Chapter IV: Part 4

At three A.M. on the 13th, Captain Scott, taking with him the small-arm men and marines of the 'Samarang,' went on board the 'Nemesis,' which, towing the 'Samarang's' pinnace, mounting two twelve-pound carronades, cutter, six-oared gig, four-oared gig, and the 'Atalanta's' pinnace, mounting two twelve-pound howitzers, got under weigh from Macao Roads, and proceeded over the flats between Twee-lieu-shaw and Toi-koke-tow Islands, on the Broadway River.

At eight A.M. they came in sight of Macao fort, and the steamer having taken up an infilading position, where not a gun of the enemy could bear upon her, opened her fire, while the boats proceeded to the attack. On their approach the Chinese abandoned the place. Thirteen guns were found mounted, which were completely destroyed, the buildings set fire to, and a train laid to the magazine, which exploded before the boats returned to the 'Nemesis.'

On reaching Point How-Hoak-Tow, the river is divided into two channels--that to the right takes a sudden sharp turn, and becomes very narrow. Here was discovered the lately constructed field-battery of Tai-yat-kok, strongly posted on rising ground on the left bank of the river, surrounded by overflowed paddy-fields, which infiladed the whole line of the reach leading to it. As the steamer appeared round the point, the enemy opened an animated fire upon her, which was smartly kept up. It was most effectually returned by the two guns from the 'Nemesis,' which vessel threw her shot, shells, and rockets, admirably directed by Mr. Edward Crouch, gunnery mate of the 'Wellesley,' whose firing Captain Scott describes as perfect rifle practice. The boats advanced under the slight cover of the bank; but before a landing could be effected on their flanks, the enemy abandoned the guns, when the attacking party, passing in single files by a narrow pathway, took possession of the work. The boats, after destroying a military depot and chop-house on the opposite side of the river, returned on board. Ascending a little way, nine war-junks were caught sight of, to which chase was given. Just afterwards a fort, called Houchung, was seen on the left side, from which strong stakes had been driven across the river. The junks headed towards the stakes, and the last had passed through, and the opening was again closed before the boats got up. The enemy then set an example of hostility, by firing from the fort and junks now under sail, which was replied to by the 'Nemesis' with good effect. Meantime the boats opened a passage through the stakes, one division dashing on to attack the fort, and the other, gallantly led by Lieut. Bower, against the junks. The first party, by wading the ditch and entering the embrasures, secured the fort. The crews of the war-junks, on seeing the fall of the fort, became so panic-struck on the approach of the boats, that seven got on shore, the people jumping overboard as they grounded--two junks only escaping. In passing on to cut them off, Lieut. Bower was fired on by another fort, called Tie-shu-kok, which he immediately attacked and took. During this time Mr. Hall got the 'Nemesis' through the stakes, and after the fort and junks were burnt, the two other junks were again chased: 21 guns were destroyed in the forts, and 28 in the junks. At half-past three the large trading town of Heong-shan was reached, built on either side of the river. The houses and streets were crowded with people, looking on at the steamer, and hundreds of trading-junks and other crafts were packed close together along the quays, and full of people. The steamer passed on without injuring any one, the inhabitants appearing to be most peaceably disposed, nor in any way afraid. This state of feeling had arisen from the efforts of Captain Elliot, and Mr. Morrison and Mr. Thorn, the interpreters, who had taken every means in their power to convince the people that the British were making war on the government and the soldiers, and not on them. Several mandarin boats, however, fled; but very soon one of the war-junks was run on shore, her crew, who jumped overboard, finding that they could not escape the steamer. She was at once boarded and blown up. Directly afterwards another masked battery at Sheongchap was discovered, stormed, and destroyed, by the boats' crews of the 'Samarang.' It now being six o'clock, the channel very narrow, and the water shallow, the 'Nemesis' anchored for the night.

