The Vulture lying in a position to be distinctly seen from Verplanck's Point, and the distance of country between it and the point on the Westchester shore, and likewise from Stony Point ; the town of Haverstraw, and the point where Andre and Arnold held their conference in Rockland County; the grounds upon both sides of the river for many miles in extent sloping gradually towards the river -- gave the inhabitants a full view of the scene of action.

The inhabitants on the Westchester side had been upon the lookout; for they apprehended an attack under cover of the night. There were more, however, who entertained the opinion that it would be brought on before sunset, until Petterson and Sherwood commenced their fire. Many of theni now hastened to the scene of action with a field piece, which they had obtained of Col. Livingston, who was in command at Verplanck's Point ; and after erecting their little battery on the Point, ihey opened a welldirected fire against the Vulture. They soon compelled her to slip her cable and hoist sail. This circumstance prevented Andre from returning to New York by water.

" No sooner (says Sparks) had Andre and Arnold arrived at Smith's house, than a cannonade was heard down the river. It was discovered to be against the Vulture, which, although distant several miles, was in full view, and for a time seemed to be on fire. It had been reported to Colonel Livingston by messengers from Teller's Point, that the vessel was so near the shore as to be within reach of cannon-shot, and that the inhabitants were likewise apprehensive boats would land and commit depredations. Col. Livingston accordingly sent from A^erplank's Point a party with cannon, who fired upon the Vulture and compelled her to remove from the position she had held during the night, and drop farther down the river till she was beyond reach of the shot.