head quarters. Six mules will be delivered to each of the flank battalions, and four to each regiment, at nine o'clock to-morrow morning, at the quarter master general's.
Head Quarters, Riviere Sallée, Feb. 8, 1794.
Parole, Whyte.C. S. Batteries.
Field Officer of the day, Major Watson.
The Commander in Chief hopes the awful scene of this morning will have its proper effect, and not lay him again under the most feeling and painful necessity of repeating it, but which must certainly be the unhappy case in the persons of future offenders. The General could not be justified in the eyes of his king and country, and this army he has the honour to command, in acting otherwise, their existence and success depending (of which every good thinking soldier must be sensible) upon a proper degree of discipline and subordination, with the most minute and strictest obedience to orders, &c.
The General has the pleasure to announce to the army the complete success of Brigadier General Whyte, at the head of the third light infantry, in gallantly storming and taking the batteries of Cape Solomon and Bourgis. In Cape Solomon were four thirty-six pounders and two twenty-four pounders; in Bourgis three twenty-four pounders, all in perfect order to turn against the enemy; with powder and shot in abundance. This success opens a near communication with the fleet, by enabling them to come into Ance d'Arlet Bay, with every supply the army may be in want of; and what still renders it more valuable, carried with the loss only of one man.
Head Quarters, Riviere Sallée, Feb.9, 1794.
Parole, Dundas.C. S. Gros Morne.
Field Officer of the day, Major Baillie.
The Commander in Chief has again the pleasure to announce to the troops the further success of his majesty's arms towards the conquest of the island of Martinico, by the able conduct of Major General Dundas, and the gallantry and spirit of the troops under his command, in attacking the enemy's troops under the command of Mons. Bellgarde at Trinité with bayonets, and putting them totally to the rout with great slaughter, he narrowly escaping with a few followers into Fort Royal. The Major General with great spirit followed up the blow, and took possession of the very strong fort of the Gros Morne, where the English colours are now flying.
He has also the pleasure to add the gallantry of the seventieth regiment, commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Johnston, and led by Colonel Dundas, who with so much spirit and promptitude attacked the enemy posted upon Morne Charlotte Pied, and put them totally to flight, taking possession of that important commanding ground looking down upon Pigeon Island, which, when, attacked (in conjunction with Brigadier General Whyte) and taken, will enable the English fleet to come up into Fort Royal Harbour, in full view of the enemy's Forts of Bourbon and Royal.
The Commander in Chief is happy in the opportunity of making honourable mention of Captain Nares of the seventieth regiment, who led the advanced guard with so much true courage and judgment in the above attack, as reported to him in the strongest manner by Colonel Dundas.
Head Quarters, Riviere Sallée, Feb. 11, 1794.
Parole, Gordon.C. S. Case Navire.
The Commander in Chief is happy again to assure the army of the progress of our arms towards the reduction of Martinico. Colonel Sir Charles Gordon, and Captain Rogers commanding a squadron of his Majesty's ships, by their good conduct, activity, and spirit, have made a landing good at Cape Pilote, and taken all the batteries upon the coast from Cape Pilote to Cape Navirre. The gallantry of the troops, in charging and putting to flight the enemy wherever they dared to appear, was never more conspicuous.
Head Quarters, Riviere Sallée, Feb. 12, 1794.
Parole, Whyte.C. S. Pigeon Island.
Field Officer of the day, Major Baillie.
It is with the utmost satisfaction the Commander in Chief announces to the army the capture of Pigeon Island, which surrendered yesterday morning about eleven o'clock, being a post of great strength, and of the utmost importance towards the success of our future operations. The Commander in Chief gives his thanks to Brigadier General Whyte, who commanded and conducted this service with such spirit and ability as to do him honour. Likewise to Colonel Symes, quarter master general, for his able assistance and zeal upon the occasion.—The Commander in Chief returns his thanks to Lieutenant Colonel Close, who commanded the third battalion of light infantry; and to Major Manningham, for his conspicuous exertions. Likewise to Lieutenant Colonel Paterson and Major Manly, who commanded the royal artillery, which was well and ably served; and to Colonel Durnford of the engineers.
The Commander in Chief gives his thanks to all the officers and soldiers employed on that difficult and particular service, whose courage and exertions (so eminently manifested) merit the greatest praise.
The Commander in Chief also has to offer his warmest acknowledgments and obligations to Lieutenants Rogers and Rutherford, commanding the seamen, and to all the other officers and seamen of his Majesty's navy; whose perseverance, able assistance, and good conduct, contributed much to the capture of the island.
Head Quarters, Riviere Sallée, Feb. 13, 1794.
General Orders.
Parole, York.C. S. Gloucester.
The Commander in Chief is happy in the opportunity of expressing the pleasure he received from the report of Major Lyon, deputy adjutant general, of the spirited conduct of the fifteenth regiment, commanded by Captain Pomier, in the attack of a very strong post of the enemy at eleven o'clock last night, in which attack two hundred of the enemy were surprised, and totally routed, with some loss, and all their cattle, provisions, arms, &c. and some prisoners taken, with the loss of one man only of the fifteenth regiment killed, and two wounded.
The fifteenth regiment, at the same time that they accept the Commander in Chief's acknowledgments for their spirited conduct, will allow him to say, that if they had not fired, the surprise might have been more complete; and firing, he trusts, they will in future, in all night attacks, on all occasions, avoid, and which, they well know, how very strongly he recommended previous to the opening of the campaign; and he desires the commanding officers will turn back to their orders, and read them to the officers and men.
The Commander in Chief desires that the warm sense he entertains of the spirited service of Captain de Rivigne (who commanded the howitzers in the siege and capture of Pigeon Island, as reported by Brigadier General Whyte) may be made known to the army, &c.
Head Quarters, Heights of Brunot, Feb. 17, 1794.
Parole, Conquest. C. S. St. Pierre.
Field Officer, Major Campbell.
