Paul HAMILTON, at Sea, October 30, 1812.
Secretary of the Navy, Washington, D. C.

Sir: I have the honour to inform you, that on the 25th instant,
being in the latitude 29 deg., N., longitude 29 deg., 30', W., we fell in
with, and, after an action of an hour and a half, captured His
Britannic Majesty's ship Macedonian, commanded by Captain John
Carden, and mounting 49 carriage guns (the odd gun shifting). She
is a frigate of the largest class, two years old, four months out
of dock, and reputed one of the best sailors in the British
service. The enemy being to windward, had the advantage of
engaging us at his own distance, which was so great, that for the
first half hour we did not use our carronades, and at no moment
was he within the complete effect of our musketry or grape: to
this circumstance and a heavy swell, which was on at the time, I
ascribe the unusual length of the action.

The enthusiasm of every officer, seaman, and marine on board this
ship, on discovering the enemy; their steady conduct in battle,
and precision of their fire, could not be surpassed. Where all
met my fullest expectations, it would be unjust for me to
discriminate. Permit me, however, to recommend to your particular
notice my first Lieutenant, William H. Allen. He has served with
me upwards of five years, and to his unremitted exertions in
disciplining the crew, is to be imputed the obvious superiority
of our gunnery exhibited in the result of this contest.

Subjoined is a list of the killed and wounded on both sides. (p. 165)
Our loss, compared with that of the enemy, will appear small.
Amongst our wounded, you will observe the name of Lieutenant
Funk, who died in a few hours after the action: he was an
officer of great gallantry and promise, and the service has
sustained a severe loss in his death.

The Macedonian lost her mizzen-mast, fore and main-top-masts and
main yard, and was much cut up in her hull. The damage sustained
by this ship was not such as to render her return into port
necessary, and had I not deemed it important that we should see
our prize in, should have continued our cruize.

With the highest consideration, I am, yours, etc.,
Stephen DECATUR.

Killed