Admiralty, July 2, 1855.
DESPATCHES, of which the following are copies, have been received from Rear-Admiral the Honourable R.S. Dundas, Commander-in-Chief of Her Majesty’s ships and vessels on the Baltic Station.
Duke of Wellington, at anchor,
Tolboukin Lighthouse W.S.W., 5 miles,
June 21, 1855.
SIR,
IN my letter of the 18th instant, No. 196, I reported, for the information of the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty, that I had directed Rear-Admiral Seymour to proceed with Her Majesty’s ships Exmouth and Blenheim, and with the gunboats Pincher and Snap, to examine the coast in the Bay of Narva; and I have now the honour to transmit the enclosed letter which I have received from the Rear-Admiral, reporting his proceedings.
I have much pleasure in expressing my satisfaction at the spirited and judicious manner in which he took occasion to occupy the attention of the troops which were strongly posted in the neighbourhood, and my sense of the zealous efforts of the officers and men under his orders, particularly those in the two gun-boats, which appear to have been well handled under a smart fire from the enemy’s batteries.
I have, &c.
(Signed) R.S. DUNDAS,
Rear-Admiral and Commander-in-Chief.
To the Secretary of the Admiralty.
Report of Proceedings at Narva.
Her Majesty’s ship Exmouth,
Off Seskar, June 19, 1855.
SIR,
IN obedience to your directions of the 15th instant, I quitted Seskar anchorage at 8 A.M. on Saturday the 16th, anchoring at 7 P.M. under East Tyters Island, off a village situate on its S.S.E. extremity, with a view of obtaining information respecting the River Narva; but only succeeded in learning that a considerable body of troops were about Narva and its vicinity.
Quitting East Tyters, on the evening of Sunday the 17th, Narva Lighthouse was made out yesterday, at 2.30 A.M., with the broad extent of sandy beach that borders the bay.
On nearing the entrance of the river, which is narrow, and has a bar on which the breaking shoal water was visible, a considerable number of troops, including a party of cavalry, were seen in active movement and a large caisson or construction of timber was floated and sunk in the entrance of the river, and became the means of communication with either side: a few wood vessels and river craft only were visible inside the river, the banks of which are of sand, thickly timbered and well adapted for defence by troops. An earth battery of 12 guns lies on the east side of the river’s entrance and one of 10 guns near the lighthouse, with another in its rear, seen from the mast-head, apparently to command the river; and 2 other guns were placed in position on the right extremity of the Lighthouse Battery.
An opportunity was afforded to try the practical efficiency of the gun boats, Pincher and Snap, under the immediate charge of Captain Hall, of the Blenheim, who, with good judgment, added one of his main-deck 68-pounders to the armament of the former, and until rain and squally weather interfered, their practice was good, and their constant change of position, rendered them difficult objects to hit, though the fort guns were well served, using hot shot, which frequently passed near and over them.
On the weather clearing the gun-boats opened fire, and the Blenheim and Exmouth likewise took an opportunity of a couple of hours’ practice, covering the gun-boats with good effect, which were ably manoeuvred by Lieutenant C.A.C. De Crespigny, in command of the Snap, and Lieutenant Steward, in command of the Pincher, in the former of which I had placed Lieutenant Travers, R.M., with ten gunners of the Royal Marine Artillery of the Exmouth, who did good service. Mr. Harper, Assistant-Surgeon of this ship, was likewise on board the Snap, he having volunteered for that service.
As it was evident, from the first, that no serious attempt could be made on the enemy’s position, and as a large expenditure of ammunition would have been useless, I considered that enough had now been done to occupy the attention of the troops in the neighbourhood and no advantage appearing to offer itself for a longer continuance in Narva Bay, the signal was made to discontinue firing and I proceeded, in compliance with your orders, to rejoin your flag.
I enclose a return of a casualty which, I regret to learn, occurred to Captain Searle, R.M., of the Blenheim, the effects of which, I trust, will not prove serious.
I have, &c.,
(Signed) M. SEYMOUR,
Rear-Admiral.
Rear-Admiral the Hon. R.S. Dundas, C.B.
Admiralty, July 10, 1855.
DESPATCHES, of which the following are copies or extracts, have been received at this Office from Rear-Admiral the Honourable R.S. Dundas, Commander-in-Chief of Her Majesty’s ships and vessels on the Baltic Station.
Duke of Wellington, at anchor off Tolboukin
Lighthouse, July 2, 1855.
“THE Arrogant arrived here from the neighbourhood of Biorko on the 28th ultimo, and returns to-day to the same station. I have directed Captain Yelverton to extend his examination of the coast as far westward as Lovisa; and I beg leave to direct their Lordships’ attention to a report, herewith transmitted, which I have this day received from Captain Vansittart, of the Magicienne, through whose activity and zeal, with the aid of the Ruby gun-boat, a large number of vessels, laden with granite blocks, have been successfully destroyed in Werolax Bay.”
Her Majesty’s ship Magicienne,
Off Nerva Beacon, July 1, 1855.
SIR,
I HAVE the honour to report that, in obedience to orders received from Captain Yelverton, I left the anchorage of Biorko on the 28th of last month, with Her Majesty’ ship Magicienne under my command, and Ruby gun-boat, in search of a number of vessels said to be freighted by the Russian Government to carry blocks of granite, and in the neighbourhood of the Island of Lukar.
Having arrived off the Island of Kyskykyla the same evening, early on the 29th I proceeded in Her Majesty’s gun-boat Ruby, and boats of Her Majesty’s ship Magicienne, under the First Lieutenant H.B. King, to the very end of the bay, looking well in about the Island of Lukar, and in boats ascending some little distance up the River of Kyskykyla, finding only four vessels, which, being both new and empty, I left unhurt.
The following morning, the 30th, I proceeded with Her Majesty’s ship Magicienne and Ruby gun-boat, to the next large Bay of Werolax, where anchoring Her Majesty’s ship Magicienne at the entrance, I proceeded to the very end of Werolax Bay, a distance of about nine miles, where I found a large granite quarry with near two hundred men at work, who at our approach went off.
