The signal, however, saved Riou's little squadron, but did not save its heroic leader.

This squadron, which was nearest the Commander-in-Chief, obeyed and hauled off.

It had suffered severely in its most unequal contest.

For a long time the AMAZON had been firing, enveloped in smoke, when Riou desired his men to stand fast, and let the smoke clear off, that they might see what they were about.

A fatal order--for the Danes then got clear sight of her from the batteries, and pointed their guns with such tremendous effect that nothing but the signal for retreat saved this frigate from destruction.