THE CONSTELLATION AND VENGEANCE.

THE batt1e between the Constellation and Vengeance (February 2d, 1800), is one of the most indubitable proofs in history of the American naval superiority, both in manœuvring and action. The French frigate had been descried on the previous day, when Commodore Truxtun hoisted English colours. These, however, were disregarded, and a chase commenced, which continued all night, and through the following day. At eight in the evening, Truxtun was about speaking his opponent, when the latter suddenly commenced firing. Flight and pursuit were now abandoned, and each commander prepared for a violent struggle. The night was dark; and the sullen dashings of the waters seemed in unison with the terrible storm that was soon to hurry man into conflict with his fellow man.

At a few minutes past eight, the Constellation poured a heavy broadside into her antagonist, which was answered by a wide sheet of flame, followed by another and another, until the pitchy gloom was lighted up by the incessant volcanic glare. Side by side those two ships sat upon the waters, flinging out their crashing hail, and rolling with terrific violence upon the heaving ocean. Minutes and hours rolled on; the night grew deeper and blacker, and the wind howled and shrieked along the heavens. But man heeded not the elements. Far over the ocean was that red dismal glare beheld; and the distant mariner started from his dreaming berth, and bent forward to catch the faint lingering of that wild revel. At intervals each crew heard the shouts of opposing officers and the cheers of battle. The same voice that had rung out against the Insurgente was driving the Americans to battle; while, as though in stern mockery, the French commander poured his thrilling appeals to his sailors. That night battle was a scene terrible and sublime.

At one o'clock, the French vessel drew from the combat, and spread sail. Sure of victory, Truxtun ordered a chase, but at that moment received the disheartening intelligence, that every shroud had been shot from the mainmast, which was supported only by its wood. But, anxious to risk everything in order to secure the prize, he ordered his men to secure it long enough to come up with the enemy. But no exertion could obviate the calamity, and the mast went by the board, in a few minutes after the enemy had retired.

In this long-disputed action the Constellation lost fourteen men killed, and twenty-five wounded, eleven of whom subsequently died. Her whole crew was three hundred and ten souls. The armament of the Vengeance was twenty-eight eighteens, sixteen twelves, and eight forty-two pound carronades. Her crew was between four and five hundred men, and her loss fifty killed and one hundred and ten wounded. When arriving in Curacoa, she was in a sinking condition; and there can be little doubt, that had the action recommenced, her capture would have been inevitable.