The English gained a notable victory in the summer of 1745 when they captured the formidable fortress of Louisburg, which had been built by the French on the eastern coast of Cape Breton Island. News of the victory created the greatest joy throughout the colonies. LOUISBURG [June 17, 1745] Neptune and Mars in Council sate To humble France's pride, Whose vain unbridled insolence All other Powers defied. The gods having sat in deep debate Upon the puzzling theme, Broke up perplexed and both agreed Shirley should form the scheme. Shirley, with Britain's glory fired, Heaven's favoring smile implored: "Let Louisburg return,"--he said, "Unto its ancient Lord." At once the Camp and Fleet were filled With Britain's loyal sons, Whose hearts are filled with generous strife T' avenge their Country's wrongs. With Liberty their breasts are filled, Fair Liberty's their shield; 'Tis Liberty their banner waves And hovers o'er their field. Louis!--behold the unequal strife, Thy slaves in walls immured! While George's sons laugh at those walls-- Of victory assured. One key to your oppressive pride Your Western Dunkirk's gone; So Pepperell and Warren bade And what they bade was done! Forbear, proud Prince, your gasconades, Te Deums cease to sing,-- When Britains fight the _Grand Monarque_ Must yield to Britain's King. BOSTON, December, 1745. Louis XV felt the loss of Louisburg keenly, and in 1746, to avenge its fall, sent a strong fleet, under Admiral D'Anville, against Boston. The town was terror-stricken; but after many mishaps the fleet was finally dispersed by a great storm off Cape Sable, on October 15, 1746, and such of the ships as lived through it were forced to make their way back to France. A BALLAD OF THE FRENCH FLEET [October 15, 1746] MR. THOMAS PRINCE, _loquitur_ A fleet with flags arrayed Sailed from the port of Brest, And the Admiral's ship displayed The signal: "Steer southwest." For this Admiral D'Anville Had sworn by cross and crown To ravage with fire and steel Our helpless Boston Town. There were rumors in the street, In the houses there was fear Of the coming of the fleet, And the danger hovering near. And while from mouth to mouth Spread the tidings of dismay, I stood in the Old South, Saying humbly: "Let us pray! "O Lord! we would not advise; But if in thy Providence A tempest should arise To drive the French Fleet hence, And scatter it far and wide, Or sink it in the sea, We should be satisfied, And thine the glory be." This was the prayer I made, For my soul was all on flame, And even as I prayed The answering tempest came; It came with a mighty power, Shaking the windows and walls, And tolling the bell in the tower, As it tolls at funerals.