A Relic of the Revolution - Chapters 13-16



CHAPTER XIII.
FRENCH PRIVATEER.--FRENCH FLEET.--PATIENCE SCARCE.--ESCAPE.--ONE MISSING.--
MAN WITH RED HAIR.--BLOCKADE.--BALL PLAY.--SEVERITY OF THE GUARD.--ADMIRAL 
BIRON'S FLEET.--EFFECTS OF DRINK.--A WIDOW.--A SURPRISE.--PRESS OF 
FISHERMEN.--ANOTHER DETECTION.--VOLUNTARY SUFFERING.--CAPTAIN PULFORD.--
ATTEMPT TO ESCAPE.--TAKEN.--CRUEL TREATMENT.--JUST RETALIATION.--KING'S 
BIRTHDAY.--CONTRIBUTION FOR THE SICK.--TWELVE MONTHS IN PRISON.--
REFLECTIONS.

MAY 16. We are informed that a French privateer was taken by a Guernsey 
privateer, a few days ago, and brought in here. She had eighty men on 
board, a number of whom were officers bound to America. We are informed 
that she had a commission to sink, burn and destroy all that she met 
belonging to Great Britain. We have also a newspaper, by which we learn 
that a French fleet, consisting of twelve sail of the line, and six 
frigates, sailed from Toulon on the 13th of April, and passed through the 
Straits of Gibraltar on the 24th, commanded by Count D'Estaing, supposed 
to be bound to America.

17. Sunday. We are informed by the paper, that on the 10th of this month, 
William Pitt died. I think that all England has reason to mourn the loss 
of so great a man, at this critical juncture, and the house of Bourbon to 
rejoice.

18. Mr. Sorrey, one of our "fathers," has returned from London. He informs 
us that General Burgoyne had arrived in London before he left, but whether 
he is exchanged, or come home on parole, we have not yet learned. Mr. 
Sorrey tells us that we must exercise a little more patience. We cannot, 
however, gather much patience in the yard, it is rather inclined to 
nettles.

19. We hear that General Burgoyne came home on parole of bonor, and is to 
return as soon as he has dispatched his business.

20. To-day Mr. Walch, one of the lieutenants of the Lexington, about two 
o'clock in the afternoon, had an invitation from a sentry that stood 
without the wall at one corner of the yard, to go out. Accordingly he 
dressed himself, and went as directed. At night, when the guard came to 
turn them into the prison, it was so contrived that a small boy should go 
in first, and then slip out of a
window and be counted in twice; so that they had their number and did not 
miss him.

21. This morning when they were turned out they did the same, and by that 
means it was not found out. This contrivance was to screen the guard that 
was on duty, when he went out, fearing lest if it was found out, they 
would mistrust which way he escaped, and thus the sentry be exposed.

22. Last night, the second time the guard went into the officers' ward, 
they found that one of them was missing; but it was about thirty hours 
after he went away, before they had the least suspicion of it. This 
morning, after we were turned out, we were mustered to see if there were 
any more gone, and while they were mustering us, one of the prisoners, 
with red hair, said something to the officer that he did not like, for 
which he threatened to put him in the Black-hole. After muster, 
accordingly, they made search for him, but could not find him, as they had 
no other mark for him but his hair. They then sent us into prison, and 
took aside each one that had red hair, but they could not find him among 
the number, so they let the matter pass. This afternoon, another man got 
over the wall at the corner of the yard, by the vault, and, by his own 
folly, was taken and sent to the Black-hole. On account of this futile 
attempt, we were sent into the prison in the midst of a pleasant 
afternoon; and as they were turning us in, there was one man a little 
obstinate, who would not voluntarily go in; they therefore took him to the 
Black-hole also.

23. This forenoon, as some of the prisoners were playing at ball in the 
prison yard, the ball happened to lodge in a spout that is placed under 
the eves of the prison to convey the water, when it rains, into the well 
in the yard. They sent a boy up after it, and one of the sentries without 
the wall saw him, levelled his gun at him and fired, but the ball happened 
not to touch him. To-day Admiral Biron and his fleet arrived in Plymouth 
Sound, from Spithead. The fleet consists of thirteen sail of the line, and 
one frigate. They are bound to America, in search of the French fleet that 
sailed from Toulon.

24. Sunday. For two days past, the guard has been so strict with us that 
they have placed a sentry at the gate, and do not allow a prisoner to go 
near it upon any occasion whatever; and this afternoon after we were 
turned into prison, one of the prisoners got up to a window to look out, 
and a sentry without, saw him and bade him get down; as he did not get 
down as soon as asked, he fired at him, but did not hurt him. We think the 
occasion of the guard's being so strict with us lately, is the conduct of 
a few evil-minded men in prison, who, as regularly as they receive their 
sixpence per week, lay it out at the gate for strong beer - drink it all 
at once, and so get drunk. Then they abuse any one who comes across them.

25. We hear that the King has granted all the men in the fleet, that now 
lay in the Sound, eight days to frolic and make themselves merry.

26. To-day a poor American widow came to see us; she is daughter to Dr. 
Murray, in Newtown Chester, Maryland. She told us that she was lately from 
America, that her husband is dead, and she is left with three small 
children in a strange land, and with nothing to help herself. I do not 
know what business she had here, but as there were some who knew her in 
America, and as she seemed to be an object of charity, we contributed 
among us about a guinea, and gave it to her.

27. This morning, very early, the guard came in and surprised some of us, 
while we had a piece of the wall down, and were digging. Some one must go 
to the Black-hole for it, but as yet there is nothing done about it.

28. We hear that night before last, all the Fishermen in the harbor were 
pressed out of their fishing boats, on board of the fleet which now lays 
in the Sound.

29. To-day is what they call Royal Oak, or King Charles' restoration day, 
and each ship, fort, and garrison, fires a salute.

30. To-day another hole was begun.

31. This forenoon we were all turned out into the yard, but a few who 
stayed in to dig; and while they were at work, the guard happened to come 
in to drive a prisoner down from an end window; so they went directly up 
stairs, which gave those who were at work an opportunity of making off 
into the yard. But the guard, before they went out, found out the hole, 
and the agent declared that he would have four men go to the Black-hole, 
or the whole should be put on half allowance. He gave us until four 
o'clock in the afternoon to consider of it, and at the time four men 
delivered themselves up of their own accord, to go to the Black-hole, 
rather than that all should suffer. But as we are all equally concerned in 
every such scheme, satisfaction will be made to them by us.

