WAR IN CHINA. (continued 2)

Captain Herbert speaks highly of Captain Bethune, Commanders Warren, Giffard, and Eyres; Lieuts. Mason, Shute, Haskell, Hay, Watson, Beadon, Coryton, Collinson, Morshead, Hayes, and Hamilton, and of Mr. Dolling, mate, and Mr. Brown, master; also of Lieut. Hayes, Bombay marine, and Lieut. Somerville, Adjutant of transports; of Lieuts. Urquhart and Marriott, Royal Marines. Major Pratt offered his services, and Lieut. Grabbot, of the Madras Artillery, threw his shells from one of the junks with great effect.

Thus in the course of three days, every portion of the fortifications of Canton fell into the power of the British, including its entire line-of-water frontage and its numerous out-works. On the land side every preparation was made by Sir Hugh Gough and Sir Le Fleming Senhouse to storm the city, which held an immense army of Tartar troops, when flags-of-truce were waved from the walls, and it appeared that the Tartar generals, who had come to exterminate the British, were now alongside the ships-of-war, humbly suing for peace, and offering immense sums for the ransom of the city. Six millions of dollars were ultimately accepted, and sent on board the ships-of-war. While the terms of the arrangement were still unconcluded, large bodies of irregular troops and armed peasantry continued to threaten the British forces, and a regiment of Sepoys having been sent to disperse some of the bands, a company, during a tremendous storm which took place, lost its way. It was feared that it had been cut off by the Chinese, when, immediately Sir Hugh Gough ordered up two companies of Marines, who, being still fresh, marched quickly in search of the missing party. A few shots were heard in the distance, when the brave Sepoys were seen, drawn up in a square, where they had stood all night, pecked at by whole hosts of Chinese. The gallant marines fired a couple of volleys, and giving a loud hurra, charged the celestials, who fled in all directions before them. The Sepoys were now brought back in triumph, but one officer and several men were wounded, and one was killed. On the 31st of May part of the ransom was paid, 18,000 Tartars marched out of Canton; and on the 1st of June the British troops re-embarked at Tsingpoo, under the superintendence of Captains Bourchier and Maitland, and were towed down by the 'Nemesis' to their respective ships. The whole squadron then got under weigh, and returned to Hong Kong. Many officers and men suffered much from the fatigues they had undergone; and the seeds of disease were then sown, which, in a short time, carried numbers to their graves. The navy had to deplore the loss of Sir Le Fleming Senhouse, who, in a few days, sunk under the mental and bodily exertion to which he had been exposed. He was buried, according to his will, at Macao.

DASHING EXPLOIT IN BOATS UNDER CAPTAIN BELCHER.

I give the following account in Sir Edward Belcher's own words:—

"The Commodore, and Captain Elliot, accompanied by Captain Herbert and myself, proceeded in the 'Nemesis' to examine Fatee Creek, from the position of the 'Hyacinth.' It was found impossible to push the 'Hyacinth' higher, nor was there room for the 'Nemesis.' It was therefore decided, that I should take the command of a division of boats through this creek. This division, consisting of the boats belonging to the 'Sulphur,' 'Hyacinth,' 'Calliope,' 'Cruiser,' and 'Pylades,' supported by my worthy friend Captain Warren, moved forwards about eleven. Attaching our tow-ropes to one of the large passage-boats, we compelled her to tow us a considerable distance, so as to avoid being noticed by the Chinese. At the point where the creek turned off to Patshan, there was scarcely room for our oars, and here a three-gun battery had been prepared for its defence, but we found it deserted, and the guns withdrawn.

"Having cast off from the junk, we had scarcely entered the narrow pass, when we descried a boat making off. It was fortunate for our party, as his range of sweeps required as much room as ours; and his advance cleared the way for us in full cry after him. How he contrived to pass, or whether the vessels were thrust out purposely, I know not but frequently we had not room for our oars; and for this reason he distanced us. At length the Broadway, near the city, opened, with Canton ahead. The action had commenced below, the vessels had passed the bridge, and the 'fast boats' were flying in all directions. Warren and myself had entirely distanced our divisions; one huge fellow we chased for a long time within pistol shot, yet he gained on us, and we were reluctantly compelled to relinquish him, to make sure of the others, now well within our grasp.

"The reports of the carronades of our boats soon told where they were, and having rejoined, the lighter boats were left in charge of the captured fast boats; and we then moved forward. The crowd of vessels falling constantly in our way, as well as myriads of sampans, &c., greatly obstructed our progress, and as we neared Canton, our vessels, not aware of our manœuvre, and mistaking us for the enemy, were dropping their shot freely amongst us.

"As we sighted the Shameen Fort, it opened on the steamers advancing. We were then completely under cover of the houses, and landed, expecting to drive them out by musketry; but found a deep and wide ditch between us, as well as a blank wall. The boats with guns were therefore brought up side by side to the piles in front, and five carronades, at thirty yards, played into their embrasures with grape, where they could not depress their guns. Joining Captain Warren in his gig, we landed, but before we could reach the gates, the enemy had fled. Having captured the fort, and the boats of the main division dropping in, I quitted, and joined the 'Nemesis' (leaving Captain Warren to move on to capture the Dutch Folly), and was towed by her towards Bogue Port, and there, having hauled down its colours, and left a party destroying the guns, I returned to the 'Nemesis,' and was joined by Mr. Morrison, secretary to the Plenipotentiary. At the request of Captain Elliot, I landed, and rehoisted the British colours on the Factory. Whilst thus engaged, a party of soldiers rushed out of the Hoppo-office, and had nearly succeeded in cutting off part of my boats' crew. But, being reinforced by one of our divisions, we pursued them up the Hog-lane, and drove them back with some loss.

"On my return to the 'Nemesis,' Captain Elliot requested me to take him to Howqua's house, or where his tea-boats are laden. Having seated himself in the bow of one of the vessels, he despatched a comprador to say he wished to speak with Howqua. The Mandarin, however, would not come; he was probably too much frightened, and afraid of involving himself; but he sent down some tea,[1] which was rather acceptable. Captain Elliot then sent, requesting him to tell the Quang-chow-foo 'that he wished an interview the day following.'

"We then returned to the 'Madagascar' steamer, where I found the Commodore. Some of the Chinese having fired on our boats (from the Custom-house), they were punished instanter by their carronades sweeping the lanes, and the 'Madagascar' also threw in several well-directed shells. Captain Warren and his division captured the Dutch Folly, as well as five of Lin's gun-boats, most grotesquely painted with dolphins, dragons, &c. One of these having grounded, I was despatched to burn her, which having completed, I proceeded below Dutch Folly, where I found four fast boats, and a sand-battery mounting five guns, very neatly masked with them as bags—the guns truly breeched with matting. These were all destroyed. The arsenal, and ten new war-junks, were left untouched. The fast boats taken by our division amounted in all to fourteen. Five junks, with very valuable cargoes, estimated at two and a half millions, were not meddled with, and the force was employed, during the latter part of the day, in saving Howqua's tea stores from the flames, the war-junks which had been fired having drifted on them."

CAPTURE OF AMOY,

August 26th.

No sooner was Hong Kong taken possession of by the English than its population began to increase with the greatest rapidity, and in a few months the large town of Victoria sprung up, and has since become the centre of British commerce in that part of the world. In June, Sir Gordon Bremer returned from Calcutta, and was appointed joint Plenipotentiary with Captain Elliot; but on the 9th of August, both were superseded by Sir Henry Pottinger, who came as sole Plenipotentiary and chief superintendent of trade in China. Vice-Admiral Sir William Parker, by whom all subsequent naval operations were conducted, came at the same time.

A new system was now introduced: Sir Henry Pottinger refused to receive the Prefect of Canton, and let it be known that the British would no longer be cajoled by the Chinese. As the enemy did not choose to sue for peace, the squadron was forthwith prepared with great energy for an attack on Amoy. The orders issued by Sir William Parker, for the guidance of the fleet, were very excellent, and much attention was devoted to the arrangement of the transport service, which was placed under the most efficient regulations, indeed great credit is due to the masters and officers of the troop and store ships for their good conduct and attention to their duties throughout the war. On the 21st of August, at daylight, nine days only after the arrival of the Admiral, the fleet being ready for sea, got under weigh. It was formed in three divisions. The centre was commanded by Captain Herbert, of the 'Blenheim,' assisted by Commander Clarke, of the 'Columbine;' the starboard division by Captain Bourchier, of the 'Blonde,' assisted by Commander Giffard, of the 'Cruiser;' and the first division by Captain Smith, of the 'Druid,' assisted by Commander Anson, of the 'Pylades.'

Among other orders, it was directed that a boat should be kept in constant readiness on board each transport to tow the ships clear of each other in the event of calms.

The fleet destined for the proposed attack on Amoy consisted of the following ships:—'Wellesley,' flag-ship, 72, Captain Thomas Maitland; 'Blenheim,' 72, Captain Thomas Herbert; 'Blonde,' 44, Captain Thomas Bourchier; 'Druid,' 44, Captain Henry Smith, C.B.; 'Modeste,' 18, Captain Henry Eyres; 'Cruiser,' 16, Commander H. W. Giffard; 'Pylades,' 18, Commander T. V. Anson; 'Columbine,' 16, Commander Thomas J. Clarke; 'Bentinck,' 10, Lieut. Richard Collinson; 'Algerine,' 10, Lieut. T. H. Mason; 'Rattlesnake,' troop ship, Master James Sprent. Steam-vessels: Hon. East India Company—'Sesostris,' 4, Acting Commander Ormsby; 'Phlegethon,' 4, Lieut. M'Cleverty, R.N; 'Nemesis,' 2, Master W. H. Hall, R.N.; 'Queen,' 2, Acting Master W. Warden, R.N.

Added to the fleet there were 21 hired transports and store-ships, many of not less than a thousand tons.

Captain Nias remained in the neighbourhood of the Canton river as senior officer, in command of a squadron of five vessels-of-war.

Amoy stands on the south-western corner of an island of the same name, situated in a large bay on the China coast, scarcely 300 miles north of Hong Kong. The small island of Kolingsoo, separated by a narrow passage from Amoy, completely commands the harbour, as well as the town and suburbs. The harbour is very fine; and several rivers, which debouche into the bay, afford easy communication with the interior of the country. The inhabitants, also, being possessed of an enterprising and mercantile spirit, it is a place of very considerable commerce. It was, therefore, considered that the capture of so flourishing a place would be seriously felt by the Chinese Government.

