topped in their walk to listen to strains so unusual.
Suddenly a roar, more terrific than the bursting of a volcano, was
heard, followed by shrieks, and groans, and cries; a bright light was
seen glancing over the water through the stern ports; the ship shook
from her keel. The guitar fell from Donna Julia's hands. Mrs Armytage
grasped her daughter's arm, expecting something more dreadful to follow,
and believing that the ship was about to blow up. The gentlemen started
to their feet; the officers rushed out of the cabin. The scene which
met their view was sufficient to inspire the stoutest heart with fear.
Directly ahead, and rushing towards them, was a vast fiery mass,
furiously darting forth flames, sufficient, should it reach her, to wrap
the frigate in a destructive embrace. At the same time, from out of
this floating volcano, shot forth red-hot missiles, which fell in
destructive showers on her decks. The crew, in dismay, were running for
shelter below, till their captain's voice was heard high above the din,
calling on them to act like men, and to endeavour to save the ship by
throwing overboard their dangerous visitors.

The remaining boats were then ordered to be lowered to tow aside the
burning mass now close at hand. But who would venture to approach it?

"Alfonse would have attempted it!" exclaimed the captain, but not an
officer moved. Certain destruction would be their doom.

"I then must go myself; who will follow me?" cried the captain.

Numbers of the crew sprang towards the boats. There was ample light to
see what was to be done. At that instant the flames and sparks darted
up higher than ever, and then, as if it were the work of magic, there
was total darkness; the explosion vessel had sunk: the frigate was
saved.

"We must get under weigh," cried the captain. "The boom has been
shattered. Another vessel may strike the same spot with more success,
and we may not escape her so easily."

The crew flew aloft to loosen sails. They were eager to avoid a similar
danger to that which had almost paralysed them. Before they were again
off the yards another fearful explosion took place close to them, but
though numerous fiery fragments fell on board, few were hurt. Had they
not been aloft many more would have suffered. The cable was slipped,
and the frigate now began to move through the water.

On hearing the second explosion, the remaining occupants of the cabin
rushed up on deck. Colon