She was furling tops and mainsail,
stripping in fact to mizzen and sprit for the coming action. Thus,
almost silently without challenge or exchange of signals, had action
been mutually determined.
Of necessity now, under diminished sail, the advance of the Arabella
was slower; but it was none the less steady. She was already within
saker shot, and they could make out the figures stirring on her
forecastle and the brass guns gleaming on her prow. The gunners of
the Milagrosa raised their linstocks and blew upon their smouldering
matches, looking up impatiently at the Admiral.
But the Admiral solemnly shook his head.
"Patience," he exhorted them. "Save your fire until we have him.
He is coming straight to his doom - straight to the yardarm and the
rope that have been so long waiting for him."
"Stab me!" said his lordship. "This Englishman may be gallant
enough to accept battle against such odds. But there are times
when discretion is a better quality than gallantry in a commander."
"Gallantry will often win through, even against overwhelming
strength," said Miss Bishop.
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