Anchoring the Ruby, so as to command the whole place with the boats, I had the various vessels at anchor, consisting of thirty large galiots, boarded.
Twenty-nine being laden with granite blocks, I had them destroyed by fire.
With the exception of three or four rifle shots being fired upon us, which were quickly returned by rockets and rifles, we met with no resistance.
The head of Werolax Bay was evidently the rendezvous for the granite vessels, as, with the exception of one, all their sails were unbent, colours and papers secured, and most of their vessels were slung and buoyed, so as to be ready for scuttling if discovered, which many had commenced doing on the present occasion.
I have, &c.,
(Signed) NICHOLAS VANSITTART,
Captain.
Rear-Admiral the Hon. R.S. Dundas, C.B.
Her Majesty’s Ship Arrogant,
off Biorka, June 25, 1855.
SIR,
I HAVE the honour to acquaint you with my proceedings since the 18th instant.
On the 20th I anchored at Rotsinshalm, and took immediate steps for blowing up the fort, which was accomplished on the following day.
On the afternoon of the 20th I made a careful reconnoissance of Kotka, in the Ruby, and discovered at the back of the island, where I had not been before, large government buildings, with barracks fit to contain about 5000 men, stables, storehouses, and hospital, all of which I destroyed. The buildings had evidently been very recently occupied. I met no troops except a few Cossacks, who retired on our approach.
I have, &c.
(Signed) H.R. YELVERTON,
Captain.
Admiralty, July 16, 1855.
DESPATCHES, of which the following are copies or extracts, have been this day received from Rear-Admiral the Honourable R.S. Dundas, Commander-in-Chief of Her Majesty’s ships and vessels in the Baltic.
Duke of Wellington,
Tolboukin Lighthouse, July 7, 1855.
“THE Magicienne returned this morning from Lovisa, and I annex a report which I have received from Captain Yelverton, of Her Majesty’s ship Arrogant, who has been again successful in destroying a well constructed fort at Svartholm, in the entrance of the Bay of Lovisa, but their Lordships will observe, with regret, that, notwithstanding the humane desire of that officer, the town of Lovisa was unfortunately destroyed by fire, which occurred accidentally, on the night following the visit of Her Majesty’s ships. Captain Vansittart informs me that the authorities of the town have themselves admitted and explained the accidental origin of the fire.”
Her Majesty’s ship Arrogant,
off Hogland, July 8, 1855.
SIR,
I HAVE the honour to inform you, that I reached Lovisa on the afternoon of the 4th instant, and anchored the vessels close to Fort Svartholm.
The enemy must have had intelligence of our movements and quitted the fort on our approach, for they had been at work but a few hours before unroofing the barracks and taking away stores. The guns and ammunition had been previously removed.
Svartholm was in good condition, and a work of great strength, entirely commanding the approaches to Lovisa; it has had important additions of late years, can mount 122 guns, and had accommodation in casemated barracks for about 1000 men, with governor’s house and garden, and excellent officers’ quarters. I made immediate arrangements for blowing up the fort and completely destroying the barracks; these have since been fully carried out.
On the 5th, I made a reconnaissance of the town of Lovisa, in the Ruby, accompanied by the boats of the Arrogant and Magicienne. A strong detachment of Cossacks made their appearance at one time, but they were dispersed by the fire from the boats, the rockets particularly throwing them into great confusion. On landing at Lovisa, sent for the authorities and explained the object of my visit; some demur was caused by our not having a flag of truce. I told them they had no right to such a guarantee, as the respect due to it had been so grossly violated at Hangö. I then proceeded to the barracks and Government stores within the town, which I destroyed, but did not set fire to them, as by so doing the whole town must have been burnt.
This precaution was not destined to save Lovisa, for during the night an accidental fire occurred in a portion of the town where we had not been, and before morning the whole place was reduced to ashes.
(Signed) H.E. YELVERTON,
Captain.
Rear-Admiral the Hon. R.S. Dundas,
Commander-in-Chief.
Extract of a letter from Rear-Admiral Honourable R.S. Dundas, to the Secretary of the Admiralty, dated-
Duke of Wellington,
Tolboukin Lighthouse, July 7, 1855.
I CANNOT conclude this letter without calling the particular attention of their Lordships to the active exertions of Captain Storey, of Her Majesty’s ship Harrier, which led a few days later to the destruction of a large amount of shipping, discovered afterwards in another anchorage near Nystad, as detailed in the enclosure to Captain Warden’s report of the 2nd instant.
Harrier, off Little Wahas,
June 24, 1855.
SIR,
I HAVE the honour to inform you that the boats of this ship destroyed 47 ships belonging to the enemy, varying from 700 tons to 200 tons, on the nights of the 23rd and 24th instant.
On the first night the ships destroyed were one mile from the town of Nystad, and about three miles from the ship, and we were enabled to bring one barque, the Victoria, of about 450 tons, off with us.
On the following morning the steam was got up and we proceeded to sea to anchor the prize off Enskov Lighthouse.
At 5 P.M., however, we steamed towards the land and anchored at about 7.30 P.M., and at 8 P.M. the boats were again despatched.
During the night and following day we discovered 42 ships, the whole of which we either burned or scuttled.
I have the greatest pleasure in being able to state that these proceeding were so successfully carried out without any casualty.
Owing to the distance we got away from the ship (10 or 11 miles) and the blowing weather, accompanied with rain, that came on during the morning, we were prevented from bringing any vessel out with us.
We did not get back to the ship until after 6 P.M. this afternoon, the men having been on their oars twenty-two hours.
I think, Sir, I am only doing common justice to the men when I state how pleased I was to see the zeal and perseverance with which they worked for so many hours, neither can I omit stating my belief that this arose in a great measure from the good example of the officers, especially the senior Lieutenant, Mr. Annesley, from whom I have ever received the most active assistance.
