The order was then given to fire with grape at all the houses facing the water.

In the meantime the men were called from their guns on the port side, and the boats lowered.
The marines and all the sailors, save those serving the starboard guns, took their places in them, the first lieutenant taking the command, and on the word being given they dashed with a cheer towards the shore, and, leaping out, formed up, and led by their officers ran forward, not a shot being fired by the Malays as they did so.
The fire of the ship's guns was now directed towards the portion of the town facing the forest, as it was here that the Malays would probably be gathered.

Port fires had been distributed among the landing party.

As these were lost to sight as they entered the town, those on board ship watched eagerly for the sound of combat.

Nothing, however, was heard for a minute or two; then came a single shot, and then a rattle of musketry.
"They are making a stand now," the captain said.
"Mr.Hopkins, will you please go round and tell the gunners to be very careful in their aim?
Let them watch the smoke rising among the houses, and aim a short distance beyond it.