He could not use his well-loaded guns without destruction to his own men.

He could only send reinforcements to their small band, and quietly see the battle fought hand to hand, which a few cannon balls would have settled in a moment.
Several skilful British marksmen were firing at the few who remained on the approaching privateer, when Captain Knox ordered Blair aloft.
Blair obeyed without a moment's hesitation, and sped upward as if in the glee of boyhood's play.

Yet in the heart of the young patriot there was prayer for his soul, should it be set free in that hour of danger; there was burning love for his country's cause.

The eye of Derry Duck fell on the isolated group who had been firing at the privateer.

He saw a well-known form climbing to the dizzy masthead, while the shot were flying around him.