Hull set her sails again and sailed to safety in Boston Harbor.
    New Englanders praised Hull for his seamanship and cleverness in deceiving the British fleet.
    Hull awaited orders for his next mission, but no orders were forthcoming. Hull decided to put to sea without orders, as he feared a British blockade of Boston harbor. He left on August 2 and sailed to the Gulf of St. Lawrence where he captured and burned two British brigs. He then recaptured an American ship which had been taken by the English. Hull ordered the ship into Boston.
    Hull learned a British ship had been seen in the area. The following day Hull located the British ship the "Guerriere," under the command of Dacres.
    The two ships maneuvered for position. The "Guerriere" opened fire about 5 p.m. without drawing any fire in return. The ships came closer and closer. The British shot bounced harmlessly off the "Constitution's" sides, from which she was given the nickname "Old Ironsides."
    Three times the lieutenant asked Hull for orders to fire, but each time Hull refused. Shots killed and wounded some of the "Constitution's" crew. Finally an hour after the first shot was fired, Hull gave the order to fire at the ship which was only 50 yards away. At 6:30 the mizzenmast of the British ship collapsed. The "Constitution" continued its firing. The British made an attempt to board the "Constitution," but they were driven back with musket fire. The ships sailed apart with the "Guerriere's" mainmast and foremast falling away. At 7 p.m. she struck her colors and surrendered.
    Dacres was taken aboard the Constitution" for the surrender, with his British crew of 272 men. The British ship was set afire and blown up.
    On August 30, Hull sent his report to the Secretary of the Navy. He was received in Boston harbor with a demonstration of support. An entertainment was held for Hull and his officers. The Congress of the United States, and many other legislative bodies, voted thanks to Hull.
    In the Town of Derby, residents expressed their approval at a town meeting held on April 12, 1812. Col. David Humphreys introduced a resolution of tribute which was unanimously adopted. It read in part;
    "Resolved, that Isaac Hull, Esquire, a native of this town, captain in Navy of the United States and lately Commander