In the early morning darkness of the 12th, the Confederate ram and three armed steamers of Commodore Hollins's Mosquito Fleet attacked "Richmond" and her consorts in an attempt to break the blockade in what became the Battle of the Head of Passes. Steaming under cover of darkness, the Confederate ships took the Union squadron by surprise. "Richmond" was taking on coal from the schooner, "Joseph N. Toone", when "Manassas" rammed "Richmond" tearing a hole in the sloop's side. Passing aft, the ram tried but failed to hit "Richmond" again before disappearing astern. "Richmond"s gunners got away one complete broadside from the port battery though, somewhat evening the score.