The boat was approaching with all the speed the oarsmen could command, and they seemed to be experienced hands.

There could be no doubt of the intentions of the enemy, and the midshipman drew his heavy naval revolver from his pocket.
"Stand by to repel boarders!" he called to the seamen.

"Pass up one of those shot, Sampson.

Have a hand mount the rail, each with a shot, at the points where you have placed them." "The ladies wish to know what is going on, Christy," said Paul, coming from the engine-room.
"I have no time to talk now," replied Christy impatiently, as he saw the approaching boat within ten feet of the side of the steamer.

"Tell them to stay where they are, and not come on deck!" The boat was not a large one, and it did not contain more than a dozen men; but the fine form of Captain Carboneer could be seen, as he stood up in the stern sheets.