At daylight on the morning of the 14th, the steamer weighed and proceeded through a channel not broader than her own length, grounding occasionally, and at 7.50 reached the village and fort of Hong-how. The latter fired, was stormed, the troops fled, and it was blown up. After the crews had toiled incessantly for four hours, aided by the natives, who willingly offered their services, a strong line of stakes was removed, and the 'Nemesis' proceeded, taking only one fort during the day, and anchored at six P.M. for the night. Continuing her course at daylight, the 'Nemesis' reached the large village of Tamchow, where a number of soldiers appeared, who were dispersed; and afterwards she reached the town of Tsenei, near which were three abandoned forts, and where she destroyed the custom-house, as well as a man-of-war junk, mounting seven guns, which the crew abandoned at her approach. At four P.M. the 'Nemesis,' after passing some very beautiful country, reached Whampoa, having destroyed, in conjunction with the boats, five forts, one battery, two military stations, and nine war-junks, in which were 115 guns and 8 gingals.

During the whole expedition three seamen of the 'Samarang' only were slightly wounded. Captain Scott speaks in high terms of Mr. Hall, R.N., commanding the 'Nemesis;' of Lieut. William Pedder, R.N., her chief officer; of Mr. Crouch, gunnery mate; and of Captain Larkins, late of the Hon. East India Company's service, who acted as a volunteer; also of Lieut. Bowyer, First of 'Samarang;' Lieut. Maitland; Acting Lieut. Lysaught; and Lieut. Gordon, of the marines; as well as Messrs. Noble, Parkhurst, Luard, Armitage, mates; Mr. Tucker, second master; and Dr. Mackay, assistant surgeon.

By the expedition the Chinese learned that the British could pass through their inner waters, notwithstanding any impediment they might be able to throw in their way.

CAPTURE OF FORTS OF CANTON AND CHINESE FLOTILLA,

March 18th, 1841.

While the advanced squadron were at anchor off Whampoa, Captain Elliot despatched the 'Nemesis' with a letter, to be delivered at the first convenient spot to the Chinese authorities. Captains Herbert, Bourchier, and Bethune, and other officers, were on board. With a flag-of-truce flying, she approached a fort, called the Birds-nest Fort, off which was a large flotilla of junks, while a line of rafts crossed the river. Captain Bethune, having undertaken to deliver the letter, pushed off in a boat with a white flag flying, when a shower of grape-shot was discharged at her from the fort. The 'Nemesis' fired in return, but did not destroy the fort, Captain Herbert being anxious to consult with Captain Elliot before carrying hostilities further. The Chinese, in consequence, boasted that they had driven away "a devil ship," and the Commandant received a peacock feather as a reward for his courage.

The result of Captain Herbert's consultation with Captain Elliot was that he resolved instantly to punish the Chinese for the insult offered to the British flag by taking Canton itself. Preparations were accordingly made. The vessels employed were 'Modeste,' Commander Eyres; 'Algerine,' Lieut. Mason; 'Starling,' Lieut. Kellett; 'Herald', Captain Nias (later in the day); 'Hebe' and 'Louisa,' tenders, Mr. Quin and Mr. Carmichael; steamer, 'Nemesis,' Mr. Hall, R.N.; 'Madagascar,' Mr. Dicey. There was also a flotilla of nearly 40 boats, under command of Captain Bourchier, assisted by Captain Bethune. They were in four divisions, three under the immediate orders of Commanders Barlow and Clarke, and of Lieut. Coulson of the 'Blonde,' and a fourth jointly of Commanders Warren and Belcher, who were on board the 'Hyacinth,' which, with much perseverance, was got through the intricate passes of the river. The latter force was placed at the southern entrance of the river communicating with the main stream at Patee, to meet any retrograde movement of the numerous flotilla that had taken part in the aggression on the 16th. Upwards of 50 naval officers embarked in the boats to take a share in the work of the day. A number of smugglers, it was said, had been promised their pardon for assisting the Government, and their boats were found drawn up across the mouth of the Macao passage. The Chinese had also equipped a number of gun-boats after European models, so that it was expected the British flotilla would have ample employment. About noon the 'Nemesis,' 'Modeste,' and 'Madagascar,' having bombarded the Birds-nest Fort and another beyond it, which were taken possession of by their boats' crews, moved on to the attack of Canton. In the mean time the 'Starling' and 'Algerine' forced a way through the rafts, followed by the 'Hebe' and 'Louisa,' which, with part of Captain Bourchier's flotilla, attacked and captured a strong sand-bag battery, and put to flight a number of war-junks and armed boats. A strong fort opposite the city was next silenced, and afterwards taken by Commander Belcher and Lieut. Pedder.

