"I accept the responsibility of my own acts.

Without admitting your contention, I tell you now that whatever action you take shall be at your own peril and that of your National Council.

Moreover, I have reason to believe that my men who were sent ashore on special service have been beleaguered in a tower which can be seen from the ship.

Before dawn this morning firing was heard from that direction, from which I gather that attack was made on them.

They, being only a small party, may have been murdered.