This afternoon, one Captain Pulford, came to see us. He is only about 
forty days from North Carolina, and was taken in a merchantman bound to 
France. He informed us that General Lee has been exchanged.

June 1. Two gentlemen who came to see us today, informed us that the 
French Admiral, now laying in Brest with thirty-six sail of the line, 
besides frigates, sent a challenge to the English Admiral to meet him off 
Brest. We are also informed that there are orders from London for a larger 
prison, three stories high, separate, and in another yard, to be repaired 
for the reception of the French prisoners.

2. In expectation of some making their escape, a difficult piece of work 
was undertaken, which I hope we shall prosper in.

3. Ever since I have been in prison there have been vaults dug in the 
yard, for the prison offal, until within a fortnight. The vaults having 
since then been full, each man has taken his turn to empty the tubs, twice 
a day, into the river. This morning two in the Black-hole went to empty 
their tubs at the river's edge, about twenty-rods distant, and having a 
mind to try to make their escape, although part of the guard was with 
them, they left their tubs and ran. They were immediately pursued by the 
guard, and overtaken about a quarter of a mile distant; and after they 
were secured, they used them shamefully, knocking them down two or three 
times, and very badly injuring them. As our cook, who prepares our 
victuals, gave chase and caught one of them, we determined that he should 
suffer for it. This same cook has lately got a license to sell strong 
beer, and his wife tends daily at the gate, and there are many in prison 
who have bought of her a great deal. But we are unanimously agreed to buy 
no more of him. A man who has been only two days out of the Black-hole, 
was carried there again to-day, for abusing the sentry in the yard.

4. To-day is the King's birth-day, and each ship, fort, and garrison, 
fired twenty-one guns as a royal salute. I think that his subjects would 
have more reason to rejoice at his death than at his birth-day; for 
according to the best accounts, the national debt is more than one hundred 
and forty-six millions. A commissioner has been here to-day, reviewing the 
prisons; I suppose to give orders in what manner they shall be repaired 
for the accommodation of the French. There are two of our ship's company 
that have been very ill for some months past, and as the doctor will not 
let them have things necessary for their comfort, we think it our duty to 
contribute to their relief, as Providence has put something in our hands. 
Accordingly, to-day we raised among us a trifle of money to buy them such 
things as they want, and we shall raise more as they need it. This 
afternoon, there were thirteen prisoners brought to prison from the 
Blenheim. They were lately brought from Liverpool, and have been taken 
nearly five months; they were captured in a privateer, fitted out of 
Salem. The captain's name is Ravel. Today a fleet of fishermen, consisting 
of about thirty sail, went out of the Sound, bound to Newfoundland.

5. The fleet that sailed yesterday for Newfoundland, meeting with contrary 
winds, and the weather looking likely for a storm, put about and came in 
again. It is twelve months to-day since I came to prison. I believe four 
months ago it was the opinion of every one within these walls, that we 
should be out before this day, but I believe now, most of us despair of 
being exchanged this summer, unless General Burgoyne's coming home should 
be of advantage to us. He is able to represent the case as it is, for we 
hear that the Congress told him, before he left America, to go home and 
take his seat in Parliament, and speak the truth, for the truth could not 
hurt them.

Twelve months in prison we have spent, - 
This judgement for our sins was sent,
To awake us from our carnal sleep,
And teach us God's commands to keep.

6. There are now four prisoners, who are sail-makers, at work in this 
prison, making hammocks for more prisoners. They are employed by a sail-
maker without, and are allowed a trifle for their labor.



CHAPTER XIV.
DEATH OF THE DOCTOR.--MEN IN THE DRAIN.--SAILING OF ADMIRAL BIRON'S 
FLEET.--DISCOURAGEMENTS.--PRISON IN AN UPROAR.--PUNISHMENT.--REVENGE.--MEN 
IN IRONS.--REV. MR. HEATH.--COLD RECEPTION OF PROPOSITION OF PEACE IN 
AMERICA.--NUMBER OF PRISONERS.--RIGOR OF PRISON DISCIPLINE ABATED.--A 
LETTER FROM THE COMMITTEE OF APPROPRIATION.--GRATITUDE FOR FRIENDS.--
EFFORT TO ESCAPE.--SCHEME CONTINUED.--DISCOVERED.--BLACK-HOLE.--GEN. 
BURGOYNE'S COMPLIMENT TO AMERICAN TROOPS.--UNSUCCESSFUL ATTEMPT TO 
ESCAPE.--FRENCH FRIGATE TAKEN.--BAD MEAT REFUSED.--UNSUCCESSFUL ATTEMPT TO 
ESCAPE.--PREPARATION FOR THE FOURTH OF JULY.--FOURTH OF JULY.--CONTINUED.--
AMPUTATION.--ANOTHER HOLE.--JOHN DAM -ALLOWANCE TO FRENCH PRISONERS.--
ADMIRAL KEPPEL'S FLEET SAIL.--BOYS ATTEMPT TO ESCAPE.

JUNE 7. Sunday. This morning we are informed that our chief doctor is 
dead. He died very suddenly; I believe there are not many in prison who 
will mourn as we have no reason to expect that we can get a worse one. 
This forenoon, after we were turned out, two men of this prison got into a 
drain at one corner of the yard, and were digging, when one of the 
turnkeys present found out that they were at work, and alarmed the guard. 
They were taken and carried to the Black-hole, but we shall find means to 
help them, as we have done others before. The hole in which they were at 
work was commenced five days ago. They had nearly finished the work before 
it was found out. Thus every method we take to make our escape is found 
out before it is accomplished, and our unhappy efforts are not blest.

8. We hear that the fleet of men-of-war, now lying in the Sound, have 
received orders for sailing; also, that the convoy of the Newfoundland 
fleet, while they were out, took a sloop from North Carolina, loaded with 
indigo, bound to France.

