econd boat pulled up
and endeavoured to save the men, but we now poured our broadside upon
them, and, daunted by the shot flying about them, they sought their
own safety by pulling back to the vessel, leaving their sinking
companions to their fate. Failing in this attempt, both vessels
recommenced their fire upon us, but the distance and the swell of the
sea prevented any execution, and at last they ceased firing, waiting
till a breeze should spring up which might enable them to renew the
contest with better success.

At this time it was about eleven o'clock in the forenoon, and the
combat had lasted about five hours. We refreshed ourselves after the
fatigue and exertion which we had undergone, and made every
preparation for a renewal of the fight. During the engagement we were
so excited, that we had no time to think; but now that we were cool
again and unoccupied, we had time to reflect upon our position, and we
began to feel dejected and apprehensive. Fatigued with exertion, we
were weak and dispirited. We knew that our best men were slain or
groaning under their severe wounds, that the enemy were still
numerous, and as they persevered after so dreadful a slaughter, that
they were of unquestionable bravery and resolution. Good fortune, and
our captain's superior seamanship had, up to the present, enabled us
to make a good fight, but fortune might desert us, and our numbers
were so reduced, that if the enemy continued resolute, we must be
overpowered. Our gallant captain perceived the despondency that
prevailed, and endeavoured to remove it by his own example and by
persuasion. After praising us for the resolution and courage we had
already shown, he pointed out to us that whatever might be the
gallantry of the officers, it was clear that the men on board of the
opposing vessels were awed by their heavy loss and want of success,
and that if they made one more attempt to take us by the board and
failed, which he trusted they would do, no persuasion would ever
induce them to try it again, and the captains of the vessels would
give over such an unprofitable combat. He solemnly averred that the
colours should never be struck while he survived, and demanded who
amongst us were base enough to refuse to stand by them. Again we gave
him three cheers, but our numbers were few, and the cheers were faint
compared with the first which had been given, but still we were
resolute, and determined to support our captain and the honou