The Commander in Chief hopes that every care is taken of, and humanity shewn to, the negroes attached to the regiments, and to all those employed with the army; and that they are victualled, attended to, and encouraged. This the commanding officers of regiments and corps, and every officer in all departments, will attend to, and inquire into: as many have fled from the camp, which must be owing to their having been neglected, or ill used by some of the men, such treatment must be prevented in future, otherwise the army will suffer every inconvenience.
Head Quarters, Brunot, Feb. 19, 1794.
Parole, St. Pierre. C. S. Dundas.
Field Officer, Colonel Coote.
The Commander in Chief has the pleasure to announce to the army the complete capture of St. Pierre, the most considerable town in this island, which contains the greatest part of its wealth, its roads crowded with ships and merchandise, now the prizes of the army and navy.
The Commander in Chief holds himself highly obliged to the troops for their spirited and cool conduct in the course of the attack yesterday; and congratulates them upon so easy an acquisition of the strong ground hitherto occupied by the enemy, owing to the prompt and spirited movement of Lieutenant Colonel Buckridge, and the support of the light infantry under Lieutenant Colonel Coote and Lieutenant Colonel Blundell: this being the very ground intended to be occupied, and essential for the impending siege. The sixth, ninth, and second light infantry, with all the artillery of the camp at Brunot, to march and form the line of the new camp at Sourier at day-break. The seventieth and fifteenth regiments to remain at the port of Matilda, and the covering of the landing place, till further orders.
The commissary to order the provisions, &c. of the army to be escorted to the most convenient and contiguous situation for the supply of the army in their new position; which, from their present landing place, will be nearer than their former encampment. The cavalry, provost's, and every other department attendant on the army, to move to-morrow morning. The post of Colomb, occupied by Lieutenant Colonel Coote, to be retained by two companies, and that of Lieutenant Colonel Buckridge by one company.
No bullocks for draught, which are necessary for agriculture to the inhabitants, or milch cows, to be slaughtered by the army.
Head Quarters, Heights of Sourier, Feb. 22, 1794.
Parole, Navy. C. S. Animation.
Field Officer, Major Campbell.
The Commander in Chief saw with pleasure and surprise this morning the great progress that has been made in forming an excellent road for the battering train through so difficult a country, and the fair prospect of the artillery shortly arriving at the destined ground. Nothing can exceed the order and indefatigability of the British sailors, and the zeal and pleasure with which they appear animated in the most laborious exertions; he has remarked this with the utmost satisfaction.
He begs Captains Hervey, Kelly, and Carpenter, with the officers and men under their command, will accept his best thanks and acknowledgments of how much he owes them. When the two services thus combine and co-operate, the greatest obstacles may be surmounted, and every difficulty vanish. The Commander in Chief has given orders to the commissary that the seamen shall be amply supplied with provisions and rum.
Head Quarters, Camp at Sourier, Feb. 24, 1794.
Parole, Great Gun. C. S. Mortar.
Not that the Commander in Chief has any reason whatever to suspect the advanced posts and guard of the camp are not alert, but, on the contrary, their steadiness and attention give him true satisfaction: nevertheless he thinks it right to warn them, that the enemy, in their present hopeless situation, may be desperate, and attempt to insult some of the posts: more they cannot do; but the slightest advantage gained, their expiring cause may for a moment be spirited up to hold out a little longer, and cause the loss of a few brave men; this the Commander in Chief wishes to avoid, and to make the conquest of this valuable island of Martinico with the least loss possible, he being ever attentive and watchful of their preservation. He particularly desires the advanced posts will, if possible, increase their vigilance, and in case of an insult, to meet it coolly, not risking themselves by darting forward (this not being the time for such exertion), but to check their ardour, and content themselves by standing on the defensive, and repulsing the enemy, covering steadily the bringing up the battering train to their destined ground, which will very soon be completed, and the batteries ready to open powerfully upon the enemy from three points at one and the same time; which done, the Commander in Chief assures the army that he has every reason to believe they will be in possession of the enemy's last stake in a little time, and honourably put an end to their labours.
The Commander in Chief again repeats his orders for all the out-posts that are the least exposed to the enemy's fire, to fortify and shelter themselves, throwing up blinds at certain distances to run behind when a shell falls, and which will effectually secure them.—In the trench of Lieutenant Colonel Coote's post three or four cross blinds should be made; and the engineer is immediately to order it. The advanced guns also to be guarded, to prevent a shot damaging a wheel or carriage; which Lieutenant Colonel Paterson will order to be done.
Head Quarters, Camp, Heights of Sourier, Feb. 28, 1794.
Parole, Push. C. S. Forward.
Field Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Craddock.
Alexander Ross, second gunner, royal artillery, and Edward Brookes, of the royal Irish artillery, tried by the general court martial, of which Lieutenant Colonel Buckridge was president, for absenting themselves five hours from the post of Gros Morne; and on suspicion of having robbed Madame Lamalle of a gold watch and chain, with various other articles, viz. six silver spoons, six forks, and a large soup spoon. The prisoners are further accused of robbing a washerwoman of some wearing apparel belonging to Adjutant Wilkinson, of the sixty-fourth regiment. The court, having maturely considered the evidence in support of the charge against the prisoners, together with what they had to advance in their defence, acquit the prisoners, Alexander Ross, second gunner of royal artillery, and Edward Brookes, of the royal Irish artillery, of the charge against them of having robbed Madame Lamalle and the washerwoman: but the prisoners, Alexander Ross, of the royal artillery, and Edward Brookes, of the royal Irish artillery, are both found guilty of absenting themselves from the post of Gros Morne without leave, in breach of the fourteenth section of articles of war, and are therefore adjudged to receive four hundred lashes each on their bare backs.—The Commander in Chief approves of the above sentence, and directs, that the punishment of four hundred lashes each be inflicted on the prisoners to-morrow morning at seven o'clock, at the head of the English and royal Irish artillery.—The Commander in Chief is clearly of opinion that the prisoners, Alexander Ross and Edward Brookes, were also guilty of the charge of robbery advanced against them; but the evidence not being of that force to justify the court martial in finding them guilty, they are fortunate in escaping, and he thinks it will make a lasting impression on their minds; for the Commander in Chief assures them, had they been found guilty (however painful to him), they should have suffered the last punishment, death, at the head of the army.
