The first attack was against Fort Fornelle, which was cannonaded by two of the ships, and fell after a contest of four hours. A detachment having been pushed to Cittadello, the capital, it surrendered without resistance. The batteries were opened on the works defending the town of Port Mahon, upon the 17th of September, when, after a short but brisk fire, and the loss of only six men, a lodgment was effected under the very walls of St. Philip's Castle; and next day the enemy capitulated. Thus was this strong fortress, and important island, gained by a force of only 2400 men, while the garrison consisted of more than one thousand Soldiers, with upwards of 100 pieces of cannon mounted, and having every thing requisite for sustaining a long siege. Sir George Byng arrived at Lisbon upon the 14th of October, having her Majesty the Queen of Portugal on board, but, although many other objects of service were in contemplation, nothing farther was attempted during 1708. CHAP. IV. Early in 1709, a plan was formed to attack Port Royal in the province of Nova Scotia, at that time in possession of the French.--For this purpose a body of 400 Marines was embarked, and the expedition was entrusted to the joint conduct of Colonel Nicholson of the land forces, and Captain Martin of the navy.--The squadron proceeded for Boston, where they were to be reinforced by some ships, and such provincial auxiliaries, as might be ready, or were necessary for this intended conquest. Here a Council of War was held, which arranged the future operations of a body, now consisting of 2000 men.--They reached their destination upon the 24th of September, and the proper ground for landing having been reconnoitred, the debarkation took place on the following day.--The enemy opened a heavy fire upon the boats from their guns and mortars, but with little effect. A bomb-vessel drifting up with the tide of flood within reach of the Fort, rendered important service during the two first days, which was spiritedly aided by the military exertions on shore. Upon the first day of October, the Governor of the Fortress having expressed an inclination to surrender upon terms, they were taken into consideration and agreed to. Here a Garrison of Marines was left. Having thus reduced the place, it was now named Annapolis Royal, in honor of her Majesty, under whose auspices it was conquered. CHAP. V. The British Nation, ever true to its Allies, often has had cause to complain of a want of this reciprocal honour. Limited in my scope, it belongs not to me to develope errors, and far less to expose such as have arisen from high causes. But, in vindication of the military fame of my country and my corps, I have to regret, that the zealous and gallant services of both should have been unavailingly exerted in the unprosperous views of King Charles upon the Spanish monarchy.