and accepted it as an equivalent. Accordingly, on the 18th of June, My general orders, issued in pursuance of the request of the pre1812, war was formally declared against Great Britain and her sident of the United States, are also transmitted, macked No. 3, by dependencies. The determination produced a crisis in our affairs which it will be seen, that an appeal was made to the courage and of the utmost importance. For, to the weighty considerations in-patriotism of our fellow-soldiers, who were invited by a voluntary separably incident to a state of war with so powerful a nation, there tender of their services to supercede the necessity of a draft. I was to be added one of peculiar and high interest, which by its ir is a source of pride to reflect that this appeal was not made in resistible tendency, was calculated to excite the solicitude of every vain; in some parts of the state, more came forward than wese lover of his country. The constitution of the United States (with called for, in others while regiments made a tender of their services. whose successful progress is indissolubly connected, not only the Anxions to preserve an example of patriotis, so honorable to happiness of America, but of afflicted man, in every region of the those who furnished it, and so worthy of imitation by all, I direct earth) was for the first time, to be put upon trial as to its capacityed the brigadier-generals to report the name of each citizen, wing. for war, and should it survive the fiery ordeal, unhurt, it might, had so acted, that he might be presented to the representatives of under Providence, challenge immortality. When, then, the repre- the people, to receive at their hands that meed of approbation to sentatives of the people of United America, in congress assembled, which he is so justly entitled. (who are destined, in common with us all, to participate in what- I wrote a letter to the secretary at war under date of April 17th, ever doom may await us) had, driven by an unjust and imperious concerning the measures necessary to be adopted for the defence nation, resolved to comuniit our cause to the God of battles-when, of this state, which will be found among the accompanying docu too, the illustrious chic, who now presides in our councils, and whose ments, marked No. 4. His answer is transmitted, parked No. 5. Life has been devoted us the service of his country, had given his Believing, from the character of our enemy, that the eastern fronsanction to this soleman appeal; and when the fate of unborn mil- tier was the only vulnerable point of this state, I deemed it cor Kons was connected with its successful issue, it was reasonably to reet to repair to Norfolk and its vicinity in person, for the purpose have been hoped (whatever diversity of opinion might have ex- of learning whatever might be essential to its defence. The suit itted, or whatever might have been the violence of contending of my observations I transmitted to the secretary at war, by letter parties) that every patriot would have sacrificed upon the altar of his No.6.

country, all minor considerations, aud that the American people,' On the 22d of June I received a letter from the secretary of animated by one sentiment, would by an union of councils and state, covering the act of congress, declaring war against Great efforts, have prosecuted the war with vigor, to extort from their Britain, Ir land and their dependencies, and thought proper ja common enemy an honorable pence. transmit copies thereof with a circular letter, to the commandants

