re that
the troops had made another assault, but that the Algerines had sallied
out, and were cutting them fearfully up. On this Don Barcelo notified
his intention of going himself to lead them, and invited Vernon to
accompany him.

"If you like to come and see what is going on, I can give you a seat in
the boat," said Vernon, an offer I was delighted to accept.

We at once pulled off from the side of the flag-ship. The admiral had
promised Vernon the command of one of the ships, the captain of which
had shown the white feather, and he expected to have the honour of
leading the attack and taking the ships in closer. Away we pulled, but
we had not gone very far when a couple of shots struck the boat herself,
killing three men. I remember hearing two distinct crashes, and the
next moment found myself in the water, and about to sink. I believe I
should have gone down, had not a friendly hand held me up; and, looking
to see who it was, I recognised the face of my faithful follower, Larry
Harrigan.

"It's all right, Mr Terence, and I'll not let you go while I can keep
my feet moving," he cried out, energetically treading water. "We will
swim back to the big ship, and there'll be plenty of ropes hung over the
sides by this time."

The distance, however, was considerable, and, independent of the chances
of being hit by the round shot which were plunging into the water around
us, I doubted whether we could swim as far, even though I did my best to
second his efforts to keep me afloat. We were now joined by Patchett,
who came swimming up, and offered to assist Larry in supporting me.

"Hurrah! here comes a boat," cried Patchett.

Looking round, I saw one approaching, and soon made out Nettleship
standing up in the stern-sheets; but as the shots from the Algerine
batteries came plunging into the water close to her, it seemed doubtful
whether she would reach us. She soon, however, got up uninjured, and I
and my companions were taken on board. We then went on to where two
persons were still floating. The one was Vernon. He had been gallantly
supporting the Spanish admiral.

"Take him aboard first," cried Vernon; "he's unable to help himself."

We accordingly hauled in the Don, while Vernon held on with one hand to
the gunwale of the boat. Nor till the admiral was safe would Vernon
allow us to lift him in. He sat down, looking very ghastly.

"Why, my dear fellow, you are yourself wounded," said Nettleship,
ex