Next morning I addressed the Admiral again respecting my return to D’Jounie.
“Sir,
“Head-quarters, October 11, 1840.
“I received your letter last night, written before the battle, desiring me to return to D’Jounie forthwith; I do not know whether that is now to be put into execution. I expect the Emir Bechir every moment; he ought to march by the mountains, and come down on Souliman; the marines ought to be landed, and we ought to collect our troops and attack Souliman instantly, and thus finish the campaign; if we do not, he will withdraw. I merely suggest this for your consideration; if I am to return to D’Jounie, if you will hoist the affirmative with guns, I shall answer with a white flag, and march forthwith, leaving the Emir on the hills to do what he thinks best.
“I have the honour to be, &c.
“Chas. Napier, Commodore.
“P.S. I sent you a few lines last night by Lieut. Duncan, who is not yet returned. We have 500 prisoners, but they still keep coming in; the enemy’s troops are dispersed in all directions. Ibrahim took himself off in double quick, and I suppose is now with Souliman.”
“The Hon. Sir Robert Stopford, G.C.B.”
The following is my official report to the Admiral of the action of the 10th of October, penned, as will be seen, after my return to my ship:—
“Sir,