The British crew had cheered lustily when they saw the foremast fall. They now redoubled their shouts, turning round and shaking each other heartily by the hand; some throwing up their caps, and others, mostly the Irishmen of the crew, leaping and dancing with delight.
Two of the Thisbe’s boats being uninjured, they were lowered; and the third lieutenant, with a master’s mate and a party of seamen, was sent on board to take possession of the prize.
As they were about to shove off, Mr Saltwell inquired whether any one could speak French.
“I can, sir,” said Bill, touching his hat.
“Then go and assist Mr Sterling; you will be of much use,” said the first lieutenant.
Bill, who had been longing to visit the prize, obeyed with no small satisfaction.
As they reached her deck, an officer advanced with his sword in his hand, and presented it to Mr Sterling, who, receiving it, handed it to Bill.
The French officer announced that he was the second lieutenant of the Diana frigate, which it was his misfortune now to yield into the possession of her British conquerors.
Mr Sterling bowed in return.
“Tell him, Rayner,” he said, “that we acknowledge how bravely he and his countrymen have fought their ship, and that though they have lost her, they have not lost their honour.”