It is a source of painful regret, that this hope of union, should, of regiments; a copy of which correspondence is marked No. 7. even in a partial degree, have been disappointed; or that there On the 21st of July I received a letter from the secretary at war, should have been any class of citizens so far influenced by delusion, communicating the request of the president of the United States prejudice or faction, as to ascribe the war to any other motives, to place 600 of the militia, before detached, in immediate requis than anxiety to avenge the wounded honor, and preserve, unim- tion for the defence of Norfolk in conjuction with the regular paired, the essential rights of United America. This regret, bow- force stationed there. In making the selection I resolved to leave ever, is lessoned by the reflection that the people of the United the physical force of the country most liable to invasion, undianiStates, in an appeal recently made to them, through their congresnished; and at the same time, if possible, to select the troops sional elections, have, by a large majority, manifested a determina- from a portion of the state whose climate and general character, tion to support their government in the course adopted, and to en- corresponded with the country they were about to occupy, and counter without a murmur (the inconveniencies of war, waged for thereby obviate the alarms which by sone were felt, as to the airthe protection of whatever is dear to freemen. And it is a source of healthiness of the situation. These objects, it is behoved, were atpride and congratulation that this holy zeal in our country's cause, tained in the course pursued, execpt with respect to the company is manifested no where more strongly than among the good people of Artillery from Bedford. This, however had volunteered its serof this commonwealth. Is it too sanguine to hope that, even yet, vice (a kind of force always preferred) and was the nearest to the this cordial support of our government may become universal;-scene of action, with the exception of those companies residing that the spirit of our fathers, which, during the revolutionary con- along the shores of our large navigable rivers, which, for the reatest, united them as a band of brothers, may at length animate their son before stated, I had determined not to call from their boines.sons; and that America may be enabled to put forth her whole Although, under the rule I had prescribed to my self (the propriety strength against her enemy? If any thing could hasten an event of which is submitted to the legislature) I could not have done so desirable, it must be the moderation, and solicitude for peace, con- otherwise than call upon this company, yet there is ample cause tinually manifested by the Aemrican government; a new evidence of regret is the loss of seven of that company. And I sincerely of which has been recently published in its correspondence with sympathize with their surviving relations, who no doubt will ext the government of Great Britain, which took place since the de-perience, where it is wanting, the liberality of their country. claration of war. At the moment of that declaration, with amag- My general orders relative to the above requisition, are transnannity rarely equalled, it frankly disclosed to the enemy, the mitted, marked No. 8, to which it is my duty to call your particu terms upon which peace might be restored, viz: The unconditional lar attention. You will discover, by reference thereto, that I di repeal of the orders in council (which, about the same time, had, rected colonel Luens, having the command of the detachment, to without the knowledge of the government of the United States, report himself to colonel Freeman, an officer of the United States, been conditionally suspended) and a relinquishment of the prac- commandant of the post, and to be obedient to his orders. The tice of impressing our seainen. These friendly overtures have importance of this order arises from certain measures which have been contemptuously rejected; may it not be asked, with confi-been pursued in another quarter of the mion, where a similar ro dence, whether there is a single patrist in America (by whatever quest on the part of the president, was refused. distinction of party he is known) that would be willing to abandon I shall not indulge, fellow citizens, in any glowing professions of the present contest, until, at least, Great Britain shall have agreed zeal and ardor in the cause of state rights, but will only remark, I to abstain from a practice, so offensive to our feelings, and so hos-could possibly have no motive to abandon them. It became my du tile to our independence? ty maturely to weigh the propriety of complying with the request

It now becomes important to return from the long digression, in- and fearlessly to pursue the course which my best judgment recont to which I have been betrayed by the interesting considerations in- mended. In deliberating upon this subject, I did not lose sight of volved in the subject, to the particular part connected therewith, the constitutional objections which had been urged against the which has been performed by the executive of this commonwealth, measure; but, after the most nature investigation which I was during the recess of the legislature.

able to make, they appeared to me to be without foundation, and Placed, by the partiality of my counti y, in a highly responsible in no degree warranted by a just interpretation of the laws or contrust, and greatly anxious that nothing should be wanting on my stitution of the United States. That instrument has most wisely part, I kept an attentive eye upon the progress of events, and be in my opinion, placed the whole physical force of the nation under hieving that measures were tending to the catastrophe which ulti- the control of the national authority, by providing, among other mately occurred, I, so early as March last, addressed a circular let-regulations concerning the militia, that the president shall be com ter to the lieutenant colonel commandants of regiments, exhorting mander in chief of the militia of the several states, when called in them to a vigilant discharge of their duty, pointing out the neces- to the actual service of the United States. The occasion which will sity of being prepared for the event, and particularly, inviting their justify their being called out, or the manner in which they shallattention to the condition of the public arms. A copy of this letter be employed, must of necessity be determined by the general govern will be found in the packet A. No. 1. ment. That unity of design and indivisibility of command, are essen Availing myself of the discretion given by law, and with the ad- tial to success in military operations, is an apothegin as just as it is tee of council, I caused moreover, the militia of certain counties, trite, and if instead of an influence which shall pervade, embody whose situation was the most exposed, to be armed entire, with a land direct the force of the nation by a comprehensive system, it is deduction of 20 per cent. for non-effectives. I ordered a large por- to be broken up into as many fragments as there are states, and to tion of the mounted ordinance to be distributed in the same section be directed by as many dit rent authorities; it requires not the of country, also, munitions of war to be deposited in the most aid of prophecy to foretell that these fragments may successively vulnerable parts, so that, at the approach of danger, the whole become the victims of foreign force, which, if resisted by a com Country (being prepared) might by a simultaneous movement, unite its forces to repel invasion.

