by John Marshall

“ This noble example inspired every person with confidence of success, and each ship steered for her opponent; but the enemy, determining to evade an action, steered away large under a press of sail, the smallest ship, at the same time, making off to windward. At 11-30, by our superior sailing, we arrived within gun-shot of the enemy; but as they appeared to close for the mutual support of each other, and the Unicorn being some distance astern, I judged it prudent to postpone our attack till she was sufficiently advanced to occupy the attention of the French commodore. ”

“ At p.m., having approached them within three-quarters of a mile, we fired our bow-guns whenever a favorable opportunity presented itself, the enemy at the same time yawing to discharge their broadsides. ”