_Extract from the Log-Book of the brig Dover, Capt. Sabins, from
Matanzas for Charleston._
Jan. 16, 1822, sea account, at 1 P. M.—Pan of Matanzas bearing S. saw a
boat coming to us from a small drogher, which came out of Matanzas the
night before us, with five Spaniards, armed with long knives, pistols,
cutlasses, &c. When they got within hail, they fired a musket at us,
cheered, and came on board. They were the most villanous looking rascals
that any one had probably ever beheld. They immediately drew their
weapons, and after beating us severely with their cutlasses, drove us
below. They then robbed us of all our clothes except what we had on, our
watches, and every thing of value. We were afterwards called up singly.
Four men with drawn knives stood over the captain, and threatened him if
he did not give up his money, they would kill all hands and burn the
vessel. After robbing the people they commenced plundering the brig.
They broke open the hatches, made us get out our boat and carry their
plunder to their vessel. They took from us one compass, five bags
coffee, one barrel sugar, nearly all our provisions, our colours,
rigging, and cooking utensils. They then ordered us to stand to the
north, or they would overhaul us, murder the crew and burn the vessel.
We made sail, and shortly after were brought to by another boat of the
same character, which fired into us, but left us upon being informed
that we had been already robbed.
* * * * *
The Porpoise, Capt. Ramage, arrived at Charleston from his
successful cruise against the Pirates, having recaptured a Baltimore
schooner which had been in their possession three days, destroyed
three of their establishments on shore, 12 of their vessels, besides
two on the stocks, and brought in four prisoners, against whom it is
supposed there is strong evidence.
It is stated, that a Pirate Captain and his mate quarrelled on the
question of putting to death all captives,—they fought a duel with
muskets, the Captain was killed, and the Mate (who was the advocate of
mercy) succeeded to the command.
The schooner Jane, of Boston, was taken the 24th Jan. by a pirate
schooner.—They were carried into a place where were three more of the
same trade.—The captain and crew were threatened, beat, and the vessel
plundered of much property; after which they were released.
If the Spanish Government is unable to drive the Pirates from their
strong holds in Cuba, the Baltimore Chronicle suggests the necessity of
occupying the island with American forces for that purpose, as robbers
and pirates have a right to enjoy no protection whatever; and in this
case all civilized powers are warranted in carrying the war into the
enemy’s territory.