wed herself, she continued on the same course.

"That fellow by the cut of his canvas is a Frenchman," observed Lord
Claymore; "what think you, Captain Alvarez?"

"No doubt about it," answered Pedro Alvarez. "But I know of no French
ship in these seas."

"See--see! there goes up the French flag!" exclaimed Lord Claymore; "she
is going about to, as she does not wish to commence the fight while the
`Scorpion' has the weather-gauge. A brave fellow commands that craft;
he has no intention, at all events, of avoiding an engagement."

Both vessels were now seen standing away from the land, the "Scorpion"
steering both so as most speedily to come up with the enemy, and at the
same time to keep the advantage of the wind which she possessed, while
the other was manoeuvring to avoid a close engagement till she had
gained the weather-gauge.

"Ronald will not let him do that," cried Rolf. "See, the `Scorpion' is
gaining on her. She has got her within range of her guns. There goes
the first shot."

As he spoke, a puff of smoke was seen to proceed from the bows of the
English ship, and the sound of the gun struck faintly on their ears.
Another and another followed as soon as they could be brought to bear.

As the "Scorpion" was coming up on the quarter of the French ship, the
latter could not at first discharge her broadside guns with any effect,
but as her enemy got more abeam of her she too opened fire, and shot
after shot was exchanged in rapid succession.

The interest of all the spectators became intense, though exhibited in
different ways. Lord Claymore was all excitement and animation,
evidently wishing himself on board the "Scorpion."

Rolf now waved his hand--now addressed his son--now cheered as the
"Scorpion" delivered an effective broadside.

The colonel stood as if snuffing up the smoke of battle, and coolly
criticising the manoeuvres of the combatants.

The interests of Pedro Alvarez seemed now to side with the flag of
France, under which he had so long fought, now with the "Scorpion,"
commanded by his friend. Lawrence kept moving about the platform
rubbing his hands and cheering loudly every time a broadside was
delivered.

"Well done, `Scorpion'!"

"Bravo, my boy!" shouted Lord Claymore and Rolf, in concert, as the
Frenchman's foretop-mast went over the side.

This caused him to luff up, and the "Scorpion," shooting ahead, poured a
raking broadside into his bows. On this, the Frenchman's helm