Several islands, on which numerous forts had been erected, stretch across the bay; and on Amoy itself were a succession of batteries, one of which, commanding the harbour, was a mile in length, and mounted 96 guns. Every neighbouring height and point was also strongly fortified. On several occasions the authorities, confident in their strength, had treated the British flag in a hostile and insolent manner, which well merited the punishment now preparing for them. The weather proving favourable, the fleet had a good passage up, well maintaining their order of sailing, and without the occurrence of any accident of importance. Before sunset, on the evening of the 25th, it arrived off the islands at the entrance of Amoy Bay. A few shot were discharged at the ships as they passed between the fortified islands; but no mischief was done. It was then beginning to blow hard; but, favoured by a fair wind and a bright moonlight, piloted by Captain Bourchier, of the 'Blonde,' the fleet entered the bay, and anchored in security for the night. A strong wind during the night prevented any boats from leaving the ships to sound or make observations; but as soon as daylight appeared, the Admiral, accompanied by Sir Hugh Gough and Sir Harry Pottinger, embarked in the 'Phlegethon' to reconnoitre the Chinese positions. As, in consequence of the advanced period of the monsoon and the farther operations which were proposed, it was of the utmost importance that as little time as possible should be employed before Amoy, it was determined that a simultaneous attack should be immediately made by the squadron on the batteries within the barrier wall, and on the island of Golong-soo, and that the troops should be landed inside the barrier as soon as practicable to take the batteries in the rear. For this purpose the 'Wellesley' and 'Blenheim' were directed to anchor opposite the strongest batteries on Amoy, and as near the entrance of the harbour as possible, leaving the 'Cruiser,' 'Pylades,' 'Columbine,' and 'Algerine' to engage the extreme point of the line, and cover the landing of the troops, flanked by the heavy guns of the 'Queen' and 'Sesostris' steam-vessels, the 'Phlegethon' and 'Nemesis' being appointed to receive the troops, and tow in the boats for landing them. Captain Bourchier, of the 'Blonde,' was directed to attack the island of Golong-soo, where it was supposed the water was shoaler. He had under him the 'Druid' and 'Modeste,' with a body of marines commanded by Captain Ellis, and a detachment of the 26th Regiment commanded by Major Johnstone. While these arrangements were being made, a messenger from the shore came off, under a flag-of-truce, requesting to know the object of the squadron in coming to the port. He was informed, in reply, that it was come to require that the demands made by Captain Elliot at Tientsin should be complied with; and if not done readily, they should be enforced. A white flag was to be displayed if these terms were agreed to; and if not, hostilities were to be commenced forthwith. Anxious to prevent bloodshed, the British commanders waited for the appearance of the white flag; but the infatuated Chinese, notwithstanding the lessons they had received, trusting to their numerous guns and batteries, refused to display it, and the signal to engage was accordingly given.

The morning had been very hot and sultry; but about a quarter past one a steady and favourable breeze having set in, the squadron weighed and proceeded to their stations. The 'Sesostris,' being the most advanced, received a heavy fire before any return was made. She was soon joined by the 'Queen,' and both vessels commenced action with good effect. The 'Wellesley' and 'Blenheim,' after ranging along the line of works on Amoy under a smart fire, were anchored by the stern about half-past 2 P.M., admirably placed by Captains Maitland and Herbert in 10 fathoms water, within 400 yards of the principal battery, precisely in the position allotted to them, while the 'Cruiser,' 'Pylades,' 'Columbine,' and 'Algerine' took their stations with equal judgment. The 'Blonde,' 'Druid,' and 'Modeste' reached their positions opposite the batteries on Goolong-soo a few minutes earlier; but owing to the shallowness of the water, their Captains found much difficulty in placing them satisfactorily. To effect this it was necessary to carry them into little more than their own draught, which, however, without hesitation, was done in a very spirited manner.

The 'Bentinck' had been appointed to sound the channel ahead of the 'Wellesley,' as she ran in. This Lieutenant Collinson very spiritedly performed, and then gallantly anchored his brig within the entrance of the harbour. Here she was joined by the 'Sesostris,' which was placed by Captain Ormsby in a very judicious position for relieving her and the other ships from a flanking fire. The action now became general, and the Chinese for some time worked their guns with much spirit, the roar from the artillery of both parties reverberating among the surrounding heights with a deafening effect; but though the Chinese fought with far more courage and stubbornness than usual, they could not withstand the excellent gun-practice of the squadron. In about an hour and a half their fire slackened, and preparations were made for landing the troops, to drive the enemy out of their fortifications. The three principal batteries on Goolong-soo being silenced, Captain Ellis, with 170 marines and a small detachment of the 26th regiment, under Major Johnstone, landed on that island, and taking possession of the heights, speedily cleared the batteries. Meantime, as the 'Phlegethon' was running up towards the barrier wall, Lieutenant M'Cleverty despatched a party under Lieutenant Crawford, who had volunteered his services, to capture a small outwork upon a hill near the beach. He and his followers, charging the enemy, drove them speedily from their entrenchments, and, while three hearty cheers echoed from the decks of the steamers as they passed, hoisted the British flag for the first time that day on the Chinese works. The 'Modeste' and Blonde' had meantime weighed and stood into the inner harbour. After silencing the town batteries, they anchored completely inside and abreast of the city. Here they took possession of 26 war-junks, with 128 guns on board, in a state of preparation for sea, but deserted by their crews.

About the same time, under the direction of Captain Giffard, of the 'Cruiser,' the first division of the troops were landed, and, headed by Sir Hugh Gough, escaladed and took possession of the works at the barrier wall.

The 'Wellesley' and 'Blenheim,' having nearly demolished the batteries opposed to them, a party of seamen and marines were landed from them, under Commander Fletcher, with Acting-Lieutenant Carmichael, Lieutenant White, R.M., Lord A. Beauclerck, S. S. L. Crofton and L. G. Halstead, mates, and Mr. T. F. Jackson, midshipman of the 'Wellesley,' and Captain Whitcomb, R.M., E. C. Kevern, and F. A. St. Leger, mates of the 'Blenheim.' The Chinese, who had taken shelter in an adjoining building, were, after discharging their matchlocks, soon put to flight, and possession was taken of their works.

The 'Phlegethon' and 'Nemesis' were employed in carrying up the troops and in towing a number of boats, with the sappers and miners, &c. They then kept up a heavy fire, to cover their landing. As soon as this was accomplished, Mr. Hall with Mr. Gully pushed off from the 'Nemesis' in the pinnace, and joined the advanced guard of the 18th, under Major Tomlinson, who were advancing towards the castellated wall of the fortress. The 18th rushed for the lower end of the wall, while the party from the 'Nemesis' made for a spot some way higher up, which appeared more accessible; as, however, they were without scaling-ladders, the men, to get over the wall, lifted each other up on their backs, and in this way Mr. Hall mounted first on the top of the wall, and waved the British flag, which he always carried with him. Then, leaping down into the body of the fort, followed only by two of his men, who had as yet got in, he was met by a young Chinese officer and a considerable body of Chinese, who faced about to encounter him. A hand-to-hand combat now took place between him and the mandarin, but the latter was soon wounded and disarmed, his cap and button and sword being taken from him. Seeing this, and the small number of British opposed to them, the Chinese made a desperate rush to rescue their chief, and Mr. Hall, with one of his men severely wounded, had some difficulty in fighting his way back to his party. Fortunately the troops had by this time forced their way into the fort, with the party from the 'Wellesley' and 'Blenheim,' and the Chinese took to flight in every direction. By five o'clock all the outer defences of Amoy were in possession of the British, but the Chinese still held the town itself; the troops, therefore, bivouacked on the heights overlooking it, of which, led by Sir Hugh Gough, they had made themselves masters. The next morning, after a careful reconnoissance, the 18th regiment scaled the walls without opposition, and then forced open the gates from the inside. It was now found that the place had been deserted by the authorities, and was in the hands of a rabble, who were plundering in every direction, and it was with no little difficulty that the General could restore order, so afraid were the respectable inhabitants that, in aiding him, they should be accused of siding with the conquerors. To the credit of the British troops, notwithstanding the quantity of property left unprotected, instances of pilfering by them were few, if any. About 60 only of the Chinese were killed, among whom were several mandarins. Every care was taken of their wounded by the victors. Of the British very few were hurt. The strength of the surface of the chief battery was so great, it being composed of hewn granite, faced outside with earth, that, notwithstanding the heavy firing of two line-of-battle ships against it, very little impression was made.

On the 30th a party of seamen and marines from the 'Wellesley,' 'Blenheim,' and 'Druid,' under Commander Fletcher, were embarked in the 'Nemesis' and several boats, and proceeded to destroy all the forts and guns in the neighbourhood of the city. A garrison was also placed in the island of Goolongsoo, and Captain Smith, in the 'Druid,' with the 'Pylades' and 'Algerine,' was left for their support, while the squadron, as soon as a favourable wind sprung up, proceeded to Chusan. The island has ever since remained in possession of the British.

RECAPTURE OF CHUSAN.

