"Now, clap on all sail, for it is our only chance," cried Vernon, and the Lively Bee began to make better headway.
They could see the Peacock black with men, and saw that the wreck of the foretopmast was cleared away in a comparatively short space of time.
"Now, boys," said Vernon, "the chase has commenced. Hurrah for the Lively Bee!"
The men cheered lustily, and feared not the British frigate, for they had obtained a good start.
Suddenly the heavy boom of a gun startled the crew of the Lively Bee.
On the starboard side loomed up a man-of-war, from whose gaff there floated the Stars and Stripes.
The Peacock shivered from bow to stern as the shot raked her deck, and she knew she was powerless, for her guns would not reach as far.
"Who is she?" asked Tempest.
Captain Vernon looked through his glass at the newcomer, and a loud, ringing cheer burst from the crew of the Lively Bee, as he spelled out the word: