Action of 7 February 1813: Aréthuse vs HMS Amelia off the Guinea Coast

Pre-Engagement. Ashore, the French gathered fruit, resupplied fresh water, and collected intelligence: the Sierra Leone station comprised two frigates and several corvettes, but only HMS Amelia was anchored in the bay. On 29 January, Lieutenant Pascoe arrived at Freetown and reported what he believed were three French frigates at Tamara; having volunteered, he later returned with an accurate description of the French division, including the frigates' names and their prize. On 3 February at 10:30, Amelia departed her anchorage for the Îles de Los. In the morning of 6 February, while Aréthuse was completing her repairs, Amelia appeared under the wind; Irby, unaware of Rubis's demise, tried to lure Aréthuse away from her.

The Battle. The engagement began with exchanged signals and broadsides. For an hour and a half, the frigates remained entangled, exchanging volleys at point-blank range. Gunners from both sides engaged in close-quarters combat, snatching ramrods and duelling with sabres, though neither side attempted to board. The action lasted four hours, causing significant damage and casualties to both opponents.

Aftermath. The battle resulted in a stalemate, with both sides claiming victory. The ships parted and returned to their respective ports. Aréthuse arrived in Saint-Malo on 19 April 1813. Bouvet's bravery was praised in reports, highlighting the conduct during the battle despite the inconclusive outcome.