March 13th.
The Macao fort is situated about 10 miles from the anchorage of
Whampoa, up a narrow and intricate channel, which ends in the
broadway or Macao passage from Canton. This was the last remaining
fort protecting the approaches to the city of Canton. As by its
capture, the British would obtain the command of the river both above
and below the city, while the citizens would have to depend on their
mercy for their daily food, the 'Modeste,' 'Starling,' 'Sulphur,' and
'Madagascar,' with the boats of the squadron, under Captain Herbert,
were despatched by the Commodore to take it. The Chinese were
devoting the whole of their attention to strengthening this important
post, and had rendered it one of the strongest which had been
encountered. They had also constructed rafts across the river on
both sides of the fort, strengthened by piles and sunken junks, and
flanked by a sand-battery mounting eight guns.
The 'Sulphur' was unable to get up the narrow passage. The
'Modeste,' Commander Eyres, was brought to an excellent position
within 600 yards of the fort, towed by the 'Madagascar,' which was
cleverly piloted by Lieutenant Collinson. Captain Kuper, and
Commanders Barlow, Giffard, Anson, and Clarke, volunteered their
services, and gave much assistance throughout the affair. The boats
were under the directions of Captain Bethune, and the marines were
commanded by Lieutenant Stransham, assisted by Lieutenants Hewitt,
Marriott, and Polkinghorne, who acquitted themselves with the
customary gallantry of their corps. The 'Modeste' and 'Madagascar'
steamers, with the boats of the squadron, commenced the attack about
5 P.M.; the Chinese keeping up a well-directed and animated fire till
the English were under the walls, and in the act of storming, when
they gave way and fled in all directions; the whole of their works
being thus carried in about half an hour. Their loss was not known.
The casualties of the British were--three wounded.
Captain Herbert speaks in commendation of Mr. Dicey, commander of the
'Madagascar,' and Lieut. Fowlis, of the Madras artillery.