9. This morning the fleet sailed, under the command of Admiral Biron; it 
consists of eleven sail of the line, and two frigates. They are bound in 
search of the French fleet, commanded by Count de Estaing, which sailed 
from Toulon; bound to America. To-day Captain Dennis, from Cape Ann, came 
to see us; he was taken in a brig out of Newbury. He informs us that 
Captain Tracy is wholly given over, which I am very sorry to hear. Captain 
Dennis has got his clearance, and is bound directly home, and will carry 
letters for those who desire to send. This afternoon thirteen more 
prisoners came to prison from the ships; they belonged to the same 
privateer with those who came last Thursday. For my own part, I think it 
very poor encouragement for us to see the number of prisoners increase; I 
think it looks very melancholy within these walls, and more and more so 
every day. I am so uneasy that I cannot content myself to do any thing; 
let me seem to be ever so busy, my mind is not fixed upon what I am about. 
It is dwelling upon my situation and condition.

10. To-day several of us wrote letters to send to America by Captain 
Dennis, but he has not yet come after them. When Mr. Sorrey came to bring 
us our money, he told us that orders were come for us to be exchanged for 
the prisoners in France. We put more confidence in what he says, because 
he has been very cautious hitherto of telling us news. To-day the whole 
prison has been in an uproar, occasioned by one or two drunken fellows, 
who, as regularly as they get any money, get drunk with the beer which is 
bought at the gate. One of these was so outrageous that he drew his knife, 
and walked fore and aft the prison, striking and abusing those he met. 
When we were turned out in the afternoon we complained to the agent, and 
he, by a desire of most of the men in prison, was sent to the Black-hole. 
After we delivered him up, he, out of spite, told of a window where some 
one in prison had sawed off a bar.

11. The commissioner has again been in the yard to talk with us.

12. To-day the fleet of Newfoundland fishermen sailed again, and I am 
afraid Captain Dennis has gone and left our letters.

13. There are now several masons and carpenters at work on an old three 
story prison, in another yard, repairing it for the reception of French 
prisoners, The man who was delivered up to the agent, a few days ago, is 
put in irons. He is the only one that has been put in irons since we came 
to prison.

14. The Rev. Mr. Heath has returned home from London, having been gone 
nearly three months; and yesterday afternoon he came to see us. He tells 
us that he has been informed that many of us pay no regard for the 
Sabbath, which is too true; for it is equally the same with many in this 
prison, whether it be the Sabbath or any other day. They will run about 
the yard, and play, and curse, and swear, and blaspheme, the greater part 
of the time. Many of them are the most wicked and profane men that I ever 
saw or heard of; but there are a great number of steady men. Mr. Heath 
gave us a few books, and he says that he has a number more to give to such 
as will make good use of them.

15. We hear that the reconciliation bill, which was sent to America from 
England, last February, met with a very cool reception, both by the 
American and Howe's troops, and was even treated with the greatest 
indignation by both. General Howe, we hear, is expected home soon, and 
General Clinton is to take the command at Philadelphia. We hear that there 
is now a Spanish fleet of twenty one sail of the line riding at anchor in 
Cadez, ready for sea. We have also heard it reported of late, that the 
American army is so destitute of clothing that they are obliged to strip 
the women of their petticoats to cover them. These things are put in the 
papers to amuse the public; but we know better; it is inconsistent with 
reason, and utterly false.

16. To-day we received a letter from one Captain Harris in Portsmouth 
prison; he writes to us that there are two hundred and fifty prisoners in 
France, and that we may depend upon it, that he had it from good 
authority, that we are to be exchanged for them, as far as they will go. 
But in this prison we are very faithless; we have been flattered too long 
for our profit. I heard some days ago that there were six hundred 
prisoners in France. There are now in these prisons three hundred and 
sixteen American prisoners.

17. We hear that Parliament is prorogued until the middle of July. I 
suppose by that time they expect to hear from the commissioners.

18. Yesterday, after we were turned out and the doors shut, three small 
boys entered through the grates into the prison and damaged several 
hammocks, for which, this morning, their ship's company tied them up and 
whipped them. Today four men came out of the Black-hole, who went in on 
the 31 st of May; they have been in only eighteen days; the reason of 
their not tarrying longer is, a commissioner being here from London, they 
petitioned him for pardon, and he granted it. There are only three left in 
the Black-hole now.

19. I hear, privately, that the soldiers have orders not to fire on the 
prisoners if they see any making their escape; to fire only clear powder 
to alarm the guard; and they are not to strike any of us, nor offer a 
bayonet to us: thus their rigor has been abated since Burgoyne has been 
taken.

20. This forenoon, Rev. Mr. Heath came and delivered us a letter, which we 
found to be from a gentleman who is one of the committee of appropriation 
for the money raised by subscription for the relief of American prisoners 
in this country. He desired that we should send him the name, former 
residence, and occupation, of all the prisoners; he assures us that there 
is a prospect of an exchange for some, if not all of us; he also desired 
that we should keep good order, and by no means attempt to elope. I lack 
words to express my gratitude to these gentlemen; for had it not been for 
our numerous friends, doubtless many of us had now been in our graves.

21. Sunday. Notwithstanding our friend's advice, we have a plan in 
agitation for making our escape, and are resolved to go on with it. Our 
design is to get into a drain at the corner of the yard, where the last 
hole was found out, and dig up on the other side of the wall. For this 
purpose, yesterday afternoon three men took down a piece of wall under a 
window, in an old prison adjoining this drain. These men got into the 
prison and the wall was put up again, and plastered up with dirt. They dug 
into the drain and tarried there all night and till after we were let out 
in the morning, when we let them out. Last night, when we were counted 
into prison, three boys went in first and got out at the window, and were 
counted twice, to make up the number.

22. Last night and to-day this scheme was carried on as before. This 
afternoon Captain Dennis and Captain Talford came and took our letters. 
They have got their clearance and are bound directly to France. I sent a 
letter by Captain D. to my father. Captain Dennis' hands consisted of nine 
Beverly men; they are all kept on board the men-of-war, as they have 
served all others during the war taken in merchantmen, except the 
captains, and them they clear.

