midnight
As it was , they were nearly cut off , for the tide rising , several boats had drifted up the stream . Some were taken possession of by the Chinese ; but others were recovered . During the retreat the Chinese kept up a galling fire on our ranks , striking down many , who lay helpless in the mud until the returning tide put an end to their sufferings by washing over them . `` Not until past midnight did the commanders of the storming party , having collected all the men they could discover , embark in the last boat and return with heavy hearts to their ships . Six gun-boats were on shore , and it was feared that all would be lost ; but the tide , rising higher than usual the next day , three were floated off , the others , however , remained immovable . Altogether we lost 80 men killed on the spot , and 350 wounded , many of whom died , among them being one of the most gallant officers in the service , Captain Vansittart . `` This disaster has shown us that , after all , when the Chinese have the advantage of strong fortifications , they are no contemptible enemies , and that it will not do to despise them .