Our little fleet was now engaged so far,

That, like the sword-fish in the whale they fought;[136]

The combat only seemed a civil war,

Till through their bowels we our passage wrought.

80.

Never had valour, no not ours before

Done aught like this upon the land or main;

Where, not to be o'ercome, was to do more

Than all the conquests former kings did gain.

81.