The weather becoming calm and fine on the afternoon of the 4th of September, the signal was made on board the flag-ship for the embarkation of the troops. Much to their credit, on being paraded, it was found that not a single instance of drunkenness or misconduct had occurred, notwithstanding temptations of every description during eight days of harassing duty. The whole force was embarked by half-past six, under the direction of Commander Giffard, and conveyed out by the steamers to their respective transports without a single person being left behind. On the following morning the squadron sailed for Ningpo, which place it was intended next to attack. On their voyage north the fleet had fair though light winds till the 13th, when the north-east monsoon setting in strong against them, with thick weather, many of the transports became separated. By much perseverance, and by taking advantage of the tides in-shore, which the regularity of the soundings enabled the ships to approach, they were nearly all again collected by the 24th, near Chusan. The boisterous state of the weather, however, preventing the ships from approaching the exposed position of Chinghae, a strong place at the mouth of the Tahea River, and which it was necessary to take before proceeding up that river to Ningpo, it was determined first to occupy the island of Chusan. Preparations were immediately made to effect that object. Since its abandonment by the British, the Chinese had considerably increased the fortifications of the island. Owing to the rapidity of the tides in the different channels leading to Chusan harbour, it was found difficult to place the ships in the positions required, and it was therefore resolved to land the troops, seamen, and marines, to the westward of the sea defences, so as to take them in reverse. On a steep hill, a short way beyond the spot where it was proposed to disembark the troops, a large body of Chinese were seen posted in a strongly-fortified encampment with a stone-work, where however no guns were yet mounted, intended to guard the point. Captain Eyres was therefore detached with the 'Modeste,' 'Columbine,' and 'Nemesis,' to prevent the Chinese occupying the battery; which duty they effectually performed, the guns of the 'Nemesis' making a considerable breach in the walls of the fortified encampment. The 'Blonde,' 'Modeste,' 'Jupiter,' and 'Queen' were next employed in covering a party of the Royal Artillery, under Captain Knowles, who was engaged in erecting a battery against the Joss-house Hill.

It was not, however, till the 1st of October, that the troops in two columns were landed with a party of marines and seamen, and, under Sir Hugh Gough, proceeded to attack Tinghae, the capital of the island; the walls were quickly escaladed, and by two o'clock the British colours were flying in every direction. The fire from the ships and steam-vessels conveying the troops did much execution; and so great was its precision that, at a distance of 700 yards, two or three individuals fell by single cannon shot, one of them in the very act of waving a Chinese banner.

At the storming of the Pagoda Hills, the Chinese fought with great individual bravery; the spear and the bayonet frequently crossed, and many of the Tartar officers were killed in hand-to-hand combats. A great number fell as they were retreating along a narrow causeway from the city.

The loss of the British was 1 officer (Lieut. Duell), and 1 rank and file killed, and 27 wounded.

The Chinese forces, scattering in every direction, escaped into the interior of the island, and notwithstanding many attempts to capture them, and to prevent their getting over to the mainland, few, if any, were found. They, however, managed so adroitly, that they contrived to kidnap many private soldiers and camp followers who ventured alone at any distance from the walls of Tinghae. A small garrison only was left in Chusan, while the rest of the naval and military forces proceeded to the attack of Chinghae and Ningpoo.

EXPLOITS OF THE 'NEMESIS.'

The little 'Nemesis' deserves a chapter to herself. She was fortunate in having a Commander whose zeal and courage never allowed him to let an opportunity pass by which he could distinguish himself, or advance the cause in which he was engaged. He also is happy in possessing a biographer, whose sincere regard and admiration enables him to describe in glowing colours the gallant deeds he performed while in command of that vessel in the China seas. We give one of the exploits of the 'Nemesis' almost in Mr. Bernard's own words.*

On her voyage from Amoy to Chusan, having been separated from the fleet in consequence of thick and squally weather, and having lost her fore top-mast and fore gallant-mast, she came to an anchor under a small island about thirty-five miles from Sheipoo, and between fifty and sixty from the Buffalo's Nose.

On the 16th of Sept., Mr. Hall landed on the island with a party of men to look for wood, which was much needed for fuel, and also for refreshments for the crew, and took the opportunity to ascend a high hill for the sake of observing the neighbouring country. The haze cleared off sufficiently to enable him to discover the entrance to an extensive harbour. He thought he could make out something like batteries or field-works at the entrance. The opportunity for earning some further distinction for his beloved 'Nemesis' was too tempting to be neglected. It was also probable that a good supply of fuel would be found near the town; a consideration never to be lost sight of for a steamer. The state of the weather, which still continued very unsettled, and prevented the ship from putting to sea, encouraged him to undertake the enterprise he contemplated.

Soon after daylight on the 17th, a large junk hove in sight, which was boarded in the hope of gaining some information, but was not otherwise molested. Nothing important was elicited. The 'Nemesis,' however, stood in for the entrance of the harbour, which was very narrow, but fortunately she soon fell in with a fishing-boat, with several fishermen in her. They were at once brought to, and made to understand that one of them must come on board and pilot the vessel into the harbour; and he was promised ten dollars if he took her in without any accident; but if she touched ground, it was hinted to him, that he would immediately be run up to the yard-arm, to atone either for his treachery or his misfortune, whichever it might be. At first the poor fellow was in a dreadful state of alarm, but after being made more clearly to understand the conditions, he gradually recovered his self-possession. The tide swept into the narrow entrance of the harbour so rapidly, that the 'Nemesis' was fairly carried through the passage before the two small field-works intended to protect it could bring a single gun to bear upon her; but the Chinese were seen running down from their little encampment above to man the guns.

At the bottom of the harbour, the town now came in view, with a number of trading-junks moored in close lines on one side of it, while on the other there was a small fort which appeared to have been strengthened recently, but was left almost unprotected in the rear. About five or six hundred men were drawn up on a rising ground behind the fort, so that it was evident the Chinese were prepared for defence. The 'Nemesis' immediately ran in towards the fort, and took up a flanking position, anchoring by the stern between it and the town, so as to bring her guns to bear with the greatest advantage without exposing herself to the direct fire of the fort. Shot, shell, and canister were now poured in, and the fort was soon silenced; but at the same time troops could be seen descending from the hill behind, and bringing with them heavy gingals mounted on triangular stands, as if they intended to oppose a landing.

A few discharges of grape-shot, however, killed many of them, and threw them into great disorder, on which Captain Hall landed at the head of all the men who could be spared from the ship, and took possession of the fort, the Chinese flying before them; two brass and two iron guns were destroyed in the fort, the temporary sheds, buildings, were set on fire, and water was poured into the magazine to destroy the powder. It was not thought necessary to follow the Chinese, who had retreated to the hill again, or to attempt to enter the town itself, from which no good result could be expected, as the retreat of so small a party to the boats might in the mean time have been cut off, or, at all events, attended with some loss.

As soon as the whole party had returned on board, boats were sent out, manned and armed, to search for fuel, and also to attempt to capture three large war-junks, which had been seen on the way up the harbour. All the trading-junks were left unmolested, but several well-filled wood-junks were soon picked out, and in a short time no less than seven boat-loads of excellent wood were obtained, amounting in all to about 70 tons. Much labour was required to bring off so large a quantity, and to stow it away expeditiously; nevertheless, during this operation, one of the war-junks was captured (the crew having deserted her), and as soon as she was towed clear of the town and shipping, so as not to cause any unnecessary damage, she was set on fire in the middle of the harbour, and shortly blew up. Two guns, and a quantity of gingals, matchlocks, swords, &c., were destroyed in her. By eleven o'clock the wooding party had finished their labours, and as a fresh body of troops appeared to be collecting near the town, the steamer again ran in, and poured a shower of grape and canister into the midst of them, which made them instantly disperse. It was now mid-day, and officers and men were thoroughly fatigued with their exertions since daylight; the steamer was therefore moved to the upper end of the harbour, while the men were quietly piped to dinner. The day's work, however, was not yet finished, and about two o'clock the cutters were sent away, manned and armed, under Mr. Galbraith, to destroy the other two war-junks which had been seen in the morning, one of which was found to mount 14 guns, and contained a large quantity of powder, with numerous warlike implements of various kinds. One of them was towed out into the middle of the harbour, and set on fire; the other blew up close in shore, where she was aground. Some of the common Chinese labourers ran down to the shore to endeavour to extinguish the fire on board the junk, but they were instantly driven off by a few round-shot. Throughout the day the hills which surrounded the harbour were covered with people, who crowded out of the town, and from all the neighbouring villages, to witness the exploits of the "devil-ship," the rapidity of whose movements, the precision of her fire, and the volumes of smoke and steam which issued from her, seeming to awaken feelings of awe and mute astonishment even more than fear; and on seeing the destruction of the war-junks, while the merchant-junks remained uninjured, they appeared satisfied that no mischief was threatened against the unarmed inhabitants, so long as they did not interfere.

The day was now far advanced, and it only remained to capture the two forts or field-works upon the island, just within the mouth of the harbour. A shot or two had previously been fired at them in the course of the morning, but it was now determined to take possession of them and destroy the works. A few shells and rockets were discharged into them from the steamer, as she neared them, and the boats then put off, manned and armed. The Chinese had only just abandoned them. The two field-works were very near each other, and were found to mount nine guns, which were spiked, their carriages destroyed, and the tents of the soldiers were set on fire. About five o'clock the 'Nemesis' again made her way out of the harbour without any accident, and without having suffered any casualty among the men throughout the whole day's arduous work, in which Mr. Freeze (mate, R.N.), the chief officer, and Mr. Galbraith, the second, bore a conspicuous part. Good service had been rendered, not only by the destruction of the enemy's works and vessels, and by obtaining so large a supply of the much-needed fuel, but by the moral impression which was created among the people, both of our power and of our forbearance. The poor Chinese fisherman, who had acted as pilot, was, of course, liberated as soon as the harbour was cleared; and he appeared no less astonished than overjoyed when the promised ten dollars were counted out into his hands.

CAPTURE OF CHINGHAE,

October 10th, 1841.

As winter was rapidly approaching, it was important to secure winter-quarters for the troops, and Chinghae was therefore fixed on as commanding the approach to Ningpo. The continued occupation of so important a place was likely, it was supposed, to have a good moral effect on the Chinese Government, and might facilitate future negotiations. Chinghae is a small town, standing at the base of a high hill, on a point of land joined to the main by an isthmus, and commands the entrance of the Tahea or Ningpo River, on the left or north bank, 12 or 15 miles up which is situated the large city of Ningpo. On the summit of the hill, which is 250 feet high, is a large temple or joss-house, connected with other buildings by loopholed walls, and forming a sort of citadel. It is encircled by a strong wall, with very substantial iron-plated gates at the east and west ends. The north and south sides of the height are exceedingly steep; the former accessible only from the sea by a narrow winding path from the rocks at its base, the south side and eastern end being nearly precipitous. At the east end of the citadel, outside its wall, 21 guns were mounted in three batteries of masonry and sandbags, to defend the entrance of the river. The only communication between the citadel and the city is on the west side, by a steep but regular causeway to a barrier-gate at the bottom of the hill, where a wooden bridge over a wet ditch connects it with the isthmus and the gates of the city, the whole of which are covered with iron plates and strongly secured. The space on the isthmus, between the citadel hill and the city wall, is filled up towards the sea with a battery of five guns, having a row of strong piles driven into a little beach in front of it, to prevent a descent in that quarter; and on the river side of the isthmus are two batteries, adjoining the suburbs, and mounting 22 and 19 guns for flanking the entrance: 28 guns of different sizes, and numberless gingals, were also planted on the city walls, principally towards the sea. The town is enclosed by a wall 37 feet in thickness, and 22 feet high, with an embrasured parapet of 4 feet high, and it is nearly 2 miles in circumference.

