Fernando witnessed the bombardment of Fort McHenry during that terrible
night, when Mr. Francis S. Key, a prisoner on board an English vessel,
composed the song which immortalized him,--"The Star-Spangled Banner."
Not only Baltimore, but all the Chesapeake and coast was threatened by
the British. Cruisers by the score were threatening almost every
seaport town.
The day after the unsuccessful bombardment of Fort McHenry, General
Smith sent for Fernando Stevens, and when he was in the general's head
quarters, that officer said:
"Captain Stevens, I would like to have you do a little detached duty."
"General, I am willing to do whatever you wish. You can command me at
your pleasure."
"There is a cruiser on the coast threatening a little town where some
government stores have been placed for safety. Will you undertake the
defence of the town?"
"Certainly; I will do the best I can; but success will depend on my
means."
"How many men have you?"
"One hundred and fifty."
"I will send fifty marines with you."
"But artillery?"
"There are some nine-pounders and one long thirty-two at the village.
Muster your men, hasten there at once, and do the best you can."
"But, general, you have not yet told me the name of the village."
"Mariana."
"What?" gasped Fernando, starting to his feet. "Did you say Mariana.
Perhaps I misunderstood you.
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