For a time there was great excitement on board the battleship. At last, however, all hands were hauled aboard. The cutter's crew and passengers were landed without disaster, the daughter of the master of the "Oriole" looking upon the whole affair as a most delightful experience.
After the rescued sailors had been cared for by their comrades on the battleship, and the master's family made comfortable in one of the cabins of the captain, the latter made his way to the bridge.
"Let us get under way now, Coates," said the captain, addressing the executive officer. "I don't like to lie near that floating hulk there any longer than I am obliged to."
The ship began to move.
"I'll tell you what, Coates, I believe we had better break her up, don't you?"
"The schooner, sir?"
"Yes."
"An excellent idea. Shall I do it?"
"Yes. Use the seven-inch port battery."
"Boatswain's mate!" roared the executive officer.