I remained with this ship and the Druid under easy sail to windward. The two headmost ships of the enemy kept up a brisk fire as they came up; which was returned, but at too great a distance to do any considerable damage. At eight, the Eurydice being so far in shore as to run no risk of their coming up with her, and the whole French line coming up within gun-shot, I made sail with the Druid for the Hanoways.
Observing the headmost of the enemy gaining very fast on the two ships, I hauled in for the shore with the view of drawing off her attention; which answered my purpose, as she immediately hauled up after me, and maintained a brisk fire for some time, but without effect. She then bore away, but the Druid and Eurydice were too far ahead; and soon after they hauled their wind to the northward.
I feel every satisfaction in acquainting you that, from the spirit and bravery of my officers and men on this occasion, I am persuaded it would have had every effect, had we had a more equal force to contend with. I met with a noble support in Captain Ellison; and I have only to regret that Captain Cole was not in a ship of sufficient force to allow of my deriving advantage from his tact and intrepidity.
I am, with every respect, sir,
Your most obedient and most humble servant,
Jas. Saumarez.
Rear-Admiral John McBride.
RELATIVE FORCE OF THE ENGLISH AND FRENCH SQUADRONS.
English.
| Guns. | Weight of shot. | |
| Crescent | 36 | 630 |
| Druid | 36 | 630 |
| Eurydice | 20 | 240 |
| — | —— | |
| Total | 92 | 1500 |
The cutters and luggers went off to Plymouth when the action began.