by John Marshall

“ I plainly observed that one was a frigate, and the other two apparently merchant ships. I continued the chase until half-past 7 P.M. the following day, when coming up with the sternmost vessel, she proved to be the Thetis country ship, prize to the French frigate Pysché, of 36 guns and 240 men [1] , under the command of Captain Bergeret, then a-head at a short distance. Finding he enemy had abandoned the Thetis, I left a midshipman in charge, and continued to pursue the frigate, which was making off under all sail. ”

“ Fiorenzo mounted 26 long 18-pounders, 2 long nines, and 14 carronades, 32-pounders: she had on board 253 officers men, and boys. La Psyché mounted 24 long French 12-pounders, 2 sixes, and 10 carronades, 18-pounders. ↑ In the middle of the action, la Psyché fell on board the St. Fiorenzo, when Lieutenant William Dawson instantly jumped on board the enemy, but owing to the confusion of a night action, the ships separated again before a sufficient force could follow him. ”

“ I am grieved to relate that Lieutenant Dawson was dangerously wounded in the breast with a pike, while in the act of boarding [2] .
“Inclosed I transmit a list of the killed and wounded of H.M. ship under my command, also of the late French national frigate la Psyché. I have the honor to be, &c.
(Signed) ⁠“Henry Lambert.” “To Vice-Admiral Rainier, &c. &c. &c.”
The loss of men on both sides in this action was very great, the St. Fiorenzo having 12 killed and 36 wounded; la Psyché 57 slain and 70 wounded. ”