Having then, in two following nights and one day, destroyed the whole of the Nystad shipping (probably upwards of 20,000 tons) I trust these proceedings will meet with your approval.
I have, &c.,
(Signed) HENRY STOREY,
Commander.
Captain Warden, Senior Officer,
Her Majesty’s Ship Ajax.
Admiralty, July 23, 1855.
DESPATCHES, of which the following are copies, have been received at the Admiralty from Rear-Admiral the Honourable R.S. Dundas, Commander-in-Chief of Her Majesty’s ships and vessels in the Baltic.
Duke of Wellington,
at Nargen, July 17, 1855.
SIR,
I TRANSMIT herewith, to be laid before my Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty, a report of proceedings during the past week from Captain Yelverton, who rejoined me yesterday at this anchorage in Her Majesty’s ship Arrogant, and who, with the Magicienne and Ruby gunboats in company, visited the south coast of the Gulf of Finland, and attacked some military posts of the enemy at Kounda Bay and in the River Portsoiki.
Returning afterwards to his former station in the Bay of Viborg, he proceeded with boats towards the town, and engaged with a superior force of the enemy defended by batteries.
I request you will express to their Lordships my approbation of the conduct of this enterprising officer upon all occasions; and I would beg to recommend to their favourable notice the conduct of Captain Vansittart, of the Magicienne, and of Lieutenant Haggard, of the Arrogant, and Lieutenant Dowell, of the Royal Marine Artillery, and the excellent behaviour of all the officers and men.
Captain Yelverton has spoken favourably also of the conduct of Mr. Hale, mate, in command of the Ruby.
I regret much to have to report the loss of Mr. Story, midshipman, of the Arrogant, with nine others wounded in the boats of the two ships, of whom one is since dead.
I have, &c.
To the Secretary of the Admiralty.
Her Majesty’s ship, Arrogant,
off Viborg, July 14, 1855.
SIR,
I HAVE the honour to acquaint you with my proceedings during the week.
The Magicienne rejoined me on Wednesday, and I proceeded direct to Kounda Bay, on the South Coast, where I had reason to think that troops were concentrated. It turned out to be a large Cossack encampment, on a most commanding position, from whence I dislodged them, with shell and rockets from the Ruby and ship’s boats. Some opposition was made to our landing, and shots fired from behind hedges, &c.; but I succeeded in examining the place, which I did not injure, as it only contained private property.
The following morning I anchored at the mouth of the River Portsoiki, and landing on its right bank, destroyed a Cossack barrack and stables, driving the soldiers into the country. I then came on here.
Having anchored the ships as close as I could to the Island of Stralsund, I proceeded in the Ruby, accompanied by Captain Vansittart, of the Magicienne, and Captain Lowder, R.M., of this ship, the latter officer having under his command a strong detachment of marines; we towed with us the boats of this ship, under the command of Lieutenants Haggard and Woolcombe, and those of the Magicienne, under the command of Lieutenants King and Loady.
Having opened the bay, called Trangsund, we saw a Russian man-of-war steamer with two large gun-boats in tow, not far off; this most novel and unexpected sight of a Russian man-of-war for once clear of a stone wall, and to all appearance inclined to give us a fair and honest fight, create the greatest enthusiasm amongst the men and officers.
I directed Mr. Hale, commanding the Ruby, to open fire on her at once, but she very soon retired out of range, having, I think, received some damage. We had now reached the entrance of the sound; Viborg was in sight, and a fair prospect of attacking three large gun-boats, lying with another steamer under an island about one mile off. We were here brought up by a barrier, impeding the passage of the gun-boat and launches.
At this moment, a masked battery on the left bank, not more than 350 yards off, opened on us a heavy fire of musketry, round, and grape; this was instantly returned and kept in check by a rapid and well directed fire from the Ruby and all the boats. The enemy’s steamer and gun-boats then came from under the island and also opened fire on us.
As it was impossible to get the Ruby through the barrier, I returned towards Stralsund, the enemy’s riflemen following us along the banks, but driven from their positions as fast as they took them by the fire from the Ruby and boats.
An explosion took place in one of the Arrogant’s cutters, which swamped the boat; the men were saved, but I regret to say that Mr. Story, the midshipman in command of her, was killed. In endeavouring to save the crew, the boat drifted close to the battery, and would have fallen into the hands of the enemy, had not Lieutenant Haggard, of this ship, and Lieutenant Dowell, R.M. A., of the Magicienne, in the Ruby’s gig, with a volunteer crew, towed her out under a very heavy fire.
I cannot sufficiently praise the conduct of all the officers and men who were engaged in this affair, where their cool and determined courage enabled them to handle most severely, and keep in check for upwards of one hour, the enemy far superior in number, with the advantage of local knowledge and a good position.
I beg to enclose a list of the casualties, and also a list of the officers in the boat.
I have, &c.,
(Signed) H.R. YELVERTON,
Captain.
Rear-Admiral the Hon. R.S. Dundas,
&c. &c. &c.
Admiralty, July 30, 1855.
A DESPATCH, of which the following is an extract, has been received at the Admiralty from Rear-Admiral the Honourable R.S. Dundas, Commander-in-Chief of Her Majesty’s Ships and Vessels in the Baltic.
Extract of a Letter from Rear-Admiral Honourable R.S. Dundas to the Secretary of the Admiralty, dated Duke of Wellington, at Nargen, 23rd July, 1855.
I HAVE the satisfaction of transmitting a copy of a report which I have received from Captain Yelverton, detailing the circumstances under which, with the Cossack, Magicienne, and Ruby in company, he has again availed himself of an opportunity to attack, with good effect, a position occupied by troops of the enemy, assembled in considerable force, for the defence of Fredericksham; and I have much pleasure in submitting to their Lordships this additional proof of the zeal and gallantry of the officers and men under his orders, and of their good conduct, especially of Mr. H.G. Hale, Mate, and the crew of the Ruby gun-boat.