The main body of the Chinese forces were posted on the right bank of the river in fortified encampments, on very commanding and steep hills, field-works and entrenchments being thrown up in every advantageous position, with 23 guns and innumerable gingals mounted in them to impede the advance of the troops. The principal landing-place on this side is within a considerable creek, close to the south entrance of the river, and across the creek were driven rows of piles. Four batteries, mounting 31 guns, were also newly constructed on this side of the river to flank the entrance; and about half a mile above its mouth, a similar obstruction of larger piles was carried completely across, space only being left for one junk to pass at a time.

On the 7th the wind having veered to a point favourable for carrying the ships up to Chinghae, they were moved to the anchorage of 'Just-in-the-Way,' and on the 9th they reached the anchorage off the town itself. They consisted of the 'Wellesley,' 'Blenheim,' 'Blonde,' 'Modeste,' 'Cruiser,' 'Columbine,' 'Bentinck,' 'Jupiter,' 'Rattlesnake,' 'Sesostris,' 'Phlegethon,' 'Nemesis,' and 'Queen.'

At an early hour on the morning of the 10th, the troops proceeded in the 'Queen,' 'Nemesis,' and 'Phlegethon,' steamers, and the boats of the transports, to the points of debarkation, in two columns. One, the main body, 2,000 strong, under the immediate command of the General, disembarked a short distance beyond the creek; the other, 500 strong, landed at the entrance of the creek, under cover of the brigs 'Cruiser,' 'Columbine,' and 'Bentinck,' which, directed by Commander Giffard, took up very judicious positions. A few shot from them cleared the shore of about 300 Chinese troops, collected to oppose the landing of the British; and by half-past nine every man was safe on shore. The 'Wellesley,' 'Blenheim,' 'Blonde,' and 'Modeste' opened a heavy cannonade on the citadel and eastern part of the city walls; and the 'Sesostris,' 'Queen,' and 'Phlegethon,' after landing the troops, and towing up the ships to their stations, commenced throwing their shells into the citadel. The 'Nemesis' joined in the attack on the north side, and remained in readiness to cover the landing of the seamen and marines. The citadel hill cannot be approached for attack by large ships, except on the north side, and there the water is so shallow that it is only in very calm weather they can be safely carried sufficiently near to fire with effect. The day was all that the invaders could desire, and the 'Wellesley' having been towed by the 'Sesostris' into an excellent position, her anchor was dropped about a quarter before nine o'clock in 4 fathoms, about 1,300 yards from the citadel and town walls. As the water ebbed she settled imperceptibly into a bottom of soft mud, and was as steady as a land battery. The 'Blenheim,' 'Blonde,' and 'Modeste,' favoured by a light breeze, took their stations under sail, and every ship was placed as close as possible; the 'Blenheim' and 'Modeste' touching the bottom at low water. As the troops on the right bank of the river moved forward, the sloops, under Commander Giffard, approached the entrance of the harbour; while the steamers, which were for a considerable time under a heavy fire from the river batteries, did much execution with their guns. About eleven o'clock the British colours were planted by the troops in one of the batteries on the opposite shore, and within a few minutes the others on that side were all carried, the Chinese on the heights flying in every direction. At a quarter past eleven the wall of the citadel was breached by the fire from the ships, when the battalion of seamen and marines, with the detachment of artillery and sappers, under the command of Captain Herbert, were immediately landed, and the force gallantly advanced to the assault. An explosion at this time took place in a battery, near the citadel gate, and the garrison fled without waiting to close it. The citadel was therefore entered, and the union jack displayed on the walls. Here another explosion occurred. Captain Herbert having secured the posts, quickly re-formed his men, and advanced towards the city, where the Chinese in considerable force still occupied the walls, as well as the two batteries beneath the hills on the river side, against which the British had already turned some of the guns taken on the right bank. A few volleys of musketry speedily dislodged them from both positions, and the battalion of seamen and marines pushed on in excellent order to attack the city. The wall, which was 26 feet high, was escaladed in two places, and in a short time, the Chinese troops having escaped through the western gates, complete possession was taken of Chinghae. During the escalade, a third explosion took place, by which a seaman of the 'Blenheim' was killed. The seamen immediately returned on board their ships, which as the tide rose were moved into secure berths. Captain Herbert remained with the marines in charge of the town until the evening, when Sir H. Gough arrived, and a considerable portion of the troops were conveyed across the river in the 'Phlegethon,' to garrison it. The city and Joss-house Hill were defended by about 3,000 regular Tartar troops, of whom about 150 were killed.

Ninety iron and sixty-seven brass guns were taken. Admiral Parker, in his Despatch, mentions Captains Herbert, Bourchier, Maitland, and Eyres; Major Ellis, of the Marines; and his Flag-Lieut. Charles Tennant.

Return of officers who landed with the right column under the command of Captain Herbert, Captain Bourchier commanding the battalion of seamen:—

Landed with the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd companies seamen battalion. 'Wellesley,' Lieuts. Symonds, Maitland, and Carmichael; Messrs. King, Halstead, and Crouch, mates; Messrs. Birtwhistle, Butler, and Jackson, midshipmen; Mr. Smith, Assistant-Surgeon.

Landed with the 4th, 5th, and 6th companies seamen battalion. 'Blenheim,' Lieutenants Hawkins and Matthews; Messrs. St. Leger and Norman, mates; Mr. Dowell, midshipman; Mr. Adair, volunteer, 1st class; Mr. Scott, volunteer, A.D.C.; Mr. Thomas, assistant-surgeon.

Landed with 7th company, seamen battalion. 'Blonde,' Lieutenant Sir T. Nicholson; Messrs. Walker and Holland, mates; Mr. Lambert, midshipman; Messrs. Lion and Coke, midshipmen, A.D.C.

Landed with subdivision 8th company. 'Modeste,' Lieut. Birch; Mr. Pearse, mate; Major Ellis, commanding battalion of Royal Marines.

Captain Whitcombe; Lieuts. White, Ushur, Whiting, Hewet, Farmer, Polkinghorne; Mr. Tweedale, assistant-surgeon of 'Blenheim;' Mr. Stanley, assistant-surgeon of 'Blonde.' Landed 276 Royal Marines.

Artillery, Lieut. the Hon. F. Spencer, 23rd R.A., and two 5½-inch mortars, and 9 and 12-pound rockets; Lieut. Molesworth, 12th Madras Artillery; Captain Cotton and Lieut. Johnston with 30 Madras sappers.

Officers in charge of boats.—'Wellesley,' Lieut. Lord Wm. Compton, and Lord A. Beauclerk, mate in the launch; Mr. Crofton, mate in the pinnace; Mr. Kennedy, mate in the barge; Mr. Niblett, 2nd master in the cutter.

'Blenheim,' Mr. Kevern, mate in the launch; Mr. Denny, mate in the barge; Mr. Konniclas (Greek), in the pinnace; Mr. Pascoe, 2nd master in the gun-boat; Mr. Swinburn, midshipman, in the 1st cutter; Mr. Gell, midshipman, in the 2nd cutter; Mr. Bencroft, volunteer, 1st class, in the jolly-boat.

'Blonde,' Lieut. Daly, in the launch; Mr. Hamilton, midshipman, in the pinnace; Mr. Anderson, mate, in the gun-boat.

'Modeste,' Mr. Crofton, mate, in the pinnace.

OCCUPATION OF NINGPO,

October 12th.

Two days after the capture of Chinghae, the Admiral having reconnoitred the river as far as the city of Ningpo, the Tartar troops and many of the inhabitants were seen making their escape from it. In order, therefore, to prevent it falling into the hands of the rabble, he at once returned and ordered up the squadron. A large portion of the troops were on board the 'Nemesis' and 'Phlegethon.' They reached Ningpo about 2 P.M., and anchored within a few feet of the floating-bridge, which connects the city at the east end gate with the suburbs across the river. The men were disembarked with great ease by stages from the bows of the vessels, the battalion of seamen and marines under Captain Herbert, landing at the same time in the suburbs on the city side, a short distance below them.

The gates of the city were all found secured and barricaded, though not the slightest opposition was offered, and an entrance being effected, the British marched quietly in. The mandarins and troops had all left the city, the latter, since their defeat at Chinghae, having refused to fight. Numbers of the inhabitants crowded the banks of the river as spectators, and others assisted voluntarily to remove the barricades at the city gates. By three o'clock the little army, consisting of nearly 800 men, was drawn up on the ramparts of the important city of Ningpo, the band of the 18th Royal Irish playing the national anthem of "God save the Queen." Never was there so bloodless or more satisfactory a victory. Order was at once restored, and the Chinese were assured of the protection of the British. Unfortunately a ransom was afterwards demanded, and a tax of 10 per cent. on the estimated value of property was levied to pay it; which, although it was not raised, was the cause of much ill feeling on the part of the people. The troops having remained in Ningpo about two months, an expedition was undertaken to dislodge a Chinese force reported to be posted in the town of Tuyow. On the 27th of December the three steamers 'Nemesis,' 'Sesostris,' and 'Phlegethon,' with a number of boats in tow, and 700 troops, including seamen and marines, proceeded up the north-western branch of the river, on which Tuyow is situated. Sir William Parker and Sir Hugh Gough were on board the 'Nemesis.' Having dispersed a party of Chinese soldiers on the way, the troops landed near the town, and took possession of a hill overlooking it, on which a joss-house is situated. Here they took up their quarters for the night. The next morning, which was bitterly cold, the ground being covered with snow, preparations were made for escalading the town. Just then some of the inhabitants came out and stated that the troops had been withdrawn. This, however, proved to be a ruse, their intention having been to let the English enter, and then, while off their guard, the Chinese soldiers were to return and cut them to pieces. Fortunately the 'Nemesis' was sent with a squadron of boats higher up to meet the troops, when, from her masthead, a large Chinese force was discovered outside the walls. She, and the 'Phlegethon,' which had followed her, opened their fire on them, and the British troops, forcing their way through the town, put them to flight, and followed them for several miles, killing several of them in the pursuit, and taking others prisoners. The town of Tsekee, about four miles from the river, was visited the next day, but found undefended, and the troops then returned to Ningpo. The remainder of the year 1841 passed away without any naval event in China worthy of notice. On the 5th of March the 'Clio,' Captain Troubridge, arrived with the mails, and with the announcement of the promotions in consequence of the capture of Canton, and the exploits in the Canton river.

