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CAPTURE OF ST. JEAN D'ACRE 333 |
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THE CAPTURE OF ST. JEAN D'ACRE.
Come, all you old warlike liners, who boast of deeds of war Achieved by famous Nelson in the glorious days of yore, Hear what has happened lately along the Syrian coast: The downfall of the Egyptians, of which we made our boast.
So here's a health to brave Napier ; to brave Napier huzza !
Who conquered the Egyptians, and made them run away.
On the first day of November, arid forty was the year, The Wasp off St. Jean d'Acre arrived, as you may hear. That night we anchor'd in the bay, and lay there all the night; At half-past ten the following day, the squadron hove in sight.
As they came in they anchor'd, and furl'd without more ado ; But some of us kept under weigh, the Castor, Wasp, and Co. The next forenoon they all did weigh, (it was our admiral's plan) To close with St. Jean d'Acre; the Powerful led the van.
We took up our positions, abreast of Acre town, Determin'd, if they'd not give in, to knock their ramparts down. A flag of truce was then sent in, but they refused to treat Or come to any peaceful terms with this gallant British fleet.
At half-past two that afternoon the action did begin : Our shot and shell swift flew like hail, the ramparts soon fell in ; The flagship and the Powerful showed them smart British play, Against the noble Benbow's fire the Egyptians could not stay.
The Castor acted well her part: the foe strove hard to shake her, But rather hot she sent her shot 'gainst the forts of St. Jean
d'Acre. The Edinburgh and Revenge, the Carysfort and Pique, The Hazard and the Talbot made them think of quick retreat.
The saucy Thunderer that day poured forth her British thunder, Knowing well it was the surest way to make her foes knock
under. Besides, four steamers fit for war were there, I am proud to tell; They harassed well our enemy with death-conveying shell. |
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