e
gloom of night as were old Jacob's, had at first some difficulty in
distinguishing the three ships, though they saw the bright lights he
pointed out. Gradually the frigate drew near, and the tall masts and
widespread canvas of the strangers appeared clearly enough against the
sky, like large phantoms stalking across the waters. Still the private
signal remained unanswered. There could be no longer any doubt that the
largest ship was an enemy, and that she had captured one or both of the
others. Notwithstanding her apparent superiority, Captain Shortland did
not hesitate about attacking her. Sail was shortened, and the frigate
stood on with topsails, jib, and spanker set, so as to be thoroughly
under command. It was no longer necessary to keep the ports closed.
The order to open them and to run out the guns was given, and at the
same time the crews of the guns were cautioned not to fire a shot till
they heard the word of command. The hearts of the coolest beat quicker
than usual when about midnight the _Falcon_ drew within a mile of the
enemy. The lights from the fighting lanterns of the latter, which
exhibited two rows of ports, with only a small space between them, gave
her a most formidable appearance. She evidently carried many more guns
than the English frigate.

"What's the odds, lads," cried old Jacob, when some of the men near him
remarked this. "It isn't the number of guns a ship carries will give
her the victory, it's the way they are fought, and we'll soon show the
mounseers how we can handle ours."

In a short time the enemy filled his sails, the two ships thus nearing
each other more rapidly; then suddenly he hove in stays when on the lee
bow of the _Falcon_, and his guns thundering forth, sent their shot
flying through her rigging, the only serious effect, however, of which
was to bring down her jib. The _Falcon_ crew stood ready, the captains
of the guns with lanyards in hand eager to fire in return, but no order
came. Captain Shortland knew that he could depend on the steadiness of
his crew, and was reserving their fire for a shorter and more effective
distance. Several more shots hurtled through the air around them.

"The weathermost of the smaller ships Is firing at us, sir," observed
the first lieutenant to the captain.

"Never mind that, we can settle with her by-and-by," was the answer.

Thus the _Falcon_ stood majestically on as if not a foe were near.

Though Ralph had never be