In vain they taunted them with falling back before a handful of men.

In vain even turned their swords against their own soldiers.
It was useless.

Those in front, unable indeed to retreat, were cut down by the heavy axes.

Those behind recoiled, and after but a few minutes' fighting, some began to leap down the hatchways; and although the fight continued for a short time, isolated groups here and there making resistance, the battle was virtually won in five minutes after the English appeared on deck.

The captain and his two principal officers were killed, fighting bravely; and had their efforts been in any way backed by those of their men, they would have made short work of the assailants.
Captain Drake's voice was heard, high above the din, as soon as the resistance ceased.