nsiderable
degree of science had been displayed in the choice of this spot
as a military position. And, in truth, it was altogether such a
position as, if completed, might have been maintained by a
determined force against very superior numbers. Both flanks were
completely protected, not only by water, but by thick wood, while
a gentle eminence in the very middle of the line offered the most
desirable situation for the projecting battery which had been
begun; because a fire from it would have swept the whole, both to
the right and left. In its present state, however, it was
untenable, unless by a force as able to attack as to defend;
consequently the Americans, who acted solely on the defensive,
did wisely in choosing another.

But the aspect of the ground was such as led us to conclude that
the enemy could not be very distant. The troops were accordingly
halted, that the rear might be well up, and the men fresh and
ready for action. Whilst this was done part of the flank patrol
came in, bringing with them three light-horse men, as prisoners.
These were young gentlemen belonging to a corps of volunteers,
furnished by the town of Baltimore, who had been sent out to
watch our motions, and convey intelligence to the American
General. Being but little accustomed to such service, they had
suffered themselves to be surprised; and, instead of reporting to
their own leader as to the number and dispositions of their
adversaries, they were now catechized by General Ross respecting
the strength and preparations of their friends. From them we
learned that a force of no less than twenty thousand men was
embodied for the defence of Baltimore; but as the accounts of
prisoners are generally over-rated, we took it for granted that
they made their report only to intimidate.

ATTACK

Having rested for the space of an hour, we again moved forward,
but had not proceeded above a mile when a sharp fire of musketry
was heard in front, and shortly afterwards a mounted officer came
galloping to the rear, who desired us to quicken our pace, for
that the advanced guard was engaged. At this intelligence the
ranks were closed, and the troops advanced at a brisk rate, and
in profound silence. The firing still continued, though, from
its running and irregular sound, it promised little else than a
skirmish; but whether it was kept up by detached parties alone,
or by the outposts of a regular army, we could not tell; because,
from the