a famous vessel of the American navy. Under Captain Porter it was attacked by the British sloop Alert, August 13, 1812, but captured its opponent after a single broadside. Late in the same year the Essex made a notable cruise in the Pacific Ocean, capturing fully $2,500,000 worth of property and hundreds of seamen. However, in February, 1814, the Essex was confronted by two British men-of-war, the Phoebe and the Cherub, while in the port of Valparaiso, South America, and on March 28 was attacked in the open sea by the enemy. After a desperate battle, during which two-thirds of the American crew were killed or disabled, Captain Porter was forced to surrender.