March 31st. This morning at six o’clock, got under way and steamed down the river, followed by the Albatross, and ram Switzerland; at eight-thirty A. M. we all came to anchor; sent boats on shore for fresh provisions; unfortunately but very little could be obtained; at six-thirty P. M. got under way again, and proceeded on down the river. Came in sight of Grand Gulf, continued on our way; beat to general quarters; at seven-thirty P. M. came within range and opened fire. The enemy replied very briskly, but we were too much for them this time, and drove them from their guns. They rallied, but were obliged to retreat the second time. Their loss must have been very great. Our loss during this action was one man mortally wounded. This was one of the sharpest fights we have yet had. After the action was over and the ship brought to anchor for the night, all hands were called on the quarter-deck to splice the main brace.
Jones, who was wounded to-day, deserves more than a passing notice. He was a fine young man, and dearly beloved by his shipmates. He was wounded by a bolt from a stanchion, which passed entirely through his body while he was in the act of carrying a shell to his gun. With the bolt in his body he tried to lift the projectile, but his strength failed him and he went below to the surgeon to have his wound dressed. The doctor could not get it out, and poor Jones suffered all night. He was a brave man, and will die regretted by our officers and men.