The 'Nemesis' then pursued a large flotilla up the river; and Commanders Belcher and Warren, with their division of boats, having got through the Patee Creek, came suddenly on them, and destroyed a large number.

Meantime the 'Modeste' was placed within 300 yards in front of the principal battery, flanked by the guns of the 'Madagascar' and 'Nemesis.' After they had engaged the batteries for about an hour, the flotilla, with the marines under Captain Bourchier, was brought up in admirable order, and, upon the signal being given, stormed and completed the capture of the enemy's works, notwithstanding a most determined resistance on the part of the Tartar troops. Captain Bourchier was employed in keeping the boats' crews together to repress any outbreak of the population; and he observing a number of burning junks drifting down on the suburbs of Canton, which would inevitably have set fire to the city, by the most energetic exertions of his officers and men they were towed away from the spot.

By much labour the 'Herald,' Captain Nias, was got over the flats later in the day, and by her more imposing appearance contributed to bring the Chinese to reason. The Commodore also arrived in his gig in time to see the British colours hoisted on the flagstaff of the factory by Commander Belcher, they having been just before waved from one of the windows by Mr. Hall as a sign that the place was in possession of the British. The rest of the day was employed in destroying several junks, which had escaped in different directions, and in taking possession of several forts. In two or three instances, after all opposition had ceased, bodies of soldiers rushed out and attacked the English, but were quickly driven among the narrow lanes, where it was thought imprudent to follow them. Thus the second city of China fell into the hands of the British, with the loss only of seven men wounded. Among them was Lieut. Stransham, of the Marines, who was much burnt by the explosion of a magazine, but refused to quit his post. The Chinese lost 400 men in killed and wounded, and 123 guns were captured. As soon as the forts were taken, Captain Elliot hoisted a flag-of-truce, and entered into an agreement with the Chinese High Commissioner for the suspension of hostilities, and for opening the trade to the British.

It is foreign to our plan to discuss the advantage of the proceedings; but at all events it is another proof of Captain Elliot's anxiety to prevent the unnecessary effusion of blood, and to convince the Chinese that the sole object of the British was to bring their Government to reason, and to induce them to trade on just and equal terms, and to behave according to the customs of civilized nations.

Trade was, therefore, again opened, and went on for some time with great activity; but doubts and suspicions soon arose, and in a few weeks it became necessary to repeat the lesson before given. In the mean time Sir Gordon Bremer sailed for Calcutta to report the state of affairs.

CHINESE ATTEMPT TO DESTROY BRITISH SHIPS WITH FIRE RAFTS,

May 21st, 1841.

Notwithstanding the truce, the Chinese were endeavouring to rebuild their fortifications, three Tartar Generals arrived at Canton with orders to exterminate the British, and junks were fitting out and fire-rafts were forming to carry their plans into effect; indeed it became certain that some plan of treachery was in contemplation. On this, Captain Elliot, and a party of marines with him, withdrew from the British Factory, followed by all British subjects, and the flag of England was again lowered at Canton.

