by John Marshall

“ A signal was then made for all the ships and vessels to send to Sir Alexander a return of the number of seamen whom, in addition to marines, they could land with small arms; and it was ascertained that, besides the numbers necessary for conveying stores and dragging guns, 600 sailors could be spared, thus enabling Major-General Ross, on his next debarkation, for the purpose of making a demonstration upon the city of Baltimore (which might be converted into a real attack, should circumstances appear to justify it) , to bring into the field about 5000 fighting men. ”

“ In the night, Captains Palmer and Money joined us with the seamen, and the marine-artillery under Captain Harrison. Captain Wainwright had accompanied me the day before, as had also Lieutenant Scott.
“At daylight, on the morning of the 24th, the Major-General again put the army iu motion, directing his march upon Bladensburg; on reaching which place with the advanced guard, the enemy was discovered drawn up in force on a rising ground beyond the town; and by the fire he soon opened on us, as we entered the place, gave us to understand he was well protected by artillery. ”

“ Captain Robyns, who commanded the marines of the fleet, I also beg to recommend to your favourable notice and consideration; as well as Lieutenant George Constantine Urmston of the Albion, whom I placed in command of the smaller boats, to endeavour to keep up a communication between the army and navy, which he effected by great perseverance, and thereby rendered us most essential service. In short. Sir, every individual seemed animated with equal anxiety to distinguish himself by good conduct on this occasion ”

“ Marching over the field, where the battle of the 12th had been fought, the author of the “Subaltern” saw several men “hanging lifeless among the branches of trees, and learnt that, they had been riflemen, who chose, during the combat, to fix themselves in these elevated situations, for the combined purposes of securing a good aim, and avoiding danger. ”

“ On our approaching that town, a few shot were exchanged between the leading boats and some of the enemy’s cavalry; but the appearance of our army advancing caused them to retire with precipitation. Captains Nourse and Palmer, of the Severn and Hebrus, joined me this day with their boats, having found it impracticable to get their ships higher than Benedict. ”

“ The seamen, under Mr. Jackson, master’s mate of the Tonnant, attached to the rocket brigade, behaved also with equal skill and bravery. The marines landed from the ships, and commanded by Captain Robyns, displayed their usual gallantry.
“The night being fast approaching, and the troops much fatigued. Colonel Brook determined to remain for the night on the field of battle ”