The prisoner Phelps, soldier in the fortieth regiment of foot, tried by the same general court martial for desertion, is found guilty, in breach of the first article of the sixth section of the articles of war, and sentenced to receive eight hundred lashes on his bare back, in the usual manner. The Commander in Chief approves of the above sentence; but, in consideration of the great length of time the prisoner, John Phelps, has been confined, he is pleased to pardon him; and hopes this instance of lenity will make a deep and lasting impression on his mind, and induce him to behave like a good and faithful British soldier to his king and country in future.
Head Quarters, Camp, Sourier, March 5, 1794.
Parole, Aim. C. S. Well.
EXTRACTS.
His Royal Highness Prince Edward, major general, to take the command of his Majesty's troops forming the investment of Fort Bourbon, on the Cape Navirre side, and the camp at La Coste, with all the posts depending.
The Commander in Chief observes the soldiers do not dig a trench round their tents to carry off the wet: the commanding officers of regiments and corps to order it to be done immediately, and to send for the hammocks belonging to the round tents, to make the men as comfortable as possible.
Captain J. A. Wetheral, and Lieutenant J. Vesey, of the eleventh foot, are appointed aid de camps to his Royal Highness Prince Edward, major general, and to be obeyed as such.—The Commander in Chief has the pleasure to announce, that a detachment of the fifteenth regiment, commanded by Lord Sinclair, and a detachment of light dragoons, commanded by Lieutenant Shadwell, and conducted by Captain Cunningham (his aid de camp), surprised at ten o'clock this morning a strong corps of the enemy near Francois, which they had set on fire. The enemy were completely surprised, who had been burning, plundering, and murdering, wherever they went; thirty-six were killed, with their chief, who was cut down by a light dragoon. Four prisoners were taken, who were hung up as an example to such rascals in future; which method the General is determined uniformly to pursue with all such taken in arms.—The Commander in Chief returns his best thanks to Lord Sinclair, Captain Cunningham, and Lieutenant Shadwell, for their zeal and exertion on this occasion; and to all the officers and men employed. The fire of Francois was extinguished, and only four houses burnt. Our loss only two men wounded.
Head Quarters, Camp at Sourier, March 9, 1794.
Parole, Advance. C. S. Nearer.
Field Officer, Major Baillie.
Lieutenant General Prescot will advance, and post the seventieth regiment to cover the new batteries; which done, the captain and sixty men, and subaltern and thirty, posted at and near M. Ragout's house, to be withdrawn, excepting a serjeant and twelve men posted on the height in the rear of that post, which must be continued until further orders. Surgeon's mate William Wood, of the seventieth regiment, is appointed surgeon's mate to the general hospital in the West Indies. The following gentlemen are appointed to act as assistant engineers: Mr. Thomas Hall, Lieutenant Fenton, forty-third regiment, Ensign Snell, fifteenth regiment, Ensign Garroway, king's Carolina regiment, and M. la Granche.
Head Quarters, Camp at Sourier, before Fort Bourbon,
March 18, 1794.The gallant attack of the seamen, headed by Lieutenant Bowen of the Boyne, in boarding the Gabarre, in the carinage of Fort Royal, in open boats, at noon day yesterday, under a shower of grape shot and musquetry from the garrison, taking the captain, lieutenant, and twelve men prisoners, being all there were on board, and even firing some of the guns of the Gabarre against the fort, merits the highest praise and admiration. This gallant transaction the Commander in Chief was a witness of, and takes this opportunity of repeating how perfectly sensible he is of their meritorious services, with those of the navy in general, and of their unwearied exertion in forwarding his majesty's service in every way, and on this critical occasion; and begs they will accept of his best thanks. Lieutenant Robertson to do duty as major of brigade, in the room of M. B. Forbes, till further orders.
Head Quarters, Camp at Sourier, before Fort Bourbon,
Friday, March 21, 1794.Parole, Fort. C. S. Royal.
Field Officer, Major Baillie.
During the present truce no relaxation of duty, vigilance, or preparation for a continuance of the siege, to take place; on the contrary, every exertion to be used for opening again with more vigour than ever, should the present conference break of, by not agreeing on terms; which may be the case.
The Commander in Chief has great satisfaction in congratulating the army on the most important capture of Fort Royal, effected with so much good conduct and gallantry, which he trusts must lead to a speedy surrender of Fort Bourbon.—The first battalion of grenadiers, commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Stewart, and third battalion of light infantry, commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Close, from camp la Coste, with the third battalion of grenadiers, commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Buckridge, and first light infantry, commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Coote, from the camp of Sourier, behaved with their usual spirit on the occasion, and such as must always command success. Captain de Rivigne, of the royal artillery, has done his duty in so excellent a manner, shewing superior judgment in conducting the fire of the field pieces on the left, and so effectually covering the approach of the troops, as has done him the greatest honour, and proves him to be a most valuable officer.
The Commander in Chief acknowledges great obligations to the navy, on their gallant escalade of Fort Royal, under the able conduct of Commodore Thompson, with the assistance of the Asia, Captain Brown; but particularly to Captain Faulkner of the Zebra, whose gallantry and judgment have justly gained him the admiration of the whole army.—Commodore Thompson's judicious arrangement of the gun-boats and flat-boats, with the assistance of Captain Rogers, who landed and entered the town of Fort Royal from the side of Tortenson, contributed most essentially to the success of the enterprise, in which the zealous assistance and activity of Captain Sancée of the Guides, was highly meritorious and useful. The Commander in Chief's thanks are justly due to every person employed on that service, which he gives with infinite pleasure and satisfaction.