23. Last night the scheme was carried on the same as before till about 8 
o'clock in the evening, when they were discovered by the guard and sent to 
the Black-hole; after which they went into the officers' prison, where 
were Captain Bunten and Captain Boardman walking; they were ordered to 
bed, and they refused to go, for which they carried them to the Black-
hole. This afternoon one of the prisoners was sent down to the prison 
hospital; he had been so sick and weak for some days past, that when we 
were turned out into the yard, and the door locked, (they having driven 
him out,) as he could not walk, we were obliged to lead him. When out, he 
could not stand, but was forced to lay down on the ground; and when down, 
could not rise up without help.

24. Last night, there were two more carried to the Black-hole from the 
officers' prison, for not being in bed when the guard came in, which was 
between nine and ten o'clock. The officers in prison have drawn up a 
petition to send to the board, to know if Mr. Coudry, the prison keeper, 
has orders to confine any one for not being in hammock at nine or ten 
o'clock in the evening.

25. According to the newspapers, General Burgoyne gives the American 
troops a brave name; he says that the troops he had at his command were as 
good as double the number of any other troops the King has, and that the 
American troops were as good as his, and would fight as well.

26. Yesterday afternoon, while the guard was turning us into prison, four 
that were in the Black-hole, and one that was in the hospital, broke out 
through the drain, and got a boat a quarter of a mile off, but they were 
soon discovered, and pursued by the guard. The militia were raised, and 
they were all taken in about half an hour and brought back. This 
afternoon, those five, with all the rest, were sent up into this yard. 
Those who came to prison last had clothes given them, which were allowed 
by government. I received a pair of breeches, as I had not received any 
before since I came to prison. This morning a French cutter was brought in 
here, taken by an English cutter; and at the same time two French frigates 
were taken, which, I hear, have arrived in Portsmouth. Six of the wounded 
Frenchmen were brought from the cutter to prison, and put in the hospital.

27. This afternoon two of the officers in prison had an invitation by a 
sentry to go over the wall, which they did, but were discovered, taken, 
and sent to the Black-hole.

28. We hear that the Arathusa frigate was dismasted in the engagement with 
the two French frigates above mentioned.

29. Joseph Barnum, one of our company, who has been unwell ever since he 
had the small-pox, more than twelve months ago, has now got the white 
swelling in his knee, which the doctor thinks will occasion his death, if 
not cut off; and he is so weak that I fear he is not able to undergo the 
operation.

30. For a long time we have been imposed upon by the agent and butcher, by 
sending us bad meat. Yesterday there were maggots found in our beef, and 
we told the two butchers who go into the cook-room to inspect our meat - 
that if it was the same to-day as yesterday, not to cut it up. 
Accordingly, they went out this morning, and as the meat proved to be very 
poor, our butchers refused to cut it up. Upon this, the agent ordered the 
cook to cut it up, which he did, and cooked it. At twelve o'clock the meat 
was brought in, in a tub; but we had all agreed not to take any of it. The 
agent told us if we would accept of it to-day, as it was cooked, we should 
have no more like it, but have better in future. He has, however, told us 
these stories too often, and we thought if we took it to-day, we should 
have the same another day; therefore we positively refused it; for we can 
live as well upon the fat that we have gathered from the donation, two 
days, as we could seven months ago upon all our allowance.

July 1. Last night six men in this prison attempted to make their escape; 
they got out at a window into the yard, but as they were trying to get 
over the wall, they were discovered by a sentry, so they returned and got 
in at the window where they got out.

2. To-day forty-seven more French prisoners were brought to prison, but 
they were all foremast hands; for all the French officers are allowed to 
go on parole. To-day the New Duke, a ship of ninety guns, dropped down in 
the Sound, in order for sailing. She is a new ship, and has been launched 
since I came to prison.

3. As it is two years to-morrow since the Declaration of Independence in 
America, we are resolved, although we are prisoners, to bear it in 
remembrance; and for that end, several of us have employed ourselves to-
day in making cockades. They were drawn on a piece of paper, cut in the 
form of a half-moon, with the thirteen stripes, a Union, and thirteen 
stars, painted out, and upon the top is printed in large capital letters, 
"Independence," and at the bottom "Liberty or Death," or some appeal to 
Heaven.

4. This morning when we were let out, we all hoisted the American flag 
upon our hats, except about five or six, who did not choose to wear them. 
The agent, seeing us all with those papers on our hats, asked for one to 
look at, which was sent him, and it happened to be one which had 
"Independence " written upon the top, and at the bottom, "Liberty or 
Death." He, not knowing the meaning of it, and thinking we were going to 
force the guard, directly ordered a double sentry at the gate. Nothing 
happened till one o'clock; we then drew up in thirteen divisions, and each 
division gave three cheers, till it came to the last, when we all cheered 
together, all of which was conducted with the greatest regularity. We kept 
our colors hoisted till sunset, and then took them down.

5. The carpenters and masons have been at work for some days past, 
repairing an old prison in the yard.

8. This afternoon, Rev. Mr. Heath came to see us, and gave us several 
books; he informs us that General Howe has arrived home, and that the 
King's troops have left Philadelphia.

9. We are told that Captain Dennis and Captain Talford, with five or six 
other American captains, bought a small vessel to carry them to France, 
and yesterday morning set sail.

10. To-day Joseph Barnum, one of our company, and one of the French 
prisoners that was wounded, had their thighs cut off. Barnum has been 
unwell more than a year; be has had a white swelling in his knee.

11. We have a hole now in hand, which we thought this afternoon was found 
out, but it happened to be one within a few feet of it, which was 
discovered some time ago, and was of no great consequence.

12. Sunday. To-day Captain Lee received a letter from Portsmouth prison, 
from Jonn Dame, a Newbury man. He informs us that he was taken with 
Captain Dennis in a new privateer brig, of sixteen guns, that sailed from 
Boston on the 25th of May. On the 30th of the same month he was taken by 
the same frigate that General Howe came home in.

13. Since the Frenchmen came to prison we have been of considerable help 
to them, as we have now plenty of provisions, and many of us more than we 
want to eat. What we have to spare we give to them, and we daily give them 
more or less. Their allowance of bread is six pounds to four of them per 
day, which is one and a half pounds per man; but we rebels are allowed 
only one pound of bread a man, per day, from government. The other 
allowances of the French is the same as ours.

