Martinsburgh Gazette

GEN. IZARD's ARMY.

Extract of a letter to the Editor of the Boston Patriot, dated Dead Creek, (U. C.) October 19, 1814.

"The army under command of Major General Izard, advanced as far as Chippewa Plains; on the 14th inst. having to replace the bridges which the enemy destroyed, and driving in his outposts, after some sharp skirmishing with our light corps in the afternoon of that day. On the 15th, the enemy appeared in force at the village of Chippewa, but shewed no disposition to give us battle. The bridge had also been destroyed, and no means were then possessed of reaching him, but by our artillery, which was brought up and ably directed by Captains Towson and Archer disabling his batteries, and almost silencing his field artillery before night; when we returned to the encampment. On the 16th. we again shewed him our front in order of battle, and although reinforced, he could not be drawn into the contest. On the 17th, the army changed position and retired seven miles up the Niagara. General Bissel was detached with his brigade on the morning of the 18th, to watch the effect of this movement, while the main body continued on its ground, in the hope of drawing the enemy from his position. The brigade of General Bissel, had by a circuitous rout through the woods, gained the vicinity of a drawbridge, about three miles above the mouth of Chippewa river: and allowing but a part of his force to be discovered. At day break the enemy threw over a strong column to destroy, what he considered a reconnoitering party, and was instantly received by the brigade; and though far superior in numbers, he was beaten with great slaughter, driven over his bridge, and pursued so closely, as to leave no time for its removal. The battery which defended the passage was gallantly carried, giving time only to discharge two rounds before it was occupied by our troops. The enemy was reinforced, but obliged to give ground, and retired with a loss estimated at nearly 200, in killed, wounded and prisoners; ours is stated at 14 killed and 54 wounded. The main body will march immediately, and reinforcements have already gone to support him; but the enemy has probably retreated beyond a prospect of successful pursuit. The action lasted three quarters of an hour, and was principally fought beyond the river."