o
close to the shore to protect this disembarkation, that after
receiving a destructive fire, they fell back and occupied the
heights of Woodbridge Estate. Then it was that a column of the enemy
marched up to Morne Daniel, and stormed the redoubt defended by a
small detachment, which, after an obstinate resistance, they
carried. On my left, Captain O'Connell was gaining ground,
notwithstanding a fresh supply of troops and several field-pieces,
which had been brought on shore by the enemy. I now observed a large
column climbing the mountains to get in his rear.

"The town, which had been for some time in flames, was only
protected by a light howitzer and a six-pounder to the right,
supported by part of the light company of the St. George's Regiment.
The enemy's large ships in Woodbridge Bay, out of the reach of my
guns, my right flank gained, and my retreat to Prince Rupert's
almost cut off, I determined on one attempt to keep the sovereignty
of the island, which the excellent troops I had, warranted. I
ordered the militia to remain at the posts, except such as were
inclined to encounter more hardships and severe service; and Captain
O'Connell, with the 46th Regiment, under the command of Captain
James, and the light company of the 1st West India Regiment, were
directed to make a forced march to Prince Rupert's. I then allowed
the President to enter into terms for the town of Roseau; and then
demanded from the French general that private property should be
respected, and that no wanton or disgraceful pillage should be
allowed; this done, only attended by Brigade-Major Prevost, and
Deputy Quartermaster-General Hopley, of the militia forces, I
crossed the island, and in twenty-four hours, with the aid of the
inhabitants and the exertions of the Caribs, I got to this garrison
on the 23rd. After four days' continued march through the most
difficult country, I might almost say, existing, Captain O'Connell
joined me at Prince Rupert's, himself wounded, and bringing in his
wounded, with a few of the Royal Artillery, and the precious
remainder of the 46th and the 1st West India Light Company.

"I had no sooner got to the fort than I ordered cattle to be driven
in, and took measures for getting a store of water from the river
and the bay. I found my signals to Lieutenant-Colonel Charles