leston,
in South Carolina, which, after the evacuation of Boston, it was
considered important to occupy. I afterwards served under Sir Peter
Parker and heard all the particulars, some of which I now introduce to
make my brief account of the contest more complete.

At the entrance of Charleston harbour, on the right hand, is Sullivan's
Island, about six miles below the city. To the east of Sullivan's
Island is Long Island, from which it is separated by a creek called the
Breach. On the south-west point of Sullivan's Island was a strong fort,
though composed only of earth and palmetto wood. As palmetto wood is
soft and does not splinter, it was especially suited for the purpose.
The squadron, under Sir Peter Parker, consisted of the Bristol,
Experiment, Active, Solebay, Actaeon, Syren, and other smaller craft.
While Sir Henry Clinton landed his troops on Long Island Sir Peter
undertook to attack the fort, which was commanded by Colonel Moultrie.
General Lee, however, with a large force, had by rapid marches advanced
to the protection of the city. The Thunder-bomb began the action,
during which the Sphinx, Syren, and Actaeon ran foul of each other and
got on shore. The two first hauled off, but the Actaeon remained, and
was ultimately abandoned and burned. The fire was most tremendous and
deadly on both sides, but the British suffered the most; indeed, seldom
have ships been exposed to a more terrific battering, or stood it with
greater heroism and perseverance. On board that small squadron there
were no less than sixty-four men killed and one hundred and forty-three
wounded. At one time on the deck of the Bristol Sir Peter himself,
amidst the deadly shower, alone stood unhurt. Captain Morris, of the
Actaeon, was killed, as was Lord Campbell, late governor of the
province, serving as a volunteer on board. Captain Scott, of the
Experiment, lost his arm. The Bristol was completely unrigged; her guns
were dismounted and her top-masts shot away. In vain Sir Peter looked
for the assistance he expected from Sir Henry. Each time the troops
attempted to cross from Long Island they were foiled by the bold front
presented by a body of Americans with artillery. At length, the carnage
growing more appalling than ever, and their hope of success diminishing,
Sir Peter ordered them to make their way out of action. This event took
place on the 28th of June. Other unsuccessful attempts were made to
capture the fort, and in