But when we again reached it, the stakes had somehow been knocked away, the piles were just covered by the swift current, and the little tug-boat was aground upon them.

She came off easily, however, with our aid, and, when we in turn essayed the passage, we grounded also, but more firmly.

We getting off at last, and making the passage, the tug again became lodged, when nearly past danger, and all our efforts proved powerless to pull her through.

I therefore dropped down below, and sent the John Adams to her aid, while I superintended the final recall of the pickets, and the embarkation of the remaining refugees.
While thus engaged, I felt little solicitude about the boats above.

It was certain that the John Adams could safely go close to the piles on the lower side, that she was very strong, and that the other was very light.