The stranger, a corvette, was standing in towards Whalsey close hauled on the starboard tack, and when the “Scorpion” rounded the island and showed herself, she continued on the same course.
“That fellow by the cut of his canvas is a Frenchman,” observed Lord Claymore; “what think you, Captain Alvarez?”
“No doubt about it,” answered Pedro Alvarez. “But I know of no French ship in these seas.”
“See—see! there goes up the French flag!” exclaimed Lord Claymore; “she is going about to, as she does not wish to commence the fight while the ‘Scorpion’ has the weather-gauge. A brave fellow commands that craft; he has no intention, at all events, of avoiding an engagement.”
Both vessels were now seen standing away from the land, the “Scorpion” steering both so as most speedily to come up with the enemy, and at the same time to keep the advantage of the wind which she possessed, while the other was manoeuvring to avoid a close engagement till she had gained the weather-gauge.
“Ronald will not let him do that,” cried Rolf. “See, the ‘Scorpion’ is gaining on her. She has got her within range of her guns. There goes the first shot.”
As he spoke, a puff of smoke was seen to proceed from the bows of the English ship, and the sound of the gun struck faintly on their ears. Another and another followed as soon as they could be brought to bear.
As the “Scorpion” was coming up on the quarter of the French ship, the latter could not at first discharge her broadside guns with any effect, but as her enemy got more abeam of her she too opened fire, and shot after shot was exchanged in rapid succession.
The interest of all the spectators became intense, though exhibited in different ways. Lord Claymore was all excitement and animation, evidently wishing himself on board the “Scorpion.”
Rolf now waved his hand—now addressed his son—now cheered as the “Scorpion” delivered an effective broadside.