Congressional Edition Volume 3332 (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1895 Excerpt: ...it was very near the time of commencement of our Xl-inch fire. We had fired but a few shots, when the chase loosed and partly sheeted home his topsail and topgallant sail (fore). These did not help him materially; but he steamed very fast and drew so much ahead of us soon that we were compelled to yaw in order to discharge the XI-inch guns. We steamed after him, but I do not think that any time we went much over 6 knots, as we had steam up on but one boiler. The stranger crossed the end of the shoals, and got into the channel leading into Mobile Bay. We followed him into about 3 fathoms of water, when, as it was getting dusk and we were unacquainted with the bar, we were obliged to give up the chase. Up to the time of his hauling down his flag it was my opinion that the stranger was a large English gunboat., To the questions proposed by you under date of October 9 1 return the following answers: 1. The ship was prepared for action in season, and when the character of the chase became apparent you did your utmost to capture or destroy her. 2. I do not know what duty is referred to (as being the plainest and most ordinary committed to an officer) in your second question. 3. You did, as far as my observation or recollection goes, display zeal, energy, and anxiety in pursuit of the chase. I was on the bridge mostly, aud you were most of the time on the poorj, where you had the best view of the chase that could be obtained. 4. I can not suggest any precaution that occurred to me at the time as having been omitted. Very respectfully, your obedient servant, M. Sicard, Lieutenant-Commander. Commander Geo. H. Preble, U. S. 8. Oneida. i Report of Lieutenant liroien, U. S. Xary, U. S. S. Oneida, of circumstances attending the escape of C. S. 8. Florida (Oreto) into Mo...