Head Quarters, Fort Royal, March 25, 1794.
Parole, Fort George. C. S. Fort Edward.
Field Officer, Colonel Coote.
The Commander in Chief orders Fort Bourbon now to bear the name of Fort George, and Fort Louis to bear the name of Fort Edward; and to be called so in future.—The Commander in Chief, with heartfelt satisfaction, congratulates the army on the complete conquest of the island of Martinico, a most important acquisition to his majesty's crown. He begs permission to return the army in general his warmest thanks for their zeal, perseverance, gallantry, and spirit, so eminently distinguished, and never before exceeded, by every rank, from the general to the soldier, throughout this service; and this justice he cannot fail to do them in the strongest language to his majesty.—The works of the trenches to be levelled, and every preparation made by all departments for embarkation on another expedition. The transports are ordered round to Fort Royal; and the cannon, ordnance stores, and every thing belonging to the engineer and military departments, to be conveyed down, ready to be embarked on board their respective ships, regularly, and with such method, that no sort of confusion or retardment may happen upon a second disembarkation. The artillery will always be the first called for.—All officers of the army and navy to have permission to go into Fort George.
General Orders.
Head Quarters, Boyne, off Guadaloupe, June 4, 1794.
Colonel Richard Symes is appointed brigadier general from the 25th of May, 1794, in the West Indies; and also governor of Guadaloupe, until his majesty's pleasure is known.
General Orders. Guadaloupe, June 8, 1794.
Colonel Francis Dundas is appointed Brigadier General from the 26th of May, 1794, in the West Indies. Surgeon Thomas Wright, from the garrison of Guadaloupe, to be purveyor of the general hospital, vice Dundon, deceased. The Honourable Captain Stewart, of the twenty-second regiment, to be extra aid de camp to the Commander in Chief.
General Orders. Guadaloupe, June 10, 1794.
Captain Donkin, of the forty-fourth regiment, to do duty as major of brigade.
General Orders. Boyne, off Pointe a Pitre, June 13, 1794.
The Commander in Chief feels great satisfaction in acquainting the army with his majesty's entire approbation of their gallant exertions and bravery during this campaign, to the time of the capture of Fort Bourbon (now Fort George), and the complete conquest of the island of Martinique; which is communicated to him in a letter from the secretary of state, bearing date the 22d of April, 1794, of which the following is an extract. "I am therefore to signify to you his majesty's most perfect and entire approbation of your conduct, and of the gallant behaviour of all the officers and soldiers under your command; and to desire that you will convey to them the just sense his majesty entertains of the honour they have done themselves, and of the services which they have rendered to their country."—The Commander in Chief has also the pleasure of notifying to the army, that having made application for exempting it from paying postage, his majesty has been graciously pleased to comply therewith; which is communicated to him in a letter from the secretary of state of the same date, the following being an extract. "His majesty is most graciously pleased to comply with your request that the army under your command whilst on service may be exempted from paying postage for their letters; and I shall immediately signify the same to the post master general."
General Orders. Boyne, off Pointe a Pitre, June 14, 1794.
Parole, Light Infantry. C. S. ——
The Commander in Chief thanks Brigadier General Dundas, and the first light infantry, under the command of Major Ross, supported by the thirty-ninth regiment, under Major Magan, for the usual spirit with which they attacked the French camp at Point Gabbare, and congratulates them on the complete success of it.—The able and gallant conduct of Major Ross, in leading the light infantry so handsomely to the charge, as reported by Brigadier General Dundas, demands the Commander in Chief's particular acknowledgments; and which he will not fail to report to the ministry, to lay before his majesty.
General Orders.
Boyne, off Pointe a Pitre, Guadaloupe, June 15, 1794.
Parole, Boyne. C. S. ——
The grenadier companies of the sixth, ninth, fifteenth, twenty-first, fifty-sixth, fifty-eighth, sixtieth, fourth battalion of the sixty-fourth, sixty-fifth, and three companies from the Irish regiments, to be formed into a battalion under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Fisher, of the sixtieth regiment. The light companies of the sixth, ninth, fifteenth, twenty-first, fifty-sixth, fifty-eighth, sixtieth, fourth battalion of the sixty-fourth, sixty-fifth, and three companies from the Irish regiments, to be formed into a battalion under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Gomm.
General Orders. Boyne, off Pointe a Pitre, June 18, 1794.
Parole, —— C. S. ——
The Commander in Chief feels with great concern the necessity of again assembling part of the troops to dislodge an enemy who have stolen into Pointe a Pitre, and the posts in its neighbourhood, at the moment when the gallant General Dundas was expiring. He had hoped that the troops, whose meritorious services had acquired so much glory during a most successful campaign, would have found rest and comfort during the remainder of this year at least. Relying however on the cheerful and utmost exertions of the gallant troops he has the happiness to command, he cannot entertain a doubt of finishing the service speedily and gloriously, to enable the troops to return very soon to the quarters from whence they are now called forth to service.
The Commander in Chief assures the troops that their situation on this extra service shall be made as comfortable and agreeable to them as it is in his power to render it; and that no time shall be lost in advancing against the enemy, consistent with the attention he always pays to the preservation of his soldiers, not wantonly or prematurely exposing them to danger.
The same conduct, good behaviour, and cool bravery, which gained such rapid and complete success hitherto, will insure it on the present occasion, against about five hundred regular troops, joined by a despicable and motley crew of mulattoes and negroes, with some seamen, the whole a forlorn hope, who put in here for the want of provisions, and at a time the forty-third regiment was weakened by sickness.
The troops to be ready to get into the flat boats to-morrow morning at three o'clock. The boats, when the men are embarked, are to assemble astern of the Assurance forty-four gun ship, there waiting for orders to proceed on shore. The troops to carry on shore with them three days provisions dressed, one day's grog, and rum in kegs for another day: also to land with their tent blankets, camp kettles, water kegs, canteens, and hand hatchets; the sailors to land with ditto and tomahawks.
