HMS Condor

This sloop was commanded by Lord Charles Beresford. It was supposed to act as a signalling vessel and yet Beresford could not resist taking a more active role. He closed inshore with his single gun. he started to engage the heavily armed Fort Marabout at the southernmost point of the Egyptian defences. In doing so, he managed to draw fire away from the larger ships further out. He then proceeded to to sail so close to the shore that the Egyptians could not depress their guns sufficiently to get his vessel in their sights. Other gunboats were inspired by this action and closed to support Condor. Their combined support allowed Fort Marabout to be silenced. The other sailors cheered when the fort fell silent. Admiral Seymour sent a famous signal 'Well done, Condor!'