On the 7th of March, Captain Collinson, with Lieutenant Bates, who had gone in the 'Nemesis' to reconnoitre an island called Tai-shan, to the north of Chusan, where it was reported the Chinese were fitting out an expedition of fire-boats, had, in company with Mr. Hall, Mr. Freeze, mate, R.N., and other officers of that ship, a spirited brush with the enemy. On first landing, not expecting to encounter any armed men, they were nearly surrounded and cut off. They, however, with great gallantry fought their way back to the boats. They then again landed with a larger party, mustering in all 66; and encountered a force of some five or six hundred Chinese troops just landed from their transports. These they charged, and putting them to flight, killed a mandarin and 50 men, took eight prisoners, and captured their military chest; and after burning the transports and some of the houses which had sheltered the soldiers, returned on board.

The effect of the victory was to save Chusan from further molestation.

On the evening of the 9th, a desperate and well-planned attempt was made by the Chinese to recapture Ningpo, and though the British had been forewarned, they were very nearly taken by surprise, from having often before received similar reports of intended attacks, which had proved unfounded. The 'Columbine,' 'Modeste,' 'Queen,' and 'Sesostris,' were anchored off the city, and the first alarm was given by the Chinese firing two guns at them which they had brought down to the banks of the river for that purpose. Fire-rafts were also sent against them, which were not without difficulty towed clear of the 'Sesostris' by her own boats and those of the other ships. The ships then opened their fire on the suburbs to impede the advance of the Chinese.

The approach of the enemy had been made so cautiously that they had actually succeeded in scaling the walls; and had not Sir Hugh Gough admirably disposed his troops so as to concentrate them at the point of danger, the loss to the British might have been very considerable. The Chinese fought with great bravery, but were at length repulsed and driven along a narrow street of the suburbs, with dreadful slaughter.

Their force was supposed to exceed 5,000 men, and their loss 500 or 600.

In the morning, the boats of the squadron were sent up the river in search of fire-rafts, and those of the 'Columbine,' under Captain Morshead, discovered and destroyed 37 fire-vessels. Near Tsekee, many more junks full of combustibles were discovered and destroyed.

Chinghae was attacked at about the same time, but the Chinese were driven back by a force under Colonel Schoedde and Captain Daubeny. On the morning of the 10th, 10 fire-vessels were sent against the ships-of-war and transports off the town, but the boats of the 'Blonde,' under Commander Goldsmith, and of the 'Hyacinth,' under Lieut. Dolling, immediately pulled towards them, and towed them on shore, where they exploded.

Sir Hugh Gough had been informed that a strong body of Chinese were entrenched on the Segoan hills, at the back of Tsekee, under the command of three of their best generals. On the morning of the 15th of March, an expedition of about 1,000 men, including seamen and marines, was embarked on board the 'Nemesis,' 'Phlegethon,' and 'Queen,' to attack them.

The naval brigade was commanded by Captain Bourchier, of the 'Blonde,' assisted by Captain P. Richards.

The troops having landed and marched towards the city, the 'Phlegethon,' 'Nemesis,' and two boats of the 'Cornwallis' and 'Blonde,' were sent higher up the river to harass the Chinese army in their retreat. 14 fire-rafts, five gun-boats, and a considerable amount of warlike stores, were destroyed on the way.

It is out of our province to describe the movements of the military. The Chinese were found posted in great force on two hills on the other side of the town. While the General with his troops, attacked one of the heights, the naval brigade, led by Captains Bourchier and Richards, and Commander Watson, the Admiral taking an active part, rushed up the other hill, across a paddy-field on the Chinese right.

They were boldly met by the enemy; and two officers of marines, two of the naval battalion, and 11 men were wounded, and three men were killed. Lieutenant Fitzjames and Mr. Jackson, of the 'Cornwallis,' poured in some rockets with great precision into the enemy's position, they firing in return with gingals and matchlocks. A valley separated the two hills into which the enemy was driven, large numbers being killed and many destroying themselves. As they fled, the 'Nemesis' and 'Phlegethon' opened their fire on them and completed the rout.

The expedition returned, after this well-conducted and brilliant affair, to Ningpo. The British force was now augmented by more troops, as also by some ships-of-war, namely, H.M.S. 'Vixen,' from England, and the H.E.I.C. steamers 'Tenasserim,' 'Auckland,' 'Ariadne,' 'Medusa,' and 'Hoogly,' from Bombay, well armed and adapted to river navigation.

A well-concerted attempt was again made by the Chinese to destroy the British shipping off Chusan, by fire-rafts, but information was received in time, and preparations made to receive them.

The steamers and the boats of the squadron were constantly employed in searching for them, and upwards of a hundred were thus destroyed.

A movement on Chapoo, an important city on the great river Yangtzee, being determined on, the troops at Ningpo were re-embarked, and that place was evacuated on the 7th of May.

CAPTURE OF CHAPOO.

On the 13th, the troops having been conveyed on board the transports by the 'Queen,' 'Sesostris,' and 'Phlegethon,' they, with the 'Cornwallis,' 'Blonde,' 'Modeste,' 'Columbine,' 'Starling,' 'Algerine,' 'Plover,' and 'Jupiter' troop-ship, got under weigh for Chapoo.

Chapoo is built along the edge of the sea, at the mouth of the river, with a line of heights above it strongly fortified. Some islands lying off it shelter the landing-place. Commanders Kellett and Collinson and Mr. Hall were employed during the night of the 16th in sounding, to enable the 'Cornwallis,' 'Blonde,' 'Modeste,' and other ships to take up advantageous positions before the enemy's works, and to cover the landing of the troops. At daylight on the 17th the whole fleet stood in; but having anchored, owing to want of wind, during the morning, they did not take up their allotted positions till the evening. The transports anchored near the islands, where the troops were to land under cover of the 'Starling,' 'Columbine,' 'Plover,' and 'Algerine.' The 'Cornwallis' and 'Blonde' were placed against the small batteries on the hill side next the suburbs, on the summit of which was a fortified temple; and the 'Modeste' took up a position to attack the works in front, nearer the suburbs. The 'Nemesis' and 'Queen' and 'Phlegethon' were to land the troops; and the 'Sesostris' anchored in-shore, was to shell the Chinese as they retreated before the advance of the British.

At daylight next morning the three steamers, with the boats of the squadron under Commander Charles Richards, landed the troops, when Sir Hugh Gough led the left column along the crest of the heights, driving the enemy before him. The Admiral, who never shrank from danger or fatigue, either ashore or afloat, landed with the battalion of seamen and marines under Captain Bourchier. The right flank of the Chinese was soon turned, and their principal works were carried before they had time to spring some mines which they had prepared. As they fled before the British, the 'Sesostris' fired some shells in on them with deadly effect. A considerable body of Tartars, however, threw themselves into a large building, which they defended with the most desperate bravery, and numbers of the British fell before it. Among others was Colonel Tomlinson, of the 18th, who, with a few of his own men and of the 49th, attempted to enter it. Many others were wounded. Mr. Hall, of the 'Nemesis,' Lieut. Fitzjames, and some other officers and men, made several gallant attempts to force their way in, and to set the building on fire, but were compelled to retire. Captain Pearse at length fixed a powder-bag to the wall; but this had little effect in bringing it down. Another, fastened more securely, at length blew up a considerable portion, when many of the defenders were destroyed, and it was with much difficulty that the men of the 18th were prevented from shooting down the rest in revenge for the loss of their gallant Colonel. About 50, however, were made prisoners. In the mean time the walls of the city had been scaled, and the enemy dispersed, many of them taking the direction of Hang-chow-foo. A considerable number of the mandarins and Tartar soldiers cut their own throats when they found the day was lost, and others were prevented from committing a like folly by the interposition of the British.

The loss of the English was greater on this than on any previous occasion throughout the war. The Chinese wounded, however, received every possible attention and kindness from the British medical officers; and it is gratifying to know that this conduct was fully appreciated, the Mandarin Elepoo, Governor of Chapoo, having shortly afterwards addressed a letter to the Admiral and General to thank them for their humanity. A more substantial acknowledgment was afterwards made by the manner in which the Chinese treated those of the British force who fell into their hands; previous to which those who had been made prisoners experienced every species of cruelty, and had often been tortured to death.

By the orders of Sir Hugh Gough, before the British left Chapoo all the Chinese prisoners were set at liberty, each of them receiving a present of three dollars. The British had already taught the Chinese to fear them; and the effect of this humane conduct was to teach them to respect them. The Chinese, in return, restored all the prisoners they had kidnapped, giving to the whites 30 and to the natives of India 15 dollars each. The Government also began to show a strong inclination to come to terms.

CAPTURE OF WOOSUNG AND SHANGHAI.

Ships engaged at Woosung, 16th June, 1843:—'Cornwallis,' 72, Captain P. Richards; 'Blonde,' 42, Captain E. Bourchier; 'North Star,' 26, Captain Sir E. Home, Bart.; 'Modeste,' 18, Commander R. B. Watson; 'Columbine,' 16, Commander William H. Morshead; 'Clio,' 16, Commander E. N. Troubridge; 'Algerine,' 10, Lieut. William Maitland. Honourable E.I.C. steamers:—'Sesostris,' Commander Ormsby, I.N; 'Nemesis,' Lieut. W. H. Hall, R.N.; 'Phlegethon,' Lieut. J. J. M'Cleverty, R.N.; 'Pluto,' Lieut. John Tudor, R.N.; 'Tenasserim,' Master Commanding P. Wall; 'Medusa,' Lieut. H. Hewitt, I.N.

