"My orders were to go to Leghorn, and to Leghorn I mean to go if the ship floats; but I tell you honestly I do not think there is much chance of our getting there.

Still, as long as the ship floats, the British flag will float over her." "Is there anything we can do, sir ?" Jack asked.

"We shall be happy to serve as volunteers in any capacity in which you think we may be useful." "Until it comes to boarding I fear that you cannot help," the captain said, "except by walking about between decks and cheering and inspiriting the men.

The presence of officers looking cool and confident among them always does good.

If the enemy try to board us you shall fight by my side." The two fastest sailing French vessels were so close when night fell that it was hopeless to try to evade them either by changing the ship's course or by lowering the sails.