The British, in explanation of the reverse which they suffered, declared that all the Americans in Fayal armed themselves, and from the shore supplemented the fire from the "General Armstrong." Captain Reid, however, makes no reference to this assistance.

In all, some four hundred men joined in the second attack.

Twelve boats were in line, most of them with a howitzer mounted in the bow.

The Americans used their artillery on these craft as they approached, and inflicted great damage before the enemy were in a position to board.

The British vessels, though within easy gun-fire, dared not use their heavy cannon, lest they should injure their own men, and furthermore, for fear that the shot would fall into the town.