The 27th of May, and the following day, were employed in embarking the troops, when the fleet sailed and anchored on the 29th, in a safe sound forty miles to the eastward of Chapoo, discovered by Captains Kellett and Collinson. Some days were spent in examining the entrance to the Yangtze river. On the 5th, they stood up towards it, and anchored a little to the eastward of the mouth on the 8th. Captain Watson, in the 'Modeste,' was then sent with the 'Nemesis' and 'Pluto' examine the river Woosung, and to interrupt the communications. The Woosung river empties itself into the Yangtze, about twenty-five miles up its southern branch. The town of Woosung, which was now fortified with one hundred and seventy-five guns, and garrisoned with the choicest Tartar troops, stands on the mouth of the river of that name. Whenever an opportunity presented itself for performing any spirited piece of work, Mr. Hall, the Commander of the 'Nemesis,' never lost it. The night of the 11th of June was very dark, and it occurred to him that he might take advantage of it to reconnoitre the batteries. His ship was anchored close in shore, but in consequence of a strong tide he was unable to communicate with his superior officer, Captain Watson, as the 'Modeste' lay much further off. Ordering therefore his cutter away, he sounded the channel leading to Woosung, and then pulled under the very batteries themselves. Screened by the darkness and the noise of the wind and surf, he landed on the beach and crept up to the walls, when looking through the embrasures, he saw one of the mandarines going his rounds with two soldiers, one of whom carried a large paper lantern. He was strongly tempted to call up his boat's crew, and to carry off the officer and his attendants, but fortunately prudence restrained him, as there would have been no good object attained by so doing. Contenting himself, therefore, with the work he had already performed, he returned on board. The 'Clio,' 'Bentinck,' 'Starling,' and two transports had been stationed as beacons to mark the channel, and on the 13th, the Admiral, with the 'Cornwallis,' 'Blonde,' 'Columbine,' 'Jupiter,' 'Phlegethon,' 'Tenasserim,' 'Medusa,' and twelve transports, reached the mouth of the Woosung river, there about a mile wide. The batteries extend for about three miles along the banks, and opposite them is another strong and high fort built of brick. Two miles in the rear of the town is the large town of Paonshan.

The Admiral having surveyed the river in the little 'Medusa,' fixed the morning of the 16th to make the projected attack. All the ships were towed into their stations by the steamers lashed alongside them, with the exception of the 'Algerine,' which stood in under sail.

The 'Blonde' and 'Cornwallis' led in towards the batteries, towed by the 'Tenasserim' and 'Sesostris,' and received the fire of the Chinese, which was opened with much spirit, without returning a shot until they had anchored by the stern in excellent positions. The 'Modeste,' under Captain Watson, towed by the 'Nemesis,' then led the light squadron towards the creek above the village, to oppose a strong battery of ten brass guns, receiving a well-directed fire from the whole line of batteries. The men on board the 'Nemesis' were ordered to lie down at quarters till she had placed the 'Modeste' in a good position. Further up the river fourteen war-junks appeared, and four paddle-wheel vessels, intended to imitate steamers. The 'Nemesis' was sent to attack them, but as soon as they felt the effects of her fire, their crews ceased working their guns, and their Admiral set the example of running away. Just then the 'North Star,' Sir Everard Home, was observed off the mouth of the river, having just arrived in time to partake in the action to the great satisfaction of her officers and crew. The 'Tenasserim' was sent to tow her up, when she was placed ahead of the 'Blonde.' The 'Nemesis' having got on shore while pursuing the junks, Mr. Galbraith was sent away in command of her boats to capture and destroy them, in which work Lieut. M'Cleverty, in the 'Phlegethon,' was likewise employed. The 'Modeste' had been made fast to a jetty, in which position she soon silenced the fort with her guns and small arms. The pinnace, under Mr. Birch, was sent on shore to take possession of the fort and to spike the guns, when he had some skirmishing with the rear-guard of the Chinese; and at the same time the 'Columbine' and 'Pluto' coming lip, poured in their fire on the retreating columns.

The 'Cornwallis,' 'Blonde,' and 'Pluto,' having been for some time hotly engaged with the batteries, compelled them to slacken their fire, on seeing which, Captain Watson landed with the marines and small-arm men of the 'Modeste,' 'Columbine,' and 'Clio,' within the creek, for the purpose of turning the enemy's flank, and of cutting off their retreat. A strong body of Chinese were now discovered lying down under cover of the embankment. On this, forming his men, he gallantly made a dash at them, across several wooden bridges over the ditch, and was received with a heavy fire of matchlocks and gingals. As he advanced they retreated slowly and steadily, planting their gingals in the only path by which they could be approached. Ten of his men being wounded, and his party being slightly scattered, he drew them up to reform them outside the embankment, when the Chinese, rushing out, brandished their spears, and threw a volley of hand-grenades towards them, though happily over their heads. On Captain Bourchier perceiving that Captain Watson was hotly engaged with vastly superior numbers, he landed with a party from the 'Blonde' to his aid. Just then Captain Watson and his followers made a dash at the Chinese, but so firmly did they stand their ground that the spear and bayonet were again for a moment crossed, though the enemy were forced to retreat behind some houses, where they, however, quickly rallied.

At this juncture, Captains Peter Richards and Sir Everard Home, accompanied by the Admiral, had got on shore with the marines and some seamen of their ships, who, being formed, speedily drove the enemy out of the whole line of batteries. A small party, under Lieutenant Maitland, had landed from the 'Algerine,' and before aid could be sent, it had suffered somewhat from the overwhelming force he had boldly ventured to attack.

Captain Ormsby, in the 'Sesostris,' had, during these events, been engaged with the battery on the east side of the river, which having silenced, he landed with the small-arm men from his ship and the 'Tenasserim,' and took possession of it.

In consequence of most of the steamers having taken the ground, the troops could not be landed till the engagement was over; as soon, however, as they could be put on shore, Sir Hugh Gough led them in the direction of Paoushan, towards which town a considerable portion of the Chinese army had fled. Major-General Schoedde took possession of the town without opposition, the Chinese, it was found having passed on towards Soochow-foo. The Chinese lost about 200 men, and 250 guns were captured. The loss of the British consisted of one officer, Lieutenant Hewitt, and one seaman killed, and three officers, Mr. Purvis, midshipman of the 'Blonde,' and Mr. A. J. Smith, mate, and Mr. Roberts, master of the 'Sesostris,' and 15 seamen, together with one corporal, and five royal marines, and one Bombay artilleryman wounded, many very severely.

The next day H.M.S. 'Dido,' the Hon. Captain Keppel, and some reinforcements of troops arrived. On the 19th several batteries on the river having been destroyed, the steamers conveyed up one portion of the troops, while another marched by land towards the important city of Shanghai. It was entered without opposition, and order within its gates was soon re-established, the respectable portion of the inhabitants treating the conquerors as friends rather than enemies: 171 guns were captured in it. It was found to be full of stores, and a place of great commercial importance. The river, for 30 miles above the city, was surveyed by the steamers. The next day Sir Henry Pottinger arrived from Hong Kong to receive any overtures for peace which might be made by the Chinese.

CAPTURE OF CHIN-KEANG-FOO, AND ENTRY OF SIR H. POTTINGER INTO NANKIN; WITH CONCLUDING REMARKS,

July 21st, 1842.

We at length come to the last and crowning victory of the British in China.

Considerable reinforcements having arrived, it was at length resolved to advance on Nankin itself, the ancient capital of the empire, as the most certain way of bringing the Chinese to terms. To reach that city the Admiral had determined to conduct his fleet, consisting of nearly 80 sail, including two line-of-battle ships, up the great river Yangtze, into the very heart of the empire, 200 miles from the sea.

Commanders Kellett and Collins on were, in the first place, sent up in the 'Phlegethon,' to sound the river, and to buoy the channel for the advance of the squadron, accompanied by the masters of the ships of war. Few or no impediments were discovered, but water for the largest ships was found right up to Nankin. The river Yang-tze is one of the largest in the world, and is supposed to take its rise in the farthest mountains of Thibet, traversing the whole empire, and to be navigable the entire distance.

It redounds much to the credit of the naval service that a fleet of nearly 80 sail was carried up to the walls of Nankin and brought safely back. This was owing to the Admiral's excellent arrangements and clear orders, to the alacrity paid by the commanders to signals, and to having boats ready for any emergency.

On the 6th of July the fleet, consisting of the following ships, got under weigh:—

The advanced squadron was formed of the 'Starling,' 6, Commander Kellett, and 'Plover,' 6, Commander Collinson, surveying vessels; 'Modeste,' 18, Commander E. B. Watson: 'Clio,' 16, Commander T. Troubridge; 'Columbine,' 16, Commander Morshead; 'Childers,' 16, Commander Halstead; H.C. steamer 'Phlegethon,' Lieut. M'Cleverty, R.N.; H.C. steamer 'Pluto,' Lieut. Tudor, I.N.; H.C. steamer 'Medusa,' Lieut. Hewitt, R.N; H.C. 'Nemesis,' Commander Hall, R.N.; H.C. steamer 'Proserpine,' Commander J. J. Hough, R.N.; H.M.S. 'Cornwallis,' 72, Captain Richards, flag-ship of Vice-Admiral Sir William Parker, O.C.B.

First Division.—H.M.S. 'Calliope,' 26, Captain A. S. Kuper, C.B.; H.M. armed steamer 'Vixen,' Commander H. Boyes; 'Marion' transport, with Lieut.-General Sir H. Gough and staff; seven transports, with Sappers and Miners, followers, &c.

Second Division.—H.M.S. 'Blonde,' 42, Captain T. Bourchier, C.B.; H.C. steamer 'Auckland,' Commander Ethersey, I.N.; ten transports, conveying Artillery Brigade and horses, &c.

Third Division.—H.M. troop-ship 'Belleisle,' Captain T. Kingcomb, having on board Major-General Lord Saltoun and H.M. 98th Regiment; H.M. troop-ship 'Jupiter,' Master Commanding G. Hoffmeister, with H.M. 26th Regiment; nine transports, conveying Bengal Volunteers, with flank companies 41st M.N.I.

