e 147 prisoners.

During the contest in this quarter, the lines of the whole of the
left wing were perfectly lined, in addition to the reserves; and
I found myself able to detach three companies of the 23d regiment
from the left, to reinforce the troops at Fort Erie, viz.:
Captain Wattles', Lieutenant Cantine's, and Lieutenant Brown's
companies, and one of the 19th under Captain Chunn. They were in
the fort during the time of the explosion, and their conduct is
highly spoken of by Major Brooke, their commanding officer.
Indeed, from the high state to which that regiment has been
brought by Major Brooke, I am convinced that no troops will
behave better.

In submitting to your view the conduct of the troops under my
command on this occasion, I find every thing to applaud, nothing
to reprehend. The utmost coolness and subordination was
manifested, both by the 21st and 23d regiments. To Major Wood I
feel particularly indebted. This officer's merits are so well
known, that approbation can scarcely add to his reputation. He
has the merit, with the Spartan band, in connection with Captain
Towson's artillery, of defeating a vaunting foe of six times his
force. Major Brooke did every thing in his power: and it affords
me pleasure at all times to call the attention of the general
commanding to this amiable and accomplished officer.

The officers commanding companies immediately engaged, have my
highest commendation. Their conduct was most judicious and
gallant. I cannot refrain from adverting to the manner in which
Captain Towson's artillery was served. I have never seen it
equalled. This officer has so often distinguished himself, that
to say simply that he is in action, is a volume of eulogium; the
army, only to be informed he is there, by a spontaneous assent,
are at once satisfied that he has performed well his part. I have
no idea that there is an artillery officer in any service
superior to him in the knowledge and performance of his duty.

The officers I have mentioned as commanding companies of the 21st
and 23d regiments, are particularly commended by their commanding
officers. Captain Marston, a most valuable officer, commanded a
first line of three companies opposed to the enemy's column.
Captain Ropes commanded the companies of reser