The batteries there were far from silent.

Instead their fire was increasing in volume and power.
The four gunboats that had silenced the lower batteries now moved up to the aid of their comrades, and the seven made a united effort, steaming forward in a sort of half-moon, and raining shot and shell upon the summits.

But the guns there, well-sheltered and having every advantage over rocking steamers, maintained an accurate and deadly fire.

The decks of the gunboats were swept more than once.

Many men were killed or wounded.