I received on the 18th April, a letter from the secretary at war, (under date of the 15th) siguifying the wish of the president of the United States, that I should immediately place in requisition, Virgimia's quota of militia, (being 12,000) in conformity with a law of Congress, passed April 10th, 1812, a copy of which is in the same packet marked 2. By this it will be seen that a discretion was given the executive of detaching riflemen, equal to one-tenth part of the requisition. That alternative was embraced, and, as the western part of the state abounded in good marksmen, I thought it favorable to the service, to detach the greater part of that decription of force from that quarter, and the foot of the moun tains on this side; of course, relieving the infantry of the line, in the same ratio in which the riflemen were detached, and thereby preserving the most entire equality to every part of the state.

bined effort, would be dissipated as chaff before the wind. The se curity of the states is found in the salutary provision of the constiunion, which gives to them the appointment of the officers of the militia, and in the integrity, which the theory of the government supposes, will always be found in the chief magistrate; whose sovereign control of the entire force of the nation, if directed by prudent and honest views) cannot but he productive of good consequences; but from whom there is nothing to apprehend, should he attempt to turn the arms intended for the defence of the state against itself, or against any particular member thereof; inasmuch, as the patriotism and state attachments of the militia offlers (who, from their very organization, will be always above corruption) would prompt them to frown into conterupt so flagitions a desigu If it be admitted that the president of the United States, is cou mander in chief of the militia, when call d into actual service, it would seem to follow, as he has not the power of ubiquity, and a

1

they must occasionally he called upon different and widely distant deliberations will be propitious to the welfare of our beloved coun rvice; and, further, as they must frequently be associated with try, and will sustain the character she has therefore displayed of a regulars, that it is perfectly correct that a federal officer of supe-wise liberality, whenever called upon to aid the common cause. rior grade, should take the command as representing the president, [The remainder of the Speech is chicly local-and from its Jest this dilemma should ensute: that a militia officer of inferior great length pinitted. The governor recommends many impor grade, in the absence of the president, should either have the com-fant, amendments to the militia laws, and has brought into view an, or carry on operations distinct from, and independent of many inatters of state interest.] the regular force. Reason and usage unit against the latter state of things; and it is believed, that throughout the revolutionary contest, whenever the militia of the states, and the continentals acted together grade always decided the command; and where there was equality, (for the sake of unity of command) the conti nental claimed and enjoyed proccdency.

JAMES BARBOUR.

Legislature of Maryland.

The document marked No. 9, is a letter from the secretary of The following preamble and resolutions were ordered ta war, received the 20 September, communicating the request of the! be printed by the House of Delegates. president of the United States, that I should cause 1500 of the detached militia immediately to take the field, to rendezvous at WHEREAS, The president of the United States calsome convenient point in this state, with a view ultimately to joi led upon the executive of this state to furnish his the nordwestern army. No. 10, contains may general orders, issu-proportion of one hundred thousand militia, by vir ed in pursuance with this request. which, as well as my former tue of an act of congress, passed 10th April, 1812; orders detaching the 500 militia for the defence of Norfolk, were

obeyed with the promptitude honorable to the citizens composing and it appearing to this general assembly, that the the detachments. The requisition of 1500 militia was made ne said requisition was unaccompanied with either of cessary in consequence of the disastrous occurrence at Detroit the exigencies provided by the constitution :—AND which, whilst it exhibited the mortying spectacle of an American

any surrendering without a blow to the forers of Great Britain, WHEREAS, the wise and patriotic framers of our conlaid bare our defencel ss frontier to the incursions of our encnstitution, having for their object the freedom, the and their frocious allies, whose deeds of cruely were every where

not without eubarrassments.

manifested by the indiscriminate slaughter of men, women and happiness and independence of their country, tho't it children. To arrest this hostible warf, it was necessary that necessary, in order to preserve this government in the utmost despatel should be used. As, however, this emerge its republican form, and secure the blessings of liber cy was entirely unexpected, and considerable pecuniary meaus were necessary for the equipment of the detachment, we were ty to their posterity, to constitute protecting barri. ers against an improper or ambitious use of military power -AND WHEREAS, offensive wars, schemes of foreign conquest, accession of territory, or national aggrandizement, are repugnant to the principles of our free institutions-Therefore,

The contingent fund being fixed upon the peace establishment, was scarcely adequate to meet the ordinary expences of govern ment. The extraordinary expenditures inseparably incident to a state of war, had calusted it. One of two aernatives was to embraced; either the convention of the legislature, or an exercise of authority on the part of the executive, upon their own respon sibility. The latter was preferred. To sve convened the legis Jature, would have been inconvenient to the members; attended