Fourth Division.—H.M.S. 'Endymion,' 44, Captain the Hon. T. W. Grey; H.C. steamer 'Sesostris,' Commander H. A. Ormsby, I.N.; 13 transports, conveying H.M. 55th Regiment, with the 2nd and 6th Regiments M.N.I., and the Madras Rifle Company.

Fifth Division.—H.M.S. 'Dido,' 20, Captain the Hon. H. Keppel; H.C. steamer 'Tenasserim,' Master Commanding P. Wall; H.M. troop-ship 'Apollo,' Commander Frederick, with H.M. 49th Regiment; H.M. troop-ship 'Rattlesnake,' Master Commanding James Sprent, with H.M. 18th Regiment; eight transports, conveying the remainder of the 18th and 49th Regiments, together with the 14th M.N.I.

This imposing fleet passed up the river without any opposition, the Chinese having even withdrawn their guns from most of the towns on its banks to escape the injury they expected would be inflicted had they made any hostile demonstration. At Seshan, however, about 15 miles below Chin-Keang-foo, some batteries at the foot of a hill, mounting some 20 guns, opened their fire on the 'Pluto' and 'Nemesis,' as those vessels were surveying in advance; and on the following day, having fired on the 'Modeste,' she very speedily drove out their garrisons, and destroyed them completely.

On the 16th the naval and military Commanders-in-Chief went up the river in the 'Vixen,' followed by the 'Medusa,' to reconnoitre the approaches to Chin-Keang-foo. They approached the entrance of the Imperial Canal, which passes close to the city walls. It is one of the greatest works in China for facilitating the internal water communication through the country. As no soldiers were seen on the walls, and no other preparations for defence were visible, it was hoped that no resistance would be offered, and that thus any effusion of blood would be spared. When, however, some of the officers landed on Golden Island, which is opposite the mouth of the Great Canal, and climbed to the top of the Pagoda, which is in the centre of the island, they discovered three large encampments on the slope of the hills to the south-west of the city, which showed that the Chinese had a large army ready to defend the city if they would venture to employ it. The British land force consisted of about 7,000 men of all arms. It had been determined that none of the ships-of-war should be engaged in the attack. The 'Auckland' was therefore the only vessel which fired into the city when employed in covering the landing of the troops. On the evening of the 20th all preparations were completed for the attack, which was to take place at daylight the next day. A body of seamen and marines, however, under Captain Peter Richards, took an active part in the engagement, accompanied by Sir William Parker, who forced his way with the General through the gates of the city. Lord Saltoun's brigade was the first on shore, and gallantly attacking the Chinese, encamped outside the walls, soon drove them over the hills. General Schoedde's brigade, however, was received by a hot fire of guns, gingals, and matchlocks, and in consequence he gave orders for immediately escalading the walls. The Tartars fought with the most determined bravery, often in hand-to-hand combats, and several of the British officers and men were wounded. The walls were soon scaled; and as the troops scoured them to the right and left, they fell in with Sir Hugh and Sir William, who had forced their way in at the gate, while Captains Peter Richards and Watson, with the seamen and marines, had scaled the walls in another direction. Still in the interior of the city the Tartars held every house and street where they could hope to make a stand, determined to sell their lives dearly; and often, when driven back by superior force, they, with perfect deliberation, put an end to their own lives, and frequently those of their wives and children. While these events were taking place, another of a more naval character was enacting elsewhere. The 'Blonde' was anchored off the mouth of the Grand Canal, and her boats had been employed in the morning in landing the artillery brigade. At 10 o'clock they were ordered away to carry some of the artillery, with two howitzers, up the canal, to create a diversion in favour of the troops. They were under the command of Lieut. Crouch, of the 'Blonde,' who had with him Messrs. Lambert, Jenkins, and Lyons, midshipmen. The barge, cutter, and flat were a little in advance, when, coming suddenly in sight of the west gate of the city, they were assailed by a heavy fire of gingals and matchlocks from the whole line of the city wall, running parallel with the canal. As the wall was nearly 40 feet high, the gun in the barge could not be elevated sufficiently to do service, and the fire of the musketry was ineffectual. Lieut. Crouch and Mr. Lyons, midshipman, 2 artillery officers, 16 seamen, and 8 artillerymen were wounded. As it would have been madness to have remained longer than necessary exposed to such a fire, the men leaped from the boats, which they abandoned, and took shelter under cover of some houses in the suburbs. The crews of the launch and pinnace, however, which were some way astern, remained under cover of some buildings, and escaped without loss. Lieut. Crouch's party now saw that their only chance of escape was to join the latter, though to do so they would have to pass across a wide space, exposed to the fire from the walls. They succeeded, however, in doing this without loss, and in getting on board the two boats: the whole party returned down the canal to the 'Cornwallis,' when they reported what had happened to Captain Richards. They were compelled to leave some of the wounded behind, and it is satisfactory to report that they were kindly treated by the Chinese—a strong proof of the advantage of the example set by the British.

As soon as Captain Richards was informed of the circumstances which had occurred, he landed with 200 marines, at the entrance of the Canal, where he was joined by 300 men of the 6th Madras native infantry, under Captain Maclean.

This body then made their way through the suburbs, to escalade the city walls. At the same time the boats of the 'Cornwallis,' under Lieut. Stoddart, with those of the 'Blonde,' pulled up the Canal, with orders to bring off the boats and guns which had been left behind, and to endeavour to check the fire of the Chinese, while Captain Richards' party were engaged in escalading the walls. As soon as Captain Richards landed, he was joined by Captain Watson and Mr. Forster, master of the 'Modeste,' with a boat's crew, and a small body of seamen of that ship. A quantity of rubbish was found near the walls, on which the ladders were planted by Captains Peter Richards and Watson, when, in face of a strong body of Tartars, who opened a tremendous fire on them, they began the hazardous ascent. Captain Richards escaped unhurt; but Captain Watson was wounded, as was Lieut. Baker, of the Madras Artillery: and a marine who, with them, was one of the first on the walls, was killed. At this juncture Lieut. Fitzjames brought up some rockets and lodged one in a guard-house, which, catching fire, threw the enemy into such consternation that they gave way, followed by Captain Richards, who, at the head of his men, had jumped down into an open space between two gateways. It was just then that the gate was blown open by powder-bags; and Sir William Parker, with the third brigade, under General Bartley, accompanied by Sir Hugh Gough, dashed over its ruins. Several officers and a large number of men suffered from the effects of the hot sun. The naval brigade having, in consequence, rested for some time in a guard-house, on hearing some firing again sallied out, when they were met by a sudden fire from a body of Tartars, drawn up across a street, behind a small gateway. Here Lieut. Fitzjames was wounded, as were several of the men. The British, however, uttering a loud cheer, attacked the Tartars with such fury that they were soon driven back, and put to flight, when numbers fell by their own hands. The city was speedily in entire possession of the British, when every means was taken to spare life, to prevent plunder, and to restore order. We must not omit to speak of the gallantry of several naval officers mentioned by Sir Hugh Gough. Having heard that the canal was fordable, he had sent Major Gough to ascertain the fact, accompanied by Captain Loch, R.N., who acted as an amateur throughout the campaign, as the General's extra aid-de-camp, and Lieut. Hodgson, of the 'Cornwallis,' as also by Lieut. Heatley. Instantly rushing down the bank, the four officers plunged into the canal, and swam across, thus proving the impracticability of fording it. The city was now completely in the power of the British; but in consequence of the bad drainage, and the number of dead bodies left in the houses, the cholera broke out, and raged with fearful violence among the troops, even though they were removed to an encampment outside the walls. The number of Tartars who destroyed themselves and families was very great; while much damage was committed by the Chinese plunderers, who flocked in from the country, and pillaged in every direction; yet, although the place had been taken by assault, none of the British troops were allowed to plunder or to commit violence of any description.

The total loss of the British forces at the capture of Chin-keang-foo was:—

Killed.—3 officers, 2 Serjeants, and 29 rank and file.

Wounded.—14 officers, 1 warrant-officer, 4 serjeants, and 87 rank and file of the military arm.

In the naval battalion 1 officer of marines, and 2 privates were killed, and 2 privates wounded; and 4 officers, and 15 seamen wounded.

While this affair was taking place, the 'Dido,' 'Childers,' 'Blonde,' 'Modeste,' 'Proserpine,' 'Nemesis,' and 'Queen,' were employed in blockading the mouths of the Grand Canal above the city, where they detained a vast number of trading junks. They also were engaged in obtaining fresh provisions for the fleet, which were strictly paid for. The officers had indeed established friendly relations with the authorities of some of the neighbouring towns; and it is worthy of remark, that they were actually enjoying the hospitality of some of them while the attack on Chin-keang-foo was taking place.

These triumphant successes of the British had at length brought the Emperor to reason, and when the fleet and the troops were brought in reality before the walls of Nankin, he no longer concealed his anxiety to sue for peace. The capture of the trading junks had also struck a heavy blow at the commerce of the country, the worse effects of which he was eager to avert. General Schoedde's brigade, with a few other troops were left to occupy the heights round Chin-keang-foo, while the expedition proceeded on to Nankin.

It was not, however, till the 4th of August that, in consequence of the prevalence of contrary winds, the fleet could stem the current of the Tang-tse-keang, when the transports with Lord Saltoun's brigade, were able to proceed.

The 'Queen,' having Sir Henry Pottinger on board, towed up the 'Marion,' head-quarter ship, and on the 5th anchored off Nankin. The 'Cornwallis' had got up on the previous day, but the entire fleet did not reach the anchorage till the 9th. The walls of the city surround an immense space, containing within them a separate Tartar city. Perhaps not more than an eighth part is covered with houses.

The British force consisted of 4,500 effective men, besides the marines and seamen of the ships. It was thought necessary to make a demonstration to bring the Chinese more speedily to terms.

The 'Cornwallis,' 'Blonde,' and heavy steamers, were accordingly placed in position, the first within 1,000 paces of the Ifung gate, with her broadside bearing on a sort of demi-bastion, which it was proposed to breach; the 'Blonde,' so as to take the defence of that bastion in flank; and the steamers so as to destroy the parapet of the wall on either side the point to be breached.

