"The first of our reinforcements," he said quietly.
He gave his attention again to the enemy, who was drawing uncomfortably close.
"Crash!"
Jack whirled sharply.
A shell had struck the Essex just above the water line on the port side.
"Go below and report, Mr. Chadwick!" Jack ordered.
Frank hurried away in response to this command. He sought the engine room.
"What's the damage, chief?" he asked.
"Slight," was the reply. "Shell passed clear through us, but cleared the boilers. Better round up the carpenter, though, sir."
Frank hurried back to the bridge and reported the extent of the damage. Then he sent a midshipman for the ship's carpenter.