Resolved, That it was never contemplated by the with an expence amounting to a sum beyond what was requisite constitution, when it entrusted to the general gofor the equipment of the detachment: and productive of a delay vernment the controul of the militia, in certain emer. that would have counteracted the object of the expedition. It is begencies, that it should, by perverted interpretations, lieved that there are occasions then it becomes the duty of the pub

lic servant to act upon his own responsibility. This was believed at its discretion, use that power in the absence of to be one of those occasions; and was in refore yielded to by the those emergencies, and that the calling out the mili executive. The faith of the state was thereupon pledgal, (to be tia of this state, by the President of the U. States, by redeemed at a distant day) for the materials necessary for the camp virtue of the act aforesaid, without the existence of equipage. As dispatch was indispensable, I thought proper to appeal to the such emergency, is an open and dangerous innovation patriotism of the citizens of Richmond, mid solicited their aid in the making of tents, knapsacks, &c. it is a tribute of gratitude upon our rights and liberties. I owe them, and which I cheerfully pay, to make known to you, Resolved, That the power delegated by the conthe representatives of the people, the promtitute with which they stitution to the general government, to raise and sup. complied wit, my quest. Every age, every sex, and every cole dition seemed animated by one sentiment, Thousands chained a port armies, as well from the nature and form of the share of the pious undertaking; and in the course of a few days government, as from the preample to the constitu the whole equipage was completed, and dispatched to the place of

rendezvous, designated for the detachment, which has since jointion, was intended for the defence and protection of the north western army, under the command of the brave genour own territory; and that the invasion of a foreign ral Harrison, soul, I trust to redeem the wounded bond of our territory, by armies raised and supported by the ge country, and take a just revenge of her perfidious enemies and neral government, and garrisoning our forts with the

their savage alles.

Although, after a peace of thirty years, and the inexperi, nee in militia, as a substitute for these armies, is holding The art of war, which was its neessary consequence, ore discom them in service longer than any exigency existed,even Brurs were to have been expected in the commencement of the

conflict, yet those which have happened are greater than can well if any existed at all, and an unwarrantable stretch Le accounted for. For we have to add, to the disastrous affair of of power, which must ultimately lead to a consoli Detroit, an unsuccessful attempt upon Queenstown. Whilst this

effort proved unavailing, and cost us the lives of many bravelation of these United States into a military govern. men, we are somewhat consoled with the reflection, that the Amement, if not timely and vigorously checked and reican soldiers, actually engaged, displayed a valor and prowesssisted by all lawful and constitutional means. eerthy the descendants of the heroes of the revolution. It is with pleasure I call your attention from these untoward incidents by Resolved, That if the general government, as a Jand, to the signal proofs of courage and skill manifested on the part of their policy, prefer the service of the milita ocean. Many occasions have occurred.but particularly in the capture to the employment of regular troops, in garrison, or

of the Guerriere, where the conduct of our seamen was epijuently

I have thus, fellow-citizens, briefly recapitulated the causes

calculated to flatter our pride, and a sure pledge we have nothing to any other military operations, even in the state to fear from our enemy, upon her own element, whenever the forces which they belong, it is, under the constitution, opposing each other are nearly equal. bound to provide all the means necessary for their which led to the war in which we are engaged. I have recounted support, and that it has no power to burthen the the principal events which have occurred during its progress, and states with any of the expenses incident to such ser disclosed to you the part performed by the executive of this commonwealth.

vice.

Events of the War.

When to the arduous struggle with Great Britain, the duration of which the pride and injustice of the enemy will judging from re cent appearances) profract, is added the long eatalogue of unres dressed wrongs against France, for which little bope is now eutertained of an honorable rep.cation by pacific means, and which, in due season should be avenged by the most edergetic measures; and when we reflect that a jarring world is in arms, from the rising to the setting sun, the crisis in which we are called to art, asses It now appears certain that the Northern army & deep interest, appealing to the feelings and calling for the aid, of has went into winter quarters. It returned to Plattsevery one to whom has been confided a share of the public conf-burg on the 23d ult. The 9th, 11th, 21st and 25th dence, Although our external relations are very properly confid d

MILITARY.

to the general government, yet from the peculiar structure of our regiments, have gone to Burlington—the 6th, 15th Justitumous, much may be effected by a hearty cooperation of th and 16th remain at Plattsburg, and are building Stap authorities. What course it becomes the powerful state of huts; the light artillery and dragoons have returned

Vargina to pursue in the present times, I cheerfully submit to the

waadum olher represençalves, not doubling that the result of their to Greenbush, near Albany, with generals Dearborn

