er examining them
carefully, declared that there were several men-of-war among them. On
their approaching nearer, of this there was no doubt. Sir Robert
Holmes, however, followed by the _Resolution_, stood gallantly towards
them, when in addition to the seventy merchantmen expected, six stout
men-of-war were perceived. Of the English ships five were frigates.
The Dutch, who had timely notice of the intended attack, were prepared
for battle, with their decks cleared, divided into three squadrons, each
guarded by two men-of-war, and together forming a half-moon. Sir Robert
approaching them, ordered them to strike their flags. On their refusing
to do so, he fired a broadside into the nearest ship. They, however,
lowered their topsails. Again he asked whether they would strike their
flags. On their refusing, he again fired; and now the action became
general.

Sir Robert especially attacked the ship of the Dutch commodore, while
Lord Ossory attacked another commanded by Captain du Bois. For some
hours the action continued, but so well did the Dutch defend themselves,
that when darkness put an end to the fight, no material advantage had
been gained. The next day, however, the English fleet being joined by
four more frigates from Portsmouth, again attacked the Dutch. Lord
Ossory gallantly boarded Captain du Bois' ship. Wenlock was among the
first to dash on to the deck of the enemy. His swordsmanship served him
in good stead. Many, however, of his companions were killed around him,
and for some time he was left with but few followers on the enemy's
deck. Lord Ossory, seeing the danger of his young officer, calling upon
his men, led a fresh body of boarder on to the deck of the enemy. In
spite however of his valour, they were driven back on board his own
ship. Out of the whole Dutch squadron, indeed, when darkness again came
on, only one man-of-war and three merchantmen had been captured. With
these Sir Robert was compelled to return to port, the Dutchmen making
good their escape.

"It was scurvy work," exclaimed Lord Ossory, as the ship came to an
anchor. "Such is unfit for gallant gentlemen to engage in. I would
rather sheathe my sword, and forswear fighting for the future, than to
undertake again such a buccaneering business."

Wenlock, however, had got a taste for sea life. His gallantry in the
action had been remarked, and was highly commended. When therefore the
_Royal James_, on board which his f