The light infantry to be first to land with two amuzettes, supported by the battalion of grenadiers with two three-pounders.
The sixty-fifth regiment then to land with two six-pounders; Captain de Rivignes commanding the artillery. After the troops are landed, and have got the heights opposite, the spare artillery, howitzers, stores, &c. are to be landed at Grozier. The commanding engineer will land at the same time all the artificers, and every thing belonging to his department, that no time whatsoever may be lost in forwarding the enterprise. The first troops that land will immediately take advantage of the strongest ground, houses, &c. there posting themselves; not advancing until the whole are landed. Brigadier General Symes will direct the landing, and is to command the troops on shore. The Commander in Chief has been pleased to appoint Captain John Cunnyngham, of the forty-third regiment, to be deputy adjutant general, vice Lyon, deceased.
General Orders. Head Quarters, Grozier, Guadaloupe,
June 20, 1794.The Commander in Chief is much surprised to find, from the report of Brigadier General Symes, that the seamen and soldiers straggle from camp in search of water, which, when found in the neighbourhood, is not fit for drinking, though it may answer for cooking. The Commander in Chief forbids any officer from quitting the post of his company, except on duty; and directs that the rolls be called every two hours. If any soldier or seaman be found marauding or straggling from camp, he will be punished in the most severe manner. The officers commanding corps to see their battalions fall in, and the rolls called, from which no officer is to be absent, as the enemy are lurking about the posts.
The piquets are not to suffer any person to pass them, without a pass in writing from the brigadier general.
Each corps will send an officer for orders to head quarters every day at ten o'clock, and an orderly serjeant from each corps to attend constantly. All applications for provisions to be made to Mr. Johnstone, the quarter master of the sixtieth regiment. These orders, as well as all others, to be read to the men by an officer of each company. Captain Robins, of the sixtieth regiment, to do duty with the sixty-fifth regiment; and Lieutenant Milnes, of the forty-ninth, with the ninth light infantry.
The Honourable Captain Stewart, of the twenty-second regiment, having offered his services to the Commander in Chief on this present occasion, they are accepted; and he is ordered to do duty with the ninth grenadier company.
General Orders. Head Quarters, Grozier Camp,
June 21, 1794.Parole, England. C. S. Prosperity.
On account of the brilliant success of his majesty's arms, and his allies, in France, by the complete victory gained by the Duke of York at the head of the British, and also by the Austrians, on the 26th of April last, in which the French General Chapuey was made prisoner, with fifty-seven pieces of their cannon taken, and a great slaughter of their troops, with a very inconsiderable loss of the British troops and their allies, the Commander in Chief orders a feu de joie on the occasion at six o'clock this evening; for which purpose all the troops will be under arms and assemble with the naval battalion at five o'clock, and are to be marched to a conspicuous situation, in view of the enemy, to give three rounds of running fire. The whole of our artillery, drawn up in front of the line, are to fire three rounds. Each round of artillery to precede a round of small arms: running fire beginning at the right of the line; and to conclude with three hearty cheers.—Brigadier General Symes, who commands the line, will be so good as to place and arrange the troops on this occasion, pointing out the ground they are to assemble upon. The whole navy will fire a feu de joie, and the troops under the command of Brigadier General Dundas at the camp at Berville, at the same time.
The Commander in Chief desires that his long, spirited, and determined orders, given out when the army sailed from Barbadoes on the expedition to Martinico, dated the 22d of January, may be read to the troops, particularly to the seamen, many of whom have not served on shore. This the commanding officers of corps and naval battalions will be answerable to the Commander in Chief is done; and at the same time to assure their men, that however it may hurt his feelings, he will put the said orders in full force upon any and every offender in future; for without strict discipline and good order, no good service can possibly be effected: and he again calls upon every officer in the army to assist him in this necessary work. The troops to receive one day's fresh meat, and two days salt provision and rum, to-morrow morning at day-break. Returns to be sent to the commissary general this evening.
After Orders.
Cattle of every description to be brought to head quarters, or delivered to persons ordered to receive them; and no person whatever to kill any beast without orders. It is strictly forbid that any officer, soldier, or seaman, shall presume to take any negroes, except those delivered to them by the quarter master general's department. The marauding which has taken place obliges the General to remind the commanding officers of corps to refer to orders already given out on that head. It will give him extreme concern to be obliged to punish with severity such crimes; but as the existence of the army depends on its discipline, it must be maintained. The first man caught in the act of plundering, to be hung on the spot. The provost is ordered to visit the environs of the encampment, and to execute this order with the utmost vigilance. Piquet to parade at six in the evening.
Head Quarters, Grozier, June 24, 1794.
Parole, Cambray. C. S. York.
Field Officer for the day, Major Crosbie.
The two divisions of marines are to do duty with the battalion of grenadiers under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Fisher. The troops will be particularly careful of their camp kettles, canteens, and haversacks, as no more can be procured for them.
Only two quarts of water per man can be issued for the troops, and that early in the morning, from the men of war. Four days provision to be issued to the troops to-morrow morning.
General Orders. July 6, 1794.
The Commander in Chief has just received another letter from the secretary of state on the subject of postage of letters to this army, of which the following is a copy.
"Sir, Whitehall, May 8, 1794.
As I find the post master general is restrained by law from discharging any letters from the payment of postage, I have, in order that the officers and soldiers under your command may receive their letters free of expence, notified to the different army agents, that all letters for the said officers and soldiers, if sent to this office, will be forwarded to them. I have accordingly directed that such letters shall be put in a separate packet or bag, and addressed to yourself, and transmitted by each mail.
(Signed)
Henry Dundas."
