Page "Battle of Hampton Roads" Paragraph 24

Meanwhile, the James River Squadron had turned its attention to Minnesota, which had left Fort Monroe to join in the battle and had run aground.

After Virginia had dealt with the surrender of Congress, she joined the James River Squadron despite her damage.

Because of her deep draft and the falling tide, however, Virginia was unable to get close enough to be effective, and darkness prevented the rest of the squadron from aiming their guns to any effect.

The attack was therefore suspended.

Virginia left with the expectation of returning the next day and completing the task.

She retreated into the safety of Confederate-controlled waters off Sewell's Point for the night, but had killed 400 enemy sailors and had lost two.

The Union had lost two ships and three were aground.