14. Admiral Keppel has lately sailed from St. Helena with about twenty-
eight sail of the line and six frigates; and a French fleet has sailed 
from Brest; but I cannot learn the exact number of ships of which the 
fleet consists. It is expected, whenever these two fleets meet, there will 
be a bloody engagement, for England's chief dependence is in her fleet.

15. It is twenty months to-day since I left Newbury. To-day Admiral 
Keppel's fleet was seen from the prison to pass by this harbor, and it is 
expected that two or three ships from this port will join them. This 
afternoon four boys tried to make their escape; they got over the wall 
into the Frenchmen's yard, and hid in their hammocks, but were soon 
discovered, and taken.

16. We hear that Parliament is prorogued until some time in September 
next. To-day the Sudbury, a ship of seventy-four guns, sailed to join 
Admiral Keppel's fleet, which now appears off this port. The guard now 
consists partly of the Cornish, partly of the Somersetshire, and partly of 
the Devonshire militia, and some of the thirteenth regiment, which is the 
regiment that has guarded us ever since we came to prison.



CHAPTER XV.
BAD CONDUCT IN PRISON.--ITS CONSEQUENCES.--RULES -PRISON QUIET.--DIGGING 
OUT.--FOUR ESCAPE.--GENERAL ALARM.--FIRE, AND OFFICERS ESCAPE.--
DISCOVERY.--PRISON IN AN UPROAR.--ITS CAUSE AND CURE.--SAD NEWS FROM 
PORTSMOUTH.--PAY-DAY.--DRINK.--TROUBLE.--INVITATION TO GO OVER THE WALL.--
ADMIRAL KEPPEL RETURNS.--ENGLAND'S PRIDE HUMBLED.--FALSE REPORTS.--STUDIES 
NAVIGATION.--A GOOD TURN.--A CURIOUS PLAN FOR ESCAPE.--DETECTION.--BATTLE 
REPORT.--WOUNDED IN THE HOSPITAL.--EFFORT TO ESCAPE BY SWIMMING.--
DISTURBANCE IN PRISON.--PRISONERS RETURN.--DIFFICULTY OF ESCAPE.--
INVITATION TO JOIN THE FLEET.--THIRTY JOIN.--BRAVE AMERICANS PRESSED TO 
THE SHIPS OF WAR.

JULY 17. There are a number of very quarrelsome, lawless men in prison, 
who have been the occasion of a great deal of mutiny and disturbance 
amongst us, which has obtained for us the ill-will of our friends; and we 
have been informed that unless there is an alteration among us, our 
donations will be stopped; so that we thought it proper to have Articles 
among ourselves. These were drawn up to-day; they forbid all gambling, and 
blackguarding, which have caused great disturbance in the yard, and 
occasioned much fighting. They also forbid any improper language to any 
officer or soldier, who are now, or may hereafter be, appointed to preside 
over us. These articles were read in the yard before all the prisoners, 
and then stuck up in prison, and two men out of each ship's company were 
appointed to see them put into execution.

18. We hear that Count D'Estaing's fleet has arrived in Boston. I learn, 
also, by the papers, that twenty-five sail of the line are now laying at 
single anchor in Cadiz, ready for sea. Their place of destination is not 
known.

19. Sunday. As there have been many books given in lately, the prison is 
much stiller of Sunday than formerly, and the people are much better 
employed. This forenoon, as some were in a drain digging, they were heard 
by the guard, but they got out before the guard reached the hole.

20. Wet, rainy weather, so that we kept house most of the day. There has 
been little or no rain, for two months, until last night and to-day. The 
ground has been so parched for want of rain, that the fields look like the 
fall of the year.

21. Last night about nine o'clock, it being very dark and rainy, we opened 
a hole at the back side of the prison, large enough for two men to go out 
abreast. This hole has been ready for some time past - they have only been 
waiting for a dark, stormy night; when they broke ground, the pavement 
fell in, and four men jumped out and got off. A sentry within ten feet of 
the hole, saw them, and immediately alarmed the guard; so that no more 
could escape. The guard came in, and while they were in prison the guard-
house chimney took fire; upon which the drum beat to arms, and fire was 
cried. The cry was that the prisons were on fire, and the prisoners were 
breaking out. After this was over, the guard came in again and took nine 
of the prisoners and put them in the Black-hole, because they were up and 
had their clothes on. To-day, about one o'clock, four of the officers from 
the officers' prison got over the wall into the hospital yard; two of whom 
got out, but were soon discovered and taken. The other two were taken in 
the yard, and all put into the Black-hole last night, but came out to-day.

22. Yesterday noon, another hole was begun in this prison, and at night 
when we were turned in again, they went to work until nine or ten o'clock; 
but were then discovered by the guard, who immediately came in and carried 
two to the Black-hole. In the afternoon, they took two boys at work in the 
drain before mentioned; and to-day two of those who went out night before 
last, were brought back, and another came back of his own accord.

23. Most of this day the prison has been in an uproar, occasioned by a few 
men that will not be conformable to the rules and articles that we have 
amongst ourselves, but threaten to take them down and destroy them.

24. This morning we found that our articles were abused, and we took three 
of the before-mentioned men and tied them up to a post in the prison, and 
poured cold water down their arms and neck, for the space of half an hour. 
One of the three was afterwards complained of to the agent, who ordered 
him to be put in irons, and separated from us.

This afternoon, six more Frenchmen were brought to prison.

25. Yesterday a ship of seventy-four guns, and a frigate, arrived in the 
Sound, from Admiral Biron's fleet, with two hundred and forty-six sick men 
on board. The occasion of this ship's coming home was that she had sprung 
a leak, and the frigate came with her for fear that she might founder at 
sea.

26. Sunday. I daily expect to hear of an engagement between the English 
and French fleets, as we have heard several accounts of their being seen 
in sight of each other.

27. Cool weather for some days past, which is much better for us, as so 
many of us are confined together.

28. This afternoon we received two letters from Portsmouth prison - one 
from John Dame, the other from Benjamin Tappan. They give us a very 
disagreeable account of thirty-nine young men belonging to Newbury, who 
were lost with Capt. Tracy. Many of their names were mentioned in the 
letter; some of them I was intimately acquainted with. I could rather wish 
them in prison with us, than entirely lost.

