But the cloud of smoke that enveloped both vessels prevented the captain from taking in the situation.

The crew of the Killbright were ordered to reload their guns instantly.

Whatever was to happen in the near or distant future, it was evident that the dangerous steamer had not yet been captured, and Christy did not think of her as a prize any more just then.
The Killbright crowded on all the steam she could obtain, and she rapidly increased the distance between herself and the Bellevite.

She fired her three broadside guns continually, but it was clear to Christy that the men had not been trained to this business, or they might perhaps have sunk the naval vessel by this time.
The Bellevite fired her two broadside guns, and they made terrible havoc in the upper works of the Killbright.

But the strangest thing of all to the young lieutenant, caught on board of the anticipated prize, was that the Bellevite did not go ahead, and give the boarding parties a chance to get on the deck of the enemy.
"I don't understand it, Beeks," said Christy as he found himself by the side of the quartermaster.