All hands were called up; buckets of water were dashed on the fire, but in vain. There were large quantities of rosin and tar on board, and it was found useless to attempt to save the ship. The passengers rushed forward and inquired of the pilot, "How far are we from Buffalo?"
"Seven miles."
"How long before we can reach there?"
"Three-quarters of an hour at our present rate of steam."
"Is there any danger?"
"Danger! Here, see the smoke bursting out!—go forward, if you would save your lives!"
Passengers and crew—men, women and children—crowded the forward part of the ship. John Maynard stood at the helm. The flames burst forth in a sheet of fire; clouds of smoke arose.
The captain cried out through his trumpet, "John Maynard!"
"Ay, ay, sir!"
"Are you at the helm?"