I have, &c.,
(Signed) R.S. DUNDAS.
Her Majesty’s ship, Arrogant,
off the Crops Islands, July 22, 1855.
SIR,
I HAVE the honour to inform you that, on leaving the Fleet, I proceeded off the Island of Hogland, where I was joined by the Cossack, Magicienne, and Ruby gun-boat.
Information having reached me that the enemy had sent 3000 troops to Fredericksham, and were making every possible exertion to put the place in a state of defence, I lost no time in getting there.
I arrived on the afternoon of the 20th, and would have attacked them that evening, but that the Ruby got on shore in examining the intricate channel leading to the town, and it was too late to take the ships in by the time she was off.
Early the following morning I succeeded in getting the ships up to the town, and at 9.40 we opened fire. After an engagement of one hour, the enemy ceased fire, and abandoned their guns, some of which were dismounted.
If I judge by the number of men we saw them carrying away on stretchers, they must have suffered severely.
I am happy to say the injury on our side has been trifling, though our hull bears evidence of the precision with which they fired, but generally speaking their shot fell short.
I regret to say that one man belonging to the Ruby was dangerously wounded by a round shot.
I must not allow this opportunity to pass without mentioning Mr. Hale, Mate, Commanding the Ruby gun-boat, who, together with his gallant crew, deserve the highest praise for the way in which they worked and fought their long gun, so close to this, that I had an opportunity of observing the precision of their fire.
One portion of a suburb caught fire and was destroyed, but I am happy to say the town remained uninjured, owing to the strict observance of an order I gave to fire on the fort only.
I have, &c.,
H.R. YELVERTON,
Captain.
Rear-Admiral the Hon. R.S. Dundas,
&c. &c. &c.
Admiralty, August 6, 1855.
A DESPATCH, of which the enclosed is a copy, has this day been received from Rear-Admiral the Honourable R.S. Dundas, C.B., the Commander-in-Chief of Her Majesty’s Ships and Vessels in the Baltic.
Duke of Wellington,
at Nargen, July 30, 1855.
SIR,
I BEG you will be pleased to acquaint the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty, that having received, on the 24th instant, from Captain Yelverton, of Her Majesty’s ship Arrogant, information which appeared to render it desirable that he should again examine the south-western shores of the Island of Kotka, I took immediate measures to strengthen the squadron under his orders by the addition of four gun-boats, to be detached from off Cronstadt by Rear-Admiral Baynes, together with the further addition of four mortar-vessels from hence, which he had hoped to be able to employ.
I have much satisfaction in transmitting for their Lordships’ information the enclosed report of proceedings of Captain Yelverton, who, with the squadron under his orders, has again succeeded in completing the destruction of buildings and military stores to a considerable extent on the Island of Kotka; and I beg once more to express my entire approbation of the manner in which he has executed the service entrusted to him, and of the conduct of the officers and men employed on the occasion.
I am happy in having this opportunity to recommend to the favourable notice of their Lordships the conduct of Mr. George Giles, Master of the Arrogant, and Mr. Macfarlane, the Master of the Magicienne, who have now been constantly employed in those ships on the various services which I have recently had occasion to report.
I have, &c.
(Signed) R.S. DUNDAS,
Rear-Admiral and Commander-in-Chief.
The Secretary of the Admiralty.
Her Majesty’s ship, Arrogant,
off the Mouth of the Kymene,
July 28, 1855.
SIR,
I HAVE the honour to inform you that very early on the morning of the 26th I was joined, off the Island of Hogland, by the Cossack and Magicienne bringing with them the mortar vessels Prompt, Pickle, Rocket, and Blazer. I stood immediately to the northward, leaving the Ruby to bring on the gun-boats, which wore not then in sight. They joined at noon, and at 2 P.M. we all anchored off Fort Rotsensholm.
As the safety of our expedition rested chiefly on our investing and holding the entire possession of the fortified Island of Kotka, I determined upon taking it at once. Accordingly I anchored the mortar vessels out of range, and leaving two gun-boats to look after them, I proceeded with the rest of the vessels to the westward of Kotka, for the purpose of destroying the bridge, so as to cut off the retreat of the garrison, and prevent their receiving reinforcements from the mainland. Captain Vansittart of the Magicienne, with his accustomed zeal and activity, threaded his way at once through the shoals, and destroyed the bridge. As soon as all the vessels had anchored, so as to command the great military road leading from the fort of Hogfors Holm, and also the channel dividing the island from the main, I landed all the Marines under command of Captain S.N. Lowder, R.M. with Lieutenant Geo. D. Dowell, R.M.A. and Lieutenants H.C. Mudge and P.R. Holmes, R.M., who took possession without being opposed, as the garrison (no doubt apprised of our coming by the telegraphs along the coast) had very recently evacuated, leaving behind them a large amount of military stores, which have since been burnt.
I beg to enclose a list of all the Crown property destroyed by Captain Lowder, including barracks, magazines, ordnance stores, storehouses, stables, guard-houses, and other Government buildings, with an immense amount of timber intended for building and other military purposes.
The following morning I weighed, leaving Captain Fanshawe with the Cossack in charge of this most important point, which required the utmost care and attention, as the enemy on several occasions threw out reconnoitring parties, as if inclined to attempt the recovery of the island.
I feel it due to Mr. George Giles, Master of this ship, and Mr. Geo. A. Macfarlane, Master of the Magicienne, to mention the zeal and attention with which they have sounded and buoyed, night and day, the intricate channels of this coast, enabling me (without the assistance of pilots) to got into many places, where our presence was least expected.
I have, &c.,
(Signed) H.R. YELVERTON,
Captain.
P.S. Owing to a change of wind to the east-ward, I regret to say that the village unfortunately caught fire from some Government buildings, and I fear much injury was done to it.
It is, however, a source of congratulation to be able to add that the fine Church sustained no damage whatever, owing to the precautions that were immediately taken to save it.