An advanced squadron under Captain Herbert was lying off Canton, consisting of the 'Modeste,' 'Pylades,' 'Nemesis,' 'Louisa,' and 'Aurora,' and a little lower down were the 'Herald' and 'Calliope.' The evening of the 21st was very gloomy and the night unusually dark. Every one was impressed with a feeling that something was about to happen. Double sentries were placed onboard the ships, the men were ordered to lie down equipped ready for service, the officers themselves in their cloaks on deck, and the 'Nemesis' kept her fires lighted, so that her steam might be got up in a few minutes. The 'Modeste,' being a little in advance, one of her sentries observed several large dark-looking masses dropping down with the stream. On his hailing, they were immediately set on fire by the Chinese on board, and the flames bursting forth, pointed out the danger to the other vessels. In nine minutes the 'Nemesis' had her steam up, and was running towards the fire-rafts, to assist the boats of the squadron engaged in towing them away. Fortunately the plans of the Chinese were disconcerted by this premature discovery. Out of a hundred not more than a dozen were ignited and sent against the ships, and numbers of these drifted on shore, some of which set the suburbs of the city on fire. While the burning rafts were drifting about, lighting up the ships and the town and the troops on shore with their Tartar officers encouraging them to fight, their own crews were endeavouring to make their escape from the blazing machines. These rafts were formed of boats chained together, so that, drifting down with the stream, they might hang across the bows of a ship, and would with much difficulty have been cleared had they once got there. Meantime the Chinese batteries opened on the squadron, which did not fail to return their fire with much effect, while the small-arm men picked off the people on the fire-rafts. The Chinese brought down a gun and planted it within good range of the 'Louisa' and 'Aurora,' and might have blown them out of the water had not their crews, by veering and hauling on their cables, baulked the Chinese gunners, and they thus escaped with little damage. In the morning the Shameen battery was taken, and 43 war-junks and 32 fire-rafts were destroyed, besides which, a desirable landing-place was discovered, by which the troops might disembark, and advance towards the heights of Canton. During these operations Mr. Hall performed a gallant act, which probably saved the lives of Captains Elliot and Herbert, and all standing near. A Congreve rocket had been placed in a tube, and ignited when it hung within it, instead of flying out. In another moment it would have burst, scattering destruction around, when Mr. Hall thrust his arm into the tube and forced it out from behind. The rush of fire, however, severely burnt his hand, and caused him much suffering. It was long indeed before he recovered the use of his hand. We mention it as a worthy act of presence of mind and courage.

While the advanced squadron was attacked with fire-rafts off Canton, a similar attempt was made on the same night, to destroy the 'Alligator,' Captain Kuper, anchored off Howqua's Folly. The rafts were floating up with the flood-tide, from a point not expected, when they were discovered. The 'Alligator' was anchored in a confined position, with a line of Nankin junks and stakes astern, so that she could not slip; but by steering the ship some of them were avoided; while her First Lieutenant, Stewart, and Messrs. Woolcombe and Baker, mates, by their activity in the boats, towed the others clear. Some passed within ten yards of the bows, while a number of Chinese were collected on shore, probably to destroy any of the crew escaping from the ship, had she been burnt.

Three nights afterwards the 'Wellesley,' anchored at the Bogue, was attacked by 20 fire-vessels, chained in twos and threes, with gunpowder and a variety of combustibles on board. A large number of her crew and officers were absent with the advanced squadron, under Captain Maitland, and it was not without great exertion that Commander Fletcher, having only three boats left behind, was able to tow them clear of the ship.

CAPTURE OF CANTON,

May 23rd to 30th.