Extract from another Letter from Mr. Dundas to Sir Charles
Grey, K. B. May 21, 1794."It is peculiarly grateful to his Majesty in directing me to signify to you his most entire and perfect approbation of your conduct, and of the gallant behaviour of all the officers and soldiers who served upon this occasion; and which you will convey to them in the most particular manner, and that such important conquests have been attained with so little loss on the part of his majesty. I take this opportunity of inclosing you the votes of thanks to you and Sir John Jervis, which I moved yesterday, with the unanimous concurrence of the House. You will observe they are to be officially communicated to you by the speaker. Similar votes were unanimously passed by the Lords."
Extracts from the Votes of the House of Commons.
"Resolved, nemine contradicente, That the thanks of this House be given to Sir Charles Grey, Knight of the most honourable order of the Bath, for his late able, gallant, and meritorious conduct in the West Indies."
"Resolved, nemine contradicente, That the thanks of this House be given to Lieutenant General Prescott, his Royal Highness Major General Prince Edward, and Major General Thomas Dundas, and to the several officers of the army under the command of Sir Charles Grey, for their late gallant conduct and meritorious exertions in the West Indies."
"Resolved, nem. con. That this House doth highly approve and acknowledge the services of the non-commissioned officers and private soldiers in the army serving under Sir Charles Grey in the West Indies; and that the same be signified to them by the commanders of the several corps, who are desired to thank them for their gallant behaviour."
"Ordered, That the speaker do signify the said resolutions to Sir Charles Grey and Sir John Jervis."
Colonel Colin Graham, of the twenty-first regiment, is appointed brigadier general from the 26th of May, 1794.
Head Quarters, Martinique, July 13, 1794.
Parole, Northampton. C. S. Burfield.
A General court martial to assemble at St. Pierre's, Martinico, on Friday next, the 25th instant, at eight o'clock, for the trial of Brigadier General Sir Charles Gordon, lieutenant colonel of the forty-first regiment of foot, and such other matters as shall be brought before them. The witnesses, both on the part of the prisoner and prosecution, to attend; lists whereof to be sent to Major of Brigade Lorraine, at St. Pierre's, immediately. The above general court martial to consist as follows.
Lieutenant General Prescott, president.
And such other members as shall be hereafter ordered.
Boyne, off Pointe a Pitre, July 20, 1794.
Parole, Britain. C. S. ——
The Commander in Chief orders a feu de joie to be fired this evening at six o'clock, to celebrate the most signal victory that ever was gained over the French fleet, on the 1st of June last, by Earl Howe, in the English channel. The French fleet consisted of twenty-six ships of the line, the English fleet of twenty-five. Of the French seven sail of ships of the line were taken, one sunk, and many of them dismasted and crippled; so that most probably many more would fall into the hands of the English. In short, the General has the satisfaction to announce to the army the total ruin of the French fleet.
Head Quarters, St. Pierre, July 28, 1794.
Parole, Jervis. C. S. ——
The Right Honourable Lord Loughborough having transmitted to the Commander in Chief the votes of thanks passed by the House of Lords to himself, Lieutenant General Prescott, his Royal Highness Prince Edward, and Major General Thomas Dundas, and all the other officers of this army; the Commander in Chief loses no time in giving out the following copies of those votes in general orders.
"Die Mercurii.
"Ordered, nemine dissentiente, by the Lords spiritual and temporal, in parliament assembled, That the thanks of this House be given to Sir Charles Grey, Knight of the most honourable order of the Bath, for his late able, gallant, and meritorious conduct in the West Indies."
Signed,
G. Rose, Clerk of Parliament.
"Die Mercurii.
"Ordered, nemine dissentiente, by the Lords spiritual and temporal, in parliament assembled, That the thanks of this House be given to Lieutenant General Prescott, his Royal Highness Prince Edward, Major General Thomas Dundas, and to the several officers of the army under the command of Sir Charles Grey, for their late able, gallant, and meritorious conduct in the West Indies."
Signed,
G. Rose, Clerk of Parliament.
May 21, 1794.
"Ordered, nemine dissentiente, by the Lords spiritual and temporal, in parliament assembled, That this House doth highly approve and acknowledge the services of the non-commissioned officers and private men in the army serving under Sir Charles Grey in the West Indies; and that the same be signified to them by the commanding officers of the several corps, who are desired to thank them for their gallant behaviour."
Signed,
G. Rose, Clerk of Parliament.
The Right Honourable the Lord Mayor of London having transmitted to the Commander in Chief the unanimous vote of thanks of the Common Council of the city to this army, he takes the earliest opportunity of communicating the following extract thereof in general orders.
"At a common council holden in the chamber of the Guildhall of the city of London, on Tuesday, May 27, 1794, Le Mesurier, Mayor,—Resolved unanimously, That the thanks of this Court be given to Sir Charles Grey, Knight of the Bath, and the officers and soldiers serving under his command, for the signal services they have rendered to their country by their able, gallant, and meritorious conduct in the West Indies."
Signed,
Rix.
Head Quarters, St. Pierre, Martinique, August 1, 1794.
Parole, Matilda. C. S. ——
One serjeant, one corporal, and twelve privates, from each regiment, to parade every morning at six o'clock, and evening at five, and to be instructed in the exercise of the artillery; and when perfected, the commanding officer of artillery will report to the general or commanding officer on the spot, that they may be relieved by an equal number, to be taught in the same manner, that there may be no want of artillerymen to man and fight the guns on the batteries, in case of an attack.
Head Quarters, St. Pierre, Martinique, August 3, 1794.
Parole, Spithead. C. S. ——
It is the Commander in Chief's orders, that all negroes belonging to the islands, who still continue with the army, or are known of, shall be sent to St. Pierre or Fort Royal immediately, in order to their being sent home, and a final settlement made of their accounts.
Head Quarters, St. Pierre, August 4, 1794.
Parole, Hurricane. C. S. ——
His Majesty having been pleased to appoint John Jeoffray, Esq. commissary general of stores and provisions, and Valentine Jones, Esq. to be commissary of accounts, for the Leeward and Windward Islands, all accounts in the commissary general's department, for which warrants have not been already granted, as well as those of the assistants stationed in the different islands, as those of the moving army, are to be settled with him, and to be examined and certified by the commissary of accounts, previous to their being brought to the secretary's office, as no warrants for money can be granted on them until that shall have been done. Warrants for the subsistence of the army, and for the pay of the officers employed on the staff, will be granted in the usual manner, on application at the secretary's office.
