Col. Beatty letter 25th June 1813

Copy of Col. Beatty's Report to Gen. Taylor.
 Craney-Island, June 25, 1813.

Sir- Some movements on the 2lst instant among the British shipping ling near Newport's Noose seemed to indicate an early attack on this island, and  in the course of the next morning, on the 22d inst. they landed two miles from this, from the best accounts that can be ascertained from deserters, about 2500 troops , of various descriptions. the object of this movement was, no doubt, with the view to approach this post on the west side of the island, across the water in that direction, which at low water is passable by infantry.  Soon after their landing there approached about 45 or 50 boats full of men, which directed their course from the shipping as above stated to the north Side of the island.

The British troops at the same time (that were previously landed) made their appearance on the main land, with a view of attacking the west and north positions of the island at the same moment.  Two 24 pounders and 4 six pounders were advantageously posted under the direction of major Faulkner of the artillery, which being So well served by Capt. Emmerson, Lieuts. Howl and, Godwin, who displayed that cool and deliberate conduct, which will at all times insure success to the cause in which they are engaged Lieut. Neale of the Constellation, during Our defense, Conducted himself with active zeal and courage, which Will at all times add a luster to the name of an American naval officer Capt. Rook, of the ship Manhattan, conducted himself with great activity and judgment in defense of the  place, which will no doubt give him a distinguished part in the success of the day.  Great praise is also due to the conduct of sergeant Young and corporal Moffit of Capt. Emmerson's company, for the active part they took in the management of two 6 pounders.
 
Much credit is due to Capt. Tarbell of the Constellation for the aid he gave in the defense of the island, in forwarding from his ship 150 sailors and marines, with the officers commanding the same, which no doubt contributed greatly in the successful defense of the Island. Indeed, both officers and soldiers of every description showed a degree of zeal for the defense of the place and whenever opportunity may offer, we may confidently hope they will not be wanting in duty.

The loss of the enemy cannot be less than 200 in the course of the day, a number of which were killed on the land side by our artillery. But it is known that 4 or 5 of their barges were sunk, one of which, the Centipede, said to be 52 feet long, working 24 oars, belonging to admiral Warren’s ship, was taken and brought in with 22 prisoners, and small brass 3 pounder, with a number of small arms, pistols and cutlasses.

Besides the loss in killed, there must have been at least 40 deserters brought in in the course of the day and dispersed through the country.

It is with pleasure I have to state to you that not a man was lost on our part; the only weapons made use of by the enemy in the course of the day, were the Congreve rockets, a few of which fell in our encampment, though without injury. I am, sir, with great respect, your humble servant,

H. BEATTY, Lieut. Col. Commandant.