120 
VOYAGE OF THE POTOMAC. 
[February, 
we must have been virtually defeated, and an impression left on 
the inhabitants that we had not the power to punish them for out- 
rages committed on our commerce. 
" In such a case the defeat would have been more complete, as 
there was no higher authority or government to which we could 
make our appeal, and from which we could expect indemnification. 
Indeed, within a short distance, there were other tribes and chiefs 
separate and independent of those of Quallah-Battoo. 
" While making arrangements to open a communication with the 
chiefs, and to make a formal demand of indemnification, I felt it 
to be my imperative duty to take such steps at the same time as 
would cut off" the retreat of those who had participated in the pi- 
racy of the Friendship ; and while in the execution of the only 
feasible plan by which these objects could be eff'ected, our di- 
I visions were fired on, and our strength put at defiance ; the action 
was thus unavoidably commenced ; and, as to its result, I need only 
refer you to my previous communication. 
" I ascertained, after the attack, that the whole inhabitants of 
Quallah-Battoo were concerned in the plunder of the Friendship, 
and that the character of the transaction agreed substantially with 
that furnished by the department, marked A and B. The specie 
and opium had been divided between the four principal rajahs ; 
and all the other articles taken from the ship were distributed 
among the people of Quallah-Battoo. 
"All the intercourse I had with the natives while lying at Soo- 
soo, confirmed me in the correctness of the course adopted ; and 
also that the chastisement inflicted on Quallah-Battoo, though 
severe, was unavoidable and just ; and that it will be the means 
of giving a permanent security to our commerce for a long time 
to come. 
" I am, sir, with the greatest respect, 
" Your obedient servant, 
(Signed) "John Downes. 
"The Honourable Levi Woodbury, Secretary of the Navy." 
