Jackson, who had invaded the Spanish province unsanctioned by the Government, was anxious to impress upon the Spanish authorities that the measure had been reluctantly adopted, on his own authority, as a military necessity; that he had no disposition to violate their neutral rights; but that it was indispensable that the British should be dislodged and driven away.
The pride of the Spaniard was roused, and there was no friendly response to this appeal.

But the Spanish garrison was small, and, united with the English fleet, could present no effectual opposition to the three thousand men under such a lion-hearted leader as General Jackson.

On the 7th of January the General opened fire upon the foe.
The conflict was short.

The Spaniards were compelled to surrender their works.

The British fled to the ships.