To this was now to be added the vexation of an insufficient pilotage, for our negro guide knew only the upper river, and, as it finally proved, not even that, while, to take us over the bar which obstructed the main stream, we must borrow a pilot from Captain Dutch, whose gunboat blockaded that point.

This active naval officer, however, whose boat expeditions had penetrated all the lower branches of those rivers, could supply our want, and we borrowed from him not only a pilot, but a surgeon, to replace our own, who had been prevented by an accident from coming with us.

Thus accompanied, we steamed over the bar in safety, had a peaceful ascent, passed the island of Jehossee,--the fine estate of Governor Aiken, then left undisturbed by both sides,--and fired our first shell into the camp at Wiltown Bluff at four o'clock in the morning.
The battery--whether fixed or movable we knew not--met us with a promptness that proved very shortlived.

After three shots it was silent, but we could not tell why.

The bluff was wooded, and we could see but little.