I leave it to your discretion to strike or not, but the American colors must not be pulled down over my head today.

We have met the enemy and they are ours. Two ships, two brigs, one schooner and one sloop.

Those officers and men who were immediately under my observation, evinced the greatest gallantry, and I have no doubt that all others conducted themselves as became American officers and seamen. Lieutenant Yarnall, first of the LAWRENCE, although several times wounded, refused to quit the deck. Midshipman Forrest (doing duty as lieutenant) and sailing master Taylor, were of great assistance to me.