Nelson's history of the war. Vol. XI., The struggle for the Dvina, and the great invasion of Serbia

56 HISTORY OF THE WAR.

Robeck’s squadron. The whole enemy seaboard was shelled from Port Lagos to Dedeagatch, and at the latter place all the barracks and Government buildings were destroyed. The troops took refuge in the neighbouring hills, the civilian population fled, and the British efforts were confined to the destruction of property. The railway station, the line, rolling stock, the harbour buildings, oil stores, coal depots, warehouses, and factories were methodically obliterated. As the campaign then stood, such a bombardment could have no serious strategical effect. It was rather to be regarded as a timely hint to other maritime nations that the British navy was a factor to be reckoned with.