. One of the
after guns of the _Tudor_, was, however, fitted for throwing shells, and
as Murray could bring it to bear, when the openings between the vessels
astern would allow of it, he occasionally fired one into the fort. Long
Tom did his duty, and Jack had the satisfaction of believing that his
shot produced as much effect as those of the corvette.

"On my word I should like to land and storm that fort, to punish the
rascals," he exclaimed.

"I am afraid that as it is on a friendly territory, that would be
unlawful," observed Bevan.

"Then people on friendly territory should not attack those engaged in
the performance of their duty," answered Jack; "give them a parting
shot, Needham; we shall soon be out of range of their guns, if the
breeze holds."

"I will do my best to make it tell," said Dick; training Long Tom aft as
far as possible. He fired--the effect of the shot was to silence the
gun which had for some minutes annoyed them the most, and it was
conjectured, therefore, that it must have either killed several of the
gunners, or injured the carriage. The next shot which came from the
fort, fell short of the brig. As soon as the vessels were completely
out of range, Murray ordered the anchors to be dropped.

A heavy sea setting over the bar at the entrance he considered it unwise
to attempt crossing till the top of high water. The place in which he
had brought up was not however altogether free from danger. On either
hand were wild rugged rocks, while a line of foaming surf stretched
across the mouth of the harbour. As it would be impossible to cross
with the two prize-brigs, Murray determined at once to destroy them.
The two cutters and the _Supplejack's_ jollyboat were directed to
perform this service. Tom and Desmond agreed to go and see the fun, and
just as the brig's boat was shoving off they jumped into her, unobserved
by Jack. The boats having taken charge of the brigs, towed them
half-a-mile from the ships. They were then set on fire, and were soon
in a blaze fore and aft, when the wind, having more power than the tide,
rapidly carried them towards the foaming breakers. The corvette's two
boats were returning, when Jack, looking round to ascertain what had
become of his boat, caught sight of her close to one of the blazing
vessels, on the point of being driven among the dangerous breakers.
Having discovered that the two youngsters had gone in her, he naturally
felt doubly anxious on th