It was a long time before the Helicon returned, with news that no communication had been received from the enemy, that the barracks and arsenals seemed to be deserted and, as far as could be seen, the whole town was evacuated.
As evening wore on, fresh fires broke out in all parts of the town, and a steam pinnace was sent ashore to ascertain, if possible, the state of affairs.

Mr.Ross, a contractor for the supply of meat to the fleet, volunteered to accompany it.
The harbour was dark and deserted.

Not a light was to be seen in the houses near the water.

The crackling of the flames could be heard, with an occasional crash of falling walls and roofs.

On nearing the landing place the pinnace paused, for two or three minutes, for those on board to listen; and as all was quiet, steamed alongside.