aptain Thomas, of the _Sauveur_,
joined me the 21st, and proposed with much gallantry to go into the Gulf
in the daytime. The wind being usually out at night I consented with
some difficulty, in consequence of the little dependence I can place on
my engine, which might render it impossible for me to follow him
immediately. The _Sauveur_, with gunboat _Bavaroise_ in tow, and
accompanied by two schooners (you had left to keep the blockade at
Missolonghi, but who, contrary to my knowledge, thus disobeyed your
orders), passed into the Gulf the evening of the 21st in most gallant
style, in despite of the enemy's very formidable batteries and one brig
of war and two schooners at the Morea Castles, and several vessels at
Lepanto. I attempted to steam in that night, but the engine failed me
within two miles of the Castles. The next day, the wind being strong in,
I attempted to sail in, but when within gunshot of the Castles the wind
failed me, and it was not until the evening of the 23rd that I could get
passed, towing after me the _Philhellene_ gunboat, of whose commander I
have always had particular occasion to be satisfied. All our damage
amounted to a few ropes cut. On communicating with the Morea, the 24th,
I was informed that the enemy had nine vessels at Salona, and there were
three Austrians there, that Captain Thomas had attacked them the 23rd,
but in consequence of unfavorable weather he had not made any
impression, and that he retired to Loutraki. I immediately despatched a
mistico to desire Captain Thomas to join me with all the vessels he
could collect; but not seeing him on the 26th, and fearing that the
Turks might strengthen themselves during a delay, I stood in on the 26th
with the gunboat _Philhellene_; but we no sooner approached than the
wind came so strong out that we could not keep the ship head to wind,
and found it necessary to retire. The Turks have at Salona a very fine
Algerine schooner brig, of fourteen guns, brig of sixteen guns, bearing
an admiral's flag, three smaller schooners, two armed transport brigs,
and two large boats with guns, and they have a battery on shore. There
are also three Austrians. While under their fire one of my engineers was
slightly wounded. I am now waiting for the arrival of Captain Thomas,
for whom I have sent again, and preparing for a final trial.

I have the honour to be, &c.,

F. A. HASTINGS.

XIX.