One cannon thundered forth its bellow of wrath; another sent a ball flying toward the smugglers’ ship.
Then bright lights were suspended to the masts of the Porter, casting a glow around that made all near objects visible.
The smugglers also displayed lights, for the two vessels were in such close proximity that there was danger of a collision in the darkness.
The Porter pressed close to her adversary, and fired several shots in rapid succession. The smugglers returned thecompliment, and it was evident they were determined to fight.
“This fighting is not our part of the business,” said Mr. Stark to Leonard. “We must go below. Don’t object. We will only be in the way here. The villains will soon be brought to terms.”
In the safe shelter of the cabin they listened to the conflict, and anxiously and impatiently awaited the result.
CHAPTER XXVIII.
VICTORY.
The battle was a short one. The vigorous fire of the Porter soon convinced those on board the smugglers’ ship that resistance or attempt at flight would be futile.
The signal of surrender was soon given, and the roar of the cannon ceased.