But the sails, when shaken out, were found to have been cut to pieces by the Frolic's shot.
"Beat to quarters!" shouted the captain.
The men understood that the Wasp would sting as long as possible.
"Clear the deck for action!"
The Stars and Stripes was run up the halliards, and the crew gave a hearty and lusty cheer, though they knew their defeat and death were near.
The Poietiers sailed down upon the almost helpless Wasp, and fired a broadside.
Captain Jones answered with another broadside. It was plucky, and the Britishers were surprised.
They thought bulldog courage was only found under the Union Jack.
The plucky commander of the Wasp tried hard to get close to the Poietiers, so that he might board her.
He had resolved that it would be better for every one of his men to die fighting than that they should be taken prisoners.