he time
that Cupid returned with this, we had gulped down our cocoa and were
ready to go on deck. I therefore helped myself to a couple of biscuits
which, breaking into pieces of convenient size by the simple process of
dashing them against my elbow, I crammed into my jacket pocket, and then
rushed up the ladder to the deck, leaving my companions to follow after
they had snatched a hasty bite or two of food; for there was now no
knowing when we might get breakfast.

Upon my arrival on deck I found the hands already mustering under the
supervision of the first lieutenant, and a moment later I encountered
the boatswain, who handed over to me a good serviceable ship's cutlass--
worth a dozen of the ridiculous little dirks which were considered
suitable weapons for midshipmen--which I promptly girded about my waist.
At this moment all was bustle and animation throughout the ship, yet so
sedulously had we been trained to act in perfect silence that I am
certain the stealthy footfalls of the men hurrying to their stations,
and the whispered words of command, were quite inaudible at a distance
of twenty yards from the ship. Within a minute or two, however, even
these faint sounds had subsided, the crew were all mustered, and the
first lieutenant, assisted by a quartermaster who carried a carefully
masked lantern, was carefully, yet rapidly, inspecting each man's
weapons and equipment, scrutinising the flints in the locks of the
pistols, and otherwise satisfying himself of the efficiency of our
hurried preparations. While the inspection was still in progress the
captain came on deck, with his sword girded to his side and a brace of
pistols thrust into his belt, and stood quietly looking on until the
inspection was completed and Mr Perry had reported that everything was
in order.

Then the skipper announced that he would personally lead the attack in
his own gig, manned by eight oarsmen, a coxswain, and a midshipman--
myself; while the first cutter, manned by sixteen oarsmen, a coxswain,
and a midshipman--Jack Keene--was to be commanded by Mr Purchase, the
second lieutenant; and the second cutter, with twelve oarsmen, a
coxswain, and Nugent, the master's mate, was to be under the command of
the boatswain. Thus the attacking party was to consist of forty-five
persons, all told, which was as many, I suppose, as the skipper felt
justified in taking out of the ship under the circumstances.

Then ensued a busy five minutes, du