But it was a vastly unequal contest from the start, and before sundown, the three American ships were annihilated, the forts reduced to ruins, and the capital taken by main force.
For many years the Chinese had been very bitter against the Hawaiians, for they had been thrown out of the island States after Hawaii was annexed, and now when they came ashore from their warships they did everything they dared to make it unpleasant for the inhabitants.
Had it not been for the Russians, every man, woman and child of Hawaiian birth would have been butchered.
The majority of the foreign fleet had now sailed to capture other seaports on the islands.
Eight big men-o'-war, however, lay close in Honolulu harbor, keeping watch over the town.
Watching his chance that night, Oscar went ashore, and from several Americans gained a full knowledge of what had occurred.
"We would still fight, were the outlook more hopeful," said one of the Americans, a Custom House official.
"We will make it more hopeful," answered Oscar, grimly. "By morning not many foreign warships will be seen in this harbor."
The young captain hurried back to the Holland and the submarine craft immediately sank out of sight and came around Diamond Head into the harbor. By the aid of a powerful glass they made out the location of the enemy's ships with ease.
Then Oscar paid a long visit to the ammunition room and where a number of torpedoes were adjusted, and also a number of dynamite and highite bombs.