Anecdotes of the Revolutionary War in America: With Sketches of Character of Persons the Most Distinguished, in the Southern States, for Civil and Military Services
By Alexander Garden
Published by Printed for the author, by A. E. Miller, 1822

p. 381

LIEUTENANT JOHN RHODES, OF PRINCE WILLIAMS.

The British, While in possession of Port-Royal Island, kept a strong detachment of troops at Roupell’s Ferry. A small militia guard, commanded by Lieutenant Rhodes of the Prince William’s Company, were stationed at Page’s Point, on the opposite shore. Sensible that it would be easy for an enterprising enemy, from the number of navigable creeks that led to his rear, to cut off his party, the Lieutenant judiciously made a representation of his perilous situation to the commanding Continental Officer at Sheldon. Brigade Major Hamilton of the 1st Regiment, was immediately sent to judge of the accuracy of the statement, who, finding it strictly correct, wrote for and obtained a Sergeant’s guard of Continentals, to strengthen the command. " While so near the enemy," said Hamilton, " I would pay them a closer visit could I find a proper guide." " I am acquainted," replied Lieutenant Rhodes, " with every foot of the ground they occupy, and will willingly accompany you across the river." Hastily conceived, and promptly entered on, the expedition was immediately carried into effect. A boat was prepared, and the river passed with muffled oars. A Sergeant’s guard was approached, surrounded, and with the exception of one man who escaped, and the Sergeant, who resisting, was severely wounded by Lieutenant Rhodes, brought off. This Partisan stroke was accomplished by eleven men, officers included, four of whom never quitted the boat.

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