THE WEEKLY REGISTER-EVENTS OF THE WAR,

and Bloomfield. The militia, on the frontiers, have the command of colonel Winder of the 14th regt.. to storm the enemy's batterics opposite Black Rock been generally disbanded: We have on file the British official account of the About 10 boats set out, with a proportion of the surrender of Detroit, &c. Though not of striking seamen on this station, under the command of lieut. interest we regret it was not received in time for Angus. Only five of the boats succeeded in landing the men, they were commanded by captain King late this number, on account of its length. On Wednesday last (says the Ontario Messenger of the 5th regiment, with captain Morgan of the of the 7th inst.) the enemy commenced a fire from 12th, captain Dox of the 13th, and captain Sprowl, their batteries opposite and above Black Rock, which with captain Angus and S. Swartwout, as volunwas spiritedly returned from the battery command-teers. About 50 sailors and sixty regulars were the ed by lieut. Stevens, consisting of a 24 pounder, actual force; and to the astonishment of friends and from the battery at colonel Swift's encampment, con-enemies, they atchieved the most valiant acts of real sisting of an 18 and a 24, and from the one at Black heroisin ever known. All the batteries from Chip. Rock ferry. Our guns played so effectually as to paway to Fort Erie were carried-cannon spiked; dislodge an 18 pounder of the enemy; and a 24 three officers and about 50 privates taken prisoners, burst and killed several., Lieutenant Stevens poured and the whole Canadian frontier, 16 miles distant his balls into Fort Erie so well, that the enemy hoist-laid waste and deserted. In this valorous act, the ed a white flag, whether as a sign of surrender or brave captain Watts of the navy, 2d in command, with captain Angus, fell. Captain Angus, of the. not, we cannot say. Considerable military activity prevails in Tennes-navy, Samuel Swartwout, his associate volunteer, see and in the Mississippi Territory. A body of 600 captains King, Morgan, Sprowl and Dox, with lieut. men from the latter passed St. Francisville on the colonel Boersler, at the head of the 14th, merit the 11th Nov. for Baton Rouge; and general Jackson veneration of their country, for their intrepidity and from the former is expected to march 1500 men im-excess of bravery. Seven officers out of the 11 of mediately for NewOrleans-from a pledge given that the navy were wounded. Lieutenant Lisson is badly these troops will not be continued "in the lower wounded, but yet not dangerous. Mr. Graham, son country during the summer," an inference is drawn of colonel Graham, has his leg broke, but is in good spirits. Mr. Garter, (master) of New-York, has his that some immediate enterprize is designed. It is understood that brigadier-general Smyth ex-arm wounded. Messrs. Angus, Swartwout, Sprowl plicitly informed certain friendly Indians who applied Morgan and Boersler, are safe. Captain Dox is slightly wounded, and capt. King, to him for permission, that they should not accompa ny him to Canada. We do trust that the honor of by his zeal to send over prisoners, remained on the employing savages in civilized war, may exclusively other side and was made a prisoner with about ten After this the whole force under gen. Smyth, belong to the religious government of Britain. Major-general Brock was appointed a knight of prepared to embark, they maneuvred some time but the Bath for his victory at Detroit. The American much to the mortification of all, but particularly to colors taken there have been exhibited with great the volunteers, they were ordered to return to their encampments, and to-morrow they again are orderThis is a summary of all triumph in London. The secretary of state, "according to provisioned to be ready to cross. in acts of congress," will, pro tempore, perform the the news on the frontiers at present. duties of secretary at war until a regular appoint- Major Noon is in command attached to colonel M'Clure, much may be expected from this corps; By "general orders" from governor Meigs, dated 300 Pennsylvania and 100 Baltimore volunteers with Chilicothe, Nov. 25, it appears that great exertions the rifle corps of New-York and Albany, compose are making to facilitate the movements of the North this regiment. Western army. But we have no important information from it.

ment is made.

men.