29. This morning a large three-decker dropped down into the Sound, in 
order for sailing. Also, we have the London Evening Post, which informs us 
of the Lively, twenty gun ship, and a frigate, being taken. The last paper 
before this gives an account of two cutters being taken. They were 
captured by the French and carried to France.

30. Yesterday was pay-day, and there are a number of men who make it a 
practice to get drunk every opportunity, and two men last night, who were 
in liquor, struck and abused two Frenchmen, who were taken in the American 
service, and the majority of those in prison who were Americans, took 
their part, and complained to the officer of the guard. The offenders were 
sent to the Black-hole, and this morning we took the Frenchmen up stairs 
with us, where they will not be abused any more.

31. Yesterday, some in this prison had an invitation by a sentry to go 
over the wall, but as it was in the day time, they thought it not proper; 
but at twelve o'clock at night, the same sentry came to the same place and 
gave a signal, upon which seven men went out at a window where one of the 
iron bars were loosened, ready to be pulled out. After these seven men got 
out, the sentry alarmed the guard, and four of the number were soon taken. 
If they had waited a few moments longer, we should have had a hole in the 
back side of the prison, for a number more to have got out. The guard tell 
us that they have orders to fire at anyone they see getting over the wall, 
and also, that the soldier who let these men go is now under confinement, 
and will be either whipped or shot.

This forenoon, Admiral Keppel's fleet arrived in the Sound. The greatest 
part of this fleet now lay where we can see them from this prison. We hear 
that they have had an engagement with the French fleet, but have not 
learned the particulars. To-day, also, a dozen more Frenchmen were brought 
to prison. Six came out of the Black-hole; among whom was Captain Lee. 
While be was there, he received a letter from General Burgoyne. There are 
six remaining there still.

August 1. All that I can say to-day concerning the fleet, is, that several 
of the ships are very much shattered. Two or three are now lying on their 
beam-ends, in the Sound, and the boats have been passing and re-passing 
from them ever since they came in. We have seen a vast number of men come 
from the ships, in boats, whom we suppose to be wounded, as we are 
informed that there are between seven and eight hundred wounded men in the 
royal hospital, who were taken out of the fleet. This is the fleet which 
they have been raising for the two years past, concerning which they have 
boasted so much, and which they have called the terror of France. This was 
England's pride - the fleet that was to sweep the seas, and accomplish 
such wonders. Alas! many of them are disappointed of their expectations, 
for in their first engagement they were worsted.

2. A man in prison received a letter from his brother, who is in the 
fleet. He informed him that he was in the engagement, and there was only 
twelve sail of the English fleet that engaged the French fleet; but I 
suppose that he was not allowed to write the particulars.

3. For these two months past, since we have been allowed pens, ink and 
paper, I have employed them to as much advantage as possible. Most of the 
time, I have busied myself in writing and cyphering. I have had as much 
writing to do as I could accomplish; and to-day I sent out to buy books 
and instruments to learn navigation. Today a number more Frenchmen were 
brought to prison.

4. To-day one of the two shattered ships that lay in the Sound warped up, 
went to Ammoors, and the other lays opposite to our prison. To-day I began 
to study navigation.

5. A gentleman, who came to see us to-day, gave in half a guinea, to be 
drank by the prisoners; but we thought it better to divide it among the 
sick of the respective crews.

6. The masons and carpenters have been at work repairing an old prison in 
the yard; and this afternoon, as one of the laborers was at work, be 
pulled off his coat and hung it up against the prison, in the yard, and 
left the basket, that he had to bring slate in, with it. One of the 
prisoners went and put on the coat, and put the basket over his head, and 
went to the gate; and the turnkey, thinking it to be the laborer, let him 
out. As he was walking through the street, the laborer met him, knew his 
coat, and ran and alarmed the guard, who went in pursuit of him and soon 
took him.

7. We have been waiting impatiently to hear from the commissioners, for 
some time past, hoping that they would settle affairs; but we have had a 
flying report for some weeks, that they are likely to return as they went, 
without doing any thing. When they first sailed, it was the opinion of 
many in prison, that they were invested with full power to settle it; but 
soon after, we were convinced to the contrary.

8. From the Exeter paper we learn that there was only twenty-five sail of 
the line of battle-ships that engaged the French fleet, and that they had 
but five hundred and six men killed and wounded; but the royal hospital, 
where the wounded are, is but a small-arms' shot from this prison, and we 
have been repeatedly and credibly informed by those who reside in the 
neighborhood, that there is upwards of a thousand wounded men in the 
hospital, and a cart is seen to carry away the dead every day. The 
engagement took place on the 27th of July.

9. Sunday. Last evening, as four men went to empty their tubs, two of them 
took to the water to swim away, but were soon taken up. The commissioner 
who was here a few weeks ago, came again to-day, to regulate affairs.

10. This afternoon the guard came in and turned us all out, and locked the 
doors, which aggravated many, who wanted to be in prison - some reading, 
some writing, some cyphering, and some studying navigation. Some went and 
picked the locks, opened the doors, and went in; upon this the guard came 
in again, and turned us all out and placed a sentry at the prison doors. 
Two men, out of spite, went to fighting, and it took most of the guard to 
separate them. Soon after, another fight happened, and about the same time 
the commissioner came into the yard, and ordered one of them to be sent to 
the Black-hole. In all this disturbance, the officers of the guard 
appeared very mild and calm; they are officers in the militia. Most of 
those that have been on guard since we have been guarded by the militia, 
have behaved very well towards us, and very much like gentlemen, as they 
are chiefly gentlemen of fortune. Today the other three men were brought 
back that made their escape from prison on the 30th of July, in the 
evening.

11. Those who were brought back yesterday, were sent up out of the Black-
hole to-day. They tell us that they would not go out again if the gates 
were set open; for they said it is a thing impossible, to get off the 
island. While they were out, they saw a number of ships belonging to 
Admiral Keppel's fleet, which lay where we cannot see them from the 
prison, that were very much shattered and disabled in the engagement.