H.R. YELVERTON,
Captain.
Rear-Admiral the Hon. R.S. Dundas, C.B.
Commander-in-Chief.
DESPATCHES, of which the following are copies, have been received at the Admiralty from Rear-Admiral the Honourable R.S. Dundas, Commander-in-Chief of Her Majesty’s Ships and Vessels in the Baltic.
Duke of Wellington,
before Sweaborg, August, 13, 1855.
SIR,
I HAVE the honour to report, for the information of the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty, that, after my arrival here on the 6th instant, with the squadron under my orders, I was joined the same evening by Rear-Admiral Pénaud, in the Tourville, and on the following day by the remainder of the French squadron, including, in addition to the ships of the line, five mortar-vessels and five gun-boats, with store ships and steam vessels.
On the 7th instant, the Amphion arrived from Nargen, completing the British squadron, to the ships and vessels named in the margin,* and the intention of Rear-Admiral Pénaud and myself being to commence operations against the Fortress and Arsenal of Sweaborg, no time was lost in making the necessary preparations.
My former reports will have informed their Lordships, that during the past year, and in the course of the last five months, the enemy has been actively employed in strengthening the defences of the place and completing the sea defences, by erecting batteries on every advantageous position and commanding every practicable approach to the harbour in this intricate navigation.
It has therefore formed no part of my plan to attempt a general attack by the ships on the defences; and the operations contemplated by the Rear-Admiral and myself were limited to such destruction of the fortress and arsenal as could be accomplished by means of mortars.
The intricate nature of the ground, from rocks a-wash and reefs under water, rendered it difficult to select positions for the mortar vessels at proper range. In completing the arrangements for this purpose, I have derived the greatest advantage from the abilities of Captain Sulivan, of Her Majesty’s ship Merlin, and the positions ultimately chosen were in a curved line on either side of the Islet of Oterhall, with space in the centre reserved for the mortar vessels of the French squadron, as concerted with Rear-Admiral Pénaud.
The extremes of the line were limited, with reference to the extent of the range and the distance from the heavily armed batteries of Bak-Holmen to the eastward, and of Stora Rantan to the westward of Sweaborg; and a most effective addition to the force of the Allied squadrons consisted in a battery of 4 lighter mortars established by Admiral Pénaud on an islet in advance of Oterhall.
To carry these arrangements into effect I directed Captain Ramsay, of Her Majesty’s ship Euryalus, with Captain Glasse, of the Vulture, Captain Vansittart, of the Magicienne, and Captain Stewart, of the Dragon, to anchor to the southward of Oterhall, and the mortar vessels, under the charge of Lieutenant the Hon. Augustus C. Hobart, of the Duke of Wellington, being distributed to the care of those officers, the whole were anchored on the evening of the 7th instant in position, in readiness to warp into action, and hawsers for that purpose were laid out before daylight. Much assistance in towing was rendered by the officers of the gun boats, and great praise is due to all concerned for their active exertions.
In the course of the same night Rear-Admiral Pénaud had commenced the establishment of his battery with sand bags, on the rocks within Oterhall, but the active arrangements could not be completed before the morning of the 9th instant.
During the whole of the previous day the royal standard of Russia was flying upon the citadel of Gustafsvard, but was not afterwards observed.
The success of our operations being dependent entirely on the state of the weather and the rapidity with which shells could be thrown, no time was lost in trying the ranges of the mortars which proved to be accurate, and general firing commenced soon after 7 o’clock. The direction of this service was confided to Captain T.M. Wemyss, of the Royal Marine Artillery, assisted by Captain Lawrence and Captain Schomberg, and every exertion was used by these officers to press the fire of the mortars to the fullest extent which could be deemed proper.
The gunboats, having been previously armed with additional guns of heavy calibre, removed temporarily from ships of the line, and the Stork and Snapper gunboats, being armed with Lancaster guns, I availed myself of the experience of Captain Hewlett to direct the fire of the two latter vessels to the greatest advantage, and his attention was specially directed to a three-decked ship of the line moored to block the passage between Gustafsvard and Bak Holmen.
Commander Preedy, of the ship bearing my flag, was directed to take the Starling and four other gun-boats under his orders, and to manoeuvre and attack the batteries in front of the mortar-vessels towards the west extremity of the line.
The remainder were distributed in a similar manner to stations assigned to them, with orders to engage the batteries and protect the mortar-vessels under the general direction of Captain Ramsay, assisted by Captains Glasse, Vansittart, and Stewart.
On the evening of the 8th instant, I had despatched Captain Key in Her Majesty’s ship Amphion, to proceed off Stora Miölö, and to place himself under the orders of Captain Wellesley of Her Majesty’s ship Cornwallis; and I instructed the latter officer to employ the Hastings and the Amphion, and to take advantage of any proper opportunity to engage the enemy at the east end of the Island of Sandhamn.
Captain Yelverton, in Her Majesty’s ship Arrogant, was detached to the westward with the Cossack and Cruiser under his orders, and was directed to occupy the attention of troops which were observed to be posted on the Island of Drumsio, and to watch the movements of small vessels which had been noticed occasionally in creeks in that direction.
Early in the day I observed that the detached squadrons in both directions had opened fire upon the enemy, and the action was general upon all points. A rapid fire of shot and shells was kept up from the fortress for the first few hours upon the gun boats, and the range of the heavy batteries extended completely beyond the mortar vessels; but the continued motion of the gun boats, and the able manner in which they were conducted by the officers who commanded them, enabled them to return the fire with great spirit, and almost with impunity throughout the day.
About ten o’clock in the forenoon fires began first to be observed in the different buildings, and a heavy explosion took place on the Island of Vargon, which was followed by a second about an hour afterwards; a third, and far more important explosion, occurred about noon on the Island of Gustafsvard, inflicting much damage upon the defences of the enemy, and tending greatly to slacken the fire from the guns in that direction.