In consequence of the hostile proceedings we have described of the Chinese, Sir Hugh Gough, in conjunction with Sir Le Fleming Senhouse and Captain Elliot, Her Majesty's Plenipotentiary, resolved forthwith to attack Canton. An expedition to Amoy, which had been in contemplation, was consequently given up. One of the first steps taken was to secure a sufficient number of boats to land the troops at once, and this object was speedily effected by Commanders Belcher, of the 'Sulphur,' and Barlow, of the 'Nimrod,' an ample supply of boats of all shapes, rigs, and sizes, being collected. The 24th was fixed on for the attack, as it was the birthday of Her Majesty. On the 23rd Sir Le Fleming Senhouse and Sir Hugh Gough, having made a reconnoissance, everything was ready. The British force consisted of the following ships and vessels:--'Wellesley,' at Boca Tigris, sent up her marines and 100 seamen. Macao first division, 'Blenheim,' 'Blonde,' 'Sulphur,' 'Hyacinth,' 'Nimrod,' 'Modeste,' 'Pylades,' 'Cruiser, 'Columbine,' 'Algerine,' 'Starling,' and 'Atalanta,' and 'Nemesis' steamers.

In the Whampoa division, under Captain Herbert, were 'Calliope,' 'Conway,' 'Herald,' 'Alligator.' In the above ships and vessels were, including officers, seamen, and marines, about 3,200 men; of whom, about 1,000, including marines, landed to serve with the army. The land force under Sir Hugh Gough, numbered about 2,223.

The troops were embarked in two columns. The right column under the command of Major Pratt, was ordered to hold the factories, and was taken up by the 'Atalanta' steamer. The left, which comprised the main body of the army, and which was directed to carry the heights above the city, was divided into four brigades. It was embarked in the strange collection of native craft collected by Commander Belcher. This primitive-looking fleet of transports, towed by the 'Nemesis,' reached the landing-place of T-sing-poo about dark, without having experienced the slightest obstruction on the way from the Chinese. Commander Belcher had already got the 'Sulphur' there, and had taken possession of a number of temples for the accommodation of the troops.

This landing-place of T-sing-poo is on the banks of a creek which circles round the west of the city, and is so situated that the troops could march up directly to the heights it was intended they should occupy above the city.

The city and its suburbs occupy the entire space between the hills and the river. The city is surrounded by a high wall about six miles in circumference, and is again divided by a wall into two unequal parts called the old and new town, of which the latter is the smallest. The suburbs are as extensive as the city itself, and on the south extend to the water's edge. In the west corner are situated the foreign factories. The walls extend to the brow of the hills, and indeed there is a hill of some height within them. Four strong forts, mounting altogether 42 guns, and a great number of gingals and wall-pieces, crowned the heights above the city.

Opposite the city was the naval arsenal: to the east the French fort, and to the west, opposite the factories, the Dutch fort.

Considerably to the west, at the bend of the river, is the Shameen fort.

We must now describe the proceedings of the attacking force. The land force was commanded by Sir Hugh Gough in person, and he was accompanied by Sir Le Fleming Senhouse, to whom Commander Belcher acted as aid-de-camp. The naval brigade, consisting of 430 officers and men, was directed to act with the troops. It was under the orders of Captain Bourchier, and was divided into two battalions commanded by Captain Maitland and Commander Barlow. The troops advanced towards the heights over very difficult and broken ground, up which they had to drag their guns with much labour; the heat also was excessive, and many suffered from it. As the troops advanced, the Chinese receded before them, though the forts kept up a spirited fire on their columns; but without a moment's delay they were stormed by the troops and seamen, and then in little more than half an hour after the advance had been sounded, the British flag waved on all the heights which overlooked the city. While the troops were attacking the forts assigned to them, the blue-jackets carried the two western batteries, called by the Chinese the fortresses of Perpetual Bliss and Everlasting Security. They were much exposed, in their advance; and unfortunately Lieutenant Fox and Mr. Kendal, mate, both of the 'Nlmrod,' each lost a leg, the former of whom died the same evening under amputation. Several seamen were also wounded. An intrenched camp outside the north-east gate was next attacked and carried in gallant style.

