The bulk of Sumter, black no longer, was coated with silver.
"Looks peaceful enough," whispered Langdon.

"The ships have heard that you and St.Clair and I are here waiting for them and have turned back." Harry made no answer.

This waiting in the silence and the night made his blood quiver just a little.

He was about to turn back when he saw a sudden flash of fire from another point further up.

It was followed by a heavy crash that echoed and re-echoed over the still sea and city.
Harry's heart leaped, but his body stiffened to attention.