The advantage of the rapidity with which the fire from the mortars had been directed, was apparent in the continued fresh conflagrations, which spread extensively on the Island of Vargon.
The intricate nature of the reefs on which the gun-boats had occasionally grounded, compelled me also to recall them before sunset, and the fire of the enemy was slack. The boats of the fleet were then ordered to be assembled with rockets before dark, and under the direction of Captain Caldwell, in command of the ship bearing my flag, they maintained a continuous fire for upwards of three hours, which was attended with considerable success, causing fresh fires, and adding much to the general conflagration.
At daylight on the morning of the 10th instant, the positions of several of the mortar vessels had been advanced within easier range, and the gun-boats were again directed to engage.
The three-decked ship, which had been moored by the enemy to block and defend the channel between Gustafsvard and Bak Holmen, had been withdrawn during the night to a more secure position, but the fire from the batteries was increased, and the engagement was renewed with activity on both sides; fires continued to burn without intermission within the fortress, and about noon a column of smoke, heavier and darker than any which had yet been observed, and succeeded by bright flames, gave signs that the shells had reached combustible materials in the direction of the arsenal, the exact situation was at first concealed from our view, but the flames continuing to spread, it was soon evident that they extended beyond the Island of Vargon, and that many buildings on the Island of Svarto, were already in progess of destruction.
By the judicious management of the officers of artillery, a steady fire was kept up during the whole of the following night.
The rocket-boats in the evening were again assembled, when the gun-boats were recalled, and proceeded successively in separate divisions. The first, under the direction of Captain Seymour, of the Pembroke, made excellent practice, at a distance of about 2000 yards from the fortress; the second, under the direction of Captain Caldwell, at a later period of the night, succeeded also in adding to the fires already burning; but the glare of the flames exposing the boats to the view of the enemy, they maintained their ground, under a smart fire of bursting shells, with steady gallantry.
Considering the extent of injury which had now been inflicted upon the enemy, and reflecting that few buildings of importance remained to be destroyed on the Island of Vargon, and that those still standing upon Svarto were at the extreme extent of our range, and in positions where no shells had yet reached them, I was of opinion that no proportionate advantage was to be gained by continuing the fire during another day.
I accordingly despatched Captain Seymour, of Her Majesty’s ship Pembroke, to communicate with Rear-Admiral Pénaud, and with the cordiality and ready concord which I have invariably experienced from that officer, arrangements were immediately concerted, and orders given to cease firing after daylight. Little fire, except at the rocket boats, had been returned by the enemy during the night, and it ceased almost entirely on his side before daylight, although the sea defences in general were little injured.
It remains for me to transmit now for their Lordships’ information the enclosed reports of the proceedings of Captain Wellesley, of Her Majesty’s ship Cornwallis, with the detached squadron to the eastward, on the 9th instant; and I beg you will inform their Lordships that the troops on Drumsio having offered no resistance to the ships under the orders of Captain Yelverton, he returned. to his former anchorage the same evening.
Enclosed are the lists of casualties which have occurred in execution of the service which I have had the honour to detail; and I am thankful to say that they have been fewer than could possibly have been expected under the fire to which those who were engaged were repeatedly exposed. Some of the most severe injuries are those which unfortunately occurred from explosions of the rockets, in the boats of the Hastings and Vulture.
Their Lordships will observe that I abstain entirely from reports on the proceedings of the squadron under the command of Rear-Admiral Pénaud, which will, no doubt, be fully and ably explained to his own Government; but I may be permitted to acknowledge my deep sense of the valuable co-operation they have afforded, and to express my admiration of the gallant conduct of those under his orders, and my warmest thanks for the cordial support which I have received.
I have much satisfaction in reporting in the most favourable manner on the conduct of the officers, seamen, and marines under my command; and I transmit, for their Lordships’ information, the lists of the officers and others who were employed on the various detached services which occurred during the operations.
My best thanks are due to Rear-Admiral Sir Michael Seymour, who has at all times afforded me the most ready assistance.
From Commodore the Honourable Frederick Pelham, Captain of the Fleet, I have received the most valuable support, and the energy and ability with which he has performed the important duties of his station have tended greatly to further the execution of the service, and demand my warmest thanks.
I am much indebted to Captain Ramsay of Her Majesty’s ship Euryalus, for his active and useful exertions, as well as to Captain Glasse, of the Vulture, and Captain Vansittart, of the Magicienne, and to none more than to Captain Stewart, of Her Majesty’s ship Dragon, whose zeal and ready resource attracted my particular attention.
The services allotted to Captain Wellesley, as well as those assigned to Captains Seymour, Hewlett and Caldwell, were executed to my entire satisfaction; and my best thanks are due for the assistance rendered by Captain Hall, of Her Majesty’s ship Exmouth, on several occasions.
Late on the evening of the 10th instant, Her Majesty’s ship Merlin, under the command of Captain Sulivan, struck upon an unknown rock on ground, which he had himself repeatedly examined while conducting me along the line of the mortar vessels.
No blame whatever can attach to this officer on the occasion, and I gladly avail myself of the opportunity which is thus afforded me of calling the especial attention of their Lordships to the unwearied activity of this valuable officer. It is to the singular ability and zeal with which his arduous duties have been performed that much of the success of the operations of the fleet may be attributed; and I trust that I may be permitted on this occasion to recommend to the especial notice of their Lordships the services of Lieutenant R.B. Creyke, of that ship, whose conduct has been most favourably reported.
My especial thanks are due to the officers and men of the Royal Marine Artillery for the manner in which their important duties have been performed. The cool and steady courage with which they continued to conduct the duties of their stations deserves the highest praise; and I have much pleasure in calling their Lordship’s attention to the services of Captain Wemyss, as well as to those of Captains Lawrence and Schomberg, of that distinguished corps.
Great praise is also due to the officers and crews of the mortar-vessels, on the occasion.