While these affairs were taking place on the height, the Chinese in great force attacked the joss-house at the landing-place, where a small body only of troops had been stationed to protect the stores, guns, &c. The moment the attack was perceived, the 'Nemesis' and 'Starling' opened their fire, under cover of which, Mr. Hall, from the 'Nemesis,' and Mr. Gross, from the 'Sulphur,' landed with a party of officers and seamen, and boldly attacked the Chinese in front. The blue-jackets quickly drove them back into the town with the loss of three field-pieces and 30 men killed, while several houses under which they had attempted to rally were set on fire.

While these affairs were taking place on shore, the advanced squadron before the river front of the city, were not idle.

We will first describe the operations of Commander Warren's division. The 'Hyacinth' and 'Nimrod' first attacked the Shameen battery, in order to cover the landing of the 26th regiment from the 'Atalanta' at the factories, while the 'Modeste,' 'Cruiser,' and 'Columbine,' took up a position to bombard the Dutch Folly fort, and to enfilade the line of batteries lately thrown up in front of the city, to the eastward of that fort.

As soon as the ships had taken up their position, the Chinese set three fire-vessels adrift; but though a strong tide brought them rapidly down towards the fleet, the boats, by pushing off instantly, were able to tow them clear of the ships and to carry them on shore, when they set fire to the suburbs. The factories being deserted, the troops were landed without obstruction. That service being accomplished, the 'Algerine,' Lieutenant Mason, proceeded to attack a fort to the eastward; which instantly opening a hot fire on the brig, the boats of the 'Hyacinth,' under Lieut. Stewart and Mr. Barclay, mate, with the 'Modeste's,' Mr. Fitzgerald, mate; 'Cruiser's,' Lieutenant Haskell, and Mr. Drake, mate; 'Pylades',' Lieutenant Hay, and 'Columbine's,' Lieutenants Hamilton and Helpman, and Mr. Mills, mate, were sent to her support. They at once pushed for the shore under a heavy fire from 11 guns, musketry, and gingals, and stormed the fort, which the Chinese defended with much gallantry. Mr. Fitzgerald fell mortally wounded, and several seamen were killed and wounded, but the fort was captured and all the guns spiked. Lieutenant Moorshead, First of the 'Hyacinth,' whose gallantry was highly praised by Commander Warren, was wounded in a personal engagement with a mandarin. Mr. Dolby, mate, and Mr. Higgs, second master of the 'Algerine,' also behaved with great courage and steadiness.

Captain Herbert, accompanied by Captain Bethune, meantime, was proceeding up the river with the boats and marines of the 'Calliope,' 'Conway,' and 'Herald,' when, on passing the French fort, they were assailed by so hot a fire, one shot passing through Captain Herbert's boat, that they were compelled to remain under cover till dark. At 2 A.M., by a preconcerted signal with Captain Bethune, who had one division of the boats, they pulled up together to the arsenal, which they attacked and carried. The next morning Captain Eyres, by great exertions, got the 'Modeste' over the bar, and no other vessel being able to join her, with the exception of the 'Algerine,' the 'Atalanta' having grounded, Captain Herbert fitted three of the captured junks with shell-guns, and placed them under the command of Lieuts. Haskell and Hay, seniors of the 'Cruiser' and 'Pylades.' This force opened a hot fire on the French fort, which the enemy returned with some courage, but being speedily silenced, and a few well-directed broadsides clearing the beach, the signal was given to advance. On this, Captain Bethune landed with the storming party, and the fort was carried in the most gallant style. The whole line of defence, extending about two miles from the factory, which, with the exception of the French fort, had lately been constructed in the strongest manner, was destroyed, and a free communication was opened with the ships at Napier's fort.

Twenty-four large war-junks were captured in the arsenal, and the same number of row-boats of large size, besides a quantity of timber, gun-carriages, and stores, while 64 guns were destroyed.

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."

[1] _Bona fide_, in this case, a mixture of gunpowder, not Howqua's mixture.

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.*

* "Narrative of the Voyages and Services of the 'Nemesis,'" by W. D. Bernard, Esq. H. Colburn.--We strongly recommend the book to all who wish to obtain a full description of the War in China.