Christy did not believe there was any naval officer on board of that steamer.
"Keep up the fire with the long gun, Mr.Fillbrook," said the commander, in a low tone, and with no excitement apparent in his manner, for he always studied and labored to appear cool and self-possessed, whether he was so or not, and there was nothing in the present situation to try him in the least.
For a full hour the long gun of the Vixen continued to pelt the enemy with solid shot, about every one of them hulling her or carrying away some of her spars.

Her mainmast had gone by the board, and the resistance she was making was becoming very feeble.
"She is full of men, Captain Passford," said Mr.Fillbrook, when the steamer seemed to be almost a wreck.
"I observed that she had a large crew some time ago, and it is better to knock her to pieces than to board her," replied Christy.

"Keep her as far off as she is now." The enemy tried to get nearer to the Vixen, but failed to do so..