t
Sheerness, we found to our surprise that the red flag was still flying
on board the guardship, the _Sandwich_. Supposing that her crew had not
been informed of what had taken place at Spithead, Sir Harry sent our
delegates on board her, that they might explain the real state of
affairs. The disgust of our men was very great when they were informed
that fresh demands had been made by the crews of the North Sea fleet, of
so frivolous a nature that it was not probable they would be granted.
Our men, in spite of the character of delegates, which had been forced
on them, could not help showing their indignation, and expressing
themselves in no very courteous terms. This showed the mutineers that
they were not over-zealous in their cause, and our people were warned
that, should they prove treacherous, they and their ship would be sent
to the bottom.

On returning on board, they informed Sir Harry of all that had occurred.
Our delegates, at his suggestion, immediately communicated with those
of the _Clyde_, an old fellow-cruiser, commanded by Captain Cunningham.
That officer, on account of his justice, humanity, and bravery, enjoyed,
as did Sir Harry, the confidence of his ship's company. An arrangement
was therefore made between the captains and their crews that, should the
mutineers persevere in their misconduct, they would take the ships out
from amidst the fleet, fighting our way, if necessary, and run for
protection under cover of the forts at Sheerness. Every preparation was
made. We waited till the last moment. The mutineers showed no
disposition to return to their duty. The _Clyde_ was the in-shore ship;
she was therefore to move first. We watched her with intense interest,
while we remained still as death. Not one of our officers appeared on
deck, and but few of the men, though numerous eager eyes were gazing
through the ports. The _Clyde_ had springs on her cables, we knew, but
as yet not a movement was perceptible. Suddenly her seamen swarmed on
the yards, the topsails were let fall and sheeted home. She canted the
right way. Hurrah! all sail was made. Away she went; and, before one
of the mutinous fleet could go in chase, she was under the protection of
the guns on shore. It was now our turn; but we had not a moment to
lose, as the tide was on the turn to ebb, when we should have had it
against us. What was our vexation, therefore, when the order was given
to get under weigh, to find that the pil