12. To-day we were all examined, as of late has been customary once a 
month, to see who need clothes, and who do not.

13. Those who wanted shoes, were served to-day. These are allowed by 
government.

14. This morning, three French prizes were brought into this port - a 
ship, a brig, and a sloop.

15. This forenoon some officers from the ships, who were sent by Admiral 
Keppel, came here to take a list of the names of those who have a mind to 
go on board the men-of-war, and thirty in number gave in their names. 
Among the number were some Americans, but they were chiefly old 
countrymen. The officers brought with them an American who was taken with 
Captain Martingale in the first of the disturbance. His officers gave him 
a guinea to treat his countrymen.

16. Sunday. To-day another officer came from the ships. He, also, came for 
men.

17. We hear that Admiral Keppel and his fleet, are to sail in a few days.

18. This afternoon there were five Americans brought to prison. They were 
all taken in different vessels. Some of them belonged to armed ships, 
others to merchantmen. Some of them have been taken this six months, and 
have been hurried about from ship to ship, and used scandalously. They had 
a bounty offered them to go on board this fleet, now lying in the Sound, 
but they, like brave Americans, refused, and chose rather to come to 
prison. They were sent here without being examined, or committed by any 
justice of the peace.



CHAPTER XVI.
FRENCH PRISONERS.--ADMIRAL KEPPEL SAILS.--ANOTHER ATTEMPT TO ESCAPE.--
AMERICANS BROUGHT BACK.--ANOTHER HOLE.--ADMIRAL BIRON'S FLEET.--A GATE.--
NUMBER OF FRENCH PRISONERS.--GENERAL CLINTON'S RETREAT FROM PHILADELPHIA.--
ELIAS HART DIED.--FEVER AND AGUE PREVAILS.--A DISCHARGE.--CAPTAIN BURNEL 
AND WIFE.--ESCAPE FROM PORTSMOUTH.--FRENCH PRIVATEER.--LETTER FROM 
PORTSMOUTH.--DISTRIBUTION OF CLOTHING.--HOT PRESS.--LETTER TO CAPTAIN 
LEE.--FRENCH PRISONERS INCREASE.--THOMAS PILLAR.--FEVER AND AGUE 
PREVAILS.--A VOTE FOR MONEY.--POOR BEER.--DRUNKENNESS AND FIGHTING.

AUGUST 19. This afternoon an officer from the ships came for those five 
men who were brought here yesterday. When they found out that they were to 
be carried on board the ships, as they were advised by the people in the 
yard not to go out at the gate, without they were dragged out, like brave 
men, they resisted, and swore that they would never lift a hand to do any 
thing on board of King George's ships - neither would they go out of the 
yard. As the key was turned upon them, the guard was called in, and the 
officer of the guard and agent plead with them, telling them that they 
were put in here through mistake; and being over-persuaded by them, they 
went out.

20. Another French prize was brought in here to-day.

21. It seems that some of the sick and wounded men that came out of 
Admiral Keppel's fleet, are recovered. They have made several attempts to 
escape, and they are obliged to keep a guard here to prevent them from 
running away.

22. Early this morning, part of Admiral Keppel's fleet sailed. Last night, 
and this morning, a number of Frenchmen were brought to this prison. This 
afternoon, Captain Lee received a letter from General Burgoyne; he wrote 
him that he would do all he could to get bail for him.

23. Sunday. Early this morning, the remainder of Admiral Keppel's fleet 
sailed, except a few ships that are not ready. The squadron that sailed 
yesterday morning, appeared this morning in sight, off the harbor. I 
suppose they are all bound on a cruise together.

24. The men that gave in their names, to go on board the men-of-war, are 
apprehensive that they will not be allowed to do so, and last evening some 
of them went to work to try to dig out, but upon breaking ground they were 
discovered, and the sentry discharged two guns into the hole, but they 
injured no one.

25. To-day, four of the five men who were brought to this prison on the 
18th of this month, and carried away again the next day, were back because 
they would not enter. On number was an Italian. He was put in a separate 
yard, with the Frenchmen. Also, to-day a captain of an armed vessel, that 
was captured by an American privateer in the North Channel, came here to 
see Captain Lee. He informed him that be gave bonds, for a large sum of 
money, to return to America as a prisoner, unless he could get Captain Lee 
exchanged for him. This man is bound for London.

26. This afternoon a prize was brought in here, which proved to be a large 
French West Indiaman, a ship of about four hundred tons. Also, a number of 
French prisoners were brought to prison.

27. We learn from the papers, that the Parliament is prorogued until 
Thursday the first of October, We also learn from the same source, that 
the damage to the French fleet, in the late engagement, was very 
inconsiderable.

28. This morning the guard discovered another hole in the prison, which 
was begun a few days ago; but as yet there has been but little said about 
it.

29. We have a paper, from which we learn that Admiral Biron's fleet that 
sailed from this port on the 9th of June last, bound to America, upon 
their passage, met with a gale of wind which separated the fleet and 
dismasted several of their ships. The Albion has arrived in Lisbon, 
dismasted. She was one of the fleet.

30. Some of us are sick with fever and ague.

31. Some carpenters are now at work building a new Black-hole, in an old 
prison in this yard, that has lately been repaired.

September 1. It is the opinion of some in this prison, that all the 
American prisoners in this yard will be removed to some other prison, to 
make room for the French prisoners, as there are now about four hundred 
Frenchmen in another yard; and there are a great number of French officers 
gone into the country, on parole.

2. This afternoon, Mr. Heath and Mr. Sorrey came to see us, and brought 
bad news for our officers, in a letter from the committee in London. The 
contents read nearly as follows: -

"Not from any prejudice or alteration in our affection for you, but 
fearing that you will remain in prison another winter, and the money 
raised for your support be expended, we thought proper to deduct two 
shillings per week from those officers who have hitherto been allowed five 
shillings; the other officers and privates, to remain as before."

3. Nothing remarkable.

4. To-day four American gentlemen came to see us; one of whom belonged to 
Baltimore. He is a young man, and was bound to France to finish his 
education, when he was taken. He left America since General Clinton 
retreated from Philadelphia to New York, and he gave us a very 
satisfactory account of the battle - different from what was reported to 
us before. This young man had liberty to converse with us nearly two hours.

