The French fleet was fully ten miles ahead, and it was evident that there was no chance, whatever, of overtaking it; while there was a risk of its doubling back during the night, and again making its way north.

The greater part of the sails of the men-of-war were therefore furled, while the frigates and corvettes made off, on either hand, to establish themselves as sentries during the night, and to give warning should the French fleet be seen returning.

An hour and a half after the pursuit had ceased, the Salisbury joined the fleet, and the officer in command went on board the admiral's ship, to report the number of prisoners taken and the nature of her cargo.
The officers had, at his invitation, dined with him and his officers in the cabin.

All political topics had been avoided, and no one who had looked in would have supposed that the majority of those present were the prisoners of the others.

The Irish temperament quickly shakes off a feeling of depression, and the meal was as lively as it had been during the voyage north.
The lieutenant, however, omitted no precaution.