20 THE WORLD OF ICE.

stern-chasers. Meanwhile, the boats of the pirate,
five in number, pulled away in different directions,
evidently with the intention of attacking the ship at
different points. They were full of men armed to the
teeth. While they rowed towards the ship the schooner
resumed its fire, and one ball cut away the spanker-
boom and slightly wounded two of the men with
splinters. The guns of the ship were now brought to
bear on the boats, but without effect, although the
shot plunged into the water all round them. As they
drew nearer a brisk fire of musketry was opened on
them, and the occasional falling of an oar and con-
fusion on board showed that the shots told. The
pirates replied vigorously, but without effect, as the
men of the ship were sheltered by the bulwarks.

“Pass the word to load and reserve fire,” said the
captain; “and hand me a musket, Fred. Load again
as fast as I fire.” So saying, the captain took aim
and fired at the steersman of the largest boat, which
pulled towards the stern. “ Another, Fred—’

At this moment a withering volley was poured upon
the boat, and a savage yell of agony followed, while
the rowers who remained unhurt paused for an in-
stant as if paralyzed. Next instant they recovered,
and another stroke would have brought them almost
alongside, when Captain Ellice pointed the little car-
ronade and fired. There was a terrific crash ; the gun
recoiled violently to the other side of the deck; and
the pirate boat sank, leaving the sea covered with
dead and wounded men. A number, however, who