The admirable manner in which the officers in charge of gun-boats maintained their stations under fire, and the general activity of the crews of those vessels upon all occasions is deserving of the favourable notice of their Lordships; but in referring to the enclosed list of the Officers employed, I am unwilling to particularize any, when all have been highly deserving of their Lordships’ favour; and the gallant conduct of the crews has been conspicuous.
I have, &c.,
(Signed) R.S. DUNDAS, Rear-Admiral
and Commander-in-Chief.
The Secretary of the Admiralty.
*Duke of Wellington (bearing my flag), Exmouth (bearing the flag of Rear-Admiral Sir Michael Seymour), Euryalus, Arrogant, Pembroke, Cornwallis, Cossack, Merlin, Vulture, Hastings, Edinburgh, Amphion, Magicienne, Dragon, Belleisle, Cruizer, Geyser, Locust, Lightning, Eolus, Princess Alice, Volcano (arrived on the 10th).
Gun-Boats. – Starling, Lark, Thistle, Redwing, Magpie, Badger, Pelter, Snap, Dapper, Weazel, Stork, Pincher, Gleaner, Biter, Skylark, Snapper.
Mortar Vessels. – Rocket, Surly, Pickle, Blazer, Mastiff, Manly, Drake, Porpoise, Prompt, Sinbad, Carron, Redbreast, Beacon, Grappler, Havock, Growler.
Her Majesty’s ship Cornwallis,
off Stora Miolo, August 9, 1855.
SIR,
I HAVE the honour to acquaint you that, in compliance with your memorandum of the 8th instant, on observing the mortar-vessels open fire this morning, I immediately weighed in Her Majesty’s ship under my command, in company with the Hastings and Amphion, and proceeded to attack the forts at the south-east end of Sandhamn.
Our attack was more particularly directed against the battery on the south-eastern entrance, and another on Storholm; but, on arriving within long range, a general fire was opened from the whole of the batteries on the south side of Sandhamn.
A very brisk and extremely well-directed fire was kept up from the ships, which did considerable damage to one of the batteries on Sandhamn, and one or two of the guns were silenced for a short period, but no permanent effect was produced.
At 10.50, therefore, considering that the object contemplated in your memorandum had been attained, I made signal to discontinue the engagement, and anchored the ships in the positions they left this morning.
I deem it my duty to represent to you the effective co-operation I received from Captains Caffin and Key, as well as the steadiness and activity of the officers and crews of the ships engaged.
I have, &c.,
(Signed) GEORGE WELLESLEY,
Captain.
Rear-Admiral the Hon. R.S. Dundas, C.B.
Commander-in-Chief.
Her Majesty’s ship Cornwallis,
off Stora Miolo, August 10, 1855.
SIR,
I HAVE the honour to inform you, that in further prosecution of your orders of the 8th instant, I despatched last night after dark, under the direction of Lieutenant Tattnall, senior of the Cornwallis, the barges and pinnaces of this ship, Hastings, and Amphion, each armed with rockets, to endeavour with them, if possible, to set fire to a frigate moored head and stern in Kung’s Sound.
Moored as she was down under the land with only her lower masts in she was quite invisible, but the boats maintained a very well directed fire in her direction, which, although not effecting the object of setting her on fire, drew the attention of the enemy, whose batteries, as well as the frigate, opened fire on the boats, without, I am happy to say, any casualty to them.
I regret, however to add that in the pinnace of the Hastings two men were wounded, one severely, by the rocket bursting in the tube.
I beg to enclose a list of the officers employed on this occasion, and to express to you how much pleased I was with the manner in which Lieutenant Tattnall carried out my orders, and of the zeal and activity of the other officers and men employed.
I have, &c.,
(Signed) GEORGE G. WELLESLEY,
Captain.
Admiralty, September 4, 1855.
DESPATCHES, of which the following are copies, have been received at the Admiralty from Rear-Admiral the Honourable R.S. Dundas, Commander-in-Chief of Her Majesty’s Ships and Vessels in the Baltic.
No. 431. Duke of Wellington,
in Nargen August, 27, 1855.
SIR,
I HAVE the honour to transmit, for the information of the Lords Commissioners of the Admiralty, a letter from Captain Warden, of Her Majesty’s ship Ajax, enclosing a report, detailing the proceedings of Captain Henry C. Otter, in Her Majesty’s ship Firefly, before Brandon, the sea-port of Wasa, in the Gulf of Bothnia, which are highly creditable to that officer, and to the officers and crew under his command; and I beg leave to recommend to the favourable notice of their Lordships the gallant conduct of Lieutenants Edward Burstal and John Ward, as well as that of Mr. John A. Bull, Second Master, and Mr. James W. Salter, the Gunner, on the occasion.
I have, &c.,
(Signed) R.S. DUNDAS, Rear-Admiral
and Commander-in-Chief.
The Secretary of the Admiralty.
No. 34. Ajax, in Fogle Fiord,
August, 22, 1855.
SIR,
I HAVE the honour to lay before you the accompanying report of Captain Otter, of the Firefly, of his proceedings between the 27th July, and 11th instant, at Brandon, in the neighbourhood of Wasa, whilst temporarily occupying that part of the station, together with a list of vessels taken, and property and vessels otherwise destroyed; and I desire to draw your favorable notice to this report, as it bears witness to the zeal and energy of Captain Otter in the performance of this service.
(Signed) FRED. WARDEN.
Rear-Admiral
The Hon. R.S. Dundas, C.B.,
&c. &c. &c.
Her Majesty’s Ship Firefly,
Korsoren Beacon, August 11, 1855.
SIR,
I BEG to acquaint you that after leaving Fogle Fiord on the 27th ultimo, I communicated with Her Majesty’s ship Harrier, and His Imperial Majesty’s corvette D’Assas, on their stations, and on the evening of the 31st, despatched Her Majesty’s ship Driver to you from Noorskar Light. At 10 A.M. on 1st August, I anchored Her Majesty’s ship Firefly half a mile outside of Korsoren Beacon, and with the two paddle-box boats and the gig, accompanied by Lieutenant Ward and Mr. Bull, pushed on to the south-east; on our way we got information of a large barque at anchor to the eastward of Wasklöt, and also that there was a military force in the neighbourhood.
