John Marshall

“ The paly lustre of the moon contrasted itself at first with the fiery glare, but the latter soon assumed the predominance, and flung its influence over every object in the vicinity, imparting a singular hue to the countenances of the numerous spectators on shore, and of those on duty in the surrounding boats. ”

“ Henry Campling, purser, who volunteered to command the marines and small-arm men, and to whose continued and well-conducted fire I attribute the loss of so few men, which has been trifling, when the superiority of force opposed to us is considered, being only one man killed and four wounded.
“It is with much satisfaction I add, that H.M. brig has suffered in nothing but the running rigging and sails, except what damage she may have received from grounding; at present she makes nearly two feet water an hour ”

“ I beg leave to state to you, that, in obedience to your directions, I proceeded, in H.M. brig under my command, to the eastward of St. Marcou, in order to intercept any of the enemy’s trade bound to the westward; at 2 P.M. St. Marcou bearing W. by N. six leagues, we observed from the mast-head a convoy of French vessels steering for Barfleur; all sail was immediately made in chase, and, on our near approach, we perceived them to be protected by three-armed national brigs, and two large luggers, the former carrying from 12 to 16 guns each, the latter from 8 to 10 each, apparently well-manned. ”