After Orders. August 4, 1794.
The proceedings of the present general court martial being impeded by the sickness of some of the members, makes it necessary to add more members to the strength of it, that, the business may go forward without interruption in future. The Commander in Chief therefore orders a general court martial to assemble at nine o'clock on Friday morning the 8th instant, at the same place, and to begin the trial again of Brigadier General Sir Charles Gordon; and which general court martial is to be composed of a president and eighteen members. All evidences to attend; and a list of them to be given to the deputy judge advocate as soon as possible. The corps of island rangers, commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Toler, to be augmented twenty men a company, making them seventy instead of fifty.
Members of the General Court Martial.
St. Pierre, August 5, 1794.
Parole, Antigua. C. S. ——
The officers of the army will understand, that should the order of the 3d instant (respecting the negroes being returned), not be strictly complied with, that for every negro kept back, the officers to whom they belong, and who detained them, will certainly have to pay, not only the full price of such negroes, but their hire during the time of service.—On account of the indisposition of Lieutenant Colonel Stewart, fifty-eighth regiment, he is not to be a member of the general court martial ordered for the 8th instant. Captain Rose, seventieth regiment, is to be a member thereof, in the room of Lieutenant Colonel Stewart.
Head Quarters, St. Pierre, Martinique, August 9, 1794.
Parole, Antigua. C. S. ——
The British inhabitants of the town of St. Pierre are to be embodied, and to form a corps under the command of Captain Bontein, who is appointed lieutenant colonel commandant thereof, to be called the Royal Martinico Volunteers. The following gentlemen are to be the officers.
Lieutenant Colonel —— Bontein. Captains James Clifton.
Andrew Smith.First Lieutenants William Moore.
Cayley Johnstone.Second Lieutenants —— Popham.
—— Heyland.Adjutant Mr. Randal Ripton. The above corps is to parade at the Pere Blancs, which is to be their alarm post.
All British born subjects, resident in or near the town of St. Pierre, are required forthwith to give in their names to Lieutenant Colonel Bontein, of the royal Martinico volunteers, at the custom house; and every person of the above description meaning to leave the island, is required to make known his intention to Lieutenant Colonel Bontein: they are likewise required to give in their names upon their arrival. The Commander in Chief has no doubt, from the voluntary and handsome offer of the English in the town of St. Pierre, that all who are able will willingly join the corps of the royal Martinico volunteers, under the orders of Lieutenant Colonel Bontein, to preserve good order, and defend their properties.
F. Maitland, deputy adjutant general.
Head Quarters, St. Pierre, Martinique, August 11, 1794.
Parole, Cornwallis.
In consequence of the death of Captain Blacker, sixty-fifth, and the illness of Captain Ingram, fifty-eighth, Captain Lee of forty-fourth grenadiers, and Captain Holland of sixtieth regiment, are to replace those officers as members of the general court martial ordered to meet this day.
General Orders. Head Quarters, St. Pierre, Martinico,
August 31, 1794.The appointment of Captain Hare, of the light dragoons, to be aid de camp to the Commander in Chief, is not to interfere with or prevent his having the entire command of the detachment of British light dragoons, which he retains as if no such appointment had been made.
After Orders.
The general court martial, of which Lieutenant General Prescott is president, is hereby dissolved; and all officers are to repair to their posts, where they are so much wanted.
F. Maitland, deputy adjutant general.
Head Quarters, St. Pierre, Martinique, Nov. 7, 1794.
Parole, Unanimity.
The recent act of inhumanity and barbarity committed at Guadaloupe by the enemy (by whom a considerable number of royalists were murdered in cold blood, after having fallen into their hands at Berville camp as prisoners of war, and who had become subjects of Great Britain, by taking the oath of allegiance to the British government, after the conquest of that island), calls aloud for the following order and declaration of the Commander in Chief: That all persons residing in the conquered islands of Martinico, Guadaloupe, and St. Lucia, and their dependencies, whether French or of any other nation, having taken the oath of allegiance to the government of Great Britain, and who demean and conduct themselves accordingly, shall receive every protection that the other subjects of Great Britain do in these islands: and should such cases of extremity happen as may render a capitulation necessary, no terms are to be proposed or accepted, which do not give equal security, safety, and protection, to them as to the other subjects of Great Britain, as well those with arms as those without; consequently, no place is to be surrendered before this is expressly and explicitly acknowledged and subscribed to by the enemy, that in any extremity we may stand or fall together: and the Commander in Chief earnestly recommends a continuance and confirmation of this order to his successors in command, as a measure of justice, dictated by honour and humanity.
The Commander in Chief hopes that this explicit order and declaration, giving such ample security to the royalists on his part, will ease their minds; and, confidence being restored, that it will produce a becoming zeal and exertion to unite for the public interest heart and hand, in contributing to good order and tranquillity; and that he may expect there will not be any further emigration on the bare report of an enemy's approach, or even on being actually landed; as every apprehension of danger must be dispelled when all are heartily united for the common safety and defence.
The Commander in Chief, hoping therefore for this effect and conduct from the people in general, does in a more particular manner recommend to persons of consequence to set a laudable example of fortitude on every occasion, and to assemble and embody under proper leaders, to act in conjunction with his majesty's regular troops, for the protection of their honour, families, and fortunes, which must be dearer to them than life.
The King having been pleased to order that the colours taken at Martinique by the forces under Sir Charles Grey, K. B. and Sir John Jervis, K. B. which were brought to the palace at St. James's, should be deposited in the Cathedral of St. Paul, on Saturday, May 17, 1795, detachments of horse and foot guards were ordered to parade at St. James's at ten o'clock, and marched before his Majesty, who was pleased to see them pass by in the following order:
A Captain and forty life guards,
A serjeant and twelve grenadiers,
Music of the first regiment of guards,
Twenty-nine serjeants with the French Colours,
A Field Officer and one hundred life guards.In this manner they proceeded to the west gate of St. Paul's, where the colours were received by the Dean and Chapter, attended by the choir, about which time the guns at the Tower and Park were fired.
