nd of
the mole,--that won't trouble us again,--look there on the other side,
there must be numerous works and storehouses on fire. If we keep on in
this fashion the Russians will have the whole place burnt about their
ears."

The men were at their quarters, with shirt-sleeves tucked up, their
heads bound by handkerchiefs, and belts round their waists. Another
circle was made, when, just as the _Tornado_ had delivered her fire, a
terrific sound was heard; the fort in front of her seemed to rise in the
air, the flames shot upwards, and huge blocks of stone came hurtling
down on either side. Loud cheers burst from the British crew.
"Hurrah!" cried Tom, "I hope that won't be the only fort blown up before
long." As he spoke, it was seen that several other forts were in
flames. Soon after the squadron was brought closer in to attack the
shipping within the mole. The shot and shell poured upon them rapidly
did its work. Some of the vessels were sunk; others, with the rest of
the storehouses, were set on fire. No efforts made by the Russians
could quench the flames, which continued burning all night.

The work was most complete; all the Government vessels, barracks,
storehouses full of ammunition and military stores, were completely
destroyed. Next day the Russians were, however, seen attempting to
rebuild their earthworks; but a few shells from the _Arethusa_ dispersed
them. Several Russian vessels having been captured at sea, the admiral
sent in to propose to exchange their crews for those on board the
vessels which had been detained in the harbour. The governor, however,
replied that he had no authority to make an exchange of prisoners, which
personally he much regretted. Admiral Dundas, on hearing this, sent his
prisoners, who were all merchant seamen, on shore, observing that he was
at war only with the Government of the country, and did not wish to
inflict annoyance on the peaceable inhabitants. Some time after the
return of the fleet to Baljik, the English merchant seamen who had been
detained at Odessa made their appearance, having been released by order
of the Czar, who would not be outdone in generosity by the English.

Several vessels had been left in the north to cruise up and down the
coast. Among them were the _Tornado, Tiger_, and two others. Several
prizes had been made when the _Tiger_ parted company in a thick fog.
Jack had been for some time looking out for her, when the sound of heavy
guns