On arriving within two miles from Brandon, a telegraph was observed on a small island in Korsharn Fiord, signalizing with three large balls, and on pulling in towards it, two men in a boat pushed off from the land with a flag of truce; fortunately I did not fire, for the flag was so large I mistook it for the boat’s mainsail, and concluded they were trying to escape.
This very improper opportunity of using a flag of truce could not be recognised, and I ordered the telegraph to be cut down, but released the men and their boat.
No time was now to be lost as the signal had been answered from the main; I therefore pushed on with all expedition, and on rounding the E. point of Wasklöt observed the object of our search in the mud, which with little difficulty was got off, and towed out of range of any guns that could be brought to bear. The prize proved to be the Vides of 300 tons, with from 200 to 300 casks of tar on board.
At midnight two Russian deserters came on board, and stated the troops have moved off to Wasa, on seeing the boats approaching, thinking an attack was contemplated on that place.
At 8.30 A.M., 2nd August, I returned to the Firefly, and immediately got under weigh for Korsoran Fiord, but the navigation was so difficult that it was not until 5.30 P.M., I came along side the prize. At 8.30 P.M., I weighed and proceeded towards Brandon, the seaport of Wasa, and a great ship-building place; it had immense magazines on an island, separated by a very narrow deep water channel from the town, with a custom-house and barracks.
At midnight, anchored within 400 yards of the town, and sprung the broadside to enfilade the channel and protect the boats, which were sent under Lieutenant Ward to examine the magazines. Some of them were opened, and found to be empty; others contained coal, tar, resin, salt, spars, anchors and cables, boats, salt fish, hawsers, and numerous piles of 3-inch deals, but no sails or rigging, as we were led to expect. On a few of the principal inhabitants joining us on the island, they were told that the sails of the barque must be given up, and they immediately sent to Wasa to Mr. Wolf a wealthy merchant and ship owner, but he refused. I therefore determined to burn the magazines; but as the wind was blowing directly on the town, I agreed to wait a reasonable time until a change took place, and gave the inhabitants notice that they were at liberty to remove anything from the island that belonged to them, except ship’s stores; for this forbearance they expressed themselves very grateful.
Towards the afternoon, Lieutenant Burstal brought in a schooner, and reported having discovered two fine barques and two brigs, in a creek a mile and a half distant.
As the wind was still on the shore, and the destruction of the town inevitable had the magazines been fired, I directed the schooner to be hauled close into the island, and a working party to put some casks of tar and deals into her. Everything had the appearance of security; ladies were walking about the beach, parties of pleasure sailing round the ship, and the people employed taking their property from the island.
At 8 P.M., I landed to communicate with the First Lieutenant, and had just visited the sentry placed on a building platform, when a heavy fire of musketry, from different parts of the town, was opened upon the working party and the ship, and was immediately replied to by the latter, with shot and shell, which appears to have done great execution.
The deck of the schooner was so enfiladed, that it was impossible to get on board for the arms, and had it been practicable to do so not a man could be seen from her to fire at. Providentially all escaped on board uninjured, and Mr. Bull having returned in the paddle-box boats, with a fine barque in tow, a fire from the four guns and rifles was kept up, so hot, that in about an hour and a half the fusillade from the shore nearly ceased.
At midnight, I moved the ship into a better position for sinking the schooner, and the bows being nearly driven in by the shot, I proceeded to the destruction of the barque and two brigs, before the enemy could rescue them ; this was successfully performed with the assistance of the Second Master, Mr. Bull, and Mr. Salter, Gunner.
It was ascertained afterwards, from two different sources, that the enemy had 25 killed and from 4 to 18 wounded; the injury appears to have been inflicted chiefly by the first three shots, whilst the troops were drawn up abreast of the ship.
On our side I am thankful to report that no more serious casualties occurred than a man and a boy being struck with spent balls.
During the 6th and 7th the weather was so wet and boisterous that it was impossible to act against the enemy, but I ascertained during the night, that reinforcements had arrived to the amount of 200 or 300 sharpshooters and cossacks, with several guns.
On the morning of the 8th, the weather being moderate, I took up a position 1500 yards from the magazine, and the same distance from a battery of four guns, and opened fire upon the latter, which not being returned I commenced firing red-hot shot at the magazines.
At 2.30 P.M. smoke began to issue from the houses, and Lieutenant Ward, having volunteered to try and cut out the schooner, pushed in with paddle-box boat, and with great gallantry drove the soldiers three times out of the woods, but ultimately was obliged to retire before an overwhelming force secreted in the Custom-house; the boat was struck in many places, but I am thankful to say not a man hurt.
At 8 P.M., the principal magazines being all in a blaze and their destruction inevitable, I closed the battery to 1000 yards, but still receiving no return (though both guns and soldiers could be seen), and the ammunition nearly expended, I was backing out, when suddenly several heavy guns, from an elevated position masked by trees, opened fire, chiefly with shells, and at the same time the whole force of Riflemen, – and the power of these weapons may be imagined, when I mention that a ball cut through a spar on the bridge, two inches thick at a distance of 1,500 yards.
It is with the greatest pleasure I have to speak of the coolness of the officers and men at this trying juncture; the narrowness of the channel and shoalness of the water (at the most 2¾ fathoms), rendered it injudicious to attempt turning the Firefly round, and she was slowly backed astern, 1¼ miles, before she was out of range, an evolution which, from the lightness of the wind, was not performed under 40 minutes.
I cannot conclude without mentioning how much I am indebted to the First Lieutenant, Mr. Edw. Burstal, who so materially assisted in inflicting this serious blow on the enemy’s property.
I have, &c.
(Signed) HENRY C. OTTER,
Captain.
Capt. Fred. Warden, C.B., H.M.S. Ajax.