ded the battle between the "Bon Homme
Richard" and the "Serapis." He had stationed himself on the yard-arm,
and was dropping hand-grenades upon the deck of the "Serapis." At last
a well-aimed grenade set fire to some powder on the enemy's ship, and
virtually decided the day in favor of the Americans. When asked by
Paul Jones what he would have as a reward for this great service, he
suggested double rations of grog for the next week as the proper
recompense. This he got, and no more.

But to return to the American fleet before Tripoli. Four days were
spent in repairing damages, and on the 7th of August a second attack
was made upon the town. The disposition of the American forces was
much the same as on the occasion of the first attack, although the
Americans were re-enforced by the three captured gunboats. The
fighting was confined to long-range cannonading; for the enemy had
been taught a lesson, and was afraid to try conclusions hand to hand
with the Americans. About three o'clock in the afternoon, a tremendous
explosion drew the gaze of every one to the spot where gunboat No. 8
had been anchored. At first only a dense mass of smoke, with the water
surrounding it littered with wreckage, was to be seen. When the smoke
cleared away, the extent of the disaster was evident. The gunboat had
blown up. Her bow alone remained above water, and there a handful of
plucky men were loading the great twenty-six-pound cannon that formed
her armament. Lieut. Spence commanded the gunners, and urged them on.

"Now, lads, be lively," he cried. "Let's get one shot at the Turks
before we sink."

Every ship in the squadron was cheering the devoted crew of No. 8.
From every vessel anxious eyes watched the men who thus risked their
lives for one shot. The water was rushing into the shattered hulk; and
just as Spence pulled the lanyard, and sent a cast-iron shot into
Tripoli, the wreck gave a lurch, and went down. Her crew was left
struggling in the water. Spence, who could not swim, saved himself by
clinging to an oar, while his men struck out for the nearer vessels,
and were soon receiving the congratulations of their comrades.

In this attack, Richard Somers, a most courageous and capable officer,
who a few weeks later met a tragic end, narrowly escaped death. He was
in command of gunboat No. 1, and while directing the attack stood
leaning against her flagstaff. He saw a shot flying in his direction.
Involuntarily he ducked his head, a