AN INCIDENT OF THE BATTLE OF THE FORTS.–

15. April 2009 by admin.

Captain Boggs, of the Varuna, tells a story of a brave boy who was on board his vessel, during the bombardment of the forts on the Mississippi River. The lad, who answers to the name of Oscar, is but thirteen years of age, but he has an old head on his shoulders, and is alert and energetic. During the hottest of the fire he was busily engaged in passing ammunition to the gunners, and narrowly escaped death when one of the terrific broadsides of the Varuna’s rebel antagonist was poured in. Covered with dirt, and begrimed with powder, he was met by Captain Boggs, who asked “where he was going in such a hurry?” “To get a passing-box, sir; the other one was smashed by a ball!” and so, throughout the fight, the brave lad held his place and did his duty.

When the Varuna went down, Captain Boggs missed his boy, and thought he was among the victims of the battle. But a few minutes afterwards he saw the lad swimming gallantly towards the wreck. Clambering on board of Captain Boggs’ boat, he threw his hand up to his forehead, giving the usual salute, and uttering only the words, “All right, sir; I report myself on board,” and passed coolly to his station.

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