The assault was impetuous and successful.
But either from their having executed the business upon which
they were sent in a hasty and imperfect manner, or from the
activity and industry of the enemy, the damage was repaired, and
the batteries completed before evening.
"One choice only remained. To carry the troops across to
Gloucester Point, and make one last effort to escape. Boats were
accordingly prepared, and at ten o'clock at night the army began
to embark. The first embarkation arrived in safety. The greater
part of the troops were already landed. At this critical moment
of hope and apprehension, of expectation and danger, the
weather, which had hitherto been moderate and calm, suddenly
changed; the sky was clouded, the wind rose and a violent storm
ensued. The boats with the remaining troops were borne down the
stream. To complete the anxiety and danger, the batteries of the
enemy were opened, the day dawned, and their efforts were
directed against the northern shore of the river. Nothing could
be hoped, but the escape of the boats, and the safety of the
troops. They were brought back without much loss, and every
thing was replaced in its former situation.
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