The gun was then capped and cocked.

I moved the screw to elevate it about an inch, and, watching my chance as the schooner heaved, let drive.

But the bear kept on eating.

There was a general laugh.
"Didn't even notice you!" cried Kit.

"I can overbid that!"-- taking up the powder to reload the howitzer.
"Not before I bid again," said I.
And at it we went to see who would get loaded first to get the next shot.