General Bartley's brigade was to enter at this point, while Lord Saltoun's was to attack the opposite gate. Fortunately these demonstrations had their due effect on the Chinese.

The true state of affairs was represented to the Emperor, and on the 20th of August, his Commissioner came on board the 'Cornwallis,' with authority to treat for peace. On the 24th, the visit was returned by Sir Henry Pottinger, Sir Hugh Gough, Sir William Parker, and upwards of a hundred officers.

On the 29th, the treaty of peace for which the British had been for so long contending was happily signed on board the 'Cornwallis' by Sir Henry Pottinger, on the part of Great Britain, and by Ke-ying, Elepoo, and New-Kien, on the part of the Emperor of China.

The following were the most important provisions of the treaty:—

1st. The establishment of lasting peace and friendship between the two empires.

2nd. China was to pay 21,000,000 dollars in the course of the present and three succeeding years, to defray the expenses of the war.

3rd. The ports of Canton, Amoy, Too-choo-foo, Ningpo, and Shang-hae, were to be thrown open to British merchants. Consular officers were to be appointed to reside at them; and regular and just tariffs of import and export, as well as inland transit duties, were to be established and published.

4th. The island of Hong Kong was ceded in perpetuity, to Her Britannic Majesty, Her heirs, and successors.

5th. All subjects of Her Britannic Majesty, whether natives of Europe or India, imprisoned in any part of the Chinese empire, were to be unconditionally released.

6th. An Act of full and entire amnesty was to be published by the emperor, under his imperial sign-manual, and sent to all Chinese subjects, on account of their having held service under the British Government or its officers.

7th. Correspondence was to be conducted on terms of perfect equality between the officers of both Governments.

8th. On the Emperor's assent being received to this treaty, and on the payment of the first 6,000,000 dollars, Her Britannic Majesty's forces were to retire from Nankin and the Grand Canal, and also from their position at Chin-hae; but the islands of Chusan and Ku-lang-sin were to be held until the money payment and the arrangements for opening the ports were completed.

We give the above articles of the treaty to show the moderation of the terms dictated by the conquerors, and to prove that the only object the British had in carrying on the war, was the establishment of a lasting peace and a permanent commercial intercourse with the Chinese.

It has been the custom somewhat to disparage the war in China, and to speak of the Chinese as contemptible and cowardly in the extreme.

Their mode of fighting was certainly different to that of the British; but we have shown that they are possessed of as much perseverance and personal bravery as can be exhibited by any people in the world; and that with more science and practical experience, they would indeed have been formidable enemies.

The war was thus ended. The troops returned to India, and the ships were dispersed over various parts of the world. We shall have to record the exploits of several of them, named in this account, in our future pages.

Late events have shown that the consequences of this war have been far more serious than was at first supposed. By it, a tremendous blow was struck at the despotic power of the Emperor, and his subjects were taught to despise the man who was compelled to succumb before a people whom he had contemptuously designated as barbarians. The Chinese were also taught to respect the British, and to discover their own deficiences, which, acute and quicksighted as they are, they have made many efforts to remedy. A powerful party was soon after organized, which has within the two last years obtained power sufficient to threaten the overthrow of the Tartar rule, and which proposes the re-establishment of a native monarchy, the reformation of government, the improvement of science and education, and the purification of religion. If the liberal party succeed, as there is every probability it will, we may hope to see not only China opened to the commerce of the world, but the blessings of civilization, and Christianity itself, diffused throughout that fertile and wealth-producing land.

If such prove to be the results of the war in China, we have no cause to repine at the cost.

While the British fleet remained in the China Seas, several gallant acts, well worthy of record, were performed by some of the officers of the ships. I possess notes of a few of them, which I give, though I am well aware that many other traits of courage were exhibited (independent of the gallantry all displayed in action) of which I have no accounts.

GALLANTRY OF MR. H. F. M'KILLOP, MIDSHIPMAN OF H.M.S. 'BELLEISLE,'

June, 1842.

"AT daylight, on the 15th of June, 1842, when H.M.S. 'Belleisle,' Captain Kingcome, was at anchor in one of the passages to the entrance of Chusan, in the China Sea, when there was a strong tide running, Mr. H. F. M'Killop, midshipman, was heard to cry, 'A man overboard!—I'll jump after him.' The quarter-master said, 'You had better not, sir; there is a very strong tide running.' The reply was, 'I will—the man can't swim.' He instantly plunged overboard, and, to the satisfaction of all, he was seen to lay hold of the man, whom he kept afloat for a considerable period, until the boat had been lowered, and sent to pick them both up."

COURAGE OF MR. TURNER, MATE OF H.M.S. 'SERPENT,'

August, 1842.

"On the 8th of August, 1842, the pinnace, belonging to H.M.S. 'Serpent,' was caught in a gale of wind, in Chimmo Bay, China. At midnight, a heavy squall caused a junk she was riding by to drive, forcing the pinnace so suddenly ahead that, in her heavy pitching, she foundered. In a moment, seven men were struggling for their lives, five of whom were saved by the extraordinary exertions of Mr. Turner (mate), who, in his praiseworthy efforts, was nearly jammed between two junks, and was only just hauled up in time, but not before he had seen two of his best men hauled up before him."

SEAMAN'S LIFE SAVED BY LIEUTENANT R. C. WHYTE,

January, 1844.

"On the 15th of January, 1844, at which time H.M.S. 'Pelican' was lying in the Ningpo River, on the north-eastern coast of China, a seaman, named Joseph White, while working in the main-rigging, missed his hold, and fell overboard. Lieut. Robert C. Whyte, senior of that ship, in the most gallant manner, instantly jumped after him, with his clothes on; and, although the man had sunk twice, and was actually swept by the rapidity of the tide under the bow of a large Chinese boat, succeeded in saving him. It was the greatest chance that Lieut. Whyte's life was not sacrificed in this his gallant attempt. From the well-known rapid tide, and dangerous undertow in the large rivers of China, particularly the Ningpo, it had always been supposed that any person falling overboard would inevitably have been drowned; and so strong was this opinion on board, which was well known to Lieut. Whyte at the time, that the ship's company had always refrained from bathing during the fine seasons.

"This was the second time in which Lieut. Whyte succeeded in saving this seaman's life, and the third man he had saved within a very few months."

LIEUTS. CALDWELL AND VANSITTART, R.N., HONG KONG,

December, 1843.

"On the 13th of December, 1843, as the men of H.M.S. 'Agincourt,' at Hong Kong, were exercising aloft, one of them unfortunately lost his hold, and fell from the main-yard arm: striking against the rigging, he bounded with frightful force from the spare topsail-yard, and fell insensible into the sea. Lieuts. Caldwell and Vansittart instantly dashed overboard after him; the former officer was, however, from his position, unable to make way against the tide, and to reach the sinking man. Happily, Mr. Vansittart was nearer to him, and with almost superhuman exertions (being burdened with the whole of his uniform), saved the poor fellow's life, supporting him for a considerable time, until a boat could be lowered. This gallant action endeared the young officers to every man on board."

THE LIFE OF THE HON. FREDERICK WILLIAM WALPOLE SAVED BY MR. R. DEW, MATE OF H.M.S. 'COLLINGWOOD,' AT CALLAO,

August 20th, 1844.

Her Majesty's ship 'Collingwood,' Captain R. Smart, was lying off the port of Callao, in China, on the 20th of August, 1844. There were at the time two mates on board, Mr. Roderick Dew and the Hon. Frederick William Walpole. The latter officer had, it appears, in the afternoon gone on board a cutter-yacht belonging to a gentleman at Callao. As night came on there was a fresh breeze blowing, which knocked up a short chopping sea. It was also very dark, so that objects at any distance from the ship could scarcely be discerned. The officer of the first watch on that night was Lieutenant Richard R. Quin, and the mate of the watch was Mr. R. Dew. In those seas the currents run very rapidly, and where the ship lay there was a very strong tide. Just as the quarter-masters had gone below to call the officers of the middle watch, it being then close upon 12 o'clock, the look-out man forward reported a boat ahead under sail. The Lieutenant of the watch, on going to the gangway, observed a small cutter on the starboard bow, which, as well as he could make out, through the obscurity, appeared to be hove-to. He judged, from the position of the cutter, that she wished to communicate with the ship, but it was impossible to see what was taking place on board her. Shortly afterwards a dark object was observed on the water on the starboard bow approaching the ship, but it did not look like a boat. When it was at the distance of 70 or 80 yards, it was hailed by the sentry. An answer was returned, but too indistinctly for the officers aft to understand what was said. The sentry, however, on the forecastle seems to have made out the answer, for he instantly sung out the startling cry of "A man overboard!" No boats were down at the time, and in that hot tideway in another minute the drowning man would have been swept past the ship, and carried, in all probability, out to sea, where he must have perished. Mr. Dew was forward; whether or not he knew who was the person in peril of his life, I cannot say, probably any human being would equally have claimed his aid; but without a moment's hesitation, he jumped fearlessly overboard, and swam to the assistance of the man he supposed was drowning. He struck out bravely, but could not at first succeed in the object for which he was aiming. Meantime the order for lowering a boat was given, but long before she was got into the water, the figure of a human being was discerned close to the ship. The sentry again hailed, when a voice, which was recognised as that of Mr. Walpole's, answered with a cry for help. Mr. Dew cheered him up, by letting him know that he was coming to his assistance, and very soon after he got up to him, and found him clinging to a small boat, full of water, and as he was encumbered with a heavy pea-coat, holding on with the greatest difficulty. Mr. Dew, who was lightly clad and fresh, enabled him to guide the swamped boat up to the ship, near which the current was of itself carrying her. As they passed near the gangway a coil of rope was hove to them, which they getting hold of, the boat was hauled alongside, and Mr. Walpole and his gallant preserver, Mr. Dew, were brought safely upon deck. Mr. Walpole then gave an account of the accident which had befallen him. He had shoved off from the cutter in her dingy, which was very soon swamped, and as the tide would not allow him to regain her, he was being carried rapidly to destruction, and would, he gratefully asserted, have inevitably perished, had it not been for the heroic conduct of Mr. Dew, who, under Providence, was thus the means of preserving his life.