STATE OF NEW-YORK, GENERAL ORDERS. Head-Quarters, New-York, Nov. 28, 1812. Worse and worse. Some gentleman in Massachu The uniform troops commanded by lieutenant-cosetts has prescribed a military expedition for the Bri-lonel Robert Swartwout, having faithfully performed tish, insinuating that the same has been generally their tour of duty on the southern frontier of this spoken of at lalifax, which is to collect 12,000 men state, have been discharged with the flattering enat Bermudas during the winter, of whom several comiums of the commanding general, and have reregiments are to be of blacks from Jamaica, and turned into the body of the militia. In justice to invade the Southern states, in the spring. We are the officers and soldiers of that meritorious corps, much obliged to the British at Halifax or the Massa-and to his own feelings, the commander in chief unchusetts gentleman for letting the southern people nounces his entire approbation of their patriotic conduct and services, and his sincere thanks for their know the plan so soon! Extract of a letter to the editor of the Augusta Chroni-prompt and unanimous compliance with the first cle from a volunteer in the United States requisition call of their country. That promptitude and unanfrom Georgia, dated at colonel Smith's camp, on the imity, and their correct, orderly and soldier-like deSt. Johns, thirty-two miles from Augustine, on the portment, and their assiduous attention to, and extensive improvement in military science, and in all 10th of November. "The first detachment of two hundred and ten the accomplishments and duties of the patriot solmen landed here in perfect health and safety last dier, have distinguished them as generous and pubevening, having halted one night on our way at the lic spirited defenders of the nation, and entitle them village of Fernandino on Amelia Island-the boat to public applause and gratitude. that conveyed us here will return immediately to Point-Petre to bring on the remainder of the requi sition. Colonel Smith remained at Fernandino, but is expected here daily. We are yet ignorant how we shall be employed, whether against Augustine or the Indians."

By order of the commander in Chief,

WILLIAM PAULDING,
Adjutant-general

Natchez, Nov. 11.-The detachment of militia from this territory destined for Florida, marched Extract of a letter from an officer at Buffaloe, dated on Tuesday the 3d. from camp near Cantonment Nov. 29, 1812.-You will be pleased to hear that the Washington, all in good health and spirits. night before last an expedition was organized under November 4.-Three companies of hue looking re

eruits passed through this place yesterday. Two they merited my warmest thanks for their skill in companies of infantry under captains Gray and the service of these guns. Lieut. Harris, from his Armstrong, are destined for St. Louis (upper Lou-14 pounder, sunk a schooner which lay at their wharf: isiana) and one of artillery under captain Philips, she was one of those taken by the enemy at the will go to fort Massac. mouth of the Genessee river a short time since. He also assisted in burning and destroying the buildings To Brigadier-General Smyth, Commanding the Army near the wharf. These two officers and their men, of the Centre. in the warmest part of the cannonading having fired STR-I beg leave to inform you that on the morn-away all their cartridges, cut up their flannel waisting of the 21st of Nov. at 6 o'clock, a heavy can-coats and shirts, and the soldiers their trowsers, ta ronading opened upon this garrison from all the bat-supply their guns.

OFFICIAL REPORT.

teries at and in the neighborhood of St.George, which I cannot say too much in praise of all the officers lasted without intermission until after sun-down-and soldiers of the artillery immediately under my They had five detached batteries, two mounting 24 observation in this garrison; they merit the thanks pounders, one mounting a 9, and two mortar batte- and esteem of their country for the defence of it, and teries, one 10 1-2 the other 5 1-2 inch. The batte-I believe it never sustained so sharp and continued a ries firing hot shot which set some of our buildings bombardment. on fire, but from the extraordinary vigilance of the officers and men, particularly major Armistead of the United States corps of engineers, whose indefatigable exertions were extended to all parts of the garrison, the fires were got under without being ob-| served by the enemy.

rected.

The enemy threw more than two thousand red hot balls into it, and a number of shells amounting to more than one hundred and eighty, only one of which did injury to our men.

Licut, col. Gray commanded the artillery; the un remitting attention paid to his duty, proves him an Our garrison was not as well provided with artil-officer whose zeal and science do honor to himself lery and ammunition as I could have wished; how-and country; to this gentleman I feel much indebted ever, the batteries opened a tremendous fire upon for the manner he acquitted himself. them, in return, with hot shot, admirably well di- To the officers of my regiment (particularly capt. Mulligan) and the soldiers who assisted the artillery, Several times during the cannonading, the town and those employed in extinguishing the fires and of Newark was in flames, but was extinguished by carrying off the killed and wounded, I am also much their engines-as also the centre building in Fort indebted, they merit my warmest thanks. To Dr. George.Their mess house and all the buildings West of the garrison, Dr. Hugan of the 14th regt. near it were consumed. Captain M'Keen command-United States infantry, and Dr. Craige of the 224 ed a 12 pounder in the S. E. Block-house, and dis-regt. United States infantry, I offer my thanks tinguished himself by his usual gallantry and skill. They were employed during the entire day in the Captain Jacks, of the 7th regiment militia artillery, most critical duties of their profession. Our killed commanded a 6 pounder on the N. Block-house, and and wounded amount to eleven. together with a part of his own company, though Killed.-Serjeants, Jones, 1st regt. of United States placed in a situation most exposed to the fire of the artillery; Salisbury, 3d do. do. do.; privates, Stew enemy, maintained their position like veterans. art, 22d do. U. S. infantry; Lewis, 1st do. do. artil Lieut. Rees of the 3d regiment of artillery had lery.