5. This morning, Elias Hart, one of Captain Lee's company, died of 
consumption in the prison hospital. He is the sixth man that has died 
since I came to prison. Of late, our sick have fared much better than 
formerly. As we all draw money once a week, each respective crew 
contributes, weekly, for their sick, which supplies them with every 
necessary; so, that of late, there is always some money in the bank for 
the use of the sick. Since two shillings per week has been deducted from 
the officers, who formerly received five, most of them, from choice, 
receive what they are allowed from subscription, in money, and draw no 
other allowance than what is afforded by government. They can buy 
provisions as often as they want them, in public market, at the gate.

6. Sunday. This afternoon, three American captains came to see us. They 
have been taken some months, and are bound directly home. - Among the 
number, there is one Captain Potter, belonging to Boston.

7. Several of our men have been taken sick with fever and ague, within a 
few days, and a great number in prison are unwell.

8. This afternoon, thirteen American prisoners were brought to prison. 
They were lately brought round from Liverpool, and are the remainder of 
Captain Ravel's crew.

9. To-day, one Thomas Pillar, of Portsmouth, visited us. He was one of the 
five who were brought here on the 18th of August; he was carried on board 
the men-of-war the next day, having been taken in a merchantman. They kept 
him for a time, but he has since received his discharge, and intends to 
return home. Several letters were delivered to him to carry, and he is to 
call and get more.

10. This afternoon, Rev. Mr. Heath came to see us, in company with a young 
American gentleman, who has been taken, lately, on his passage to France. 
Our agent, or prison-keeper, being sick and absent, Mr. Heath came into 
prison and discoursed nearly two hours with the officers.

11. We have accounts in the papers, that Winchester castle is to be 
repaired for the reception of one hundred American prisoners - a larger 
number than they now have in England.

12. Captain Burnel, who is a prisoner here, taken in the American service, 
and has a wife and family in England, has received a letter from his wife, 
informing him that she has been turned out of doors, wholly on account of 
his being in the American service. The prisoners are about raising money 
for her relief.

13. Sunday. This afternoon, Captain Rols received a letter from Captain 
Harris, in Portsmouth prison. He informs him that forty-five officers and 
eleven privates, had made their escape lately, out of that prison, twenty-
five of whom were brought back - the other thirty-one had got off.

14. We are informed, that last evening, a French privateer was brought in 
here, with eighty prisoners on board, and the sailors having got a number 
of prostitutes, and gone below, drinking, the Frenchmen rose, closed the 
hatches on them, cut the cable and went off with the vessel.

15. To-day, several letters were received here, from the prisoners at 
Portsmouth. They inform us that they have received a letter from Captain 
Cowes, in France, who made his escape from that prison. He writes that he 
has been at Paris, and conversed with Dr. Franklin, and told him our 
situation. His answer was, that he expected orders from America for the 
release of all of us. - This agrees with a letter which was received by 
the prisoners in Portsmouth, from a gentleman in London. In conversation 
with Mr. Heartley, who is a great speaker in the House of Commons, he 
informed him, that it lay in Dr. Franklin's power to exchange us when he 
pleases. It seems by their writing, that they give credit to the report 
but our faith has been so long tried, and we have been flattered so often, 
many in prison will not believe that they are going, until they see the 
prison gates open.

16. Considerable rain in the first part of the day. I believe there has 
not been two hours steady rain, before to-day, for nearly three months. 
Today some jackets, shirts and stockings were given us by the agent, by 
order of the Board. I received one shirt, which is the only one I have 
received from Government, since I have been a prisoner.

17. The West India fleet that put in here a few days ago, sailed to-day, 
bound up channel. We heard that most of their hands were pressed, and that 
they were manned by men-of-wars-men. Today I finished my studies in 
navigation.

18. To-day Captain Lee received a letter from a man that was here a few 
weeks ago, and who informed him that he was taken by an American 
privateer, and came home upon condition that he was to return to America, 
if he could not get Captain Lee exchanged for him. He now writes that he 
has done his utmost, but it is impossible for any man to get out, so long 
as this Act is in force.

19. To-day about forty French prisoners were brought to prison, who were 
captured in a privateer. There are now about five hundred French prisoners 
here.

20. To-day Thomas Pillar came again to see us. He informed us that he 
expects to sail this afternoon. They are first bound to Ireland, to join a 
fleet; from thence, to New York. A number in prison sent letters by him. I 
sent one to my father. He also informs us that he is to work for his 
passage, and that he has no money to purchase his sea stores. We collected 
about sixteen shillings, and gave it to him.

21. I expected that Admiral Keppel's fleet would have come in before this 
time, on account of the sun's crossing the line; but they are not yet in, 
so that I am in daily expectation of hearing that there has been an 
engagement between the two fleets.

To-day, eight more of our sick were carried into the prison hospital. They 
are attacked with fever and ague, and a number more are very unwell with 
the same complaint; and I am afraid it will be very sickly among us, 
unless cold weather sets in very soon.

22. To-day is King George's coronation day, and between twelve and one 
o'clock the fort and garrison fired a salute. There was but very little 
firing to what there was last year, on account of there being but few 
ships in the port. To-day, also, one Captain Smith came to see us. He 
belongs to Portsmouth. He was taken in a merchantman bound to the West 
Indies, and brought in here. His men are all put on board the men-of-war; 
but he has got his liberty, and is bound home. A great number in prison 
will send letters by him.

23. There are a great many in prison, who contemplate having the beef 
which we receive from subscription, and the soap, tobacco, and oatmeal, 
and the herbs which we have in our broth, all taken off, and receive a 
white loaf and some money instead of them. In order to ascertain the mind 
of the majority, we all drew up in the yard and passed a vote, which was 
in favor of the change; but whether the gentlemen, Mr. Heath and Mr. 
Sorrey, will agree to it or not, we do not know; or whether the agent will 
allow the money to come into the yard, is not yet determined. I was for 
receiving the provisions, fearing that if the money was allowed to come 
into the yard, it would be attended with many bad consequences - too many 
to enumerate here.

24. This afternoon, Captain Smith came to see us again, and took our 
letters. I sent one by him to my father. To-day our small beer was very 
bad, and we refused to take it; they afterwards got some that was a very 
little better; but a great part in prison carried theirs and turned it 
over the gate, before the eyes of the prison officers, chosing rather, to 
drink water. The prison has been in an uproar all day, it being donation 
day. Several in prison became intoxicated, and went to fighting; but after 
a few battles the prison was again quiet.