I did all I could to effect the capture of the vessel, but the attempt was a failure," argued the major.

"The shot hole through the bow of the Belle utterly wrecked her, and the force on board of her could do nothing, and Christy Passford had brought my own tug to bear against me.

Why, the Bellevite actually saved the force on board of the Belle from drowning.
A violent gale came up, and that did a great deal to nullify all our efforts.

But I think I did my whole duty." "I have no doubt of it, Major Pierson; and for that reason you were sent on this mission; and I am confident that the success of the enterprise will restore you to your former command, or give you another quite as good," said Captain Carboneer, as consolation to the military arm of the expedition.
"But I cannot see that I have been of any use to this enterprise, and I might as well have staid at home." "You are too modest by half, major.

You planned the expedition, and suggested that Corny should take part in it, as he would have the _entree_ to the residence of Captain Passford.