The death-dealing bolt crashed into the hull of the enemy only a few yards distant.
The ships were broadside to broadside, when the mizzen-mast of the English ship was shot away.
The force of the great spar falling upon the deck made a great breach in the quarter of the ship.
The Americans cheered lustily when they saw the damage done.
The Constitution poured in several effective broadsides, and luffed slowly, until she lay right athwart the Guerriere's bow.
The long bowsprit of the Englishman stretched far across the Constitution's quarterdeck and was soon fouled in the mizzen-rigging of the latter vessel.
The two ships swung helplessly around.
The bow of the Englishman lay snugly against the port-quarter of the American.
"We could board her now," said Lieutenant Morris.