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57

Commodore Perry ordered his flag to be hoisted. We knew this flag was on board, but none of us knew what the motto was, until it was un- furled to the breeze -- when we discovered the dying words of the brave Lawrence -- "Don't Give Up the Ship!"

This flag was eighteen feet long and nine broad - painted blue -- the letters on it very large and white. When it was unfurled, the whole squadron gave three cheers. Every soul seemed animated by one feeling.

All were busy in getting every thing in the best possible order for the battle -- the shot were got up from below -- the guns well loaded and primed -- and all was in complete readiness. - The drums beat to quarters, and every man repaired to his station. The words "Silence - stand at your quarters!" were given, and the signal to form a line. The wind was light, and our line was soon formed, when we bore down upon the enemy in perfect order, as follows: --

AMERICAN SQUADRON

1.  Lawrence, with            20 guns
2.  Caledonia,                 6 guns
3.  Niagara,                  20 guns
4.  Somers                     2 guns 
5.  Sloop Trip,                1 guns
6.  Scorpion,                  2 guns
7.  Tigress,                   1 guns
8.  Porcupine,                 1 guns
9.  Ariel,                     3 guns
           Total No. of guns  53

BRITISH SQUADRON

10. Detroit,                  19 guns
11. Queen Charlotte,          19 guns
12. Lady Prevost,             14 guns
13. Chippewa Schr.             1 gun &  2 swivels.
14. Brig Hunter               12 guns
15. Sloop Little Belt,         1 gun &  2 swivels
                     Total,   66 guns & 4 swivels

There being only a light wind, we neared the enemy very slowly, which gave us a little time for reflection. Such a scene as this, creates in one's mind feelings not easily described. The word "silence" was given -- we stood in awful impatience -- not a word was spoken -- not a sound heard, except now and then an order to trim a sail, and the boat- swain's shrill whistle. It seemed like the awful silence that precedes an earthquake. This was a time to try the stoutest heart. My pulse beat quick -- all nature seemed wrapped in awful suspense -- the dart of death hung as it were trembling by a single hair, and no one knew on whose head it would fall. At length there was a gun fired from the Detroit and the action commenced. A gentle zephyr had wafted us near the enemy, and then died away -- and it seemed as if old Boreas had suspended all