the command of an 18 pounder on the S. F. battery, Wounded-Officers, lieut. Thomas, 22d regt. U. which was pointed at the battery en barbette mount-States infantry; privates, Boman, 14th do. do.; ing a 24 pounder, and also at Fort George; several MEvoy, 1st do. do.; Campbell, 1st do. do.; Welsh, well directed shot were made from this gun, which 1st do. do.; Ray, 3d do. do.; Woodworth, 7th do. proved the skill of its commander. About 10 o'clock militia artillery. lieut. Rees had his left shoulder bruised by a part of From the numbers we saw carried off from the the parapet falling on him; which, though it did not enemy's batteries, I presume many more were killed materially injure him, obliged him to retire, and and wounded on their side. capt. Leonard of the 1st regiment United States ar- Only two of the above men were killed by the ene tillery at that moment arriving, he took the com-my's shot, the rest by the bursting of a 12 pounder mand of this battery for the remainder of the day. in the S. E. block-house and by the spunges of the Lieut. Wendel, of the 3d regiment of artillery, had guns on the North block-house, and at the salt batthe command of an 18 and 4 pounders on the West tery. GEO. MFEELEY, battery and Dr. Hooper of capt. Jack's company Lieut. col. commanding Fort Niagara.. militia artillery, had the command of a 6 pounder on GENERAL VAN RENSSELAER TO GOVERNOR TOMPKINS, the mess-house. Of these gentlemen and their comBuffaloe, October 231. mands, I cannot speak with too much praise, they Sin-The daily expectation of your excellency's distinguished themselves highly, and from their shot arrival on the Niagara frontier, since the action of the all of which was hot, the town of Newark was re- 13th, has prevented my making an official communi peatedly fired, and one of the enemy's batteries silenc-cation to you on that subject: But having now received major-general Dearborn's permission to An instance of extraordinary bravery in a female resign my command, I purpose to proceed in (the wife of one Doyle, a private of the U. S. artil-mediately to Albany.

d for a time.

lery, made a prisoner at Queenston) I cannot pass Under there these circumstances, I have determin over-During the most tremendous cannonading led to furnish your excellency with a copy of my dishave ever seen, she attended the 6 pounder on the patch of the 14th to major-general Dearborn, reserv old mess house with the red hot shot, and shewed ing to future communications, some documents calfortitude equalling the Maid of Orleans, Lieuts.culated to furnish a more full explanation of the Ganesvoort and Harris of the 1st regiment U. S. ar-late movements of the army.

tillery had the command of the Salt battery at I cannot, however, in justice to my own feelings, Youngstown, mounting one 18 and a 4 pounder-to merit, and to the service, close without noticing These two guns played upon the garrison of Fort to your excellency a number of officers whose con George and the buildings near it: from every observa-duct in the late action would have reflected great tion I could make during their fire, I am happy to say honor upon veteran soldiers, and entitles them to

the notice of your excellency, and the gratitude of command would plant the American standard in Canada" and he called upon volunteers to assist him. their country. Brigadier-general Wadsworth. proved himself an Our mortification is already sufficient, without stopofficer capable of commanding with promptness, ping here to notice the high tone of his proclama. coolness and decision, in all the vicissitudes of bat-tion, and the extraordinary sentiments it contained. the; and though he was fortunate enough to escape Suffice it to say, that many, very many, of our wor wounds, scarcely a garment had he on, but bears thiest citizens, left their homes, their families and their business, at an immense sacrifice, to obey what more than one mark of honorable testimony. Colonel Van Renselaer was in the first boat, and they conceived the call of their country. A second the first man on shore: in the most gallant manner proclamation from Smyth appeared, evincing that he led the van of the first column through a very se-fall was ready, and announcing the general's princivere fire, and when four wounds prevented his pro-ples and views. So far all was well. Anxious but ceeding he gave his orders with decisive firmness, joyful anticipation exhilirated all the hearts of all and they were effectually performed. Major Lush the true friends to their country. acted as his volunteer aid, and his courage and conduct on the field were highly honorable to a young officer.

ments.

I have the honor to be, with respect and considera tion, your excellency's most obedient servant. S. VAN RENSSELAER.

The excellency governor Tompkins.

