Chase by a Large Ship
After five weeks at sea, a large ship appears to windward, bearing down with all sail set. The captain orders studding-sails hoisted and the ship cleared for engagement. When the pursuer hoists French colors, the captain orders the sails taken in, guns loaded, and every man to quarters. Strap appears trembling on the quarterdeck and Roderick arranges for him to be stationed below with the surgeon’s mates.
Captain’s Speech
The sailors grow fearful, complaining that they would be torn to pieces and that no provision exists for those maimed in service. The captain assembles the crew and delivers an inspiring speech, reminding them that he has gone to sea for thirty years and never seen English sailors afraid. He points out that his cargo is insured, so his own loss would not be great if captured, and promises to compensate any man who is wounded. He denounces the lazy and cowardly, calling on true seamen to stand by him for the honor of Old England. The speech has its effect; the crew cheers three times, receives a dram of brandy, and repairs to their quarters with renewed courage.
English Man of War
As the enemy ship draws near, displaying two tiers of guns and being just two miles astern, the captain is about to give the order to fire when the supposed French vessel hauls down its white pennant and ensign, hoists English colors, and fires a gun ahead. The ship proves to be an English man-of-war of forty guns, commanded by an old messmate of the captain’s. The ship had been disguised with white fleur-de-lis and otherwise disguised to decoy French vessels. The captains dine together, and Roderick and the supercargo are also invited and entertained. After keeping company for four days, the ships part, their courses lying in different directions.
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