by John Marshall

“ Every exertion was instantly made to get her off, but to no purpose. The weather rather clearing, we soon perceived the danger of our situation. It was truly terrible, and scarcely left us the most distant prospect of life. Our brave and worthy captain, however, with the most undaunted fortitude I ever beheld, still continued to animate the crew to hope and further perseverance. This he did with as much collectedness and self-command as if conducting the ordinary duty of the ship; never in my life did I witness such utter disregard to death and danger. ”

“ Having tried every thing in vain for the safety of the ship, we now turned our thoughts to the lives of the crew, and as they could be of no further use, they were told to provide for their own safety in the boats of the Impetueux and Goliah, that had by this then approached the ship, the captain and all the officers having declared their intention to remain on board till all the men were safely out. ”

“ The surf, however, broke so tremendously between us and the land, though I do not believe we were 20 yards from it, that all the poor fellows who made this attempt were either drowned or dashed to pieces. ”