And came from the sloop's low deck, "Hurray!
We're gaining on her! We'll win the day!"
A sound of thunder, echoing wide,
Came from the Margaretta's side;
A deadly crash, and a loud death-yell,
And one of the brave pursuers fell.
They aimed a gun at the schooner then,
And sent the compliment back again;
He who at the helm of the schooner stood,
Covered the deck with his rich life-blood.
V
Each burning to pay a bloody debt,
The crews of the hostile vessels met;
The Western nation now to be,
Made her first fight upon the sea.
And not till forty men were slain,
Did the pine-tree flag a victory gain;
But at last the hearts of the Britons quailed,
And grandly the patriot arm prevailed.