On Saturday the 29th ult. in pursuance of orders, the army marched to the Black Rock and was there embarked ready to cross. In the morning 150 brave Lieutenant-colonel Bloom was early in the action, men, principally sailors, had gone over, taken three and when a wound obliged him to retire from the batteries from the enemy, spiked their cannon, and field, he persevered in efforts to urge on reinforce- returned with little loss, leaving only one battery within sight of our forces, and that at such a disLieutenant-colonels Allen, Strahan and Mead ex-tance, as to excite no apprehensions. Among the erted themselves to get as many of their men as pos- wounded in this noble enterprise, we regret to say that the gallant and brave captain Myndert M. Dos, sible to the field and faced the enemy to the last. Major Spencer, aid-de-camp to general Wads- of the 23d U. S. infantry, was shot through both his There were thirty-six prisoners taken.→→ worth, is in all respects an excellent officer, and his thighs. This was a glorious omen of the probable success of conduct on the field was honorable. I will only add that after the toils and privations the whole army. Three thousand men were emof a very perplexing campaign, to be obliged to wit-barked; fifteen pieces of light artillery completely ness the sacrifice of a victory so gallantly won on the equipped in every respect, were in the scows or flats; and a corps de reserve of at least 5,000 men At this auspi shrine of doubt, is mortifying indeed. were waiting for a chance to cross. cious moment when the enemies batteries were com pletely silenced, instead of crossing or attempting to move, gen. Smyth sent over a flag of truce to the enemy. Our army still lay in their boats, when not a vestige of opposition from the other side appear. We were truly astounded with certain reports from ed. Indeed, the whole country was so wholly aban Buffalo, that reached us on Thursday last. We doned, that three of our gallant tars, for a frolic, would have said, “an enemy has done this," and went over in the sight of our army, burnt two houshave consigned them to the common tomb of the es, a store and a barn, and were occupied an hour millions of tales propagated to disparage the arms and an half in catching fowls and hogs, and killing But the mat-them, and in collecting other plunder. After doing and exertions of the United States. ters referred to have reached us in so many ways, precisely what they pleased, they returned without that we cannot refuse credence to the wondrous molestation. In the mean while, a flag with a Bristory; still hoping however, that the facts may tish major arrived, and a long conference ensued.→→ Smyth sent another flag; but before it reached the be exaggerated. The following narration is copied from an ably con opposite shore, he ordered the troops to their tents. ducted "republican" paper, entitled the Ontario On Sunday the 30th, orders were read that the troops Messenger published at Canandaigua, N. Y. by should be ready to cross on Monday the 1st inst. at Mr. John A. Stevens; and we place great reliance 8 o'clock. At the time the army, was at the river; in what he says, being seated pretty near the and thirteen boots only, out of seventy, under the scene of the events he notices; the official, or re-command of colonel Winder, attempted to go over; gulan accounts, will, of course, appear as soon as they crossed directly in front of the only battery which had not been rendered useless: after arriving received. "Disaster upon Disaster-The old scenes of imbe-within a few rods of the shore the battery consisting cility, treachery and cowardice, have been again dis-of an 18 pounder, opened upon them, when they played upon our frontier. With grief and shame do turned about and came back.

ARMY OF THE CENTRE.

Not a single boat

By this

we record that Smyth, who promised so much, who was sent out to reinforce them, nor was any divercentred in himself the generous confidence of stran- sion made or attempted at any other point. They gers, of his friends and his government, who was to were again ordered to camp and directed to be reaconvince the American people that all their generals dy the next morning, Tuesday, to cross, were not base, cowardly and treacherous,even Smyth time some uneasiness was apparent; the soldiers must be added to the catalogue of infamy which were disgusted and wearied with being marched begun with the name of Hull. Our minds are de-back and forth; however, no one declined crossing. pressed with shame and our hands tremble with in-Again all was ready, the troops were either embarkdination, at this final prostration of all our dearest led or on the point of getting into their boats; when an fondest hopes. But we will endeavor to assume suddenly orders were received for all to return to some calmness while we state to our readers the their tents. The volunteers who had come out undisgraceful events that have occurred on the Nias der Smyth's proclamation, were coldly informed that they might stack their arms and go home! The regara river. For three weeks past as all our readers know,thegulars were ordered into winter quarters!——Gen. most vigorous preparations have been making for a Porter endeavored to retain the volunteers, until an 'descent upon Canada. On the 10th ult. Gen. Smyth explanation of this extraordinary conduct could be #promised "that in a few days the troops under his obtained. Many, however, giving up all hope of aç