The colours are since put up in the said cathedral church as a lasting memorial of the success of his Majesty's arms in the reduction of the important island of Martinique.
Extract from the Parliamentary Register,
Vol. xxxviiii. p. 329.HOUSE OF COMMONS.
"Tuesday, May 20, 1794.
"The following resolutions were severally put, and passed nem. con.
"That the thanks of this House be given to Sir Charles Grey, Knight of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath, for his late able, gallant, and meritorious conduct in the West Indies.
"That the thanks of this House be given to Sir John Jervis, Knight of the Most Honourable Order of the Bath, for his late able, gallant, and meritorious conduct in the West Indies.
"That the thanks of this House be given to Lieutenant General Prescott, his Royal Highness Major General Prince Edward, and Major General Thomas Dundas, and to the several Officers of the army under the command of Sir Charles Grey, for their late gallant and meritorious exertions in the West Indies.
"That the thanks of this House be given to Rear Admiral Thompson, and to the several Captains and Officers of the fleet under the command of Sir John Jervis, for their late gallant conduct and meritorious exertions in the West Indies.
"That this House doth highly approve and acknowledge the services of the Non-commissioned Officers and Soldiers in the army serving under Sir Charles Grey in the West Indies; and that the same be signified to them by the commanders of the several corps, who are desired to thank them for their late gallant behaviour.
"That this House doth highly approve and acknowledge the services of the Sailors and Marines serving on board the fleet under command of Sir John Jervis in the West Indies; and that the same be signified to them by the captains of the several ships, who are desired to thank them for their gallant behaviour."
Mr. Dundas then moved, "That Mr. Speaker do signify the said resolutions to Sir Charles Grey and Sir John Jervis."—Passed nem. con.
| Colonels | Elias Durnford, Chief Engineer. |
| John Chillcotts. | |
| Robert Douglas. | |
| Captains | William Johnston. |
| James Gieddes. | |
| Lewis Hay. | |
| 1st Lieutenants | Richard Downe. |
| Douglas Lawson. | |
| Richard Fletcher. | |
| 2d Lieutenant | Elias Walker Durnford. |
| Lieutenant Colonel Blundell, President. | |
| Lieutenant Colonel Johnston. | |
| Major Watson. | |
| Major Ross. | |
| Major Baillie. | |
| Third battalion grenadiers | 2 Captains. |
| Second light infantry | 1 Ditto. |
| Third ditto | 1 Ditto. |
| Third brigade | 4 Ditto. |
"Sir, Whitehall, May 8, 1794.
As I find the post master general is restrained by law from discharging any letters from the payment of postage, I have, in order that the officers and soldiers under your command may receive their letters free of expence, notified to the different army agents, that all letters for the said officers and soldiers, if sent to this office, will be forwarded to them. I have accordingly directed that such letters shall be put in a separate packet or bag, and addressed to yourself, and transmitted by each mail.
(Signed)
Henry Dundas."
"Resolved, nemine contradicente, That the thanks of this House be given to Sir Charles Grey, Knight of the most honourable order of the Bath, for his late able, gallant, and meritorious conduct in the West Indies."
"Resolved, nemine contradicente, That the thanks of this House be given to Lieutenant General Prescott, his Royal Highness Major General Prince Edward, and Major General Thomas Dundas, and to the several officers of the army under the command of Sir Charles Grey, for their late gallant conduct and meritorious exertions in the West Indies."
"Resolved, nem. con. That this House doth highly approve and acknowledge the services of the non-commissioned officers and private soldiers in the army serving under Sir Charles Grey in the West Indies; and that the same be signified to them by the commanders of the several corps, who are desired to thank them for their gallant behaviour."
"Ordered, That the speaker do signify the said resolutions to Sir Charles Grey and Sir John Jervis."
"Die Mercurii.
"Ordered, nemine dissentiente, by the Lords spiritual and temporal, in parliament assembled, That the thanks of this House be given to Sir Charles Grey, Knight of the most honourable order of the Bath, for his late able, gallant, and meritorious conduct in the West Indies."
Signed,
G. Rose, Clerk of Parliament.
"Die Mercurii.
"Ordered, nemine dissentiente, by the Lords spiritual and temporal, in parliament assembled, That the thanks of this House be given to Lieutenant General Prescott, his Royal Highness Prince Edward, Major General Thomas Dundas, and to the several officers of the army under the command of Sir Charles Grey, for their late able, gallant, and meritorious conduct in the West Indies."
Signed,
G. Rose, Clerk of Parliament.
May 21, 1794.
"Ordered, nemine dissentiente, by the Lords spiritual and temporal, in parliament assembled, That this House doth highly approve and acknowledge the services of the non-commissioned officers and private men in the army serving under Sir Charles Grey in the West Indies; and that the same be signified to them by the commanding officers of the several corps, who are desired to thank them for their gallant behaviour."
Signed,
G. Rose, Clerk of Parliament.
"At a common council holden in the chamber of the Guildhall of the city of London, on Tuesday, May 27, 1794, Le Mesurier, Mayor,—Resolved unanimously, That the thanks of this Court be given to Sir Charles Grey, Knight of the Bath, and the officers and soldiers serving under his command, for the signal services they have rendered to their country by their able, gallant, and meritorious conduct in the West Indies."
Signed,
Rix.
| Lieutenant Colonel | —— Bontein. |
| Captains | James Clifton. Andrew Smith. |
| First Lieutenants | William Moore. Cayley Johnstone. |
| Second Lieutenants | —— Popham. —— Heyland. |
| Adjutant | Mr. Randal Ripton. |