able to observe or distinguish any more
signals, I made for Cadiz, keeping close in with the Spanish
coast, on a course N. or N.E., and by that means got at a
distance from the squadron, which were steering large in a
westerly direction.

At break of day I found myself attacked by four of the enemy's
squadron,--three ships and a frigate,--which had pursued the
same course. Though totally disabled, and the crew fatigued,
having had no rest for three days, we returned their fire with
courage: the frigate attacked us first, but a few shots well
directed from our stern-guns made her abandon her object. The
ship which followed, approached us, and kept up a brisk fire. We
manoeuvred to get into a better position; I ran close to her
until we were yard-arm and yard-arm, and maintained a terrible
and well-supported fire: after being engaged an hour and a half,
she was completely dismasted, making water in every part. The
frigate which had attacked me astern, came immediately to her
assistance; the other two vessels finding it necessary to sheer
off after receiving some broadsides, not without damage, joined
the frigate, and hoisted out all their boats to save the crew of
the other vessel, and to take her in tow. They resigned to me
the field of battle, and retired.

I expected, however, another combat. We were determined to make
the most vigorous defence; but, as the enemy retired, and as I
found myself in such a situation as to be unable to pursue them,
I resolved to proceed to Cadiz, where I arrived at two in the
afternoon.

I shall not attempt to give you any account of particular
instances of bravery. The two staffs, the crew, and the troops
who were passengers, vied with each other,--covering themselves
with glory; for, besides the noble combat of the 6th, this
proves that the valour which animated the brave men I have the
honour to command, was carried to a degree which it is difficult
to describe. Government will, no doubt, take the earliest
opportunity of rewarding so much courage, and so great a
devotion to restore the glory of the French navy. It would be
just, also, to indemnify them for the losses they have
sustained; their effects having been cut to pieces and
absolutely destroyed.

I have now, Citizen General, to communicate to you a very fatal
relation.--In the battle of this night, two of