The action had certainly gone against her; but she gave no indication that she was ready to surrender for the Confederate flag, which had been hoisted at the mainmast head when the mizzen was shot away, still floated in the breeze.
A gang of men were still at work where the extra wheel had been, and the commander evidently expected he should be able to repair the damage in some manner so that he could steer his ship.

Captain Breaker gave the command to stop the screw, and a mighty hissing and roaring of steam followed when Christy transmitted it to the engine room.

The order to come about on the headway that remained succeeded, and the three shells immediately exploded on the deck or in the hull of the enemy; but the extent of the damage could not be estimated.
The three from the starboard guns were next sent on their mission; but so far as could be seen no damage was done.

The big Parrot was next discharged; but the expert captain of the gun was unfortunate this time, for the projectile dropped into the water beyond the steamer, though it seemed to pass very near the stern.

For the next half hour the midship piece was kept busy, and its shots made destructive work about the deck of the Tallahatchie.
"I think we had better finish this business at once, and before the enemy has time to rig a new steering apparatus, Mr.Passford," said Captain Breaker, as they came together on the quarter-deck.
"I think we can knock her all to pieces with the Parrot gun, sir," replied Christy.
"But it might take all day to do that; and the Tallahatchie exhibits an astonishing power of resistance.